Faial da Terra

Faial da Terra is a charming sea side town located in a valley. It is certainly off of the beaten path but it is becoming more known to tourists due to the Salto do Prego waterfall (found at the end of a hiking path). People who enjoy geo-caching also venture here due to a couple of geo-caches in the area.

The town has less than 400 residents and is considered to be a part of the Municipality of Povoacao. There is evidence of much pride in the town as it is well kept. The street is clean and tidy, most houses are well maintained, and gardens are carefully tended.

Thanks to P. Belchior for all photo's on this page. Except for the first image above, which is by Miranda

Like many parts of the Azores, there are some abandoned houses here. People ask me why houses would be abandoned. As I understand it, a key reason is that families have emigrated from the Azores and have been unable to maintain their homes. I am sure that each property has its own story. Abandoned homes sounds negative, but I enjoy seeing them and appreciate that they are there.

I also enjoy the houses that have not covered over the stone construction. There are less and less of them throughout the islands, but I am glad to see some here and there. Like these one's:

Did you notice the dogs in the picture above? Truly ferocious!

The images you are viewing on this page were taken by P. Belchior who visited the town with a friend while I was out hiking with a group of people. We hiked to the nearby Salto do Prego waterfall. It's a hike with fairly big changes in terrain and altitude, but well worth the challenge. In addition to the waterfall, and the beautiful plants along the way, we passed through a town called Sanguinos, which has 20 homes high up the hill. This town is only accessible by foot (or donkey) and is mostly abandoned. It was really interesting to visit.

This next image shows the start of the hike. You have two choices to start it off.

Faial da Terra is located close to Povoacao in Sao Miguel Azores

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