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PS PR 2 - Vereda do Pico do Castelo
Distance
4.6 km
Duration
2:15 hours
Difficulty
Easy
About This Trail
This longest Porto Santo island trail offers two versions: 3.2 km (1.5 hours) or 4.6 km (2.15 hours), starting at Moledo and circumventing the highest peak (Pico do Facho) to reach Pico Castelo's summit. At the top stands a statue honoring António Schiappa de Azevedo, driving force behind the island's reforestation. Named Pico Castelo in the 15th century from the fort that served as refuge against French and Algerian pirate attacks, the site's central location made it an ideal defensive 'castle.' The Canhão Belvedere at trail's end offers sweeping city views of Vila Baleira and nearly the entire island's length.