3 DAYS,
3 ISLANDS,
3 TRAILS
Azores Triangle Adventure is a 3 stage trail running race that happens for three days in the Islands of Faial, Pico, and São Jorge, in the Azores.
Transportation between the islands is secure for the three stages.
The routes, program, and rules may change due to weather conditions.
STAGE 1
FROM VINEYARDS TO THE MOUNTAIN
Pico Island
October 24th 2025
From the Vineyards to the Mountain (FVM)
The trail "From the Vineyards to the Mountain" is a 24 km journey that starts at sea level and ascends to the mountain's house, standing at 1,300 meters high. It begins at the harbor of Madalena village and progresses to the "Lajido" of Criação Velha—part of Pico's Vineyard Protected Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004. The basalt stone walls protect the vines from wind and salt, creating a unique and beautiful landscape where people and nature thrive together.
Unique micro-reliefs from recent volcanic activity can be seen as we walk through the vineyards. The landscape changes as we ascend, transitioning from vineyards to "maroiços," large rock piles that allow diverse plant life to flourish.
As we continue, we encounter green pastures alongside volcanic cones and lava tubes, where cows graze peacefully. The mountain's appearance is a dynamic canvas, constantly changing and revealing vibrant colors, clouds, and snow.
At the foothills of the mountain—around 1200 meters high—we enter a Nature Reserve within the Nature Park of Pico, recognized as a geosite in the Azores Geopark and a Special Conservation Zone. Here, the terrain steepens, and alpine plants often remain buried under snow.
Information and Recommendations about the Trail of Pico Mountain
STAGE 2
FAJÃS
São Jorge Island
October 25th 2025
Fajãs Trail ( FT)
“Fajãs” are the breathtakingly beautiful features of São Jorge Island's coastline. These small, flat parcels of land, formed by the collapse of materials from the slopes or the cooling of lava meeting the ocean, offer a unique experience. They provide an opportunity to connect with nature and be inspired by the island's natural beauty.
The trail, a unique 25-kilometer journey, starts at the ancient volcanic complex in the São Tomé parish. It leads through the southern coast’s “Fajãs,” where crops like yam, banana, and coffee thrive, making it one of the few places in Europe for coffee cultivation. This adventure-filled trail is a must for any nature enthusiast.
As the trail ascends hilltops, it descends into the northern coast's “Fajãs,” including the famous Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, known for surfing. The Fajãs of Caldeira de Santo Cristo and Cubres are recognized Ramsar Sites, highlighting their landscape significance and unique lagoons. The trail ends at Fajã dos Cubres, featuring a small chapel. Explore São Jorge Island’s “Fajãs” and experience its natural beauty!
STAGE 3
VOLCANOES TRAIL
Faial Island
October 26th 2025
Volcanoes Trail (VT)
The Volcanoes Trail, stretching over 35 kilometers, commences at the Capelinhos volcano, a geological wonder that is the youngest in Portugal. The terrain, a blend of ashes, tuff, and volcanic bombs, is a mere 58 years old, giving you a rare opportunity to step onto a landscape that feels like another planet. The trail begins at sea level at the "Comprido" port, once the largest whaling station in the Azores from 1940 to 1957 until the volcanic eruption altered its course.
As the trail ascends through the Capelo peninsula, it traverses over ten dormant volcanoes and enters the "Levada," a remarkable hydraulic engineering feat of the 1960s in the Azores. Hikers journey through bridges and tunnels of this impressive water channel before being greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Caldeira of Faial, one of the most breathtaking volcanic calderas in the world. After navigating part of its perimeter, the trail descends along a rough road to Cabouco, passing by Charcos de Pedro Miguel and concluding in Ribeirinha.
A NATURALLY SURPRISING CHALLENGE
Stage race that happens on three islands - Pico Island, São Jorge Island and Faial Island.They have a total of 87 km accumulated at the end of the three days. This race is one of the Qualifying Races for Ultra-Trail® of Mont-Blanc (UTMB)
