Lagoa do Cerro - Terceira PRC13 TER

This small circular route begins near the artificial lakes of Altares, in the upstream area of the parish. 

Regarding its landscape, this route offers a constant variety of settings/scenery, crossing paths of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), high-altitude natural pastures, forests and natural vegetation. The viewpoint located at the highest point of the route, at approximately 650 meters above sea level, provides a panoramic view of the northern part of the island, with particular emphasis on the Picos Vermelhos and the Serra do Narião massif.

The main highlight of this hiking trail is the Lagoa do Cerro, a wetland of high landscape and biological value, offering great interest for birdwatching, including a supportive infrastructure for this activity. It is important to mention that wetlands play a fundamental role in various ecological aspects, such as flood control, groundwater recharge, regulation of the hydrological cycle, biomass production, nutrient retention, and climate change mitigation.

In regards to its natural areas, the trail crosses two protected areas within the Terceira Nature Park: The Protected Area for the Management of Habitats and Species of the Central Plateau and Northwest Coast, and the Nature Reserve of Serra de Santa Bárbara and Mistérios Negros. Along the route, you can observe various native plant species, such as the Rubus hochstetterorum, the mountain cedar (Juniperus brevifolia), Azorean heather (Erica azorica), Azorean cherry (Prunus azorica), Azorean holly (Ilex azorica), the rare aquatic fern Isoetes azorica, and bog areas (Sphagnum species).

Since much of the route takes place at altitudes above 500 meters, it is recommended to hike it on clear days with good visibility. It is also advisable to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, as the trail surface may become slippery.