The best MTB trails around Capelas

There are over 40 mountain bike trails available around Capelas, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Mountain biking around Capelas features diverse terrain, including lush green countryside, challenging volcanic landscapes, river valleys, and ancient volcanic cones. You'll also find dramatic coastal sections with impressive basalt cliffs and expansive Atlantic views, particularly on the wild north coast of São Miguel.

The trails around Capelas cater to various skill levels. There are 3 easy routes, 25 moderate routes, and 12 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced riders.

The mountain bike trails in Capelas are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from more than 20 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from volcanic landscapes to coastal views, and the opportunities to explore iconic areas like Sete Cidades.

Yes, there are several circular mountain bike routes. For example, the difficult Sete Cidades, Cumeeiras and Ajuda da Bretanha — circular route on the Island of São Miguel offers a long, challenging loop, and the difficult Cumeeiras e Litoral Noroeste — percurso circular na Ilha de São Miguel explores the northwestern coast.

Many trails offer stunning natural landmarks. You can encounter the iconic Vista do Rei viewpoint overlooking the Sete Cidades crater lakes, the Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, and the serene Lake Canário. The region's volcanic nature also means you might pass by features like Mares' Peak.

Yes, there are family-friendly options. The easy Sete Cidades, Lagoa Azul e Lagoa Verde — percurso na Ilha de São Miguel is a good choice, winding around the iconic twin crater lakes and offering a less strenuous ride suitable for families.

Capelas benefits from a temperate climate, making mountain biking enjoyable for much of the year. The lush green countryside is vibrant, and while some coastal trails can be challenging due to slippery sections, the overall conditions are generally favorable. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures for riding.

Absolutely. Capelas offers 12 difficult mountain bike routes. Trails like the Sete Cidades Caldera Rim Loop provide challenging climbs and descents with significant elevation changes, perfect for experienced riders seeking demanding terrain and panoramic views.

Yes, Capelas is situated on the wild north coast of São Miguel, featuring impressive basalt cliffs. Many trails, particularly those along the coastline or ascending to higher viewpoints, offer breathtaking Atlantic ocean vistas, combining the thrill of mountain biking with stunning scenery.

After a ride, you can find natural swimming pools and ponds in Capelas and nearby Calhetas and Lagoa, perfect for a refreshing dip. The Ponta da Ferraria Natural Thermal Pools are also a notable natural monument in the region.

Beyond mountain biking, Capelas is a great base for coastal hikes, whale watching trips from nearby Ponta Delgada, and exploring other Azorean attractions like Terra Nostra Park, Poça da Dona Beija, Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, Lagoa do Fogo, and Furnas Lake.