Grande Rota de São Jorge (Oeste)

The western Grande Rota de São Jorge crosses roughly half the island from Ponta dos Rosais to Fajã dos Cubres. Its first stage, approximately twenty-two kilometres long, links the western tip with Santo Amaro. Along the way, the route alternates coastal areas, cliffs, pasture and the volcanic spine, revealing the narrow, elongated shape of São Jorge from changing elevations.

The second stage, about thirty kilometres, continues east towards the north coast and Cubres. Cones and ponds on the plateau give way to deep slopes, settlements and access paths to fajãs, showing the constant relationship between interior and sea. Arrival at Fajã dos Cubres brings the grand route to one of the island’s characteristic coastal lagoons and a connection with the eastern route. Its total distance and changes in relief demand good preparation, while the two-stage structure allows time to observe São Jorge’s varied natural and rural landscapes.

Rosais, Santo Amaro and Cubres function as both logistical and geographical anchors. The route leaves an exposed western end, crosses inhabited central areas and finishes in a fajã, condensing the transition from west to north into one continuous itinerary. That progression also distinguishes the two stages beyond their difference in length.

Complete the crossing in its two designated stages. The first starts at Ponta dos Rosais and runs about twenty-two kilometres to Santo Amaro. The second resumes there and covers approximately thirty kilometres to Fajã dos Cubres, where it connects with the eastern grand route. Book accommodation between stages, arrange endpoint transport, carry adequate supplies and confirm the GR02SJO waymarks at every junction. At Santo Amaro, end the first stage at the marked point and resume the Cubres continuation from there.