Nestled in the stunning southeast coast of Santa Maria Island in the Azores, Cascata do Aveiro is proudly the tallest waterfall in all of Portugal. Located within the Protected Landscape Area of Baía da Maia, this majestic waterfall is not only a scenic gem but also a geological treasure that attracts many visitors to the island.
This waterfall is part of the Azores Geopark and is recognized as a geosite of regional significance for both science and tourism, offering a breathtaking sight to all who visit. It is also part of the Natura 2000 Network.
Let’s unravel its deepest secrets in this complete article about Cascata do Aveiro, on the Yellow Island.
What is Cascata do Aveiro
With an impressive height of approximately 110 meters, Cascata do Aveiro is one of the Azores’ most remarkable natural landmarks.
The surrounding geological landscape tells the story of ancient volcanic activity. Visitors can see sequences of basaltic lava flows, thanks to erosion, including flows from both land and submarine eruptions. These formations are part of the Pico Alto Volcanic Complex, dating back to the Pliocene era. Geology enthusiasts must explore this place during their visit to Santa Maria Island!
The Ribeira feeds the Cascata do Aveiro, also known locally as Ribeira dos Lagos, and flows through an area once used for vineyards, where basalt stone enclosures remain, adding a cultural touch to the natural setting.
Plan Your Visit to Cascata do Aveiro
How to Get to Cascata do Aveiro
Cascata do Aveiro is located in Lugar da Maia, within the parish of Santo Espírito. There are two main ways to reach the waterfall.
First, by foot. Adventurous visitors can take the hiking trail PR04 SMA — Santo Espírito-Maia, which descends alongside the waterfall, from the top of the cliff down to sea level. The 4.1 km route (one way) takes about 2 hours and offers panoramic views surrounded by lush vegetation.
Also, you can definitely reach the waterfall by car or taxi. Drive on the Maia road to a designated parking area at the end of the road, near the waterfall. There is only a short walk if you want to get closer to the water.
Planning a trip to the Azores? These articles will help you: How to Get to the Azores 🗺️ | Azores airports 🛬 | Flights between islands ✈️ | Ferries between islands ⛴️ | Which island to choose? 🏝️ | What airlines fly to the Azores? 🛩️
Best Time to Visit
The best time to witness the full beauty of Cascata do Aveiro is during winter, when rainfall increases the volume of water, creating an even more dramatic and powerful waterfall. However, this place is beautiful all year round and offers peaceful moments in nature.
If you plan to hike there, summer is preferable for better conditions. Always check if the trail is open and take adequate gear with you. We recommend going in the morning to have plenty of time to hike around during the day.
Check all our articles about the weather in the Azores throughout the year 🌤️ ☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Pro Tips
At the foot of the waterfall, you will find a small leisure area where ducks like to swim in the pond. They are friendly, but please don’t get too close and avoid feeding them.
Did you know
Feeding bread to ducks is actually not good for them. It is generally not recommended for their diet because it lacks the essential nutrients and can lead to malnutrition.
There are also barbecue facilities and parking areas nearby, making it an excellent spot for a picnic or a relaxing break during your active day on the island of the sun.
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Nearby Attractions
Gonçalo Velho Lighthouse
The lighthouse of Gonçalo Velho has been working since 1927. It was built on private land that was purchased to create this critical signal for boats. It reaches up to 25 Miles (46.3 km).
Also known as Farol da Maia, its tower reaches 14 meters high. It is located on the Southeastern tip of Santa Maria Island, 114 meters above sea level. It initially worked with gas, and in 1957, electricity was installed. You can visit the lighthouse and learn more about its story.
→ Related Article: Miradouro Vigia da Baleia
Museu de Santa Maria
The Museum of Santa Maria, or Unidade Museológica de Santo Espírito do Museu Santa Maria, is located in a typical 2-floors house in the village of Santo Espírito. It was built in the 20th century but suffered some changes over the years.
Inside, you will find a collection of furniture, traditional tools, and objects from the Azoreans’ everyday life and architecture. This museum aims to represent and preserve the identity of the people from Santa Maria and the Azores.
The museum is open every day except Monday, and there are also temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year.
Ribeira de Maloas
Ribeira de Maloás is one of the most fascinating geological sites on Santa Maria Island. This stunning natural formation is renowned for its massive columnar basalt formation, which measures between 15 and 20 meters in height, accompanied by a waterfall. A true natural gem! The basaltic wall stretches approximately 220 meters in length.
Formed by the interaction between the sea and a subaerial basaltic lava flow from the Pico Alto Volcanic Complex, this geological marvel features rare polygonal columns that resemble the famous Giant’s Causeway in Ireland.
This hidden gem in Santo Espírito is easily accessible on foot, thanks to a marked trail that allows visitors to view it from both above and at ground level.
Praia de São Lourenço
The beach of São Lourenço in Santa Maria Island, located inside a quiet bay of the same name in the parish of Santa Bárbara, is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches of the Azores! Nestled inside a volcanic crater and surrounded by vineyards, the amphitheater-like scenery in itself is extraordinary. But the beach and its crystal clear water are even more spectacular.
→ Related Post: Best beaches in the Azores. Read more!
Enjoy the quiet ocean for some snorkeling, with an average depth of about 12 meters and a wealth of marine life. In the summer, this is a big favorite for locals and tourists to relax in the sun. There is also a natural pool for those who prefer not to use the sand.
In 1987, the bay was declared a nature reserve due to its rich natural patrimony. Don’t forget to visit the bay at the viewpoints for a breathtaking view and excellent photo opportunities.
Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest on Santa Maria Island: Praia Formosa | Barreiro da Faneca | Cascata do Aveiro | Miradouro Vigia da Baleia
Complementary Information
Best Season to Visit the Azores
The Azores Archipelago boasts a unique climate that shapes its lush landscapes, making it a splendid year-round destination. With mild temperatures and minimal fluctuations, each season offers something unique. Spring averages 16 °C, summer reaches 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter remains mild at 14 °C.
→ For a detailed breakdown of the weather by month, check the following links 🌤️☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
How to Get to the Azores
The Azorean Archipelago is easily accessible through numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights available to São Miguel (PDL), Terceira (TER), Faial (HOR), Pico (PIX), and Santa Maria (SMA). To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms enable you to compare prices and schedules from various airlines in one convenient location.
For more details on how to get to the Azores, take a look at our complete guide. But what if you want to explore beyond your arrival island? We’ve got you covered!
- Azores airports 🛬
- Flights between islands ✈️
- Ferries between islands ⛴️
- Which island to choose? 🏝️
- What airlines fly to the Azores? 🛩️
→ Once you’ve found the perfect route, book your tickets and get ready to experience one of the world’s most stunning island groups!
Travel Essentials
Essential Information for your Azores trip: Azorean Language & Phrases 🗣️ | Currency & Banks 💵 | Credit Cards & Traveler’s Cheques 🏧 | Driving in the Azores 🚗 | Electricity 🔌 | Experiences & Tours 🗺️ | Health & Safety 🩺 | Internet & Wi-Fi Access 🛜 | Phones & Mobile Service 📞 | Post Offices & Buying Stamps ✉️ | Public Holidays 🏖️ | Shopping 🛒 | Time & Daylight 🕒 | Whale Watching Guide 🐳 | Best Island to Visit 🏞️
Useful Tools & Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores provides live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, allowing you to check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.
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Conclusion
Cascata do Aveiro is, without a doubt, one of the most captivating attractions on Santa Maria Island. Its combination of natural beauty, geological interest, and serene environment makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking peace.
A visit to Cascata do Aveiro offers moments in nature, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the soothing rush of falling water and, perhaps, the ducks. Don’t miss this magical place when exploring the island, and take some great photos!
Authors’ Note
I am pleased to inform you that all the recommendations in this article are based on my personal experience and observations. As the author, I have personally visited each attraction mentioned, ensuring that every suggestion is grounded in first-hand knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.
FAQs
Cascata do Aveiro is located in the northeast of Santa Maria Island, in the Maia Valley, within the municipality of Vila do Porto. It’s one of the island’s most impressive and photographed natural attractions.
Cascata do Aveiro is about 110 meters high, making it one of the tallest in the Azores. The water flows down a lush, green hillside, creating a breathtaking natural setting.
Yes. Cascata do Aveiro is easily accessible via a short walking path from the main road in Maia. The trail is well-marked and can be reached in just a few minutes on foot.
The best time to visit is during winter and spring, when rainfall increases the water flow. In summer, the Cascata do Aveiro waterfall may have less water, but the surrounding landscape remains stunning and perfect for photography.
