Caminho das Fontes

Caminho das Fontes is a medium-grade circuit that leaves Calheta harbour and climbs from the waterfront into the neighbourhoods and fields above the village. The first clear change of character comes on Ladeira Velha, a steep old lane that retains traditional paving laid in the nineteenth century. As height is gained, views open across Calheta's roofs, the channel, and the islands of Pico and Faial, with the route passing Ladeira Velha picnic area and the Rua de Baixo viewpoint.

At Biscoitos, the highest part of the walk, stands the church of Nossa Senhora do Socorro. From here the trail enters the historic path that gives the route its name, once used to reach Fontes da Rocha for collecting water and washing clothes. It passes old wash basins, the ruins of a watermill and plots where taro is still cultivated, then continues toward Fajã Grande and the Senhor Bom Jesus chapel.

The return follows the coast. Beyond the bathing area and campsite, the path stays close to the sea, passes an old windmill, the tuna cannery and Santa Catarina church, and finally closes the loop at the harbour. The appeal lies in the steady sequence of everyday heritage, cultivated ground and maritime Calheta rather than in a single dramatic viewpoint.

Begin at Calheta harbour beside the Francisco de Lacerda Museum. Follow the markings up Ladeira Velha, pass the picnic area and continue to the Rua de Baixo viewpoint. The circuit then climbs toward Biscoitos and Nossa Senhora do Socorro church before joining Caminho das Fontes past Fontes da Rocha, the wash basins and the old watermill. Continue toward Fajã Grande and the Senhor Bom Jesus chapel. Near the campsite, remain on the marked coastal section, passing the windmill, tuna cannery, Santa Catarina church and the Holy Spirit chapel before returning to the harbour. Start and finish are in the same place, so no transfer between trailheads is needed.