Vereda do Pesqueiro
The Fisherman’s Path at the Edge of the West
Distance
5.0 km (Loop)
Duration
2h 30m – 3h
Difficulty
Hard
Status
✅ OPEN
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This is a West Coast trail. Hiking down in the late afternoon allows you to be back up at the cliffs (Miradouro do Fio) exactly in time for a spectacular sunset.
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Vereda do Pesqueiro?
Located near the famous lighthouse of **Ponta do Pargo**, this ancient trail was used by locals to reach the fishing spots (“pesqueiros”) at the base of the cliffs.
It offers a completely different perspective of the west coast. Instead of looking down from the lighthouse, you are immersed in the cliff face, with waterfalls cascading beside you (after rain) and the roar of the Atlantic growing louder as you descend.
Trail Map
The Loop: Ponta do Pargo Church → Miradouro do Fio → Pesqueiro (Sea Level) → Ascent.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
1
The Start (Ponta do Pargo)
Start near the Church or the signpost “Vereda do Pesqueiro”. The path winds through fields before reaching the cliff edge.
-
2
The Descent
A zig-zag path takes you down the cliff face. It is steep but well-defined. Enjoy the views of the massive western cliffs extending to Paul do Mar.
-
3
The Pesqueiro (Sea Level)
At the bottom, you reach a pebbly beach area. It is wild and rough. Do not swim unless the sea is dead calm (rare on the west coast).
-
4
The Climb Back
The loop continues by climbing back up a different ravine (usually towards Miradouro do Fio). This is the cardio burn!
📸 Best Photo Spots
The cliffs turn a burning orange color during sunset. Best viewed from the halfway point of the trail.
At the bottom, the waves hitting the volcanic rocks create massive splashes. Great for dramatic seascape photos.
Looking back up at the path carved into the cliff shows the scale of the descent.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
Drive to the far West end of the island, **Ponta do Pargo**.
📍 Navigation
Park near the Igreja (Church) of Ponta do Pargo or near the Miradouro do Fio. The trailheads are marked nearby.
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 The Long West Drive
Fast tunnels followed by scenic country roads.
Our Rental Recommendation: The drive to the west is fast and smooth. An SUV is comfortable for the long journey and gives you better visibility of the coastal views along the way.
Essential Gear
- Sunscreen: Critical. The west coast sun is strong and there is zero shade on the cliff face.
- Trekking Poles: Your knees will thank you on the descent and ascent.
- Water: 2 Liters per person. It is a hot, dry climb back up.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
O Forno (Ponta do Pargo)
One of the best restaurants in the west. Known for its wood-oven cooking. Or visit the Casa de Chá O Fio for a cake and coffee with a view right at the trail’s end.
