Rota da Água - Terceira PRC12 TER

This circular route (round trip) takes place in the Nasce Água area, on the surroundings of the city of Angra do Heroísmo. As the name suggests, this route has a strong connection to water resources and the hydraulic heritage, such as the old mills and the water supply system that supply the city of Angra.

The trail begins near the ruins of a set of 5 mills, out of a total of more than 40 that operated along the channel known as Ribeira dos Moinhos, and ascends the southern slope of Serra do Morião, with 602 meters in altitude that corresponds to the eastern and southern edge of the Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz. Further along, the route develops in a restricted access area where it is possible to understand the dynamics of the local water cycle, from the humid air masses that precipitate within the Caldeira Guilherme Moniz to the emergence of groundwater on the outer slope of this volcano, where it is captured, treated, and distributed for human consumption.

Near “Mãe-de-Água” spring, it is also possible to observe the first of three mini-hydroelectric plants in Angra, responsible for producing about 1% of the total electricity generated on the island. Midway up the slope of Serra do Morião, it is also possible to see the water regulation tank, which collects water from “Furna d’Água” and “Cabrito” springs. The excellent quality of the water from these springs is closely related to the presence of natural vegetation where species such as the Azorean heather (Erica azorica), the Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica), and mountain grape (Vaccinium cylindraceum), among others, play a crucial role in water retention and infiltration into the soil, as well as filtering particles, thus playing a fundamental role in the balance and quality of water resources. In this area, the imposing artwork known as “Cruzeiro da Serra da Costaneira” stands out, where the inscription “outside the Christian aegis, there can be no true progress” can be read, conveying the deep religiosity of Eng. José Luís Abecassis, the project's mentor.

In the final phase/stage of the trail, at the top of “Serra do Morião”, it is possible to enjoy expansive panoramas of the city of Angra, “Monte Brasil”, and the southern coast of the island. The return is made along the same trail taken to ascend, except for a small detour midway through the route. Due to slippery conditions, it is recommended to be extra careful after rainy days and to wear appropriate footwear.