Coastal Magic & Ancient Mills: Hiking the Ribeira Funda Trail (PRC 35 SMI)
Coastal Magic & Ancient Mills: Hiking the Ribeira Funda Trail (PRC 35 SMI)
Anthony "Tiger" Liu April 4, 2026
If you’re looking for a hike that offers maximum reward for minimum effort, the PRC 35 SMI – Ribeira Funda circular route is a must. Just a 20-minute drive from the Golden Mermaid Villa, this 3.3 km trail captures the wild, untamed essence of São Miguel’s north coast.
On a moody, overcast day just before Easter—my first trek after three months in the USA—I headed to the quiet village of Fenais da Ajuda to reconnect with the island. Here is what you can expect:
The Journey Down: Waterfalls & History
The trail begins at the parking lot in front of the Church of Nossa Senhora da Aflição . The initial walk is an easy stroll through lush fields toward the valley’s edge. However, don’t let the start fool you—as you approach the Moinhos do Crim , the path steepens.
You’ll soon find yourself transported back in time:
• The Watermills : You’ll pass several ancient stone ruins once used to grind grain.
The Journey Down: Waterfalls & History
The trail begins at the parking lot in front of the Church of Nossa Senhora da Aflição . The initial walk is an easy stroll through lush fields toward the valley’s edge. However, don’t let the start fool you—as you approach the Moinhos do Crim , the path steepens.
You’ll soon find yourself transported back in time:
• The Watermills : You’ll pass several ancient stone ruins once used to grind grain.
• The Falls: A series of waterfalls spill into deep, crystalline ponds. The second waterfall is particularly impressive, leading the water through the valley until it finally meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The Climb: Rocha do Padre do Norte
Once you leave the riverbed, the real drama begins. You’ll ascend a wood staircase toward the Rocha do Padre do Norte.
The Climb: Rocha do Padre do Norte
Once you leave the riverbed, the real drama begins. You’ll ascend a wood staircase toward the Rocha do Padre do Norte.
Pro Tip: This section features rolling hills right along the cliff’s edge. It offers incredible “exposure” (high altitude with open views), so keep your camera ready! The contrast of the crashing white surf against the vibrant green grass is absolutely breathtaking.
Trail Details at a Glance
• Distance: 3.3 km (Circular)
• Difficulty: Medium (steep sections and stairs)
• Duration: Approx. 1.5 -2 hours
• Amenities : There are public restrooms located right next to the parking lot at the finish.
Trail Details at a Glance
• Distance: 3.3 km (Circular)
• Difficulty: Medium (steep sections and stairs)
• Duration: Approx. 1.5 -2 hours
• Amenities : There are public restrooms located right next to the parking lot at the finish.
Why we love it
It’s the perfect “welcome back” hike or a great option if you have a spare two hours in the afternoon. You get the deep forest feel of the waterfalls and the epic scale of the Azores coastline all in one short loop.
—
Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.
It’s the perfect “welcome back” hike or a great option if you have a spare two hours in the afternoon. You get the deep forest feel of the waterfalls and the epic scale of the Azores coastline all in one short loop.
—
Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.