Fajã dos Cubres is a popular destination located on the northern coast of São Jorge Island in the Azores archipelago. It is a small village that is located on a flat area of land by the ocean – called a Fajã – surrounded by cliffs, and it is known for its stunning natural beauty.
This village has been attracting visitors from all over the world for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It is indeed one of the most amazing landscapes of the ‘Dragon Island’ and was even awarded one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal, in the Seaside Villages category.
We will see in this article all you need to know about this magical place deeply connected with nature including its history, animal and human inhabitants as well as what to do in this little Atlantic paradise.
What is Fajã dos Cubres
Geology & Volcanology
One of the main attractions of Fajã dos Cubres is its amazing nature. The village is surrounded by cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs are covered in lush green vegetation, making them a haven for birds. Inside Fajã dos Cobres, you can also find a coastal lagoon filled with seawater right by the ocean, home to a diversity of wildlife.
One of the most unique features of this fajã is its geological formations. The village itself is situated on a fajã, which is a flat lava delta formed by volcanic eruptions and landslides. It created a truly unique natural setting, a village in between high green cliffs and the ocean. São Jorge is known as the island of Fajãs because you can see over 70 of them there.
History & Geography
São Jorge island like the other islands of the archipelago was discovered in the 15th century, after the east islands of São Miguel and Santa Maria. Fajã dos Cubres was not an accessible place, so the village was first used as a grazing area for cattle. You could only access it by boat or by walking a long downhill trail.
Did you know
Unfortunately, the little village of Fajã dos Cubres was destroyed by the earthquake of July 9, 1757, and then by another big one in 1980.
So the locals rebuilt their town twice but never gave up! There even once was a school however due to lack of students, it closed. Nowadays around 50 people are living in the Fajã.
Fauna & Flora
Fajã dos Cubres is a real sanctuary for a great biodiversity of wildlife. Indeed, this place was classified as a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention back in 1971. Although fishing has always been linked to the lifestyle of the locals, it is done with consideration of this beautiful natural gem. Fishermen from all over the island go to the lake of the village to catch shrimps that will serve as a lure to fishing groupers. Among the fish you can catch at Fajã dos Cubres are the mullet, parrotfish, and wrasse.
Aside from the many cows living outdoors grazing all around town – valued for their tasty cheese which is a symbol of the island – you can spot many birds and marine life when you look closely.
About the vegetation, let’s begin with the name ‘Cubres’, which is Goldenrods (Solidago sempervirens), a plant giving small yellow flowers and abundant in the village. Then, you can find many reeds around the lake. Finally, the soil is very fertile so you will see cultures of corn, vines, and potatoes mostly.
Culture & Festivities
The natural disasters at Fajã dos Cubres made people have more faith and every year, a big religious event takes place down at the village: Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. Every second Sunday of September there is a mass, procession and auctions of the offers of the faithful.
The hermitage of the village was blessed in 1908, it owns a beautiful image of Senhor dos Passos. Behind the little church, you will find a well at low tide. Locals believe that the miraculous water cures diseases.
What To Do at Fajã dos Cubres
Many visitors come here to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and admire the scenery, which includes views of the nearby Terceira and Graciosa islands and the Atlantic Ocean. Some popular activities in the area include hiking, surfing, paddling and quad biking.
Visit the tiny village
Dotted with traditional stone houses, Fajã dos Cubres is a perfect example of a typical fajã and so photogenic. Take a stroll in the narrow streets of this amazing place located in such an unlikely place. Don’t forget to visit the century-old church.
The houses fit perfectly in the landscapes. You will not find any building that is higher than 2 floors, or big supermarkets. The village is perfectly protected by the high cliffs, and open towards the ocean. It is a very peculiar way of life. To protect the inhabitants from the ocean, you will see the natural protection all around: black pebbles. Everything about Fajã dos Cubres make it a special place.
Taste the clams
Fajã dos Cubres has a couple of small restaurants that serve traditional Azorean dishes. Among them, you should not miss the giant clams of Caldeira de Santo Cristo, the neighbouring fajã. The introduction of this species in this remote area of the world is still a mystery, but you can find them in all the menus. They are bigger and tastier than regular clams, although they only come with garlic, onion and olive oil. Locals use bread to taste the delicious sauce.
The typical meals also include various kinds of fish caught right off the coast of the island. The meat you will find is from cows that graze outside all year long in our Azorean pastures. For the sweet tooth, don’t forget to have an ‘espécie’, the traditional pastry from the Dragon Island.
Wander around the lake
The big saltwater lagoon in Fajã dos Cubres has a very peculiar shape. You can walk inside thanks to a path created by men connecting several islets. Those are paradise for birds that are nesting inside, making it a good spot to bird-watch migratory seabird species.
Take a quad bike ride to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo
Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo is only located 3 kilometers away from its nearby sister Fajã dos Cubres, and it is accessible exclusively via Fajã dos Cubres via a dirt road or a long downhill trail from Serra do Topo. This remoteness turns the fajã a heavenly place, perfect for relaxing surrounded by amazing nature.
Quick Info
On the dirt road, no cars can pass. There is a parking lot at Fajã dos Cubres and from there, you can only go by foot, or by quad!
Ask locals about taking you there with their fierce 4×4 quads for some euros, you won’t regret the ride.
Best Time to Visit Fajã dos Cubres
Best Season To Visit São Jorge Island
The best time to visit 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.
Best Time of the Day
There is no particular best time during the day to visit Fajã dos Cubres, but if you are not planning on staying the night there, we would recommend going early in the morning to have time and explore this wonderful region of the island.
From there, you can watch a beautiful sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, so that’s another reason to go and start your day early. You will have plenty of things to do and sights to see.
Plan Your Visit To Fajã dos Cubres
How To Get To Fajã dos Cubres
To reach Fajã dos Cubres, visitors must first fly to São Jorge Island. There are regular flights from Lisbon and Porto to several islands of the Azores archipelago. Then you can reach São Jorge by ferry from the nearby islands of the central group like Faial, Pico, Terceira and Graciosa. From São Miguel, there are currently no ferries but you can catch a small propeller plane with Azores Airlines.
Once on São Jorge Island, visitors can reach the fajã by car or taxi. The village is located approximately 30 km from the island’s main town Velas. For those who prefer to walk, several hiking trails lead there. The village is located in the parish of Ribeira Seca, Calheta County. They only carved the road towards the fajã in the rocks and put concrete in 1993.
What To Bring
For a day full of adventures, make sure to bring comfortable shoes. If you are planning on hiking to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo first and then Fajã dos Cubres, via Serra do Topo, we recommend good hiking boots. A rain jacket is always a good item to have with you as the weather can change very quickly.
It is possible to rent a stand-up paddle board at Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. But for Fajã dos Cubres, it is not common to see people swimming. Also, make sure to take some water although you will find a couple of selling points around the village.
Where To Eat Near Fajã dos Cubres
If you need somewhere to eat near Fajã dos Cubres, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where To Stay Near Fajã dos Cubres
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Pro Tips
If you are planning on going to Fajã dos Cubres, you should include Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. It would be a pity to do one and not the other. Both are very special and have unique features. Spend a night down at the village, that only had electricity a few years ago, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The last tip would be to fully explore the area. Go to the lagoon and around, visit the church, and talk to locals, this is such a wonderful place with nice people. You will learn so much about life on the fajã.
What To Do Around Fajã dos Cubres
Go To the Viewpoint of Fajã dos Cubres
Up the hill before arriving at Fajã dos Cubres by the concrete road, you will find Miradouro da Fajã dos Cubres. This is a famous viewpoint from where you can admire the beauty of both Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, and truly see what a fajã physically speaking.
Surf at Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo
It is a magical place! This nature reserve is considered a sanctuary for surf and bodyboard lovers. In this fajã, you can also go hiking or kayaking in the lagoon. In addition to the pure nature experience, the Fajã offers excellent cuisine.
Swim at Poça do Simão Dias Natural Pools
Otherworldly is what better describes Poça do Simão Dias. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful natural pools you will ever see.
The contrast of the huge dark basalt stone walls with the blue water creates this peculiar atmosphere only found there.
Don’t forget a mask and snorkel to explore the unique underwater landscapes of this natural gem.
Please note that this pool is not watched by lifeguards.
Explore Pico da Esperança
The highest point of the island is the best place for stunning views. From up there, observe the “dormant dragon” as well as the other 4 islands around. It is quite a fantastic panorama on a cloudless day.
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 dos Cubres (São Jorge Island, Azores)
Conclusion
Fajã dos Cubres is such a breathtaking place. It is unique in this world. Whereas all fajãs of São Jorge are beautiful, this one deserves a highlight and a spot on your must-visit list in the Azores.
In addition to a delicious gastronomy and a welcoming local population, this atypical village displays a beauty out of this world. This is the perfect destination for those who want to see some Azorean culture and a sample of our perfect pure nature.
Fajã dos Cubres will provide all its visitors with a sense of immersion in the Azorean world, for an experience that awakens all your senses.
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.
