Wander to peak

The next hike to this location is on 20th of August.

For those seeking an adventurous yet rewarding hike on Terceira Island, this custom trail combines the historic path of Relheiras de São Brás with a scenic ascent to the stunning viewpoint of Serra do Cume. The route starts in the charming village of Lajes and offers a blend of history, nature, and breathtaking landscapes.

Starting Point: Lajes

Your journey begins in Lajes, a small village that serves as an excellent starting point for this hike. From here, you will follow a modified version of the Relheiras de São Brás trail, ensuring a seamless connection to the ascent of Serra do Cume.

Walking Through History: Relheiras de São Brás

The first section of the hike takes you along an ancient path known as Relheiras de São Brás, famous for its well-preserved cart ruts carved into volcanic stone. These deep grooves were created by ox-drawn carts centuries ago, making this a fascinating historical segment of your hike. As you walk, you’ll pass through verdant pastures, small woodlands, and rural landscapes, giving you a glimpse into Terceira’s traditional countryside.

Unlike the official route of Relheiras de São Brás, this version diverges slightly to connect seamlessly with the next section: the climb to Serra do Cume.

Ascending to Serra do Cume

Leaving the Relheiras trail behind, the hike transitions into a more challenging ascent up the slopes of Serra do Cume. The elevation gain is approximately 545 meters, and while the incline can be steep at times, the panoramic views awaiting at the top make the effort worthwhile.

As you climb, the landscape opens up, offering sweeping vistas of the island’s rolling green fields, divided by the iconic Azorean stone walls. If the weather is clear, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views on Terceira—an expansive sight often referred to as the “patchwork quilt” of the Azores due to the geometric patterns of the pastures below.

Reaching the Summit: Miradouro da Serra do Cume

At the peak, you’ll find the Miradouro da Serra do Cume, a spectacular viewpoint that showcases the best of Terceira’s rural beauty. From here, you can take a well-deserved break and admire the breathtaking scenery before beginning your descent.

Return Journey to Lajes

The return route follows a slightly different path, leading back toward Lajes but ending closer to the airport. From here, it is possible to take a bus to Praia da Vitória, providing an easy connection back to town after your hike.

Getting There & Public Transport Info

The trail can be completed entirely on foot, making it accessible for those without a car.
Buses from Praia da Vitória to Lajes operate from 7:00 to 19:00 on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 8:00 to 18:00 on Sundays. Last bus from Lajes at 19:30 on weekdays and Saturdays and 18:30 on Sundays. Be sure to plan accordingly.

Final Tips

• Trail Difficulty: Moderate, with an easy start on Relheiras de São Brás and a more challenging ascent to Serra do Cume.
• Best Time to Go: Choose a clear day for the best views from the summit.
• What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, a light jacket, and a camera for the stunning views.
• Trail Experience: The first part of the hike feels like a peaceful walk through a forest, while the final ascent requires more effort but is highly rewarding.

This unique trail is perfect for those looking to combine history, nature, and breathtaking viewpoints into one unforgettable hiking experience on Terceira Island!