Caminho das Lagoas

Caminho das Lagoas crosses the Achada plateau between the Transversal Road and Ribeirinha. Over 22 kilometres, the route winds through an alignment of small volcanoes and provides one of Pico's most sustained upland experiences. Its sequence includes Caiado, Seca, Peixinho and Paúl lakes, together with other wetlands and peat bogs whose appearance changes with rainfall, light and season.

Between the lakes lie high-altitude pasture, active peatland and areas of sphagnum, rushes, Azorean holly and juniper. The walk crosses the Central Zone Protected Landscape, the Lagoa do Caiado habitat area and Caveiro Nature Reserve. This combination supports birds such as goldcrests, blackbirds and woodcock, while open ground allows long views toward São Jorge and Terceira when cloud lifts.

The route ends in Ribeirinha after a long eastward progression. Although technically graded easy, its distance, exposure and limited shelter across much of the plateau make it an endurance walk. The character is quiet and expansive: rather than settlements or monuments, the dominant elements are water, peat, pasture, volcanic cones and rapidly changing visibility. Its scale rewards steady pacing and a careful choice of weather.

From Madalena on the Longitudinal Road, turn toward Lajes at the junction with the Transversal Road. About 700 metres later, take the left-hand junction beside the Forestry Services house, where the trail begins. From here, follow the markings east across the plateau, successively passing the Caiado, Seca, Peixinho and Paúl lake areas and the protected landscapes of Achada and Caveiro. Do not leave the marked line across pasture or peatland. The route gradually descends and finishes in Ribeirinha parish. As this is a long linear crossing, leave a vehicle at the endpoint or arrange collection in advance; do not plan to walk back to the start on the same day.