The best walks and hikes around Covoada

There are over 170 hiking routes in the Covoada area, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 100 easy trails, nearly 60 moderate routes, and 10 more challenging paths.

Hiking around Covoada primarily involves volcanic landscapes, featuring mountainous terrains, forests, and scrub-brush. You'll encounter dramatic topography, including volcanic craters and calderas, often cradling serene lakes. The broader region of São Miguel is characterized by basaltic cones and diverse volcanic systems.

Yes, Covoada offers many easy routes. For a relatively short and scenic option, consider the Rocha da Relva Trail (PRC20) – Roche da Relva Village Square loop from Covoada, which is 4.2 km (2.6 miles) and typically takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. Another easy choice is the Empadas Lagoon – View of Lagoa de Empadadas loop from Sete Cidades, a 3.3 km (2.1 miles) trail completed in about an hour.

The Covoada area is rich with stunning natural features. A must-see is the Vista do Rei viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the iconic Sete Cidades caldera and its twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. You can also explore the Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, which provides a unique perspective on the contrasting lake colors. Lake Canário is another picturesque spot nearby.

Yes, several circular routes are available. The Rasa Lagoon – Mares' Peak loop from Pico do Carvão is a moderate 7.9 km (4.9 miles) path winding through hilly and partially forested landscapes. Another option is the Vigia Viewpoint – Rocha da Relva Trail (PRC20) loop from Relva, a moderate 6.4 km (4 miles) trail.

The hiking trails around Covoada are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 3,200 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse volcanic scenery, panoramic ocean views, and the well-maintained paths that lead to stunning lakes and viewpoints.

Absolutely. The Rocha da Relva Trail is particularly noted for its panoramic ocean views and volcanic scenery, making it a popular choice for those seeking coastal vistas.

São Miguel Island, where Covoada is located, generally enjoys a mild climate year-round. However, for the most pleasant hiking conditions, late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) often offer comfortable temperatures and less rainfall, making them ideal for exploring the trails.

From Covoada, you have convenient access to many of São Miguel's highlights. Beyond the immediate area, you can explore other volcanic craters and lakes like Lagoa do Fogo, experience the island's famous hot springs, or visit unique natural landmarks such as lush tea and pineapple plantations. The capital city, Ponta Delgada, with its historic City Gates, is also within reach.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather, it's advisable to wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for hiking. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential, especially on volcanic paths. Bringing rain gear is always a good idea, as weather can be unpredictable on the Azores.

Yes, many trails in the region lead to or offer views of the stunning lakes and lagoons. The area around Covoada is close to the iconic Sete Cidades Massif, home to Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. The Lake Canário is also a beautiful spot accessible via trails, and the Empadas Lagoon loop is another excellent option for lakeside hiking.