Nordeste (Northeast) is a popular region of São Miguel, which is the most populated Azores island.
The question is, what will you do once you’re there? This blog is still relatively new but we figured a good way to share information about backpacking the Azores is to break the areas down into municipalities with a few recommendations of what to do once you’re there.
Farol do Arnel (Arnel Lighthouse)
Why it’s worth seeing:
- It’s a viewpoint lighthouse overlooking the cliffs and the ocean.
- It’s a bit of a challenge, the approach is steep but rewarding.
- You can combine the trip with a visit to the Ponta Do Arnel Viewpoint for a more panoramic scene.
I think there’s not a lot more to say here aside from it’s right on the Northeasterly tip of the island and a great place to go for that ‘staring into infinity’ feeling.
Sound like the spot you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Want to get a bit closer to the ocean? Visit Praia do Lombo Gordo.
Praia do Lombo Gordo
What’s it’s got to offer:
- It’s a beautiful black sand beach surrounded by towering cliffs.
- it’s a great place to get away from it all, you’ll often find yourself alone there.
- There are some great hikes in the area.
Although it wasn’t on our list of recommended beaches on the island, Praia do Lombo Gordo is a highly recommended spots by tourists and locals, and only because it’s quite ‘out of the way’ makes it a good spot to get away from the crowds.
Sound like the place you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Thinking about an active day out? Maybe try this hike…
Lomba da fazenda Trail
Why you should check it out:
- It’s a short but interesting circular hike, around 7km passing through parks and bathing spots.
- You will walk amongst the impressive Azorean nature and see old watermills and a fountain from the early 1980’s.
- You end up near the Boca de Ribeira natural bathing area.
It’s a scenic hike that shouldn’t take you more then 2.5 hours. Bring boots and water, enjoy your day!
Sound like your kind of thing? Google maps will take you to the starting point.
Maybe you want to see nature but not walk so far? Visit the Botanical Garden of Ribeira do Guilherme.
Botanical Gardens, Ribeira do Guilherme
Why it’s worth the visit:
- It’s a beautiful garden with nature and a waterfall.
- There are some great hikes in the area.
- It’s well looked after, plus there’s a mill and an old bridge to check out.
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to reflect, this is it!
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Do you want to find a really nice natural zone to unwind, check out the Reserva Florestal de Recreio do Viveiro do Nordeste.
Reserva Florestal de Recreio do Viveiro do Nordeste
Why you should go:
- It’s a beautiful natural reserve that blooms like crazy in the Spring and early Summer!
- There are some very nice hikes in the area.
- There are peacocks! If you want to lose yourself in Nature, this is the spot.
There’s not a lot of additional information to add. Bring a picnic and enjoy the serenity.
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
That’s about enough from us, hopefully you enjoy Nordeste and the rest of São Miguel! Stay safe out there and check us out more as the website develops.