Calheta do Nesquim

The Calheta do Nesquim circuit begins at the harbour in front of São Sebastião church, built in 1852. The parish retains a strong connection with whaling, visible in the heritage around Terreiro and the House of Whaling Boats. The opening section follows the coast toward Feteira harbour, a small leisure area with access to natural pools. Soon afterwards, the maritime setting gives way to a sustained climb.

The route crosses mixed vegetation and Fetais woodland, reaching a dirt road on higher ground. From here there are views over the village, Pedra Aguda and Cabeço do Silvado. The descent begins at Cascalheira, first on asphalt and then on a dirt path through Australian cheesewood. Woodland gradually opens into farm fields, pasture and small vineyards, revealing the transition between damp hillside and cultivated ground.

Partway down stands a whale lookout that provides a place to pause and observe the coast. Lower on the route, the trail returns to the road and approaches Poça das Mujas and the Morro do Cão windmill, also known as Murricão. The loop then returns to the harbour. This is a varied medium-grade walk whose demanding climbs are balanced by coastal views and a route focused on the parish's maritime heritage.

Leave from Calheta do Nesquim harbour in front of São Sebastião church and follow the circuit clockwise. Keep with the coastal markings to Feteira harbour. From there, begin the climbing section through mixed vegetation and Fetais woodland. At the top, turn left onto the dirt road and continue on higher ground toward Cascalheira. Start the descent on asphalt, then join the dirt path through woodland, fields, pasture and small vineyards. Pause at the whale lookout without leaving the route. On reaching the road again, turn left toward Poça das Mujas and Murricão windmill, then follow the markings back to the harbour.