Pico da Esperança – São Jorge Island

Located on São Jorge Island, in the parish of Norte Grande, municipality of Velas, in the Azores Archipelago, the Pico da Esperança is yet another attraction for trail lovers and those who appreciate beautiful landscapes, formed by the region’s vegetation and sea.

Its volcanic origin shaped the central mountain range of this location, which stands at 1053 meters in altitude, offering views of the other islands in the central group, such as Terceira, Graciosa, Pico, and Faial.

Photo by Guillaume Baviere

Due to lava flows from Pico da Esperança in past centuries, several landscapes known as Fajãs were formed. Among these beauties are the Fajã dos Cubres, Fajã Grande, Fajã de S. João, Fajã do Ouvidor, Fajã dos Vimes, and the Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, the only one in the Azores with clams. It’s worth noting that not all of them have road access for vehicles.

During your stay on São Jorge Island, if you feel like going on an amazing hike, be sure to prepare for a trip to Pico da Esperança! It’s worth it!

Pico da Esperança Hiking Trail

The main attraction is the hike to Pico da Esperança, passing through Pico do Pedro and ending at Fajã do Ouvidor, with a total duration of approximately 4 hours and a length of 17km. To make the most of the hike, it’s important to wake up early and start your day early.

You’ll find a well-marked and peaceful path, surrounded by hydrangeas and pastures, with views of the neighboring islands and the volcanic cones that shaped São Jorge Island. You’ll also notice some craters that formed small ponds, creating a truly interesting visual.

Photo by Guillaume Baviere

Upon reaching the top of Pico da Esperança, the feeling is incredible. The panoramic view of São Jorge Island and the central group islands is indescribable, so don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture this exclusive experience.

Photo by Guillaume Baviere

After exploring the natural surroundings, the descent to the parish of Norte Grande offers a different and charming landscape. Finally, the trail ends at Fajã do Ouvidor, where you can take a refreshing dip in the sea to cool off and regain your energy.

Interesting Facts

The path to Pico da Esperança offers a wide variety of endemic fauna and flora, especially heather and hydrangeas, as well as sites of geological significance regarding the planet’s history. The view of the central mountain range is magnificent, bringing a sense of tranquility and peace.

Photo by Guillaume Baviere

If you complete the trail, at the end of the route toward Fajã do Ouvidor, don’t forget to visit the Casa do Parque and Ecomuseum of São Jorge Island to learn more about the region’s biodiversity, geology, heritage, and São Jorge Natural Park.

Photo by Guillaume Baviere

Along the way, you’ll also find the Memorial of Father Júlio Soares, a victim of a tragic air crash that occurred in the region on December 11, 1999. SATA flight SP530M, traveling from Ponta Delgada to Flores, collided with Pico da Esperança, resulting in 35 fatalities, including passengers and crew. There is also a memorial at the site honoring all the victims of this tragic accident.