Situated by the sea and with an enormous wealth of fauna and flora, Fajã das Almas is a rural paradise forgotten in time – there are currently only around five permanent residents in this Azorean town.
Fajã das Almas is located in the parish of Manadas, in the municipality of Velas, on the south coast of the island of São Jorge. Here you can enjoy walks along the coast surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
In this article, we’ll talk about this beautiful fajã and point out the places of interest that you can’t miss during your stay on the island.
What is Fajã das Almas?
Fajã das Almas, also known as Fajã do Calhau, is characterised by the many fertile cultivated areas and one or two white houses that line this magnificent seaside landscape.
Did you know
In 1891, Fajã do Calhau had a population of 78 inhabitants, but over time, this number has decreased significantly, currently reaching approximately five permanent residents.
However, due to its easier accessibility, there has been an increase in the number of reconstructions, mainly carried out by emigrants.
This beautiful Fajã is rich in ancient customs and traditions, one of which is handicrafts. Here, wicker baskets are produced by hand, which in the past were mainly used for harvesting and other agricultural work.
In addition to the natural heritage, take the opportunity to discover the various tourist attractions of Fajã das Almas. Here you can enjoy peaceful moments with your family and friends.
Fauna and Flora of Fajã das Almas
Situated by the coast, Fajã das Almas is surrounded by green slopes that make this place uniquely beautiful on the island. This fajã is currently part of the Fajã das Almas Protected Area for the Management of Habitats or Species.
Did you know
The Fajã das Almas Protected Area for the Management of Habitats or Species covers around 97.1 hectares.
In this protected area you can find various species in their habitat. You will therefore be able to observe the fauna here:
- Birds: Roseate Tern and Common Tern; Cory’s Shearwater; Gull; Sparrowhawk; Blackbird; Kite; Mallard; Goose; among others.
- Pisces: Chicharro; Mackerel; Conger; Forkbeard; Rockfish; among others.
In terms of flora, you’ll find the following specimens of heather; beech; white wood; vidalia; sea fennel; among others. It should be noted that, given its agricultural past, it is common to find:
- Yam;
- Banana tree;
- Coffee
- Maize;
- Among other vegetables.
What To Do In Fajã das Almas?
In this parish, as well as enjoying unique moments with your family and/or friends, you can take the opportunity to visit and get to know the region’s two monuments:
- Ermida de Santo Cristo: built in 1876. However, in September 1880, the chapel suffered a fire, and its reconstruction was promoted by the Baron of Ribeiro and blessed in January 1882;
- Ermida de Nossa Senhora das Almas: curiously, this Christian temple also suffered a fire in which it was practically destroyed — reconstruction work was necessary;
Don’t forget to visit the natural heritage of Fajã do Calhau:
- Fajã das Almas Viewpoint: with breathtaking views over one of the most beautiful fajãs in São Jorge and the island of Pico;
- Poça da Fajã das Almas: a bathing area with clear water and magnificent views over the island of Pico;
- Fajã das Almas Harbour.
Best Time To Visit Fajã das Almas
The best time to visit Fajã das Almas, on São Jorge Island, Azores, is during the spring (April to June) and summer (July to September) months.
During this period, the climate is milder and the temperatures are more pleasant for exploring the region and enjoying the natural landscapes. In addition, the flora will be lush and it is possible to do many outdoor activities, such as hiking, boat trips and visits to vineyards and orchards.
It’s important to note that the climate in the Azores can be somewhat unstable throughout the year, so be prepared for weather variations, even during the warmer seasons.
Plan Your Visit To Fajã das Almas
Fajã das Almas, located on the island of Fajãs, is considered by many to be a rural paradise forgotten in time.
However, despite the few residents here, it is increasingly common to see holidaymakers seeking out Fajã do Calhau to enjoy moments of peace and tranquillity.
So if you’re passing through the island of São Jorge and want to visit this picturesque Fajã, we recommend that you draw up an itinerary of the must-sees in the municipality of Velas and plan your visit in good time.
Quick Info
Book flights and accommodation in advance to get more deals and better value for money, taking into account your tastes.
How To Get To Fajã das Almas?
From the town of Velas in the direction of Fajã das Almas, you have to travel around 16 kilometres to reach your destination via the N1 and EN1.
To travel this route you have several different options at your disposal, so you can choose to drive yourself:
- Car – 20 minutes;
- Public transport – 2 hours and 30 minutes;
- Bicycle – 1 hour and 45 minutes.
However, if you choose to hike, you can do it on foot. It will take approximately 4 hours.
What To Do Around Fajã das Almas?
After visiting Fajã das Almas and enjoying its natural heritage and monuments, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and some of the tourist attractions in the vicinity of this beautiful town.
Discover Urzelina
Urzelina is a true seaside paradise, located 7.5 kilometres from Fajã das Almas. This pretty village is a parish in the municipality of Velas, on the island of São Jorge.
This village is situated by the sea and here you can enjoy beautiful walks along the coast surrounded by typical windmills with breathtaking landscapes as a backdrop.
In this parish, as well as enjoying unique moments with your family and/or friends, you can take the opportunity to visit and get to know the region’s vast cultural and historical heritage. Here are some suggestions:
- Tower of the Church of Urzelina;
- Church of São Mateus;
- Furna das Pombas (Cave);
- Urzelina Volcano;
- Ponta dos Casteletes Viewpoint;
- Urzelina Natural Pools.
Explore the Municipality and City of Velas
The municipality and town of Velas is situated 16 kilometres from Fajã das Almas and boasts a rich historical, cultural and religious heritage, including museums, churches and forts, offering a captivating architectural variety.
So if you’re passing through, take the opportunity to stroll through the city’s typical streets and explore its true essence.
In addition, this is the largest city on the island and is affectionately nicknamed the “Cheese Capital of the Azores”, offering a wide range of São Jorge cheeses to taste.
Here you will also find the natural pools of Poça dos Frades and the Preguiça bathing area, which offer a unique diving experience with crystal-clear waters surrounded by volcanic rocks and breathtaking views of the islands of Pico and Faial.
Inland, the Fajãs (natural platforms between cliffs and the ocean) offer exuberant landscapes:
- Fajã do Ouvidor, with the Poça Simão Dias natural pool;
- Fajã d’Além with its beautiful orchards full of fruit trees.
Visit Calheta de São Jorge
Located approximately 13.6 kilometres from Fajã das Almas, Calheta de São Jorge was founded in 1483 and officially declared a town in 1534. Calheta is a peaceful town on the south coast of São Jorge, in the Azores.
With around 4,000 inhabitants, it has an iconic 16th-century church that has withstood fires and earthquakes and been rebuilt three times.
Did you know
The local economy is driven by fishing, agriculture and the notable production of cheese that is aged for 3 months to 3 years — a typical product of the island of São Jorge. Traditional handicrafts and confectionery are on the rise. Tourism is also growing, taking advantage of the rich natural heritage.
Here, visitors can enjoy exciting activities such as coasteering on the cliffs or canoeing in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean from Calheta Harbour.
Where To Eat Near Fajã das Almas
If you need somewhere to eat near Fajã das Almas, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where To Stay Near Fajã das Almas
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Complementary Information
Useful Tools and 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 Jorge Island
São Jorge Island is easily accessible with some flight routes. 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.
Cultural Agenda of São Jorge Island
São Jorge Island hosts a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. The complete list of events is on the cultural agenda!
Video – Fajã das Almas, Velas (São Jorge Island, Azores)
Conclusion
Fajã das Almas has a unique beauty, the result of the singular landscapes that surround it. This is the ideal place to enjoy walks by the sea with your family and/or friends, taking advantage of the serenity and tranquillity.
This is the destination of choice for those looking for an area to rest and relax. You can also take the opportunity to visit many natural tourist attractions and historical monuments.
What are you waiting for to visit São Jorge Island? Come and discover this rural paradise forgotten in time.
References
- Mendonça, L. (2017). Questions and Answers on the History of the Azores. 2nd Edition, Letras Lavadas. Ponta Delgada.
- Forjaz, V., Ribeiro, L., Almeida, L., Pereira, N. and Rodrigues, J. (2019). Volcanoes of the Azores (4th Edition). Letras Lavadas. Ponta Delgada.
