The Salto da Farinha is a waterfall approximately 40 meters high, located at the end of Ribeira das Coelhas on São Miguel’s north coast. Its name originates from historical grain milling activities in this area, known for its stunning geological landscapes.
At almost 130 meters above sea level, the Miradouro do Salto da Farinha (Flour Waterfall viewpoint) offers an incredible panoramic view over the North coast of So Miguel island with its green cliffs, the Atlantic Ocean and the 40-meter-high waterfall that goes by the same name.
This beautiful waterfall is not to be missed when driving by the Northeastern part of São Miguel, the green island. Seen from the viewpoint, it looks quite small. But if you get close, sometimes you can’t even hear when someone is talking to you right by your side.
Locals might know it very well, but not every visitor will have it on their itinerary. So let’s unravel together all the secrets around this hidden spot, off the beaten path.
What is Miradouro do Salto da Farinha?
Miradouro do Salto da Farinha is a viewpoint with quite a view! From there, you can truly appreciate Mother Nature’s work. It is located inside a green lush forest with exuberant vegetation. A hidden spot straight from a film like Jurassic Park or Indiana Jones.
Quick Info
Up there, you will find a barbecue area with grills, tables, benches, some shelter to eat under, toilets and a car park. Most of it is accessible to disabled people.
The name Salto da Farinha comes from the fact that once, this waterfall was used to help grind cereals to make flour. Wheat and cornbread once were some main elements of the Azorean diet, like in most European countries.
Plan your Visit to Miradouro do Salto da Farinha
How to get to Miradouro do Salto da Farinha
When driving on the EN1-1A on the Northern shore of São Miguel, towards the East, you will find Miradouro do Salto da Farinha right before the village of Salga. This is accessible by car, or taxi. Public transportation such as buses are not so many during the day, so it is better to rent a car.
Once you are at the viewpoint, you can go down to the waterfall by car. However, this is a 35% inclination descent. And then you have to go back the same way up. This is quite dangerous if you don’t have the proper car or good driving experience. So we recommend going by foot.
Did you know
This viewpoint is also on the way to a trail: Padrão das Alminhas — Salto da Farinha (PR21 SMI). This is a nice hike to do for those who have some time on their hand and love being surrounded by nature.
Best Time To Visit Miradouro do Salto da Farinha
If you want to see the waterfall with more flow of water, then you need to visit during the winter months. Or at least go after some rainy days so that it is even more spectacular. If there is plenty of water, you will be astounded by the considerable noise created by the waterfall.
About the time of the day, you should bring your picnic or some food to grill and eat in the viewpoint, especially on sunny days. Come by the end of the morning so you have time to drive there, enjoy a meal, go down to see the waterfall and come back before sunset.
Pro Tips for Miradouro do Salto da Farinha
If the weather and sea conditions are good, it is possible to take a dip at the small rocky beach close to the waterfall.
However, as this is not an official beach, anyone does not guard it. Always ask locals around for advice. This is a place where there are strong currents. Moreover, there can be some Portuguese man-o-war, the very nasty ‘jellyfish’.
👉 Post related Best Beaches in the Azores Islands. Read more
What to do Around Miradouro do Salto da Farinha
Chase Waterfalls at Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park
Wander in a lush natural park displaying waterfalls of all shapes and sizes. A place where local traditions and nature make one. Discover old material used in the everyday life of Azoreans from the former century and an abundant dreamy landscape.
When visiting São Miguel island in the Azores, don’t forget to visit Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park. This natural park is a mandatory stop for all travellers.
It displays beautiful landscapes and offers a great opportunity for a relaxing walk surrounded by spectacular nature. A wonderful scenery for pictures!
Between big waterfalls and unique vegetation, this is the perfect place to spend a quiet day far away from the city. But there are also options for the most adventurous travellers!
Swim at Praia da Viola
While some of the green island’s beaches are highly frequented and popular among tourists, there are also many hidden gems that only locals know. One such hidden gem is Praia da Viola, a secluded beach on the north coast of the island.
Praia da Viola (Beach of the Violin) is one of the most untouched black sand beaches of the archipelago. It is quite remote as you can only access it via a walking trail.
Surrounded by lush green cliffs from where several waterfalls flow into the ocean, Praia da Viola is the ideal spot to know a typical Atlantic beach of the Azores without the crowds.
The black sand contrasts beautifully with the clear blue waters of the Atlantic, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also a great spot for snorkelling, as marine life is abundant in the water around the beach.
Quick Info
If the sea conditions are not appropriate, it can become quite dangerous to venture in.
Explore the Poço Azul
Poço Azul is one of the most researched points of interest on the green island of São Miguel, Azores.
Why? Well, for a simple reason.
As you can guess, its name means ‘the blue well’, and once you get there, you will be transported to a magical scenery straight out of a fairy tale surrounded by unique natural beauty.
This hidden gem will show you the singular beauty that is trapped in remote locations of the island. Walking to Poço Azul is like entering another world.
This clear-blue-water lagoon and its famous cave is a special landmark in São Miguel. There is even a waterfall. What a great way to begin the day in the Azores.
Hike the Moinho do Félix Trail
If you are a hiking lover, and you want another great hiking experience near Poço Azul, then Moinho do Félix is a great spot. On this 2-hour roundtrip trail, you will be immersed in the forest and find many waterfalls. It is located in the neighboring village of Lomba de São Pedro.
Complementary Information
Useful Tools & Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores offers live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, letting you check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.
How to Get to São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island is easily accessible with numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights to Ponta Delgada available. To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner.
These platforms allow you to compare prices and schedules from different airlines in one place. For more details on how to get to the Azores, look at our guide. Once you find the perfect flight, book it! You’ll reach one of the world’s most beautiful island groups in a few hours.
Best Season to Visit São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island, part of the Eastern Group of the Azores Archipelago, has a unique climate shaped by various factors. This climate fosters the island’s lush vegetation and stunning landscapes. Temperatures stay mild year-round, with only slight variations.
In spring, temperatures average 16 °C, summer peaks at 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter hovers around 14 °C. For more details on the weather in the Azores, take a look at the following links:
- The weather in the Azores in January
- The weather in the Azores in February
- The weather in the Azores in March
- The weather in the Azores in April
- The weather in the Azores in May
- The weather in the Azores in July
- The weather in the Azores in August
Cultural Agenda of São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island hosts a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. The complete list of events is on the cultural agenda!
Video of Salto da Farinha Waterfall
FAQs
Where is Miradouro do Salto da Farinha located?
Miradouro do Salto da Farinha is situated on the island of São Miguel in the Azores. It is easily accessible and offers spectacular views of the Salto da Farinha waterfall.
What is the best time of year to visit Miradouro do Salto da Farinha?
The best time to visit Miradouro do Salto da Farinha is during spring and summer when rainfall is less frequent, and the vegetation is in full bloom, providing stunning views.
Are there any hiking trails near Miradouro do Salto da Farinha?
Yes, there are trails nearby that allow you to explore the surrounding nature and get closer to the Salto da Farinha waterfall. These paths offer a great opportunity to admire the area’s natural beauty.
What else can I do besides admire the waterfall?
Besides enjoying the view of the Salto da Farinha waterfall, you can hike in the surrounding area, photograph the landscape, and enjoy picnics in designated spots, taking advantage of the tranquility of the location.
Conclusion
To sum up, Miradouro do Salto da Farinha is a gorgeous viewpoint on the north coast with a view over one of the most impressive waterfalls of São Miguel island, especially in the winter time or after heavy rains.
From up there, admire the natural beauty of the Green Island and enjoy a lunch surrounded by untouched nature, with all the appliances needed for a comfortable time.
This is for sure a spot you want to put on your itinerary around the island because not so many tourists will go there, and you will have a privileged view.
