The best running trails around Calheta
4.2
(5)
135
runners
10
runs
Jogging around Calheta, located on Madeira's southern coast, offers a diverse range of natural landscapes for runners. The region is characterized by its unique levada irrigation channels, which provide accessible paths through verdant scenery. Much of the trail network traverses sections of the ancient Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring dense vegetation and impressive rock faces. Coastal paths also provide routes with direct views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic cliffs, while the Paul da Serra plateau offers more mountainous terrain and panoramic vistas.
Best jogging routes around Calheta
- The most popular jogging route is PR04SJO Pico do Pedro – Pico da Esperança – Fajã do Ouvidor Trail, a 17.1 miles (27.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 41 minutes to complete. This challenging route features significant elevation gain and expansive views.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Serra do Topo - Caldeira de Santo Cristo - Fajã dos Cubres Trail, a difficult 11.8 miles (19.0 km) path. This route descends through varied terrain, offering glimpses of coastal landscapes and lush valleys.
- Local runners also love the From Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Vimes — route on the Island of São Jorge (PR 2 SJO), a 9.6 miles (15.5 km) trail leading through dense forests and offering ocean views, often completed in about 2 hours 36 minutes.
- Jogging around Calheta is defined by its unique levada trails, ancient Laurissilva forest, and dramatic coastal paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.
- The routes in Calheta are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 130 runners have used komoot to explore Calheta's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
16
runners
19.0km
03:11
1,200m
1,200m
This challenging 11.8-mile downhill trail on São Jorge Island offers dramatic scenery from Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Cubres.
5.0
(1)
16
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
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15
runners
27.5km
03:42
1,080m
1,080m
Jogging the difficult 17.1-mile PR04SJO Pico do Pedro – Pico da Esperança – Fajã do Ouvidor Trail offers panoramic views and volcanic scener
1
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(1)
17
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
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Popular around Calheta
Tips from the Community
If you come to Sao Jorge, you'll most likely want to take one of the hikes to Caldeira de Santo Cristo. The flat and short route there starts from the Faja dos Cubres and is definitely a feast for the eyes. The sound of the waves and how they pull the rounded lava rocks back into the sea is almost meditative. 🤌
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Right at the beginning of the trail that leads to Pico da Esperança, the highest point in Portugal appears on the horizon: Pico Mountain and its 2351m above sea level. The Atlantic Ocean hides something even more impressive: starting from the abyssal zone, the mountain reaches more than 5000m in altitude.
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Right at the beginning of the trail that leads to Pico da Esperança, the highest point in Portugal appears on the horizon: Pico Mountain and its 2351m above sea level. The Atlantic Ocean hides something even more impressive: starting from the abyssal zone, the mountain reaches more than 5000m in altitude.
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This is the descent (and ascent) section of the trail that connects the car park at Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Vimes. It offers beautiful views of the coast and Fajã. Demand appropriate footwear and be aware of the weather conditions beforehand.
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Fajã dos Vimes, located on the island of São Jorge, is known for its handmade quilts woven on wooden looms. It has a chapel, São Sebastião, and a primary school since 1886. There is even a small coffee production in the fajã, one of the only ones in Europe.
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The small Chapel of São Jorge is located in Fajã dos Vimes, on the island of the same name. The date of its construction is not known for certain, but everything indicates that it was built in the 18th century - there having been an even older one destroyed by an earthquake, with the current chapel being rebuilt on that occasion.
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Fajã dos Cubres marks the end point of the route that begins in Serra do Topo. A beautiful and idyllic place by the sea. For those who choose to return to walking, it is a mandatory stopping point. However, it is also possible to return from here by taxi to the start.
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Place of peace and tranquility. It is accessible via the trail from Serra do Topo, which involves more technical and rewarding sections, and via neighboring Fajã dos Cubres. There are some bars and small restaurants that serve as an ideal stopping point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running routes around Calheta?
Calheta offers a highly diverse range of terrains for runners. You'll find unique levada trails that follow irrigation channels through verdant scenery, sections of the ancient Laurissilva forest with dense vegetation, and dramatic coastal paths with direct views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Paul da Serra plateau also provides more mountainous terrain and panoramic vistas, ensuring a varied experience for every jogger.
Are there any easy or moderate jogging routes in Calheta suitable for casual runners?
While many routes in Calheta are challenging, there are options for casual runners. The Levada Nova da Calheta, for instance, offers relatively flat sections between 600 and 700 meters in altitude, making it popular with locals for keeping fit. Many levada trails, like the iconic Levada of the 25 Springs, are often described as easy to moderate, providing a distinctive jogging experience through lush landscapes.
Can I find running routes with ocean views in Calheta?
Absolutely! Calheta's stunning southern coast provides numerous opportunities for runs with breathtaking ocean views. Coastal paths like the Vereda do Pesqueiro offer direct views of the Atlantic and dramatic cliffs. The Caminho Real do Paul do Mar (PR 19) is another ancient trail connecting coastal villages with panoramic ocean vistas. You can also jog along Calheta Beach's golden sand promenade for a seaside experience.
Are there any jogging routes that feature waterfalls or natural springs?
Yes, Calheta is famous for its natural water features. The iconic Levada of the 25 Springs (PR 6 - Levada das 25 Fontes) winds through dense laurel forests, culminating in the spectacular sight of 25 cascading springs and waterfalls. The Levada do Risco (PR 6.1), seamlessly connected, offers views of the impressive Risco Waterfall. Additionally, the Levada do Alecrim leads to Lagoa da Dona Beja and the Ribeira Grande waterfall.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest I might see while jogging in Calheta?
Calheta's routes often pass by stunning natural landmarks. You might encounter the dramatic Fajã dos Cubres, a unique coastal plain, or the serene Pico da Esperança Crater Lake. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like View of the Cliffs of the Fajãs do Norte, offering expansive panoramas. The region's ancient Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a landmark in itself, with its massive ferns and mystical atmosphere.
What do other runners say about the jogging routes in Calheta?
The running routes in Calheta are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 130 runners have used komoot to explore Calheta's varied terrain, often praising the unique levada trails, the beauty of the Laurissilva forest, and the stunning coastal views.
Are there any circular running trails available in Calheta?
Yes, there are circular options for runners. For example, the Fajã dos Cubres – Fajã de Santo Cristo loop from Área de Paisagem Protegida das Fajãs do Norte offers a challenging 9.9 km (6.2 miles) circular route, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes without retracing your steps.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Calheta?
Calheta, located on Madeira's southern coast, generally enjoys a mild climate year-round. However, for the most comfortable jogging conditions, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are often ideal, offering pleasant temperatures and less chance of extreme weather. The lush vegetation is particularly vibrant during these periods.
Are there any challenging running routes for experienced joggers in Calheta?
Experienced joggers will find plenty of challenging routes. The PR04SJO Pico do Pedro – Pico da Esperança – Fajã do Ouvidor Trail is a difficult 27.5 km (17.1 miles) route with significant elevation gain. Another top favorite is the Serra do Topo - Caldeira de Santo Cristo - Fajã dos Cubres Trail, an 19.0 km (11.8 miles) difficult path descending through varied terrain.
Can I find routes that take me through the famous Laurissilva Forest?
Many of Calheta's running routes traverse sections of the ancient Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This dense, humid forest is characterized by massive ferns, impressive rock faces, and a mystical atmosphere, especially in areas like the Fanal Laurel Forest. Routes like the Levada of the 25 Springs offer a deep immersion into this unique ecosystem.
Are there any specific viewpoints I should look out for during my run?
Calheta boasts several viewpoints offering stunning natural panoramas. The Garganta Funda Viewpoint is notable for its waterfall on one side and ocean views on the other, along with sights of the town's historic lighthouse. Other viewpoints like Queimadinha, Raposeira, Lombada dos Marinhos, and Fonte do Bispo provide excellent spots for a scenic break during your run.
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