The island of São Jorge, marked by an extensive volcanic mountain range, made up of 350 cones and its famous fajãs, is, without any doubt, the perfect choice for nature lovers or adventurers, where its hikes unfold along the blue of the sea and amidst the unique, verdant charm of the island's flora.
The visit starts in the Canavial Viewpoint, between Morro Grande de Velas and Morro de Lemos, both originated by eruptions of basaltic nature with different ages and evolutionary states, which occurred underwater. This mandatory stop is one of the most iconic geolandscapes in São Jorge.
We continue to Caldeirinhas, along the central volcanic mountain range of the island, which characterizes the island's relief and landscape. Along a small walking trail, you will be surprised by the richness of the surrounding flora, as you find yourself immersed in several endemic azorean species, here in the wild.
The Fajã do Ouvidor, associated with lava flows emitted from Pico Areeiro, is known for its bathing area, marked by numerous puddles and natural pools, among which Poça Simão Dias stands out. We dive into its translucent waters and appreciate the curious columnar jointing on its cliffs, which look like they have been carved “by hand”.
After lunch, we visit the Ecomuseum - São Jorge Park´s House, where you can learn much about the island, namely, about the Natural Park areas, biodiversity, geology and even about the built, material or immaterial heritage of this unique island.
We proceed to the Urzelina, an area afflicted by an eruption that took place in 1808. This was an explosive occurrence, responsible for an abundant ash fall over Urzelina and Manadas, whose basaltic lava flows destroyed several houses along with the Church of Urzelina. From this church, only a single bell tower remains, standing as a silent witness of this eruption and of the Azorean history, deeply marked by the vicissitudes of its volcanic origin.
Lastly, we visit the parish of Manadas where you'll feel dazzled by the wealth of the Church of Santa Bárbara, which, according to oral tradition, was built in honor of this Saint Martyr, after a small wooden box with the image of Santa Bárbara was found by the first settlers in this bay. A must visit!
