Nordeste: Nature, Hiking Trails and Azorean Culture

Nordeste combines impressive natural experiences with a distinctive cultural tradition. Hiking trails lead through protected landscapes, viewpoints open up vistas of the coast, and in Vila de Nordeste, bridges, religious monuments and festivals tell the story of the area. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Nordeste can tailor their choice of accommodation to the desired mix of active days, nature observation, culture and regional cuisine.

Hiking Trails between Protected Areas and Waterfalls

The Padrão das Alminhas–Salto da Farinha hiking trail connects Achadinha and Salga. Along the way, it passes through landscapes of great natural and historical-cultural beauty. The Padrão das Alminhas, a religious monument associated with the cult of the souls, is also part of the experience. This religious tradition has been rooted in Achadinha since the 17th century.

Another focal point is Pico da Vara. The hiking trail of the same name runs through the protected area for the management of habitats and species of Tronqueira and Planalto dos Graminhais, as well as through the Pico da Vara Nature Reserve. It provides access to Pico da Vara, the highest point on São Miguel at 1,103 m. Along the route, two memorials commemorate the crash of an Air France aircraft in 1949 and a Portuguese Air Force aircraft in 1943.

The nature reserve lies on Serra da Tronqueira and features great botanical and scenic diversity. It also includes the Pico da Vara/Ribeira do Guilherme Special Protection Area of the Natura 2000 network. Salto da Farinha is a waterfall approximately 40 m high. From the Salto da Farinha viewpoint, both the waterfall and the island’s north coast can be seen.

Birdlife, Coastal Views and Special Excursions

Nordeste is also suitable for anyone who would like to combine a trip with nature observation. Birdwatching offers the chance to see the Priolo, as well as other endemic Azorean subspecies, including the common buzzard, chaffinch, grey wagtail, Azores wood pigeon, Azores canary, goldcrest and starling. The Priolo Tour leads to the bird’s natural habitat and provides information about the conservation measures carried out to protect it. The nearby Priolo Environmental Center also offers an exhibition area covering the history, significance and endangerment of the Priolo, as well as European conservation projects.

The Ponta do Sossego viewpoint combines views of the coast with extensive, planted gardens. Canyoning takes place in Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park, which is one of the island’s popular canyoning locations. In the area around Nordeste, Pimentel Farm also offers horseback rides along rural paths. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between hikes, birdwatching, garden and coastal views, and more active excursions.

Culture, Crafts and Cuisine in Nordeste

In the center of Vila de Nordeste stands the Seven Arches’ Bridge, with seven stone arches built in 1883. The Municipal Exhibition Hall regularly presents a wide variety of exhibitions, most of which feature regional artists. Casa de Trabalho do Nordeste produces handicrafts based on weaving and embroidery, as well as other craft activities. The Church of S. Pedro in São Pedro de Nordestinho, built in 1764, is also located nearby and is considered the oldest church in the municipality.

The culinary and communal side of the area is also part of the travel experience. The Espírito Santo festivities take place in May and may last until June, depending on the year. During these celebrations, traditional Espírito Santo soup made with meat, bread and wine is served in the street and offered to the community. In November, restaurants in the Município do Nordeste traditionally serve the dish “Capão” on Sundays, which is part of Nordeste’s cuisine.

When searching for suitable accommodation, you can first consider whether your days should be shaped mainly by long hikes, nature and bird observation, or by culture, festivals and regional specialities. Nordeste offers different points of connection for all of these interests, without requiring you to commit to just one type of trip. For further places to use as a reference, see Arrifes, Água De Pau, Pico Da Pedra, Capelas, S. Vicente Ferreira, Bretanha, Lomba Da Maia, Achada.

For the higher-level travel overview: S.Miguel.