The best waterfall hikes and walks around Água Retorta

There are 7 dedicated waterfall hiking trails around Água Retorta, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging routes. These trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars.

Yes, for an easier option, consider the Água Retorta — circular route on the Island of São Miguel (PRC 13 SMI). This trail is approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) long and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete, featuring a hidden waterfall and panoramic views. While the Prego Waterfall is popular for swimming, caution is advised due to potentially slippery trails.

The terrain on waterfall hikes in Água Retorta is quite diverse. You'll encounter shaded paths through dense woodlands with species like Australian cheesewood and fayatree, open pastures, and agricultural fields often bordered by traditional boxwood hedges. Some sections may also feature dirt roads near the coast, offering dramatic views.

Yes, several circular routes incorporate waterfalls. Besides the PRC 13 SMI circular route, you can explore the Cagarrão Waterfall – Sanguinho Village loop, which is a moderate 10.4 km (6.5 miles) path leading through varied terrain and the historic Sanguinho Village.

Many trails offer stunning vistas. You can enjoy elevated views of the Água Retorta village center, Pico Bartolomeu, and Pico da Vara. On clear days, the distant island of Santa Maria might even be visible. The Cagarrão Waterfall – Sanguinho Village loop passes through the intriguing Sanguinho Village, an abandoned settlement with restored buildings. The Prego Waterfall is a popular natural attraction.

Yes, the Prego Waterfall is a popular spot where visitors can swim in its pool. However, it's important to exercise caution as the trails leading to it can be slippery.

The Azores generally have a mild climate year-round. For hiking, spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) often offer pleasant temperatures and lush landscapes, with waterfalls flowing well after seasonal rains. Summer can be warmer and drier, while winter might bring more rain, making trails potentially muddier.

While specific regulations for dogs on all trails are not detailed, many natural areas in the Azores are generally accessible for dogs on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage at trailheads for any restrictions and to ensure your dog is comfortable with varied terrain, including potentially slippery or steep sections near waterfalls.

Specific parking details for each trailhead are not provided in the guide. However, for routes like the Wild Chickens – Chickens near Salto do Prego loop, which starts from Reserva Florestal de Recreio de Água Retorta, you can typically find designated parking areas near these recreational forest reserves. The Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse, another nearby attraction, is accessible via a steep road, implying car access.

Beyond the waterfalls, you can explore the Sanguinho Trail, which leads to the historic Sanguinho Village. The Água Retorta Recreational Forest Reserve itself is a significant natural area with a rich botanical collection and the island's first natural camping site. You might also find other smaller waterfalls like Small Waterfalls in the vicinity.

For a more extended moderate hike, consider the Wild Chickens – Chickens near Salto do Prego loop from Reserva Florestal de Recreio de Água Retorta. This trail is 13.1 km (8.2 miles) long and typically takes around 4 hours 37 minutes to complete, leading through woodlands and near the Salto do Prego waterfall.

The trails traverse diverse woodlands featuring species like Australian cheesewood (Pittosporum undulatum) and fayatree (Morella faya). The region is also a protected area for habitat and species management, particularly within the Água Retorta Recreational Forest Reserve, which boasts a rich botanical collection of both endemic Azorean species and exotic hardwoods and softwoods.