Pinhal da Paz, also known as Mata das Criações, is one of the most emblematic forest reserves on the island of São Miguel. This place is recognised for its botanical diversity, where the themed collections of camellias, ferns, palms and cacti stand out.
In addition, this forest reserve occupies approximately 50 hectares of landscaped woodland with numerous leisure areas for all tastes. It’s therefore the ideal place to relax and enjoy unique moments in nature with your family and friends.
So, to get to know Pinhal da Paz, we’ve prepared a guide with its history, information about this forest reserve and some of the tourist attractions you can’t miss in this part of the island.
Where is Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve?
The Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve is located in the parish of Fajã de Cima, in the municipality of Ponta Delgada, in São Miguel. It should be noted that this forest reserve is close to the urban centres of Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande and Lagoa.
The Pinhal da Paz is made up of botanical species from all four corners of the world, where you can find vegetation from Australia, South Africa and Brazil, as well as a huge variety of rudimentary flora from the Azores. As far as fauna is concerned, it is possible to observe various species of birdlife.
In addition to the green spaces and the strong environmental education component that attracts tourists and locals daily, this park has numerous leisure areas:
- Picnic area equipped with tables, benches, and grills;
- Replicas of the Forest Ranger’s House and a children’s playground with slides, swings, seesaws and climbing ropes;
- A sports area with a 1,700-metre fitness trail and six exercise stations.
Note: To ensure the comfort and well-being of visitors, Mata das Criações has ample car parks, toilets and other facilities to support people with reduced mobility.
History of Pinhal da Paz Recreational Forest Reserve
António do Canto originally designed and created this forest reserve for his personal use, but he began to open it up to the public, making it part of the tourist circuit. In the 1970s, Antonio do Canto’s heirs devised a plan to preserve the park’s natural environment.
However, due to high maintenance costs, Pinhal da Paz began to lose some of its beauty and organisation, moving closer to its original state as a forest/wilderness.
Did you know
The original pine forest, of which few traces remain, and the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz are probably the origin of the name of the Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve.
Later, to preserve the past and offer the population a green space, in 1998 the Ponta Delgada Forestry Service began work on restoring the Pinhal da Paz to revitalise the property, which at the time was very run-down.
After the intervention of the new Forestry Service, in addition to preserving its traditional structure and the peculiar plant species that used to live here, new species of endemic plants were also introduced that further embellish the Pinhal da Paz.
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The site has now been completely restored and is open to the public to enjoy this tribute to nature and the environment.
Fauna & Flora of Mata das Criações
Covering an area of 50 hectares, Mata das Criações is a place of great botanical interest and educational value. The forest is home to countless species of plants, trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants from all over the world, as well as various species of birdlife.
As far as the flora of Pinhal da Paz is concerned, visitors can find beautiful specimens of:
- Cryptomerias;
- Azaleas;
- Bamboos;
- Beech trees;
- Acacias;
- Scots pines;
- Cacti;
- Palms;
- Ferns;
- Camellias;
- Hydrangeas;
- Heather;
- Among other endemic plants of Macaronesia.
As for the fauna, it is possible to observe various species of birds, such as:
- Peacocks;
- Guinea fowl;
- Pheasants;
- Swans – the famous Swan Lake in Pinhal da Paz;
- Among others.
What To Do In Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve?
With an immensity of species present in the wide green spaces of the Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve, this is a unique place to relax and enjoy the nature that surrounds you.
In addition to the permanent contact with nature, here you can choose from:
- Stroll through the countless gardens and forests full of lush vegetation and visit the Forestry Dissemination Centre with its important educational value;
- Discover the Pinhal da Paz Animal Enclosure and the famous Swan Lake where you can observe the park’s resident animals;
- Enjoy a picnic or barbecue in the Pinhal da Paz picnic area;
- Contemplate the view from the Miradouro of Pinhal da Paz Recreational Forest Reserve, from this panoramic observation platform you can see Pico do Cascalho, Ponta Delgada and the south and north coasts of the island;
- Take the Pinhal da Paz Walking Trail, approximately 3.2 kilometres long, the circular route is considered easy and takes an average of 51 minutes to complete. This trail is great for walking and running.
Best Time To Visit Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve
Temperatures in São Miguel are generally mild all year round. However, in the autumn and winter months, periods of rain and lower temperatures become more frequent.
In this sense, the best time to visit the Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve is during the summer months, between May and September, when the days are warmer and more inviting for nature walks. However, it’s between December and May that you can contemplate the beauty of some flowering plants.
However, it is important to note that cloudy skies are a common feature of all the islands of the Azores archipelago, regardless of the season, so you may sometimes find it difficult to appreciate the beauty of some viewpoints.
Plan Your Visit To Pinhal da Paz
Pinhal da Paz is known for being one of the most popular recreational forest reserves on the island of São Miguel.
To enjoy this unique experience surrounded by nature, we recommend that you plan your visit, considering the following information:
- The attraction is open to the public daily and is free to enter.
- Opening hours:
- Winter (from 16 October to 14 April): from 8 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday and from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays;
- Summer (from 15 April to 15 October): from 8 am to 7 pm from Monday to Friday and from 9 am to 8 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
It’s also advisable to book flights and accommodation in advance to get more deals and better value for money, taking into account your budget and personal tastes.
How To Get To Pinhal da Paz Forest Reserve
Leaving the city of Ponta Delgada in the direction of the Pinhal da Paz Recreational Forest Reserve, you’ll have several alternatives at your disposal in terms of means of transport and the route to follow.
You can choose to travel by car (own/rented vehicle or taxi), bus or bicycle. To reach your destination you will have to travel around:
- 10 km following the EN1-1A;
- 8.2 km following Avenida Natália Correia;
- 8.2 km following the Pinhal da Paz Way.
The journey takes approximately 15 minutes by car, 41 minutes by bus and 40 minutes by bicycle. You can still make this journey on foot, but you should expect to walk for approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
What To Do Around Mata das Criações?
After exploring the green spaces of Mata das Criações and enjoying the numerous leisure areas, it’s time to discover other tourist attractions in the region, such as:
- Pineapple Plantations in the Azores;
- António Borges Botanical Garden;
- Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz – the origin of the name of this recreational forest reserve;
- Nossa Senhora da Paz Viewpoint;
- The city and municipality of Ponta Delgada.
Discover the Azorean Pineapple Plantation
Pineapples are grown in greenhouses in the Azores, the only place in the world to produce the peculiar fruit in this way. There are currently several producers spread across the island of São Miguel – around 230 in total.
These plantations are one of the region’s main tourist attractions, where visitors can learn about the pineapple growing process, from planting to harvesting. It should be noted that they are grown on volcanic soils, giving the fruit a unique flavour.
Did you know
Although today it is a characteristic fruit of the island, the pineapple was introduced to fill the void left by the loss of the orange crop due to a disease caused by the fungus Phytophthora Citrophthora.
In the mid-19th century, José Bensaude (an influential Azorean businessman) started growing pineapples in São Miguel. Today, this is still one of the most sought-after fruits in Portugal and abroad.
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There is an estimated annual production of 700 to 1000 tonnes of pineapple.
You can also enjoy guided tours and tastings of pineapple-based products. Find out more about the main pineapple plantations in the Azores:
- Azorean Pineapple Plantation (5.2 km from Pinhal da Paz);
- Arruda Pineapple Plantation (3.5 km from Pinhal da Paz);
- Santo António Pineapple Plantation (5 km from Pinhal da Paz);
- Pineapple Culture Interpretation Centre (4 km from Pinhal da Paz).
Explore António Borges Botanical Garden
The António Borges Botanical Garden is one of the main historic gardens in Ponta Delgada and on the island of São Miguel.
This haven of tranquillity, a veritable green lung in the city centre, is free to enter, where you’ll find winding paths, endemic and native plants, caves, tunnels built from red lava stone and lakes. What’s more, as you stroll through the garden, you’ll come across an emblematic ancient tree, the Australian banyan, straight out of a fairy tale.
This is a pleasant place to take a stroll and discover its fauna and flora, from the four corners of the world. Relax on a bench read a book or even do some exercise. For children, there’s a playground and plenty of attractive places for them to play.
Meet the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz
The Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz, located at the top of the hill of Nossa Senhora da Paz, in the municipality of Vila Franca do Campo, in São Miguel, is one of the best-known monuments in the former capital of the Azorean archipelago, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
The 16th-century temple, dating back to 1522, was rebuilt in 1764 – after being destroyed by an earthquake – and has an exceptional view of the sea and the entire islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
Did you know
The total set of the imposing staircase of 100 steps and 10 levels represents two-thirds of the rosary. The levels correspond to the Father-Ours, and the steps refer to the Hail Marys.
The Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz is a chapel, conceived and designed by the architect Alberto Albergaria da Silva Pacheco, consisting of two naves separated by three round arches and a chancel in the typical Baroque style of the region.
This chapel was classified as a “Property of Public Interest” by the Regional Government of the Azores in 1991.
Contemplate the View From the Nossa Senhora da Paz Viewpoint
The Nossa Senhora da Paz viewpoint, located on Monte de Nossa Senhora da Paz, sits 215 meters above sea level. It offers a stunning panoramic view of Vila Franca do Campo, the Atlantic Ocean, and the islet. The view contrasts the whitewashed buildings typical of the region with the lush green meadows surrounding the area, making it an ideal spot for photography and reflection.
For those visiting Vila Franca do Campo, this viewpoint is a must-see. The Nossa Senhora da Paz viewpoint offers an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscape. It also provides free parking, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy the scenery at their leisure. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply seeking a peaceful place to unwind, the viewpoint will not disappoint.
Discovering the City and Municipality of Ponta Delgada
The city and municipality of Ponta Delgada is officially one of the best places to live in Portugal. The modern city is the largest and most populous in the Azores.
In the beginning, Ponta Delgada was just a small fishing village. But soon, thanks to its safe bays, it became the most important trading port on the island. Ponta Delgada was declared a city in 1546 and considered the island’s capital after the first capital — Vila Franca do Campo — was destroyed in 1522 by a terrible earthquake.
Today, Ponta Delgada with its almost 70,000 inhabitants is a cosmopolitan city that attracts visitors from all over the world. However, it offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere that epitomises the laid-back lifestyle of the Azorean people.
Main Points of Interest in Ponta Delgada
- Carlos Machado Museum;
- Church of Todos os Santos;
- Portas da Cidade (City Gates);
- Fort of São Brás;
- Gruta do Carvão (Coal Cave);
- José do Canto Forest-Garden;
- António Borges Botanical Garden;
- Mercado da Graça (Farms Market);
- Atlantic Park;
- Pineapple plantations in the Azores;
- Pesqueiro swimming pool;
- Portas do Mar;
- Praia das Milícias Beach;
- Public Library and Regional Archive;
- Rocha da Relva;
- Santuário da Esperança (Sanctuary of Hope);
- Synagogue;
- Among others.
Where To Eat Near Ponta Delgada
If you need somewhere to eat near Ponta Delgada, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where To Stay Near Ponta Delgada
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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 Pinhal da Paz (São Miguel Island, Azores)
Conclusion
Pinhal da Paz or Mata das Criações is an emblematic forest reserve in São Miguel, considered by many to be the ideal place to enjoy tranquillity and nature.
This is one of the most popular recreational forest reserves on the island and is located just 15 minutes from Ponta Delgada city centre.
Covering approximately 50 hectares, this forest is visited by the local population and tourists attracted by the variety and richness of the peculiar vegetation, the animals present in the enclosure and the different leisure areas available.
So we can say that the Pinhal da Paz Recreational Forest Reserve has magnificent scenery for enjoying unique moments with your family and friends. What are you waiting for to visit this natural park?
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.
