Arcos between lava fields and coastal paths

Arcos combines volcanic landscapes with paths, cultural sites and impressions of life in a coastal settlement. Near Arcos are lava fields created by ancient volcanic eruptions. The Lajido–Arcos lava field is of scientific and scenic interest and gives the surroundings a distinctive character. Those planning a trip to Arcos can therefore choose between active experiences on the paths, peaceful observations of nature and cultural discoveries.

Paths through landscape and history

An important route into the surrounding area is the historic path connecting Lajido/Arcos with Santa Luzia. It passes close to the ruins of Forno dos Frades. Particularly striking there is a distinctive stone chimney, which gives the ruins a memorable detail. The chapel of Nossa Senhora Rainha do Mundo is also located in the centre of the Arcos coastal settlement. It adds a cultural point of reference to the landscape experiences.

Several paths also make Arcos appealing to travellers who like to combine their stay with physical activity. The Caminho da Costa connects the Arcos coastal settlement with the coastal settlements of Cabrito and Lajido. The Caminhos de Santa Luzia route reaches the beginning of Rua dos Arcos. This makes it possible to incorporate different ideas for walks around Arcos into your personal daily planning, without all the paths having to share the same character.

Hiking, rocks and waterscapes

The PR10PIC Santana–Lajido linear hiking trail is classified as easy and passes through the village of Arcos. For visitors looking for a clearly designated route, this information is helpful when planning. At the same time, the trail represents the connection between settlement and landscape: Arcos is perceived not only as a destination, but also as part of a longer route.

Another special feature is the Piscina Natural dos Arcos. It is accessible via steps leading to a platform for resting. Impressive volcanic rocks surround the Piscina Natural dos Arcos and shape the surrounding landscape. If you would like to include this place in your plans, you should consider the steps and the platform as specific parts of the visit. For a varied stay, you can combine such a natural site with a walk or a cultural stop.

Special reasons to travel to Arcos

The festival in honour of Nossa Senhora Rainha do Mundo takes place in Arcos on the first weekend of September. This date may play a special role in your travel planning if you would like to experience the place on this occasion. Arcos also offers opportunities for birdwatching. Various species found in the region can be observed there. This quieter activity creates a different accent from a hike or a visit to the volcanic rocks and can usefully complement the rhythm of the day.

Which accommodation suits your plans?

When looking for accommodation in Arcos, it is worth first organising the experiences you want. Those who want to combine paths, lava fields and the Piscina Natural can consider Arcos as a search area for a holiday apartment. For travellers interested in culture, the chapel of Nossa Senhora Rainha do Mundo and the ruins of Forno dos Frades are the main attractions. Families or travel groups with different interests can base their planning around several such focal points without making every day the same. What matters is which experiences are most valuable to you: physical activity on a trail classified as easy, observing the landscape, attending a festival or engaging with the distinctive features of the place.

You can discover other places in the same wider area through this selection: Terra do Pao, Canto da Areia, Prainha De Cima, Candelaria, Sao Joao, Bandeiras, Baixa, Santo Amaro.

To the main travel overview: Pico.