Trails
Vereda Achada do Teixeira - Arco de São Jorge
From 1,600 m at Achada do Teixeira down to Arco de São Jorge
The place
The walk starts at Achada do Teixeira, a mountain settlement at about 1,600 m in the Santana municipality. A basalt rock known as the standing man (homem em pé) is the landmark here, and there is a car park for visitors. The Pico Ruivo path, PR 1.2, starts from the same spot, but this route heads for the coast instead, covering about 15 km one way down to Arco de São Jorge.
Cloud can gather on the high ground quickly, so the views and the paths can change within a short time. Carry warm layers and waterproofs, because the high ground can be cold and wet. Once you reach the lower slopes, the land is rugged and the views open out over the Atlantic, which makes the long walk worth the effort.
Highlights
- The standing man, a basalt rock at Achada do Teixeira, is worth a look before you set off.
- The far end, on the coast at Arco de São Jorge, swaps the high ground for sea views.
- At about 15 km one way, it is a long walk, so plan how you will get back from Arco de São Jorge before you set off.
- For a shorter walk on the same high ground, the Pico Ruivo path (PR 1.2) covers 2.8 km one way from the same start.
When to come
Spring and autumn suit the high ground best, because winter there can be cold, wet and at times snowy. Start early, since cloud can roll in quickly and cover the paths.
Getting there
Drive up the regional road ER 218 to the visitor car park at Achada do Teixeira and start the walk there. The route is one way, so arrange transport back from Arco de São Jorge before you set off.
Worth knowing
- The walk covers about 15 km one way, from Achada do Teixeira down to Arco de São Jorge.
- The start is at about 1,600 m, so bring a warm layer and waterproofs even on a sunny morning.
- Cloud can cover the paths quickly, so carry an offline map or GPS track and check the forecast before you set off.
- The Pico Ruivo path (PR 1.2) starts from the same car park and needs a SIMplifica booking, so book on the SIMplifica portal first if you plan to walk it.
- Returning the same way means climbing back up to Achada do Teixeira, so allow extra time and effort for the return.
- Take enough water and food for the whole walk, since it is long and one way.