Caldeira do Faial: The Landmark of Faial Island

Located in the centre of the island, Cadeira do Faial is considered by many to be Faial’s landmark. It is one of the few places where it is still possible to imagine what the Azores were like before the archipelago was settled.

The Caldeira do Faial, also known simply as the Caldeira, has a perfectly circular shape with a diameter of approximately 2 km at its inner edge and a depth of 400 metres. This caldera is located inside the crater of the Caldeira Central Volcano.

This site, categorised as a nature reserve, is covered in lush laurel vegetation and is of great importance for the natural conservation of the Azores’ endemic habitats.

So, to get to know this natural wonder, we’ve prepared a guide with the most relevant information about this place and some of the tourist attractions you can’t miss during your stay in Faial.

What is Caldeira do Faial?

Caldeira do Faial is the youngest collapsed caldera in the Azorean archipelago — it’s been around for 1,000 years. This place is made up of an immense pit covered in green vegetation, with a small lagoon at the bottom, which can be glimpsed through the fog that is almost always present.

Commonly known as the Cathedral of Silence, the Caldeira is located in the centre of the island, more specifically inside the Faial Natural Park, in the parish of Cerdos, in the municipality of Horta.

Due to the richness of the vegetation inside Caldeira do Faial, this natural monument is part of the Special Conservation Zone (ZEC) and the Special Protection Zone (ZPE) of Caldeira and Capelinhos within the Natura 2000 Network.

It is also classified as a Ramsar Site under the Ramsar Convention and is a geosite of the Azores Geopark — UNESCO World Geopark.

Geology & Volcanology of Caldeira do Faial

The Caldeira do Faial is an imposing volcanic edifice that dominates the island’s landscape, with its crater formed over 400,000 years by eruptions interspersed with periods of calm. This natural monument is also the most important geosite on the island of Faial, with great scientific, educational and tourist value.

Covered by woods and laurel forest, the Caldeira has a small cone of slag inside and a trachytic lava dome known as “Rocha do Altar”. At the bottom of the crater, there is also a small pyroclastic cone left over from a later eruption that marks the landscape.

Surrounding the Caldeira are volcanic cones (the Cabeços dos Trinta, dos Verde, da Fonte, Fogo and do Canto) that extend to the west, while the prominent Cabeço Gordo extends to the south.

A permanent lagoon that once occupied the Caldeira disappeared during a seismic crisis in 1958, associated with the eruption of the Capelinhos Volcano, resulting in a small phreatic explosion. This caldera, the result of successive phases of volcanic subsidence, bears witness to the geological dynamics that have moulded the island of Faial over millennia.

Fauna & Flora of Caldeira do Faial

The first thing that strikes you when you arrive at Caldeira do Faial is the huge volcanic crater. But what is most impressive is undoubtedly the Caldeira. This place is full of flowers, plants and trees, surrounded by a wall approximately 8 kilometres long, also covered in a diversity of botanical habitats.

Did you know

The interior of the Caldeira is home to two-thirds of the endemic vascular flora of the Azores and the endemic fauna of Faial.

In terms of flora, the species that stand out are the cedar tree, the common hawkweed, the Sanicula azorica, the privet and the island labaca.

As far as birdlife is concerned, this site includes subspecies endemic to the Azores, such as:

• Chaffinch;
• Azorean warbler;
• kite;
• Arthropod weevil — endemic only to Caldeira do Faial.

What To Do In Caldeira do Faial?

Venture out to explore the Caldeira do Faial and its 1001 shades of green that give this place its unique surroundings.

Here you can enjoy real moments of peace in communion with nature. There are three different ways to visit Caldeira:

• Enjoy the view from the belvedere into the giant volcanic crater;
• Walk around the perimeter of Caldeira do Faial;
• Descent into the interior of Caldeira do Faial.

To make your experience even more enriching, below we suggest some activities you can do during your visit to this natural monument.

Discover the Interior of Caldeira do Faial: Caldeira Hiking (PRC04 FAI)

Descending into the Caldeira do Faial is a transcendental experience. Here we can feel the heartbeat of the island. The descent involves a mystical aura, exalted by the grandeur of the environment and the sensation of entering a place practically untouched by man.

The complex ecosystem that thrives inside the Caldeira represents one of the best-preserved strongholds of endemic flora in the Azores, with its lush laurel forest. The monumental scale of the Caldeira offers a unique setting for observing these rare and sensitive species.

It should be noted that the route to the interior of the Caldeira is classified as difficult because it is narrow and steep. In this sense, in some areas, it is even necessary to use your hands to make progress.

Information About the Caldeira Hiking (Summary)

This hiking is part of the Caldeira do Faial Nature Reserve and surrounds the crater of the ancient Central Volcano of Faial. We recommend that you start the walk at the Caldeira Viewpoint, go through a small tunnel that gives access to the crater and enjoy the exuberant view over the magnificent Laurissilva forest.

Along the way, you can admire examples of endemic flora, such as the Cedro-do-mato, the Urze, the Uva-da-serra, the Trovisco-macho, and the Angélica, among others. As you make your way around the Caldeira, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the north and west coasts of the island, as well as the interior of the crater.

• Category: circular;
• Difficulty: easy;
• Length: 6.8 km;
• Average time: 2h30m.

Go on an Adventure on Rota dos Dez Vulcões Trail (PR06 FAI)

Walking the Rota dos Dez Vulcões Trail (PR06 FAI) is the ideal experience for you if you enjoy constant contact with nature. Located in Faial, this is a walking route you can’t miss on your visit to the island.

Did you know

This linear circuit is 19.3 kilometres long and has a high degree of difficulty. For this reason, you should always take into account your physical fitness and the level of demand for the activity.

Given how demanding the trail is, it’s best to dedicate a whole day to this activity to fully enjoy the experience. The effort will be rewarded with stunning volcanic landscapes — culminating in the Capelinhos Volcano.

Choose to start the Rota dos Dez Vulcões Trail in the caldera area, so that the route is always downhill. Please note that you should only set off if the weather is good.

Information About Rota dos Dez Vulcões Trail (Summary)

• Category: linear;
• Difficulty: hard;
• Extension: 19.3 km;
• Time average: 5h.

Explore the Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo

Located in the southern part of the Caldeira do Faial, Cabeço Gordo is the highest point on Faial Island at approximately 1043 metres above sea level. It is located in the parish of Capelo, in the municipality of Horta.

From the Cabeço Gordo viewpoint, you’ll have an excellent panoramic view over the heart of the island with its enchanting green landscape. In addition, from here you can see the highest point in the country, the 2351-metre-high Pico Mountain.

The Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo is one of Faial’s main landmarks. From here you can see the historical change that took place after the eruption of the Capelinhos Volcano, as well as its arid and rustic landscape, a grey patch on a predominantly green island. It is a territory of important historical, scientific, cultural and tourist value in the Azores.

Best Time To Visit Caldeira do Faial

The island of Faial, located in the Azores archipelago, is characterised by an atypical climate resulting from various factors, which contribute to its botanical richness and scenic value.

The climate is mild regardless of the season in question, and the average values don’t change much. Temperatures vary between:

• 16 °C in spring;
• 21 °C in summer;
• 18 °C in autumn;
• 14 °C in winter.

In the particular case of Caldeira do Faial, given the location of this tourist attraction in the middle of nature, the best time of year to visit is from May to September.

This is if you want to take a leisurely walk through the mountains and volcanoes and enjoy the views.

How To Plan Your Visit To Caldeira do Faial

Caldeira do Faial is a natural monument that attracts thousands of visitors every year, regardless of the season. Here you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes and permanent contact with nature.

To enjoy this unique experience, we recommend that you plan your visit to Caldeira in good time. So, once you’ve decided on the days and duration of your trip, choose the ideal accommodation for you according to your tastes and financial possibilities – the earlier you book, the more likely you are to find good deals at prices that are more favourable to your wallet.

You should also plan an itinerary with all the places you want to visit and all the activities and experiences you want to do during your stay in Faial.

What To Bring To Caldeira do Faial?

Have you planned your visit to Caldeira do Faial? It’s time to find out which items we consider essential and which you can’t do without if you want your experience to be the best it can be.

In this regard, we recommend that you take comfortable clothes and equally comfortable footwear suitable for the trails you have to follow to your destination.

You should also take a rucksack with you:

• Extra warm clothing;
• Waterproof or windbreaker;
• Camera to capture moments in time;
• Sun cream;
• Some snacks;
• Water.

Note: respect the environment and follow the local rules.

Excursions and Activities in Caldeira do Faial

To make sure you don’t miss out on the many places we consider a must-see, we recommend taking an excursion or organising some activities/experiences.

By purchasing an excursion or an experience, you can enjoy the wonders of nature calmly without worrying about organising the itinerary. As well as seeing all the most interesting places, you’ll also have the chance to hear the stories and curiosities that the guides have to tell you.

There are many excursions and activities that you can do while passing through Caldeira do Faial and the prices range from €50 to €160 — always depending on the type of service, the extras included in the packages and the number of people.

How To Get To Caldeira do Faial

Leaving the city of Horta in the direction of the parish of Cerdos, you’ll have to travel around 16 kilometres to reach the beautiful Caldeira do Faial.

To get to your destination you have several options: you can choose to travel by car/motorbike, taxi or bicycle.

Following the EN2-2A, the journey takes approximately:

• Car, motorbike or taxi: 25 minutes;
• Bicycle: 1 hour and 53 minutes.

In any case, if you like long walks, you can choose to make this journey on foot, following the EN2-2A, although it will take you (on average) 4 hours and 5 minutes to reach your destination.

Pro Tips

• There is a trail that leads down to the caldera, but access is restricted as the site is located inside a Nature Reserve in the Faial Nature Park.
• Access to the interior of the Caldeira can only be done in the company of a Certified Faial Natural Park Guide. This activity may cost up to 50 euros per person.
• The slopes of the Caldeira are not very accessible and it is not advisable to descend inland on rainy days.
• If you want to cycle up to the Caldeira, you can do so on the EN2-2A — the road is all tarmac. However, be aware that Azorean roads are steeper than those on the mainland, so you’ll need to be in good physical shape to endure this almost two-hour ride.

What To Do Around Caldeira do Faial?

Have you appreciated the grandeur and uniqueness of the Caldeira do Faial? It’s time to find out about other magnificent tourist attractions that you should include in your visit to Faial.

In addition to the Caldeira, many other attractions on the island may surprise you with their beauty and atmosphere.

So remember to plan an itinerary in good time with all the places you want to visit. We’ve put together a few places that we think are a must-see. Take a look at our suggestions!

Discover Vulcão dos Capelinhos

The Vulcão dos Capelinhos, also known as the ‘Mystery of Capelinhos,’ is located at Ponta dos Capelinhos in the parish of Capelo, Faial. It is one of the tourist attractions that has been gaining increasing popularity in the Azores due to its scenic beauty.

It is part of the Capelo Volcanic Complex and exhibits a vulcano-tectonic alignment with a general WNW-ESE orientation, composed of approximately twenty volcanic cones.

The name ‘Vulcão dos Capelinhos’ alludes to the existence of two islets called ‘Ilhéus dos Capelinhos’ located in front of the Capelinhos Lighthouse.

Discover the Town of Horta In Faial

The city of Horta, located on the island of Faial, is one of the most emblematic places in the Azorean archipelago that you should include on your trip.

Here you can watch the constant movement of boats in the harbour and sailboats moored in the marina. As well as the tourists arriving from all over the world, the city, and bay of Horta is one of the most famous in the Azores.

This is a typical Azorean city where you can get to know the uniqueness of its people and the various buildings steeped in the region’s history and culture.

Explore Praia do Almoxarife

Praia do Almoxarife is one of the best and largest bathing areas on the island of Faial. With a privileged view of Pico Mountain, this beach is located just 5 kilometres from the city of Horta and has a long stretch of sand that is much appreciated by its visitors.

Did you know

Praia do Almoxarife is known for its water sports, specifically surfing, windsurfing, and diving.

Nowadays, this place has good support infrastructures for bathers, It is equipped with access for people with reduced mobility, free car parks, toilets, showers, 2 bars and 2 restaurants. You’ll also have the Praia do Almoxarife Campsite at your disposal.

With an average water temperature of 22 °C in summer, the beach is guarded and safe, and is recognised annually with the Blue Flag — you can go swimming in peace.

Enjoying Praia do Porto Pim

Praia do Porto Pim, like Almoxarife Beach, is one of the most popular bathing areas on the island of Faial.

👉 Post related Best Beaches in the Azores Islands. Read more

Here you’ll find good support facilities for bathers, equipped with access for people with reduced mobility, toilets, showers, bars, cafes, and restaurants.

The sand, about 350 metres long, is fine and soft. Its waters are usually around 22 °C on average in summer. In addition, the waters are calm and have little swell, which is why it is popular for windsurfing and diving.

It should be noted that Porto Pim Beach is monitored and safe, and is recognised annually with the Blue Flag for being a bathing area of excellent quality in terms of cleanliness, hygiene, and safety.

Dive Into the Natural Pools of Varadouro

Varadouro is a small coastal resort. In the past, it was the preferred destination for wealthy families in Horta to spend their summer vacations. However, currently, despite still being a summer resort known for its natural pools, it is also a residential area.

The Natural Pools of Varadouro, located in Fajã do Varadouro, in the parish of Capelo, are a great place to relax and enjoy the pools on hot summer days.

Surrounded by exceptional scenic beauty, the Natural Pools of Varadouro can provide a unique experience that pleases both young and old alike.

Visit Scrimshaw Museum & Peter Café Sport

The Scrimshaw Museum, founded in 1986, is a must-see on your visit to Faial. This small museum is a little bigger than a room and is located on the first floor of the Peter Café Sport building.

This museum has many pieces meticulously sculpted by local artisans who, through whaling art, have eternalised the memories of the historical era of whaling on the islands of Faial and Pico.

Peter Café Sport, meanwhile, is one of the world’s best-known nautical centres. It opened during the First World War, more than 100 years ago, in 1918.

This emblematic space steeped in history is therefore considered a must for sailors, visitors, and locals alike.

Where To Eat Near Horta

If you need somewhere to eat near Horta, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.

Where To Stay Near Horta

To make your life easier, we’ve filtered the search by:

• Airbnb
• Booking.com

Complementary Information

Useful Tools and Apps

The weather in the Azores is quite unpredictable. For this reason, there is a very useful App that you can install on your mobile phone before visiting any of the 9 islands: Spotazores. The cameras installed at the biggest tourist attractions allow you to check the weather and decide where to visit next.

To check the weather forecast for the next few days, use Windy or Windguru. They are the most accurate.

How to Get to Faial Island

There are many routes to the island of Faial by plane. The main points of entry are Lisbon and Horta (Faial island), but there are already many direct routes.

The best way to find a flight that works for you is to use a flight search engine like eDreams or Skyscanner. As you may already know, these sites allow you to compare prices and schedules of various airlines in one place.

Once you find a flight you like, all you need to do is book! And in a few hours, you’ll be on your way to one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world.

Cultural Agenda on The Island of Faial

The island of Faial offers many cultural events all year round. The full list of events is available at the following link.

Look at the Agenda!

Video of Caldeira do Faial

Conclusion

Caldeira do Faial, located in the parish of Cerdos, is a place worth visiting for those who like to be in communion with nature. It is part of a nature reserve of great importance in the Azores and the view from the Cabeço Gordo Viewpoint is considered a must-see.

If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful place in Faial, then Caldeira, also known as the deserted centre of the island, could be the ideal destination for those who want to relax and get away from the daily hustle and bustle of the cities.

Don’t forget to visit the area surrounding Caldeira do Faial. Take the opportunity to discover monuments and the historical and cultural legacy of the municipality of Horta, viewpoints with breathtaking views and various places of interest to explore in nature.

References

• Mendonça, L. (2017). Perguntas e Respostas sobre a História dos Açores. 2.ª Edição, Letras Lavadas. Ponta Delgada.
• Forjaz, V., Ribeiro, L., Almeida, L., Pereira, N. e Rodrigues, J. (2019). Dos Vulcões dos Açores. (4.ª Edição). Letras Lavadas. Ponta Delgada.

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