Starting early today. So much to do that we’re at the trail head by 8:45am. Fortunately the forecast says the rain is done for the day.

As we roll into the parking lot with just one other car we can’t help but notice the clouds lingering at the top of the hill. We press on.

2.5 hours later and we get back to the car tired, wet and content in our achievement. 8.5 km, lots of sights seen (granted many were into the clouds) and only moderately wet.

Did you know that there was a luxury hotel here in the late 80’s? It was to cater to those wealthy and adventurous people. Unfortunately for the shareholders it was years ahead of its time as tourism in the Azores hadn’t taken off yet.

It only lasted a few year before going bankrupt. This now abandoned hotel is like right out of The Walking Dead. So freaky to be wandering around through it.

Next we drive down into the volcanic crater to see Sete Cidades (Seven Cities). But there aren’t seven cities, this is a village. I guess there’s a legend about seven bishops back in the day, and somehow that evolved into this village being called Seven Cities. We found that it was a great place to eat our leftovers from last night. It tastes even better today!

The Azores have natural hot springs that are right on the west coast, but you have to time your visit with low tide. Otherwise you have the ocean making your soak very cold.

We found a gem for our late afternoon rest – Sunset Steve’s Bar. Right on the shoreline, deep fryer going with red wine and draught beer. Perfect.