The best walks and hikes around Água Retorta
4.4
(2616)
12,518
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking trails around Água Retorta, located on São Miguel island in the Azores, are characterized by lush, green landscapes and panoramic views. The region features diverse woods, including Australian cheesewood and fayatree, alongside traditional boxwood hedges. A mountain reaching 673 meters in elevation is situated between Água Retorta and Faial da Terra, contributing to varied terrain. These trails often traverse protected landscape areas, preserving the natural habitat.
Best hiking trails around Água Retorta
- The most popular hiking route is Água…
Last updated: October 28, 2026
4.3
(29)
118
hikers
4.82km
01:46
290m
290m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(111)
716
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(109)
419
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(53)
212
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
2.0
(3)
3
hikers
10.4km
02:58
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
if you like waterfalls, the entire region is very interesting
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Beautiful but still tough hike! Definitely recommended. We did it with a 6 and 10-year-old
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From the direction of Salto Prego, a collapsed bridge lies in between.
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From the direction of Salto Prego, a collapsed bridge lies in between.
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A fantastic lost place, with a resident now once again "populating" the village and running four holiday homes in addition to a bar (worth a visit). German is spoken!
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It's quite steep, but the waterfall is definitely worth a dip. Along the way, you'll see plenty of wild chickens and their babies.
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If you like the road and a long asphalt path, you will like it, although there are yellow flowers and vegetation on both sides, you rarely get to see the sea, I personally do not like the path at all
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Água Retorta?
Água Retorta offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 60 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, catering to different fitness levels.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Água Retorta has 10 easy routes. A great option is the Água Retorta — circular route on the Island of São Miguel (PRC 13 SMI). This 4.8 km (3.0 miles) trail takes about 1 hour 46 minutes and winds through the village, pastures, and forested areas, passing historical elements like old windmill ruins.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Água Retorta?
Many of the trails in Água Retorta are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Cagarrão Waterfall – Sanguinho Village loop is a moderate 10.4 km (6.5 miles) option that takes you through diverse landscapes to the abandoned Sanguinho Village and the Prego Waterfall.
Are there any waterfalls I can visit on the hiking trails?
Yes, the region is known for its beautiful waterfalls. The popular Prego Waterfall is accessible via well-marked trails, and its pool offers a chance for a refreshing swim. You can find it on routes like the Chickens near Salto do Prego – Prego Waterfall loop.
What kind of natural landscapes and viewpoints can I expect to see?
Água Retorta is characterized by lush, green landscapes and offers panoramic views. Hikers can enjoy sights of the village center, Pico Bartolomeu, and Pico da Vara. On clear days, you might even see the island of Santa Maria. The area features diverse woods, including Australian cheesewood and fayatree, and trails often traverse protected landscape areas. For stunning coastal vistas, consider visiting the Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to explore along the trails?
Yes, the region offers historical insights. The Cagarrão Waterfall – Sanguinho Village loop leads to Sanguinho Village, an abandoned settlement from the 1950s and 60s with restored buildings. The Água Retorta Village Trail also includes historical elements like the ruins of an old windmill and the Church of Nossa Senhora da Penha de França.
What is the typical duration for hikes in Água Retorta?
Hike durations vary depending on the route's length and difficulty. Easy trails like the Água Retorta — circular route can take under 2 hours, while moderate paths such as the Wild Chickens – Chickens near Salto do Prego loop might take around 4 hours 37 minutes for 13.1 km (8.2 miles).
What do other hikers say about the trails in Água Retorta?
The trails in Água Retorta are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,900 reviews. Hikers often praise the lush, green landscapes, panoramic views, and the diverse woods within protected areas.
Are there any less crowded hiking options in the area?
While popular spots like Prego Waterfall can attract visitors, many trails offer a sense of tranquility. Exploring some of the longer, moderate routes, such as the Wild Chickens – Chickens near Salto do Prego loop, which leads through forested areas, might provide a more secluded experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Água Retorta?
The Azores generally have a mild climate year-round. However, for the most pleasant hiking conditions, spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) often offer comfortable temperatures and less rainfall, making them ideal for exploring the lush landscapes.
Are there any nearby natural monuments or attractions beyond the trails?
Beyond the immediate trails, the region is close to other significant natural monuments. While not directly in Água Retorta, the Furnas Calderas and Hot Springs are nearby and known for their volcanic activity and sulfur smells, offering another unique natural experience.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Specific parking availability can vary by trailhead. For many popular routes, such as those starting from Reserva Florestal de Recreio de Água Retorta, designated parking areas are typically available. It's advisable to check route details on komoot for specific parking information before your hike.
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