São Miguel

Este pequeno percurso linear percorre vários locais de grande importância histórica na industrialização da ilha, entre o final do século XIX e o início do século XX, mostrando o início da produção e distribuição de energia elétrica a partir de fontes renováveis, promovida pelo Eng. José Cordeiro (1867-1908). Inicie o trilho no parque de estacionamento do Parque Escutista dos Lagos. Virado para sul, atravesse o portão junto ao ribeiro e caminhe até à albufeira que outrara abastecia a Fábrica da Cidade (1904-1974).

This trail connects the Achadinha and Salga parishes, crossing landscapes of natural and cultural-historical beauty. The journey begins at the Achadinha Garden, where a commemorative obelisk marks the landing of the Liberal Troops in 1831, an event that helped shape the history of the political-military conflict between liberals and absolutists, leading to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in Portugal. At the same location, there is also the Padrão das Alminhas, a monument linked to the Cult of Souls, a religious tradition rooted in the parish since the 17th century.

This walk begins near the church N. Sra. Do Rosário, situated in the middle of the village. Go round the left side and, about 300m, turn left by a land road, than turn right and go up the Hill of Moio de Baixo. During this stretch the predominant vegetation is Canas (Arundo Donax) but it is also possible to find some other species of natural vegetation from the Azores as the Beechwood (Morella Faya) and Heather (Erica Azorica). Reaching one of the highest points of this walk, it's possible to see, west the village of Fenais da Ajuda and east the village of Achadinha.

This circular route of approximately 7 km goes through the village of Maia along the shoreline and interior. The trail begins in the center of the village, at Largo de Santo António. Go up, towards South by a dirt road known as Pedra Queimada and follow the marks until you reach the Regional Road. Continue the trail parallel to the road, taking advantage of the high point to enjoy the view over the North coast, village of Maia, Ponta Formosa e Ponta do Cintrão.

Before starting the trail, make sure you are suitable equipped. Begin the walk near the Casa da Água - Trail Point, an old milk post transformed into a support facility for hikers, to promote the municipality of Lagoa and environmental awareness. Go down the road, passing by the picnic area and follow, on your left-hand side, the secondary road to Água de Pau. Follow the marks until you find an ascending dirt road on your left. Along the climbing, gaze the municipalities of Lagoa and Ponta Delgada that were left behind. Cross a water line until you reach the first tunnel.