Lagoa do Cerro

A short circular trail that starts near the artificial lakes of Altares, in the upper part of the parish. Along the way, the landscape changes character: you pass through avenues of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), cross open high-altitude pastures, and follow paths that wind through production forests and patches of natural vegetation.

At the highest point of the route, at 650 metres, a viewpoint opens up a wide view over the northern zone of the island, where the Red Peaks and the Narião massif stand out. The main highlight of the trail, however, is Lagoa do Cerro itself: a wetland area of significant landscape and biological value, with facilities for bird watching. It’s worth remembering that wetland areas like this serve important functions, helping to control flooding, replenish groundwater, regulate the water cycle, produce biomass, retain nutrients, and mitigate climate change.

In terms of natural heritage, the route passes through two protected areas of the Açores Natural Park: the Protected Area for Habitat or Species Management of the Central Plateau and Northwest Coast, and the Serra de Santa Bárbara and Mistérios Negros Nature Reserve. Along the way, it’s possible to spot endemic and rare flora, such as silva-mansa (Rubus hochstetterorum), cedro-do-mato (Juniperus brevifolia), heather (Erica azorica), wild cherry (Prunus azorica), holly (Ilex azorica), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), and the rare aquatic fern (Isoetes azorica).

Since the trail runs almost always above 500 metres, it’s advisable to choose a day with good weather and visibility. Also bring appropriate clothing and footwear, as the ground can become slippery.