Santana - Lajido

Santana–Lajido links the Santo António coast with the vineyard settlement of Lajido de Santa Luzia. The walk begins on the regional road at the boundary between Santana and São Vicente Ferreira. Before setting out, a short access leads to a whale lookout; on the trail itself, the descent crosses orchards and vineyards toward Gasparal Bay. Beside the sea, a tidal well recalls how communities adapted to the scarcity of surface water.

Beyond the coastal houses, the route continues toward Ponta Negra. A lane bordered by Australian cheesewood and heather gradually becomes a shortcut over basalt, bringing the walker close to the lava forms that define this edge of Pico. The itinerary passes the small settlement of Cabrito and climbs toward São Mateus chapel. It then proceeds through Arcos, alternating hamlets, rural lanes, vineyards and volcanic ground.

The finish reaches Lajido beside the interpretation centre devoted to the Vineyard Culture Landscape. In one easy linear walk, the route brings together three aspects of the north coast: old observation points connected with whaling, communities established around small bays and harbours, and vines protected by basalt walls. The variety of surfaces still calls for attention despite the absence of major technical difficulty.

Locate the start beside the regional road at the boundary between Santana and São Vicente Ferreira. If visiting the lookout, take the lane on the left and return to the start. Enter the path between two houses, climb inland and, after about 700 metres, turn right onto asphalt. Soon afterwards descend through orchards and vineyards to Gasparal Bay. Pass the tidal well and keep right of the coastal houses toward Ponta Negra. Continue along the lane and basalt shortcut, cross Cabrito and turn right toward São Mateus chapel. Farther ahead, turn right again, pass through Arcos and finish in central Lajido. Arrange transport back to Santana.