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Flores Island is a gem of the Azores. Still somewhat secret to tourists, the island is pristine and brimming with gorgeous landscapes. We visited for the first time in the summer of 2023 and immediately fell in love with the island’s beauty. The lush scenery enchants visitors while providing plenty of nature activities to enjoy. From the stunning waterfalls and lakes to the diverse flora and fauna, the best things to do in Flores, Azores will appeal to all nature lovers.
Cascata da Ribeira do Ferreiro
My favorite Flores attraction, Cascata da Ribeira do Ferreiro, is accessible via a short, picturesque hike from the parking lot. After walking along the trail through lush vegetation, the surrounding foliage opens up to display a picture-perfect view. The scene is characterized by a series of cascading waterfalls tumbling down cliffs into a calm pool below. The moss-covered rocks and tranquil setting elicit a fairytale-type feeling.
Cascata da Ribeira Grande
Renowned for its impressive height, Cascata da Ribeira Grande is one of Flores’ most impressive waterfalls. At 180 meters (590 feet) tall, Cascata da Ribeira Grande stands out as the tallest waterfall in the Azores. You can embark on a scenic hike to reach the bottom of the waterfall or find impressive views of it in the surrounding areas. This waterfall is one of the most iconic sites of Flores Island, meaning it is a must-see when you visit Flores, Azores. The area surrounding the waterfall offers several trails serving as a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Poço do Bacalhau
Poço do Bacalhau impresses visitors as another of the top waterfalls to see on Flores. Located in Fajã Grande, the 90-meter (295-foot) tall waterfall is popular for those wanting to experience canyoning in the Azores. If that’s too adventurous, the crystal-clear pool at the bottom offers the perfect setting for a refreshing dip.
Fajã Grande
Home to the popular Poço do Bacalhau, Fajã Grande is one of the best places to see in Flores, Azores. I recommend taking time to stroll around the charming village, soak in the views, and stop for a coffee at one of the cafés. I visited a café called Barraca Q’abana and loved it (mostly because there was the cutest resident dog there).
Rocha dos Bordões
While Flores Island is known for its cliffs, lakes, waterfalls, and flora, a unique geological wonder stands out from its other attractions. Rocha dos Bordões showcases a series of towering basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. These natural formations starkly contrast the surrounding lush greenery making it even more prominent and appealing to visitors. You can see the formations during a stroll on the nearby pathways or from the viewpoints on the side of the road. With its immense height and impressive structure, Rocha dos Bordões is tough to miss (and you definitely won’t want to miss it).
Caldeiras Rasa e Funda
For more stunning lakes, I recommend visiting Lagoa Rasa & Funda. There’s not much to say about these lakes other than that they are peaceful and provide a beautiful setting (which is what Flores Island is all about). It can be a quick stop but is worth visiting while in Flores.
Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida
Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida comprise another unique marvel on the island of Flores. These two lakes sit side-by-side as twin lakes but greatly contrast each other. In line with its name, Lagoa Comprida (meaning long) is an elongated crater that holds calm, black water. In contrast (and not in line with its name), Lagoa Negra is a mossy, green-colored lake. As close neighbors, these two lakes reflect the diverse geological features of Flores Island. By visiting Miradouro das Lagoas, you can get the perfect view (and photo) right in the middle of the two lakes.
Moinho de Água da Ribeira da Alagoa
If you want a little history during your Flores trip, stop by Moinho de Água da Ribeira da Alagoa. This watermill still functions today similarly to how it did back in 1869. The mill is open to visitors from 1 pm to 5 pm Sunday to Friday. During our visit, we had the opportunity to talk with the lady who works at the mill to learn more about its history and how it functions.
Miradouro do Portal
Miradouro do Portal is not considered one of the most popular viewpoints in Flores, but it should be! This viewpoint was my favorite and one I think everyone should visit. Like many of the viewpoints, the area offers stunning panoramic vistas of the coastline and vibrant landscapes. Perched high above sea level, the overlook provides a vantage point in a tranquil setting. Close to the parking lot, there are a few steps leading up to a stone block that is perfect to sit on to soak in the views.
Queijaria Val de Fazenda
Cheese is a staple of Azorean cuisine, which is why Queijaria Val de Fazenda is one of the best things to do in Flores, Azores. This cheese “factory” does not feel like a factory at all but rather a tiny cheese shop in a family home. Don’t get me wrong though; it’s the real deal. When you walk in, you’ll be greeted by the rich smell of cheese, the friendly artisans, and the opportunity to taste some cheese for yourself. This is a real, local experience not to miss.
Santa Cruz das Flores
As the capital of Flores island, Santa Cruz das Flores offers the most in terms of accommodations, restaurants, and infrastructure. Therefore, you are guaranteed to visit at some point as it’s also the entry to and exit from the island. With that said, the town offers plenty to do between its museums, swimming areas, cafes, and historic sites.
Fábrica da Baleia do Boqueirão
The Azores have a strong history of whaling, and the history is represented among most of the islands as whaling museums. Flores uses the Fábrica da Baleia do Boqueirão to pay homage to their whaling history. Once a whaling factory, the museum now preserves the stories of the lives of whalers and highlights the region’s rich maritime heritage. At only 1 Euro for entry, it’s practically guaranteed that you’ll get your value’s worth and likely more.
Flores Museum
Housed in the old Franciscan Convent, the Flores Museum covers a variety of historical topics while also preserving the convent’s history. Artifacts, photographs, and displays provide insight into the island’s past, including its agricultural traditions, maritime history, and cultural customs. I highly recommend this museum to learn more about the incredible island you’re exploring.
Piscinas Naturais de Santa Cruz das Flores
The natural pools in Santa Cruz das Flores offer the perfect place to cool off on days you spend exploring in town. Rugged rock formations surround pools of water that the waves carved into the coastline. Don’t forget to bring your goggles to see some of the marine life, but watch out for any jellyfish!
Day Trip to Corvo Island
Not too far from Flores is its neighbor, Corvo. Corvo is the smallest island in the Azores making it the perfect place to visit for a day trip. Visitors can reach Corvo by plane or a Corvo boat tour from Flores, but be cautious with the boat option. That’s the method I chose, and it consisted of a small 12-seater boat, choppy waves, and me almost getting sick. Either way you get there, a remote paradise welcomes you. Use your day to explore Vila do Corvo, the caldeirão, and the windmills.
Flower Blooms
There’s a reason the island is named Flores. Starting around June and at its peak in July, hydrangea flowers cover the island lending to it being even more beautiful than the rest of the year. If you can time your trip with the flower blooms, I recommend doing so.
While Flores isn’t the biggest or most visited island, it packs a punch with its best things to do. Nothing matches its untouched, pristine natural beauty. It truly is a nature-lover’s paradise.