Lagoa do Fogo - São Miguel PR02SMI

This linear round trip to the southern shore of Lagoa do Fogo starts next to the Parque Escutista dos Lagos, which also serves as the start/end point for the PR39 SMI – Quatro Fábricas da Luz trail. This is the only certified walking trail that provides access to Lagoa do Fogo, classified as a Nature Reserve and one of the sites of greatest natural and scenic value on the island of São Miguel.

Throughout the trail, the presence of water stands out as a defining feature of the landscape, through the levadas, water collection points and other hydraulic infrastructure associated with the Ribeira da Praia, bearing witness to the importance of this area for the public water supply and for the history of hydroelectric power production on the island.

The trail passes through different types of landscape and land use, starting in agricultural and forestry areas, where patches of New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax) can still be seen; this species was introduced to the Azores and has historically been associated to the production of fibres. It then continues through areas of managed forest, featuring Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and other exotic species, including invasive ones. Further upstream, predominate natural vegetation formations, characteristic of the surroundings of Lagoa do Fogo and of higher-altitude, more humid areas, where endemic species stand out, such as Azorean heather (Erica azorica) and Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum).

Due to the frequent presence of wet and muddy areas, particularly along the levada (water channel), it is advisable to wear suitable footwear.

The walk crosses the valley of Ribeira da Praia, an area nestled between steep slopes, where there are important springs and water catchments. The system for harnessing this water, developed from the 1980s onwards, is one of the main sources of public water supply for the municipality of Ponta Delgada.

Upon reaching the shore of Lagoa do Fogo, visitors are advised to exercise caution and show respect for the local birdlife, particularly during the seagulls’ nesting season (April and May). The return journey follows the same path, offering panoramic views of the southern coast of São Miguel Island, with particular emphasis on Vila Franca do Campo and its islet.

Throughout the walk, and particularly in the final section leading to Lagoa do Fogo, visitors are requested to behave responsibly, specifically by staying on the marked trail, respecting the local flora and fauna, and carrying all litter to a suitable disposal point.