4.9
(12)
834
runners
45
runs
Jogging around Água De Alto offers diverse landscapes on São Miguel Island in the Azores. The region features a scenic coastline with golden sands, providing routes along the shore. Inland, the terrain includes lush greenery, volcanic formations, and hills, with trails winding through these natural features. Waterfalls, such as the one near Ribeira do Degredo, also contribute to the area's varied topography.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.8
(4)
124
runners
10.8km
01:30
490m
490m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
83
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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25
runners
27.4km
03:55
1,280m
1,280m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
17
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
runners
8.97km
00:58
150m
150m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz, a Baroque building from the 18th century, stands atop Nossa Senhora da Paz Hill, near Vila Franca do Campo on the island of São Miguel. This pilgrimage site owes its origins to a legend that tells of an apparition of the Virgin Mary. Over the years, the complex has been extensively redesigned – particularly striking is the imposing staircase from 1968. It is decorated with ornate tiles depicting scenes from the Passion Cycle, and its design is reminiscent of the famous staircase of Bom Jesus do Monte.
2
0
Easily accessible Lost Place - Dilapidated hydroelectric power station
0
0
An absolutely fantastic view as a reward after a challenging climb!
0
0
A beautiful little park with some exotic plants
2
0
It is very beautiful here.
0
0
It is very beautiful here.
0
0
It is very beautiful here.
0
1
There are over 40 diverse running routes around Água de Alto, catering to various fitness levels. These include 2 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 19 difficult routes, offering a wide range of experiences from coastal paths to challenging volcanic trails.
Yes, Água de Alto offers a couple of easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed pace. These trails typically feature gentler terrain, often along the scenic coastline or through less challenging inland areas.
Jogging in Água de Alto offers a stunning variety of landscapes. You can expect scenic coastal paths with golden sands, lush greenery, and dramatic volcanic formations. Many routes provide panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the verdant Azorean countryside, including views of the famous Islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
Yes, the region is known for its beautiful waterfalls. While jogging, you might encounter trails that lead to or offer views of cascades like the Window of Hell Waterfall or the Cabrito Waterfall. The area is also home to a 30-meter high waterfall near Ribeira do Degredo, contributing to the area's natural beauty. You can explore highlights like Window of Hell Waterfall or Cabrito Waterfall.
Yes, many of the running routes around Água de Alto are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the moderate route, Mural by Yves Decoster – Largo do Pelourinho Garden loop from Ribeira Chã, which covers about 9.1 km.
The running routes in Água de Alto are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging volcanic trails to serene coastal paths, and the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the unique Azorean landscape.
Absolutely. Many running trails offer views of significant natural landmarks. You can see the volcanic crater island of the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, and some routes pass by stunning lakes like Lagoa do Fogo (Lagoon of Fire) or Congro Lagoon. Other points of interest include the Pico da Cova Tunnel and a Suspended Bridge Over Waterfall Gorge.
Experienced runners will find several challenging options. For instance, the difficult route View over Lagoa do Fogo – Lagoa do Fogo (Lagoon of Fire) loop from Vila Franca do Campo spans 21.7 km, offering expansive views of the Lagoon of Fire and surrounding volcanic landscapes. Another demanding option is the View over Lagoa do Fogo – Hermitage of Our Lady of Peace loop from Vila Franca do Campo, covering 19.3 km.
São Miguel Island, including Água de Alto, generally offers pleasant conditions for running year-round due to its mild climate. Spring and autumn often provide the most comfortable temperatures, while summer can be warm but still enjoyable, especially along the coast. Winter offers cooler temperatures, which some runners prefer, though occasional rain showers are more common.
Yes, Água de Alto is uniquely positioned to offer routes that blend coastal beauty with inland exploration. You can start with a jog along the golden sands of Praia de Água de Alto and then transition into trails that wind through lush volcanic hills, providing diverse scenery and varied terrain within a single run.
Many of the more challenging running routes in the area provide spectacular views of the iconic Lagoa do Fogo. For example, the Lagoa do Fogo — trail on the Island of São Miguel (PRC 2 SMI) is a difficult 10.8 km trail specifically designed to showcase this stunning volcanic lake.


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