Pico da Vara (full day w/ picnic lunch)

Pico da Vara (full day w/ picnic lunch)

The activity starts with the drive from the meeting point to Algarvia. On the way to the starting of the hike, is possible to wonder the amazing views over the landline of the north coast, the green fields of the only tea plantation of Europe and the endless pastures. This 7 km trail begins and ends in the parish of Algarvia, municipality of Nordeste, at 700 meters of altitude. After rising about 1 km through a forest of Cryptomeria (Cryptomeria japonica), the landscape changes to a scenario with endemic species and ground vegetation, composed mainly of grasses that give the name to the place: Graminhais. From here, you can see Povoação, the first place of arrival for the settlers on the island in the XV century. The trail rises until it reaches the highest point on the island of São Miguel, Pico da Vara, at 1105 m above sea level, where you have an amazing view over almost the whole island and a 360º view on top of the mountain. The return to the starting point is done with the descent of the same track, being a bit slippery during the winter. On the return to Ponta Delgada, passing by the northern coast of the island, still time to stop at the oldest tea factory of São Miguel, Gorreana tea factory for a tea tasting and passing by the city of Ribeira Grande, the only city on the north side of the island, before crossing back to south coast, through the narrower part of the island, with just 8 km. After a brief drive in the south coast, the activity ends with the arrival in Ponta Delgada.

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Duration

5H

Total: 6,5H

Difficulty

Hard

(good physical. cond.)

Minimum age: 8 years

(until 18 years must be accompanied by parents or guardians, , or bring a written permission).

NOTES:

The performance of the activities are subject to weather conditions and logistics.

Schedules and meeting points

09h00 - Picos de Aventura Office

10h00 - Beginning of the trail in the Algarvia

12h00 – Stop for picnic lunch

13h30 - End of trail

14h00 - Gorreana tea factory tour

15h30 - Arrival at Ponta Delgada and end of activity

Minimum equipment necessary

Footwear suitable for walking (Hiking boots), comfortable clothing, light jacket, extra t-shirt or sweatshirt, snack, water, swimsuit, towel, backpack, sunscreen and hat.

Recommended Equipment

Walking poles , and gaiters (Winter).