Rocha do Chambre

A short circular route that showcases the interior of the Terceira island over 8.8 km. As it reaches an altitude of 700 m, it’s worth saving this walk for days with good weather and clear visibility. Whenever you encounter a gate along the way, close it behind you.

The trail starts on a beaten earth path that later becomes a stone-paved surface. Already in this section you’ll notice endemic flora of the Açores, such as heather (Erica azorica), Azores laurel (Laurus azorica) and Azores juniper (Juniperus brevifolia). Next you enter a cryptomeria forest (Cryptomeria japonica) and follow alongside a water course until you reach a grazing area. Pass through the gate, continue along the earth path and, as you leave the pasture, you re-enter the forest, where a viewpoint over Azinhal Valley emerges. Here there are several spots that open up other views across the valley.

When the forest gives way to a clearing, you’ll spot the caldera wall of the Pico Alto Volcano. Head left, hugging the cliff face, until you reach the highest point of Rocha do Chambre, the Juncal, at 704 m. Beyond the endemic vegetation, this area stands out for the trachytic domes that are part of the Biscoito da Ferraria and Pico Alto Natural Reserve.

Continue along the cliff face, cross the bridge and stop at the viewpoint overlooking Rocha do Chambre. From here the path descends through agricultural fields, with various volcanic formations in view. At the end of the descent, resume the beaten earth path, pass through a gate and continue along the section bordered by a stone wall and heather. At the fork, turn left to return to the starting point.