PRC20SMI | Rocha da Relva

On the south coast of the Island of São Miguel, on a ‘fajã’ (a lavic platform between the sea level and the mountain side) of the same name, Rocha da Relva offers a splendorous view of the ocean.

One of the accesses to this platform has its start near the Caminho Novo viewpoint, comprising picnic infrastructures, some handicrafts vendors and a magnificent view. The other access is at the parking lot of Alminhas.

Rocha da Relva and Rocha do Cascalho are two lavic platforms of rare beauty, created by lava debris and landslide embankments, where vineyards grow and wine is produced in some areas.

Rocha da Relva is a detrial fajã, that is , a flattened area at the base of the cliff formed by deposits resulting from slope movements, such as breaks and landslides.

On the adjacent cliffs one can observe several deposits of falling pumice, pyroclastic flows and lava flows,which describes the eruptive history associated with the poygenetic volcano of Sete Cidades.

It has more than 50 small houses, many in great condition, and which are used as support buildings or summer houses.

Although it can be done on foot, the owners of the houses by the sea many times resort to carry persons and goods down to the ‘fajã’ by donkeys or horses.

Rocha do Cascalho, a smaller fajã, but with a similar origin. This is a geosite with regional relevance and scientific educational and geotouristic interst and use.

The trail covers a distance of 5.5 km/3.42 miles and is considered of medium difficulty; it gives hikers the chance to see several of the typical houses, fountains, leisure areas and an altar to Nossa Senhora dos Anjos [Our Lady of Angels].

Parish: Relva
Trail: Circular
Extension: 5.5 km/3.42 miles
Duration: 3h00
Degree of difficulty: Medium
More Info: https://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/sao-miguel/rocha-da-relva