Must-hike trails of the Azores: Salto do Prego

Even if you only have a couple of days in São Miguel Island, make sure you find a few hours for one of the most interesting hikes around here - Faial da Terra, Salto do Prego. The effort you put in it definitely pays off once you arrive to a** beautiful waterfall **where you can have a swim, a picnic, take photos or just enjoy an amazing setting. The hike itself is every bit as splendid as the destination.

Picture © Credits to A. Cester

Faial da Terra trail begins near a bus stop, on an asphalted road. Not long after, you continue on a dirt road, along the left bank of the stream. As you go deeper, the vegetation is also thicker, and you will notice species like Australian Cheesewood and Australian Blackwood - different types of acacias. Continue till you find a bridge over the stream, and soon you will stumble upon a dreamlike waterfall - Salto do Prego. It is both possible to explore the base of the waterfall, as well as to take a dip down inside it.

Picture © Credits to A. Cester

On the way back, another surprise is waiting for you -- a small, beautiful abandoned village Sanguino. The village was once a home to farmers who escaped here from the floods in Faial da Terra. In the middle of lush vegetation you will find old houses typical for the Azores, as well as small farms. The village was abandoned in the 60s, when most of the population moved to the USA and Canada in search of better living conditions.

Picture © Credits to A. Cester

This is a circular trail, categorised as a medium difficult one, but if you are a beginner, consider it somewhat challenging as it has lots of incline and rocks. It's 4.5 kilometres long and takes around 2 hours to be completed. Take a bit more time, just in case you decide to swim in the waterfall - after the hike it feels good. Tip: go in the morning, when it's less crowded. Wear good hiking shoes and plan a picnic near the waterfall. Be extra careful if doing it on a rainy day!