If you’re dreaming about exploring the untouched beauty of the Azores, São Jorge is an island you can’t miss. Famous for its unique fajãs—flat coastal plains created by volcanic erosion—it’s a place that draws you in with its wild scenery and peaceful vibe. Two of the most amazing fajãs, Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, sit along the island’s northern coast. What makes them stand out? For starters, their gorgeous coastal lagoons, and then there’s the lagoon in Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo—the only spot in the Azores where mussels are cultivated. Pretty cool, right?
The two fajãs are connected by a scenic gravel path that snakes along the coast, with green mountains rising up around you. If you’re up for a bigger adventure, the official hiking trail, PR01SJO, takes you through the mountains. It’s a bit of a challenge, but the views make every step worth it.
The Serra do Topo – Caldeira do Santo Cristo – Fajã dos Cubres trail is hands down one of the most beautiful hikes you can do on São Jorge. It’s packed with jaw-dropping views, lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and those magical fajãs. Along the way, you’ll pass everything from waterfalls to peaceful lagoons, where time seems to slow down. This hike is the perfect mix of nature, history, and Azorean charm—a must for anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure.

What to bring on the trail
The trail between Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo is easily a full day out in the great outdoors, so it’s worth being well-prepared. The weather on São Jorge can be pretty unpredictable—one moment it’s sunny, the next you’re caught in rain and strong winds. Make sure to pack a lightweight rain jacket and sturdy hiking boots, as the paths can get seriously muddy and slippery after rain.
Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snacks. Cafés in Fajã dos Cubres or Caldeira de Santo Cristo might be closed, especially outside the main season, and in any case, you won’t reach them until after several hours of hiking.



How to get to the starting point
To kick off your hike in Serra do Topo, you’ve got a few options for getting there. If you’re arriving by ferry or leaving from a hotel, consider booking a taxi from the port or town. You can also arrange for the driver to drop you off at the trailhead and pick you up later in Fajã dos Cubres once you’ve finished the hike. This is a super convenient option, especially if you’re not staying overnight on the island and want to avoid transport headaches.
If you’re driving, you can head to the starting point yourself. After completing the hike, you can call a taxi to take you back to your car. Keep in mind that there are no taxis readily available in Fajã dos Cubres—they’re usually there only to pick up hikers who’ve prearranged their ride. Planning ahead is key; otherwise, your only option might be hiking the same route back—this time uphill, which would take several more hours and be a real endurance test, especially if daylight is running out.
Once you reach Serra do Topo, you’ll find a parking lot on the right side, where you can safely leave your car or hop out of your taxi. For added convenience, you can use GPS coordinates (38.59731, -27.9267) to guide you straight to the starting point.



Detailed Trail Description
- Starting Point: Serra do Topo
- Trail Length: 9.5 km
- Elevation Gain: Around 200m
- Duration: 5–6 hours (I know most sources say 2–3 hours, but let’s be honest—you’re probably not here to sprint. You’ll want to enjoy the views, take photos, and just take it all in. Honestly, I don’t know who comes up with those 2-hour estimates. I asked several people I met on the trail, and like me, it took them about 5 hours one way).
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Trail Type: One-way
- Accessibility: Open year-round



Starting point – Serra do Topo
The PR01 SJO trail begins in Serra do Topo, at an elevation of approximately 700 meters above sea level. The starting point is conveniently located right next to the parking lot and an informational board by the Serra do Topo Wind Park (Eolic Park of Serra do Topo). Initially, the trail follows a wide gravel path surrounded by picturesque hydrangeas. It’s the perfect spot to take a deep breath, pause for a moment, and admire the views.
As you continue, the trail winds its way through native plant species such as the Azorean juniper (Juniperus brevifolia), Azorean heather (Erica azorica), and Azorean holly (Ilex azorica).




Descent to Caldeira de Cima
Following the trail markers, you’ll come across a small shelter before the path takes you downhill toward Caldeira de Cima. The trail leads you over the Tia Júlia bridge and then turns right, guiding you toward Cascata Pequena, a charming little waterfall. This section is fairly steep, and the surface can get slippery, so it’s a good idea to take your time, step carefully, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.





Trail to Caldeira de Santo Cristo
As you begin the descent toward Caldeira de Santo Cristo, the trail takes you past several small springs, their gentle sound adding charm to this part of the hike. Along the way, you can pause to admire the stunning views of Caldeira de Santo Cristo Bay, nestled among lush green hills.
The path continues downhill until you reach the fajã—the lowland area of the island—where you’ll find the Sanctuary of Senhor Santo Cristo and the Environmental Interpretation Centre.
The Environmental Interpretation Centre is a restored stone building that provides information about the area, serves as an educational space, and even offers temporary accommodation for researchers.




Lagoa da Caldeira de Santo Cristo
This protected area is renowned for its mussel farming and is a key spot for birdwatchers, who come to observe both local and migratory species. In recent years, as tourism on the island has grown, the lagoon has also become popular among water sports enthusiasts. Activities like bodyboarding and surfing now attract visitors seeking a perfect blend of nature and active recreation.

Continuing along the coast
The trail continues northwest, winding scenically along the coast through Fajã do Belo—a former settlement inhabited until the devastating earthquake of 1980. Along this part of the route, you can still spot steel cables that were once used to transport wood to nearby villages. From here, the trail begins to open up, offering views of the final stretch of the hike—Fajã dos Cubres, seemingly just within reach.





End of the Trail – Fajã dos Cubres
The hike concludes at the picturesque Nossa Senhora de Lourdes Church in Fajã dos Cubres. This is the perfect spot to rest and plan your next steps. From here, you can extend your adventure by choosing another trail: head west on the GR 02 SJO or east on the GR 01 SJO if you’re up for more exploration of the island.
Fajã dos Cubres itself is a place surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs, creating a truly breathtaking landscape. The towering mountains and expansive ocean form a panorama that leaves a lasting impression. Take a moment to appreciate the local residents, who live in harmony with the natural world around them. Their traditional homes blend seamlessly with the environment, while colorful flowers line the paths leading to the shore.
Don’t miss the famously clear and pristine waters of Fajã dos Cubres. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, picnics, and soaking in the tranquility of this magical place. Nearby, you might spot cows grazing peacefully, adding to the charm of the scenery.
Close to the village, you’ll find a small port that once served as a hub for fishing boats. Today, it’s a quiet corner, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the moment. Fajã dos Cubres also serves as a fantastic viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the ocean and neighboring islands—scenes that are sure to stay with you long after your visit.




More places to discover on São Jorge Island
If you’re planning to explore São Jorge, it’s good to know that beyond the trails I’ve described in a separate article, there are plenty of other fascinating spots waiting for you.
In my practical guide to São Jorge, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the island’s attractions—from natural springs to scenic viewpoints. Each of these places has its own unique vibe, and their stories are just waiting to be uncovered. The guide also includes practical tips on how to best prepare for your visit and how to navigate your way to the island.
São Jorge Island in the Azores – practical travel guide to discovering the island
São Jorge is full of extraordinary spots that you absolutely must see!