Trails
Vereda da Penha D'Águia ao Faial
From the foot of Eagle's Rock to the village of Faial
The place
This trail links the Penha d'Águia rock with the village of Faial. The surface is steep, loose dirt that turns slippery in the rain, and the route is rated very hard, so it suits only fit walkers in good condition.
The full walk from Porto da Cruz to Faial takes about two and a half to three hours. Parts of the path are steep, muddy when wet and need hands on the rock, and the vertigo risk is rated medium. Walking poles and grip shoes help on the downhill stretches, and choosing a dry day makes a real difference. The upper stretches have little shade, so start early. Because the walk finishes in Faial, plan a taxi back to Porto da Cruz before you set out.
Highlights
- The route connects the Penha d'Águia rock with Faial, so one walk takes you from the rock to a village finish.
- Some sections need hands on the rock, which turns part of the walk into a climb rather than a stroll.
- The route is rated very hard, and its steep, muddy sections call for good fitness.
When to come
Go in the morning on a dry day, since the upper sections have little shade and the path becomes slippery when it is wet.
Getting there
Start from Porto da Cruz, leaving the car by the waterfront or at the Rum Factory, and plan a taxi back if you finish in Faial.
Worth knowing
- Allow two and a half to three hours for the full walk from Porto da Cruz to Faial.
- The route calls for strong fitness and steady footing.
- Wear grip shoes and carry walking poles, since the downhill sections are hard on the knees.
- Carry water and sun protection, and avoid the midday sun on the upper sections.
- In wet weather the path turns to very slippery mud, so choose a dry day.
- The vertigo risk is rated medium, so take extra care on the steep sections.
- Save a taxi number before you set out, since the way back from Faial is by taxi.