Serreta

The Serreta circuit enters the damp flank of Serra de Santa Bárbara, where native forest, streams and pasture surround the small Lagoinha. The climb from Canada da Fonte passes endemic vegetation and reaches this discreet pool, sheltered by the surrounding relief. An enclosed environment rich in mosses and moisture-loving plants contrasts with the open fields encountered later.

After returning to the road, the route reaches Ribeira do Além and skirts lava domes before climbing to a viewpoint below Pico Negrão. The final section crosses pasture and follows a road bordered by hydrangeas to complete the circuit. This sequence reveals the close relationship between the mountain’s natural core and land used for livestock. Lagoinha is the main scenic feature, but the walk’s character also comes from native woodland and repeated changes between shade, water, volcanic rock and rural landscape.

The viewpoint below Pico Negrão provides the broadest perspective after the enclosed atmosphere around Lagoinha. Moving from forest into open pasture helps explain how this mountain flank brings natural habitat and agricultural land into close contact. The hydrangea-lined road then gives the return a clearly rural character before the circuit closes.

The circuit starts at Canada da Fonte and climbs on rural and forest paths to Lagoinha. Return to the road on the marked line, cross the Ribeira do Além area and skirt the lava domes. Climb to the viewpoint below Pico Negrão, then continue through pasture on the indicated side. A hydrangea-lined road leads back to the start. Do not attempt this sequence while the trail is closed. At the viewpoint, return to the indicated passage before crossing the final pasture and hydrangea-lined road.