São Miguel

This circular route along the tea plantations begins at the parking place of the Gorreana tea factory.

Working since 1883, it is the oldest tea plantation in Europe. The used plant – Camellia sinensis – for the green and black tea, was introduced in the island in 1750, brought by the ships returning from the East.

Carefully cross the gate on the way out of the factory towards the gate accessing the tea plantations.

This circular route northwest of the island, in João Bom (Pilar da Bretanha), begins at the Regional Road, on a resting place. Go down along the road and follow the marks on your left, passing by a minimarket. Further ahead you will find a little Chapel on your left side and finally the street Rua da Relvinha on your right, where you should follow.

ALERT: Due to ongoing forestry, tree cutting and heavy machinery maneuvers are taking place. Therefore, we recommend paying extra attention to traffic on the first segment of the route.

This trail starts at Vista do Rei viewpoint, goes through the southwest slope of the Sete Cidades ridges and ends inside the village. Throughout the walk it is possible to contemplate the interior of the crater with its different lakes and volcanic formations.

Arriving to the tarmac road there is a possibility to make a small detour, to the left and visit the viewpoint of Lomba do Vasco with a view over the west coast, focusing on the village of Mosteiros and its small islets.