Ponta Delgada - Fajã Grande

Ponta Delgada–Fajã Grande is a linear crossing of northern and western Flores, but it is closed. The historic alignment leaves central Ponta Delgada and passes pasture and valleys toward Ponta do Albarnaz. Its lighthouse, opened in 1925, marks this first part and provides views toward Corvo, Maria Vaz islet and some of the island's oldest volcanic terrain.

Beyond Albarnaz, the route crosses streams and areas of endemic vegetation. Monchique islet lies offshore while the coastline becomes progressively higher and more indented. On the final kilometres, Rocha do Risco introduces a cliffside sector exposed to the ocean and unsuitable for people with vertigo. The approach toward Fajã Grande passes Azorean juniper woodland beneath a fossil cliff cut by numerous waterfalls.

The scenic and natural importance of this connection helps explain the western coast of Flores, but it does not change the present status. While closure remains, this description is only for understanding and future planning; it must not be used to enter from Ponta Delgada, Albarnaz, Ponta da Fajã or Fajã Grande. A walk should only be considered after reopening has been confirmed.

There are no usable progression directions while the trail is closed. Do not enter from central Ponta Delgada, Albarnaz lighthouse, Rocha do Risco, Ponta da Fajã or Fajã Grande, and do not try to connect sections by roads, pasture or unsigned paths. For future planning, the endpoints are Ponta Delgada and Fajã Grande and would require separate transport because this is a linear crossing. Wait for confirmed reopening before arranging collection, setting timings or assessing access. After reopening, check the status of the entire route again before departure, because a partial opening would not automatically make every sector passable.