Covas on Graciosa: Routes and Water Heritage

Around Covas, two routes showcase different sides of Graciosa: the Grande Rota da Graciosa connects coastal landscapes with the island’s volcanic interior. The Arquitetura da Água I route circles the crater of a volcanic cone and includes historic water collection and distribution facilities. There is also a historic site nearby and specific road links connecting Covas with other places.

Routes between the coast, the island’s interior and a crater

The Grande Rota da Graciosa is a circular route about 40 km long, divided into two stages of approximately 20 km each. These figures describe two levels of planning: the length of the entire loop and the length of each individual stage. This makes it possible to distinguish the approximate length of a section from the full route distance. In terms of scenery, the loop connects coastal areas with volcanic landscapes in the island’s interior. Following this route, you can see these two landscape types as distinct parts of the same island circuit. Check route conditions and access before setting out on a hike.

The Arquitetura da Água I route starts at Pico da Caldeirinha de Pêro Botelho and circles the crater of a volcanic cone. It is classified as a geosite of the UNESCO Global Geopark of the Azores. The route also includes historic water collection and distribution facilities: tanks, cisterns, washing places and wells. They are part of Graciosa’s cultural heritage. Here, the shape of a volcanic crater meets evidence of the island’s historic water supply. This distinguishes the route’s thematic focus from that of the Grande Rota, whose described range of landscapes encompasses the coast and the island’s interior.

Historic sites and road connections

The Ermida do Bom Jesus, founded in the early 17th century, is located near Covas. Its early founding gives the site a distinct historical note alongside the routes’ landscape and heritage themes.

The roads also identify specific connections between places: the ER 3-2A regional road runs through Covas between Guadalupe and Santa Cruz. Canada do Pavão connects Covas with Relheiras. These are two different geographical reference points for finding your way around the area. Check current road conditions in advance if you plan to travel on the ER 3-2A.

Choose the right focus for your stay

When looking for a holiday apartment in Covas, start with the kind of trip you have planned on Graciosa: would you like to focus more on the landscapes of the Grande Rota, the geological and cultural history themes of Arquitetura da Água I, or the nearby historic site? Each focus offers a different perspective on the island. If you are planning hikes, check the conditions and access for each route before setting out. This helps you match the stay you want with the specific places and landscapes in the area.

Discover more destinations: Guadalupe, Feiteira, Faja, Santa Cruz da Graciosa, Praia, Luz.

Go to the main travel overview: Graciosa.