Ribeira Quente – Povoação, São Miguel Island

The Ribeira Quente is a parish in the municipality of Povoação, located on the São Miguel Island. This parish is situated almost at sea level and is divided into two residential clusters: Ribeira and Fogo, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions for visitors.

Ribeira is located at the confluence of Ribeira dos Tambores with the sea and is a fishing community, with its harbor being a highlight. The Fogo area is near the Church of São Paulo and provides access to a small bay with warm waters. The green mountains frame the landscape at the back of Praia do Fogo.

Ribeira Quente – Vista Aérea
Fotografia de Lchacal

History of Ribeira Quente

Ribeira Quente began to be settled just a few years after the Furnas. Its landscape has been shaped over the centuries by significant events, such as the eruption of the Furnas Volcano in 1630 and some landslides from the Furnas Valley, which added a lot of soil to the area.

Costa Ribeira Quente, Povoação
Fotografia de ByAçores

In 1936 and subsequent years, two tunnels were constructed, facilitating access to the parish. The Fort of São Paulo was built in a prime location to protect Ribeira Quente from pirate and corsair attacks, which were common in this area. This structure did not survive to the present day, having been in ruins by 1817.

Túnel Ribeira Quente, Povoação
Fotografia de ByAçores

The development of Ribeira Quente primarily occurred after 1943 when it was elevated to a parish and with ongoing improvements to the fishing harbor.

Praia do Fogo / Praia da Ribeira Quente

Praia do Fogo is located on the southern coast of Ribeira Quente, in a bay with several underwater hydrothermal springs, which make the water warm and very popular with visitors. The beach is of immense natural beauty and is very inviting, perfect for enjoying summer days.

Praia do Fogo, Ribeira Quente
Fotografia de ByAçores

Praia da Ribeira Quente is nestled between cliffs, offering a cozy atmosphere, and in the area, there are several restaurants serving delicious dishes with fresh fish and seafood. It is also very conducive to water sports and diving.

The contrast between the blue sea and sky and the green mountains makes the landscape picturesque and unforgettable for visitors.

The beach is equipped with facilities, including parking, restrooms, and access for people with disabilities.

Also see: The best beaches on São Miguel

Festival of Chicharro

The Chicharro Festival is one of the largest summer festivals on São Miguel Island, taking place every August. Established in 1988, it is deeply rooted in the parish of Ribeira Quente and the municipality of Povoação.

The festival attracts thousands of people from other regions as well as foreign visitors. In addition to musical entertainment, attendees can enjoy the local cuisine, with various options for a fantastic meal. The Chicharro, which gives the festival its name, is prepared in various ways, depending on individual preferences.

This festival highlights the tourist panorama of Ribeira Quente, promoting the local economy and preserving cultural traditions.

Cascata da Ribeira Quente

Upon arriving in Ribeira Quente via the road from Furnas, you can see several waterfalls amidst the vegetation. The stunning Cascata da Ribeira Quente is one of them.

Cascata da Ribeira Quente
Fotografia de ByAçores

Of thermal origin, its springs come from the interior of the island and provide potable water. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, and its water cascades down a gorge that has been carved over the years.

Cascata Ribeira Quente
Fotografia de ByAçores

Along the way, various picnic areas are available for visitors. It is undoubtedly the perfect spot to relax and appreciate nature.

Agrião Footpath

The Agrião Footpath is a walking trail that takes about 4 hours to complete. It starts at the Port of Ribeira Quente and follows a linear circuit towards the mountains.

Trilho do Agrião, Ribeira Quente
Fotografia de Cíntia Raposo

During the hike, you will pass by viewpoints, a forest surrounded by endemic species, and views of Tronqueira and Graminhais. If the sea permits, you can reach Povoação via the beach area.

Trilho do Agrião, Ribeira Quente
Fotografia de Cíntia Raposo

It is certainly a beautiful walk, with moderate difficulty, that pleases both locals and visitors alike.

Location on the Map

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When visiting São Miguel Island, explore and enjoy Ribeira Quente.

Also see: Places to visit on São Miguel Island >