Pico da Esperança
With 1053 meters of altitude, this is the highest point on the island of São Jorge. From here you can get a fantastic view, not only of the island in all its extension, but also of the other islands of the Central Group of the archipelago. This is undoubtedly an experience not to be missed, so don’t miss the opportunity if the weather allows it.
Photograph by: Marco Derksen
Fajãs
Being the Island of Fajãs, São Jorge has more than 70 fajãs. You can visit almost all of them through walks and trails. Here are the obligatory visits:
– Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo – Natural Reserve and Special Ecological Area, this fajã represents the only lagoon in the Azores where the famous São Jorge Clams grow. This lagoon is considered a sanctuary for surfers and bodyboarders, due to its reef break;
– Fajã das Almas – Home to the Nossa Senhora das Almas and Santo Cristo chapels, this fajã is located on the south coast of the island, in the parish of Manadas. There are great viewpoints here with fantastic views, and it is also possible to see an ancient Poço de Baixa Mar;
– Fajã dos Vimes – Due to the microclimate here, coffee is planted, which is a rare case in Europe. This fajã is also known for its art of weaving, resulting in traditional quilts made on wooden pedal looms. The Fajã dos Vimes marks the beginning of a trail that passes through several stunning landscapes and where you can observe the most varied animal and plant species;
– Fajã do Ouvidor – It has natural pools, with warm and crystalline waters, perfect for a dip on a summer day. In this sense, the Simão Dias Pool, a natural monument of Municipal Interest, stands out for its prismatic disjunctions. If you want a real adventure, follow the Pico Pedro trail (PR4SJO). It starts at Pico Pedro, goes through Pico da Esperança and finally ends at Fajã do Ouvidor, where you can dive and relax after this walk.
Whale Watchtower
Located in the parish of Rosais, this lookout was used during the whaling era on the islands of the triangle. Nowadays, however, it serves as the perfect place to get a fantastic view of one of the island’s tips. Here you can also visit the Ponta dos Rosais Lighthouse, from which you can get magnificent views of the coast and the sea. During clear days, it is possible to see the other islands of the central group.
Photograph by: Marco Derksen