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Hikes on Faial

Portugal

Outdooractive Portugal  Verified partner 
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Discover the beautiful island of Faial through its stunning hiking trails, suitable for beginners, advanced hikers, and professionals. Enjoy the breathtaking views and unique landscapes as you explore this enchanting destination.

5  (2 Ratings and reviews)

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The 10 most beautiful hikes on Faial

Hiking Trail · Portugal
Hike on July 22, 2023, 10:54 Caldeira-Capelinhos Volcano
recommended route Difficulty difficult
22.7 km
5:52 h
570 m
1,408 m
Faial Caldera Natural Reserve - Caldeira and Capelinhos Special Conservation Zone - Caldera Viewpoint - Hermitage of St. John the Baptist - Caldeira and Capelinhos Special Protection Zone - Central Zone Protected Landscape Area - Alto do Cabouco - Alto do Brejo - Alto do Guarda-Sol - PR3FAI Levada Trail - Levada - Cabeço Verde - Cabeço do Fogo Habitat or Species Management Protected Area - Cabeço do Fogo - Capelo Recreational Forest Reserve - Capelo Forest Park - Typical Country House - Viewpoint to Cabeço do Canto - Caldeirão - Viewpoint to Caldeirão - Cabeço do Canto - Capelinhos, Northwest Coast and Varadouro Habitat or Species Management Protected Area - Capelinhos Volcano Natural Monument - Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center - Volcano Viewpoint
In the caldera of the Cabeco dos Trinta
Hiking Trail · Azores
Faial - Costa a Costa
recommended route
26.2 km
8:23 h
1,172 m
1,075 m
Crossing the Azores island of Faial from west to east in a slight deviation from the official hike
(3) Capelinhos in view – Descent at Caldeirão. © Roman Martin
Hiking Trail · Azores
Ponta dos Capelinhos
Premium content Difficulty T2 moderate
12.8 km
4:20 h
603 m
603 m
Green volcanic cones and a barren lunar landscapeFew hikes offer such contrasts as our excursion to the western tip of Faial. From the densely vegetated volcanic peaks of Cabeço Verde and Cabeço do Canto we hike to the old island edge, where new land emerged in 1957/58 after months of volcanic eruptions. Even today, this section resembles a lunar landscape.
Caldeira Early in the morning, the Caldeira rim rises from the sea of clouds over the Triângulo. © Roman Martin
Hiking Trail · Azores
From the Caldera to Cedros
Premium content Difficulty T2 moderate
16.9 km
5:15 h
226 m
985 m
Descent into the north through green forests along a LevadaEnjoy nature and hike comfortably – this is perfectly possible on this hike. It leads us over the highest peak of the island initially along the edge of the caldera to a wonderfully situated Levada. After a longer descent, we finally end the tour in the rural north of the island.
Caldera The large crater in the center of Faial is under nature protection. © Roman Martin
Hiking Trail · Azores
Circular hike around the Caldeira
Premium content Difficulty T2 moderate
6.8 km
2:30 h
195 m
195 m
Promising panoramic trail along the crater rimNo hike can provide a better overview of the island of Faial than this one. From a dreamlike viewpoint at the edge of the giant crater, we ascend to the highest peak of the island. Our view extends down to the small coastal communities, and the neighboring islands Pico, São Jorge, and Graciosa can also be seen – unfortunately only in good weather.
Whale Factory Old whale processing factory. © Roman Martin
Hiking Trail · Azores
Monte da Guia and Monte Queimado
Premium content Difficulty T2 moderate
3.5 km
1:30 h
168 m
168 m
Scenic round at the edge of the cityThis circular hiking trail leads over the peninsula in front of the city of Horta with its "Hell Crater" and past the site where the first telegraphic submarine cable was laid in 1893. We pass three museums and several old fortifications from the 16th and 17th centuries. In the second part of the tour, we enjoy the magnificent view over Horta.
Lombega The Cabeço Verde proudly rises above the villages of Capelo and Varadouro. © Roman Martin
Hiking Trail · Azores
Morro de Castelo Branco
Premium content Difficulty T1 easy
3.7 km
1:10 h
174 m
174 m
Easy circular hike through a nature reserve for seabirdsThe area around the volcanic rock Morro de Castelo Branco is a nature reserve and protected zone for many seabirds. Even on our descent hike, the view extends to the cape of Capelo on the west side of the island. Along livestock pastures, we quickly reach the approximately 30,000-year-old rock block. For the ascent back, we choose an easier side road.
Miradouro da Ribeira das Cabras: View of Fajã from the Miradouro da Ribeira das Cabras. © Roman Martin
Hiking Trail · Azores
From Praia do Norte to Norte Pequeno
Premium content Difficulty T1 easy
16 km
4:50 h
558 m
558 m
Circular hike through the 1672 eruption zone in the westThis hike takes us through the geologically youngest area of Faial, dating back 10,000 years. The landscape as we see it today was last shaped in 1672. A donkey trail first takes us to the coast, to a beautiful, wave-swept sandy beach. Summer homes are scattered far and wide. After Norte Pequeno, we follow an ancient path through the underbrush back to Norte Pequeno. On the way back, we pass one of the island’s best springs.
Capelo Center for Handicrafts. © Roman Martin
Hiking Trail · Azores
From Capelo to Praia do Norte
Premium content Difficulty T2 moderate
7.4 km
2:40 h
404 m
333 m
A varied hiking route on the western slope of the CaldeiraLush green forests, a magnificent view of the island’s west coast, and wonderful hiking trails await us on this tour between Capelo and Praia do Norte. Along the way, we’ll climb several volcanic cones that line the western flank of the Caldeira. A donkey trail eventually leads us down to the coast to a beautiful, wave-swept sandy beach. If you’re up for more, you can take a detour along a former irrigation canal along the way.
Hiking Trail · Azores
Around Ribeirinha
Premium content Difficulty T2 moderate
10.5 km
3:40 h
476 m
476 m
Cozy round trip through the sprawling eastMost of the buildings in the east of Faial were destroyed in a severe earthquake in 1998. The collapsed church and the lighthouse of Ribeirinha, broken into "building blocks," are prominent witnesses that we pass along the way. At the edge of the forest, we initially climb up to pasture areas. Over a ridge, we return to the coast. Those who want can take a swimming break at the end of the circular hike.
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Welcome to Faial, a hidden gem in the Azores known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. Whether you're a novice looking for an easy stroll or a seasoned trekker seeking a challenging adventure, Faial has something to offer everyone.

Where to Find Beautiful Hikes in Faial

Faial is home to numerous hiking routes that showcase the island's natural beauty. One popular spot for hikes is the Capelinhos Volcano, where you can walk along the volcanic landscape and witness firsthand the power of nature. Another must-visit location is Caldeira do Inferno, a massive crater formed by ancient volcanic activity.

The Most Beautiful Hiking Trails in Faial

For those seeking awe-inspiring views and unique terrain, head to Pico da Espalamaca for one of the most scenic hikes on the island. The trail offers panoramic vistas of both land and sea, making it perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Hiking Routes Catering to All Levels

Whether you're new to hiking or an experienced adventurer, there are plenty of options in Faial. Beginners can start with gentle walks along well-marked paths while more advanced hikers can challenge themselves with steep inclines and rugged terrain.

Accommodation Along Hiking Routes

After a long day exploring Faial's hiking trails, unwind at one of the cozy huts or accommodations located along popular routes. These establishments offer comfortable lodging as well as delicious meals made from fresh local ingredients.

Reviews

  • 3 d
    Volker F.
    June 04, 2026
    Schöne Wanderung mit tollen Blicken in den Krater. Aber: Wie überall im Gebirge und insbesondere auf den Azoren ist hier oben mit schnellen Wetterwechseln zu rechnen. Wir starteten bei strahlend blauem Himmel, konnten aber nach ca. 1,5 h aufgrund der Wolken keine Wegmarkierung mehr erkennen. Das kann in diesem Gelände verwirrend und sogar gefährlich werden. Wir haben den Krater entgegen dem Uhrzeigersinn umrundet.
    ...Show more
    Photo: Volker F., Community
    Photo: Volker F., Community
    Photo: Volker F., Community
    Photo: Volker F., Community
    Photo: Volker F., Community
    Solitude Weather depandant Scenic
    Written October 04, 2026
  • September 25, 2021
    Christian Strupp
    Very nice round tour! GPS data is good and the paths in a very good condition. We did it in 3hours. My Garmin showed 12,7km and a sum of 656 meters elevation gain.
    ...Show more
    Photo: Christian Strupp, Community
    Photo: Christian Strupp, Community
    Written September 25, 2021

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