Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo – Faial

The Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo, located in the parish of Capelo, municipality of Horta, on Faial Island, is at the highest point of the island and offers visitors spectacular views, which can be observed from an altitude of 1,043 meters above sea level at the Cabeço Gordo viewpoint.

The first striking feature upon arrival is the immense crater of the Caldeira. From here, you can also see the neighboring islands of Faial, especially Pico Island, the Vale dos Flamengos, and the two bays of the municipality of Horta.

Caldeira
Fotografia de Renata Monteiro

However, what impresses most is undoubtedly the Caldeira itself. Filled with flowers, plants, and trees, it is surrounded by an approximately 8 km long wall, also covered with various plants and trees such as beech, juniper, moss, cedars, ferns, and hydrangeas.

In the middle of the Caldeira, there is a lake and a small volcanic cone, surrounded by the primitive laurel forest.

When visiting Faial Island, don’t miss the famous Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo and take in its breathtaking views, formed by the enormous crater of a volcano. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, there’s nothing like a hiking trail around the Caldeira—it’s an incredible experience.

History of Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo

Like many other tourist spots in the Azores, the Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo has a volcanic origin and is part of the history of Faial Island, much like the eruption of the Capelinhos Volcano in 1957.

The Caldeira has steep relief and is located in the center of the island, part of the Faial Natural Park, composed of endemic flora and rich greenery.

Photo by Carlos Cruz

The volcano visible in the center formed through numerous eruptions and periods of rest over the past 400,000 years, resulting in a large depression at the top, about 2 km in diameter, which is the Caldeira. Its interior contains a pyroclastic cone, a trachytic dome, and a humid area, which was once a lagoon.

On the southern side of the Caldeira is Cabeço Gordo, the highest point on Faial Island. From this spot, you can see the historical transformation after the eruption of the Capelinhos Volcano, as well as its arid and rustic landscape—a gray patch on a predominantly green island. This area holds significant historical, scientific, cultural, and tourist value in the Azores.

Faial Island is also known as the “Blue Island,” and this can be easily seen while walking around the Caldeira, due to the abundance of hydrangeas that create a magnificent visual effect. It’s breathtaking!

Photo by Hastdutoene

Tips

Summer is the best season to enjoy the perfect view of Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo, where the blue of the hydrangeas mixes with the ocean and the lush vegetation. A true spectacle of colors! Be sure to check the weather forecast to make the most of your visit. Cloudy days can completely obscure the view.

If you plan to take the hiking trail around the Caldeira, it’s recommended to wear appropriate, comfortable clothing and shoes for the 8 km walk. The area is often windy, so bring a jacket. And of course, don’t forget to take plenty of photos from the Cabeço Gordo viewpoint—it’s sensational!

Location on the Map