ROCHA DA RELVA HIKE
Rocha da Relva hike is my personal hidden gem of São Miguel in the Azores. This unique trail: PRC02 SMI, winding through one of São Miguel’s majestic cliffs offers a blend of cultural heritage, incredible landscapes and a close encounter with the island’s rich biodiversity. The town itself is also a very cool sight and a great addition to this island’s itinerary.
ROCHA DA RELVA HIKE FACTS
Distance: The total distance for this hike was a little below 6km
Hike duration: This hike’s duration was almost 1,5h. Adding a break here or there, this hike shouldn’t take more than 3h
Elevation gain: The total elevation gain for this hike was a little over 200m
Difficulty: This hike is super easy, it’s pretty much just a coastal walk.
Gear needed: Definitely a windbreaker and sun protection. Read this guide if you’re unsure what else to bring.
My Strava map upload + GPS file: ROCHA DA RELVA
GETTING TO ROCHA DA RELVA
By car: Typing Rocha da Relva should be sufficient to navigate, I parked my car right here although it was a dirt road and I had a jeep. Beware of the conditions when you detour from a main road.
By bus: Although there is a bus stop I found it almost impossible to navigate how buses work in that area, car is your best bet.
MY EXPERIENCE HIKING ROCHA DA RELVA
Rocha da Relva hike starts near Belvedere do Caminho Novo, where you’ll find signs and a car park for visitors. Before you head down, there’s a panel with all the hike details you should check out. The trail kicks off with a nod to history – a small sanctuary that people used to stop at for a prayer.
Descending to Rocha da Relva
The path down is pretty straightforward and takes you towards Rocha do Cascalho. This part is cool because you get to see local wine-making in action, with vineyards surrounded by basalt rock walls that protect the grapes and help them grow better.
Reaching the sea level, there’s a spot to chill out and enjoy the ocean view. If you’re up for it, you can even take a dip in the Atlantic. Not gonna lie, the water color was very inviting but it was incredibly windy that day. I do hope the weather will be much nicer during your hike 🙂
The Heart of Rocha da Relva
Continuing onward, the trail unveils the rustic charm of Rocha da Relva. Summer houses, orchards, and vineyards paint an awesome picture of rural life. The path is shared with the island’s traditional pack animals, donkeys and horses, reminding us of the symbiotic relationship between the inhabitants and their land.
Geology and the Way Back
Towards the end, the trail’s geology gets really interesting, showcasing the island’s volcanic history through layers of lava flows and pumice. The return journey is the same way back, giving you a second chance to take in all the sights. The cliffs are truly breathtaking!
Conclusion: A Trail to Remember
The Rocha da Relva hike is a great way to see a different side of São Miguel, blending natural beauty with a peek into local life. It’s a short and easy trail but it’s definitely worth the visit for the views and the experience. Remember to respect the trail and the local environment to keep this place beautiful for everyone who visits after you.
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Wish you safe and happy hiking!
