Serra Devassa - São Miguel PRC05 SMI

The Serra Devassa trail begins near the Muro do Carvão, a remaining structure from the old aqueduct of Muro das Nove Janelas. About 150 meters long and composed of arches with perfect semicircular curves, this aqueduct was built to transport water from the Canário and Empadadas lakes to Ponta Delgada city, over a distance of more than 10 km.

This trail develops through an area of high ecological and landscape value, characterized by several lakes and wetland habitats typical of Wetlands zones, such as Lagoa do Carvão, Lagoa do Caldeirão Grande – currently waterproofed and used for agricultural supply –, Lagoas do Caldeirão Pequeno (North and South), and Lagoas Empadadas. The trail also ascends Pico das Éguas, one of the most prominent elevations in the area, reaching about 873 meters above sea level, where are located the North and South Éguas Lake – the highest-altitude lakes on São Miguel Island – offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Upon reaching Mata do Canário, an important area of springs and water colletion for public supply, visitors can see Canário Lake. Despite its name, it is not associated with small birds but rather with the fact that it was once a grazing area used by inhabitants from the Canary Islands. One of the most notable points along the trail is the Miradouro da Grota do Inferno, from where impressive panoramic views of the Caldeira of Sete Cidades can be seen, including the Blue, Santiago, and Rasa Lakes. The landscape also includes areas of great natural value such as Canto dos Carneiros, Caldeira do Alferes, Pico da Cruz, and Grota do Inferno – a deep ravine carved by rain erosion over time.

The Serra Devassa region is particularly rich in springs, playing an essential role in São Miguel Island's water supply system. For this reason, careful management and preservation are required. Since the route passes near areas classified as protected landscape and water collection zones, a clear commitment to conserving biodiversity and protecting water resources is imperative. Therefore, it is crucial that all hikers and visitors respect the environment, avoiding disturbances to local ecosystems and contributing to the safeguarding of this valuable natural heritage