THE SECRET GEMS OF SÂO MIGUEL IN THE AZORES
When on São Miguel Island there are some must-see places which are visited by every traveller: Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Furnas... but there is much more to see and with almost no effort you can find yourself surrounded by abundance of spectacular flora, magical fauna and empowering nature vibrations! Let's have a look at only a few of those secretly hidden gems which definitely deserve more attention ;)
CASCATA DO SEGREDO IN ÁGUA DE ALTO
On São Miguel island at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries began the era of industrialisation. One of the main aspects of this time was production of electricity. The area of Àgua de Alto consists of several places of a great historical importance, which explain the role of water flow as one of the renewable sources used for the production of electric energy. Following a pipe used for water distribution, you can find a very tranquil area with a charming waterfall which is called Cascata do Segredo - a Secret Waterfall. Don't question why we decided to include it in this article!
LOMBADAS
Only brave ones follow off-the-beaten tracks and you should be the one! Just next to Lagoa do Fogo and the main EN5-A2 road with two famous viewpoints you can find a narrow, pebbly road starting at Caldeiras. If you follow it, not afraid of all 180° turns, you'll be rewarded with unbelievable panoramic view with incredible waterfall which... you can access!
SALTO DO PREGO
Another waterfall worth visiting thanks to its serenity is Salto do Prego, which can be translated as "spike jump" or... "nail biting"! But please, although you can admire it both from the bottom and the top, don't try to jump here. Instead take a dip and immerse yourself in the crystal clear (and coldish) water. You need to hike for around an hour to get here and the experience you get will fully reward your effort. What's more, you'll not meet here any instagram influencer ;)
SANGUINHO
When inhabitants of the village of Faial da Terra experienced recurring flooding, those relatively wealthy decided to build Sanguinho - a village located approximately 170 meteres above the ocean level and used for a brief "exile". However, with time, difficult living conditions as well as emigration to the U.S.A. and Canada has put an end to the village. Nowadays, partly restored, Sanguinho gives you a thrilling feeling of a scary movie, where, out of nowhere, you begin exploring an abandoned old village. If you are looking for a tranquil, deserted place, Sanguinho is a perfect choice!
A SECRET VIEW OF FURNAS
Now you are really lucky that you read this! Close to the Miradouro do Pico do Ferro, just above the Furnas Lake, you can find a green gate. Don't be afraid to pass through it, follow the farmers road until you reach a bridge. Cross it and turn directly to the left. In a few steps you'll find a narrow path which goes down, in the forest. Follow it but be careful, it's a bit steep. After less than a minute you'll experience this beautiful view!
Those are just a few gorgeous spots to check when you visit the São Miguel Island. If you want to learn more, book a stay with us and let yourself explore secrets gems... with our little help ;)