Fajãzinha can be discovered from two perspectives: as a place along the PR02FLO hiking trail and as part of a lava fajã landscape. There is also a viewpoint, historic churches, and a local tradition whose date varies from year to year. When planning your trip, you can choose between hiking, landscapes, and local history.

Hiking and geological landscape

The PR02FLO hiking trail passes through Fajãzinha between Lajedo and Fajã Grande. The route also crosses the Protected Landscape of the Central Zone and the Cliffs of the West Coast. Those interested in hiking will find a direct connection to the place here: Fajãzinha lies along a trail that connects two other named locations.

Fajãzinha is a lava-delta fajã. It formed when a lava flow advanced over the fossil cliff that had previously bordered the island, and then came into contact with seawater. Its formation can thus be understood as a sequence involving a lava flow, a former coastline, and contact with the sea.

Fajã Grande and Fajãzinha together form a lava fajã landscape that is partially covered by sediments. Watercourses and cliff collapses brought these deposits down. The fossil cliff at Fajã Grande and Fajãzinha is about 300 metres high. Numerous waterfalls feed permanent pools at its foot.

The Ribeira Grande waterfall is also in Fajãzinha. The Cruzeiro da Fajãzinha is considered one of the best viewpoints in the parish. These two places offer different highlights: the waterfall is a specifically named landscape feature, while the Cruzeiro is a viewpoint.

Churches, traditions, and local history

The Igreja de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios was built in the 18th century. It houses an image of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, carved from cedarwood from the island of Flores. Another historic site is the Império do Outeiro in Fajãzinha, built in 1882. Together, the church and the Império represent different aspects of the town’s cultural heritage: a place of worship with a locally carved image, and a separate building for the celebration of the Holy Spirit.

The celebration of the Holy Spirit at the Império do Outeiro takes place in alternate years, on Pentecost Sunday and on the Sunday after Trinity Sunday. On Sunday, the celebration includes a coronation procession to the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. If you want to plan your trip around this festival, check the date for the relevant year in advance.

The traditional watermill of Fajãzinha is also part of the town’s history: it used to grind corn and rye. A local culinary specialty is Fajãzinha folar, made with linguiça instead of eggs. A former artisanal function and a specific local way of preparing food thus sit side by side, offering two different insights into the town’s daily life and culture.

Discover more destinations: Lajes Das Flores, Santa Cruz Das Flores.

Back to the main travel guide: Flores.