Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo

Most visitors stay only at the viewpoint. They miss the magic of walking around, having (almost) always good views into the caldera and onto the sea and neighbour islands. The path is mostly easy to walk. A small portion is a little rough and steep. If you are not sure about it, turn left and surround the caldera clockwise. Then you have this part at the start of your hike. It pays off to show up early. When we started there was just one other car at the parking lot, but at return it was full. Also when we visited the central group, the Cabeço Gordo was almost always covered with clouds. Probably it doesn't pay off to go there at these days. But when the tip is clear of clouds, it is a must for all hikers. If you want to walk down into the caldera, you can do this only with a certified guide.