THE MORRO DE CASTELO BRANCO

The morro de Castelo Branco is a trachyte promontory resulting from a volcanic eruption 30 million years ago. Its (more or less obvious) white castle shape is said to have given Castelo Branco its name. Home to a vast community of rare birds (common tern, little shearwater and calonectris diomedea borealis, among others), it is part of the Faial Natural Park and enjoys special protection. You'll also be able to observe native plants, unique to the Azores. The morro de Castelo Branco can be reached by car via a small road on the right from the village (note that the junction is better signposted when coming from Horta), or on foot via a hiking loop starting from Lombega (circuit PRC5 FAI - 4 km - 1h30 - easy). To find out the exact itinerary, visit the official Azores hiking website (trails.visitazores.com), or the Horta tourist office. It's a trip you really must make - it's a bit of a natural wonder, a geological masterpiece. The walk offers fantastic photo opportunities of the coastline and the tranquil bay just off the Morro. It's also an excellent spot to picnic, relax and enjoy the horizon. There's no need to hesitate: this is the activity not to be missed, even with children (the hike is really easy) in Castelo Branco.