Nordeste: Sao Miguel's Wild East

Nordeste, the remote eastern end of São Miguel, is the island’s wildest and greenest corner, with deep valleys, waterfalls, flower-filled viewpoints, a dramatic lighthouse and very few tourists. It’s a perfect full-day road trip from Ponta Delgada or Furnas.

Quick answer: drive the coast road to see the garden viewpoints of Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada, the Ribeira dos Caldeirões waterfall and old mills, and the Farol do Arnel lighthouse. Hike to the Salto do Prego waterfall from Faial da Terra. Allow a full day.

Things to do

• Ponta do Sossego: a manicured garden viewpoint above the ocean.
• Ponta da Madrugada: a sunrise viewpoint with flowers and picnic tables.
• Ribeira dos Caldeirões: a park with a waterfall and restored watermills.
• Farol do Arnel: the island’s oldest lighthouse, at the bottom of a very steep road. Walk down if you’re not confident driving it.
• Nordeste village: a pretty bridge and town square.
• Salto do Prego: see the Salto do Prego waterfall.

Tips

• Car: essential. See getting around the Azores.
• Combine with Furnas on the way. See Furnas.
• Weather: the east is often wetter and greener.

More: the São Miguel itinerary and Portugal’s hidden gems.

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