Eastern High Ridge and Pico da Vara
Key information: Eastern High Ridge and Pico da Vara 
- This long high ridge takes in several summits including the highest point on the island and commands regular knock-out views.
Walkopedia rating
- Walkopedia rating86
- Beauty30
- Natural interest15
- Human interest10
- Charisma31
- Negative points0
- Total rating86
Vital Statistics
- Length: 7km+
- Maximum Altitude: 1,105m
- Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
WALK SUMMARY
The long (8km+) high ridge from above Furnas to 1,105m Pico da Vara, the highest point on the island, takes in several summits on the way and commands regular knock-out views south over a series of bowls and valleys to the sea far below, and down the more forested northern slopes. It is in places so flat it is almost plateau-like, so makes for surprisingly easy walking.
The access roads are mainly from the north. You can use them to walk sections of the ridge, including a climb or even traverse of Pico da Vara. See a great 7 km (3hr+) circuit from the north at https://trails.visitazores.com/sites/default/files/folheto_prc07_smi_0-2_temporario_0.pdf
Wonderful. Walko really regrets not making it here.
Please help us by making suggestions and sending photos! Thank you!
For more information and photos, including detailed practical information and some warnings, see our Azores page.
Other accounts: share your experiences
Your comments on this walk, your experiences and suggestions, and your photos are very welcome. Where appropriate, you will be credited for your contribution.
Safety and problems: All walks have inherent risks and potential problems, and many of the walks featured on this website involve significant risks, dangers and problems. Problems of any sort can arise on any walk. This website does not purport to identify any (or all) actual or potential risks, dangers and problems that may relate to any particular walk.
Any person who is considering undertaking this walk should do careful research and make their own assessment of the risks, dangers and possible problems involved. They should also go to “Important information” for further important information.
Anyone planning an expedition to this place should see further important information about this walk.
Responsible travel matters, a lot. How you travel will make a real difference - for better or worse. PLEASE consider this when making plans. Read more
Contents
Other great walks in Portugal
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Rota Vicentina
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Trilho de Vezeira
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Alentejo, Fisherman's Trail
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Azores, Caldeira do Faial
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Azores, Ten Volcanoes Trail, Faial
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Azores, Pico, Old track descent to Madelena
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Azores, Pico, Pico Island
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Azores, Pico, Pico Volcano
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Azores, Pico, Picos Historic Vineyards
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Azores, Sao Jorge, Piquihino da Urze to Faja do Cubres
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Azores, Sao Jorge, Rosais Cape
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Azores, Sao Jorge, Sao Jorge
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Azores, Sao Jorge, The Central Ridge
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Madeira, Levada to Caldeirao Verde
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Madeira, Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
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Madeira, Pico Grande
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Madeira, Pico Ruivo from Achado do Texeira
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Madeira, Ponta de Sao Lourenco
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Madeira, PR12 - Boca da Corrida to Boca da Encumeada
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Madeira, Rabacal, 25 Fontes
RESEARCH ESSENTIALS
Information and review
Finding flights, organising travel
Car hire
Accommodation
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Equipment & Clothing
Books and Maps
- Amazon
- Maps and guides from Maps Worldwide
- Cicerone � explore the world�s best collection of walking books
Holidays and Activities
MAGAZINE
Walking with Trees: the Kumano Kōdō Kōhechi - Stephen Barber's account and photos of one of Japan's great pilgrimage trails. March 2021
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Responsible travel matters, a lot. How you travel will make a real difference - for better or worse. PLEASE consider this when making plans. Read more
