Canadas da Ribeirinha

Canadas da Ribeirinha links Terra Alta with Calhau, crossing northeastern Pico on old working lanes. It begins along Canada da Atalhada, where repeated ox-cart traffic has left wheel ruts cut into the surface. The descent enters vegetation of Australian cheesewood, faya, Azorean laurel and holly, crosses the regional road and returns to rural paths, alternating shade, small properties and openings toward the coast.

A short detour reaches Alto dos Cedros viewpoint, looking toward São Jorge. Back on the route, the walk passes a fountain, crosses Rocha Alta and enters Ribeirinha village. At the far end of the settlement, Canada do Mar drops to Baixa harbour, where traditional cellars, small vineyard enclosures and access to the ocean appear. This approach to the sea changes the setting from woodland and road to a coastal landscape of work and recreation.

The trail continues near the shore among heather, returns briefly to the road and leaves it again toward Ponta das Trombetas. It finishes at Calhau beside the small harbour, where it connects with the Ponta da Ilha route. This is an easy crossing but a sustained descent, showing how lanes, fountains, vineyards and ports once linked Ribeirinha's interior with the Atlantic edge.

At Terra Alta, locate the start beside the ER1 and enter Canada da Atalhada. Descend through woodland, cross the road and continue by the markings until meeting asphalt again. If desired, take the short left-hand detour to Alto dos Cedros viewpoint and return the same way. Pass the fountain, turn left at Rocha Alta and cross Ribeirinha. At the far end of the village, descend left along Canada do Mar to Baixa harbour. Then follow the coast, return to the road by the markings and leave it again toward Ponta das Trombetas. Continue to Calhau and finish beside the harbour. Arrange transport back to Terra Alta or continue only on a properly planned connection.