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Parque Natural das Flores adventures

Parque Natural das Flores Adventures

Parque Natural das Flores is a lush natural park located on Flores Island in the Azores, known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine waterfalls, and abundant endemic flora and fauna.

15,000 acres
Acres Protected
50+
Miles of Trails
Approx. 30,000
Annual Visitors
2000
Year Established

About Parque Natural das Flores

 

Parque Natural das Flores encompasses the entire island of Flores, the westernmost island of the Azores archipelago in Portugal. This protected area is characterized by striking volcanic formations, with rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and calderas. The park’s diverse ecosystems include laurel forests, peat bogs, freshwater lagoons, and coastal cliffs that provide habitats for numerous endemic species. Flores Island’s isolation has preserved a rich biodiversity, including rare plants such as Azorean heathers and native birds like the Azores bullfinch and the island’s endemic Azorean wood pigeon. Visitors can explore the park through a network of well-maintained trails that pass by spectacular waterfalls such as Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro, also known as the 19 Lagoons Waterfall, and lakes like Lagoa Funda and Lagoa Comprida nestled within volcanic craters. The history of Flores blends natural heritage with human activity, including small rural settlements and traditional agriculture that coexist harmoniously within the landscape. Outdoor recreation opportunities include hiking, birdwatching, canyoning, and photography, with many trails leading to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic cliff formations. Parque Natural das Flores offers a tranquil and unspoiled environment, inviting visitors to experience the raw beauty of the Azores’ volcanic origins alongside vibrant biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.

Highlights

Highlight

Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro Waterfall (19 Lagoons) – stunning waterfalls within verdant laurel forest

Highlight

Caldeira Funda and Caldeira Comprida – volcanic crater lakes with pristine landscapes

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The rugged western cliffs offering spectacular ocean views and seabird colonies

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The diverse endemic flora including rare Azorean heathers and violets

Notable Natural Features

Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro Waterfall

A spectacular series of waterfalls cascading through deeply forested volcanic ravines, often called the 19 Lagoons.

Caldeira Funda and Caldeira Comprida

Two adjacent volcanic crater lakes surrounded by lush vegetation offering tranquil, scenic spots for visitors.

Western Cliffs and Seabird Colonies

Steep cliffs on the island’s west coast are crucial nesting sites for seabirds and provide dramatic Atlantic vistas.