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Flores Island

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City
—°9
Flores Island (Portugal)
ℹ️

Practical info — Flores Island

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Always carry reliable rain gear; the island's famous lushness and waterfalls are fed by frequent, intense rainfall.
  • The trail to Poço da Alagoinha is short but rocky; wear sturdy hiking boots, not sandals.
  • Dining options outside the main towns of Santa Cruz and Lajes are scarce; plan your meals ahead.
  • Rent your vehicle well in advance, as the island has a very limited fleet of rental cars.

🍽 Food

🍽
Inhame

Taro root, a ubiquitous and starchy local vegetable often served as a hearty side dish.

🍽
Sopa de Agrião

Watercress soup, a warming dish first-rate for the island's often damp climate, found in local guesthouses.

🍽
Boca Negra

A local rockfish, best enjoyed roasted whole or grilled at seaside seafood restaurants.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Local Honey and Jams

Made from the island's endemic flora, available in minimarkets in Santa Cruz.

🛍
Flores Butter

Butter from Flores is highly regarded locally for its rich, yellow quality.

🧘
Poço da Alagoinha

A magical, mossy cliff face with multiple cascading waterfalls pouring into a quiet lake.

🧘
Sete Lagoas

The seven crater lakes in the highlands; Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida in particular are memorable and peaceful.

Flores, part of the remote western group of the Azores, is a lush sanctuary often described as a garden in the middle of the Atlantic. Its name refers to the incredible variety of flowers that bloom across the island, particularly the blue hydrangeas. The island's crown jewel is Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, a sweeping spot where multiple waterfalls cascade down a vertical, moss-draped cliff into a crystal-clear lagoon. The interior highlands are home to seven distinct volcanic lakes, known as Sete Lagoas, each offering a different hue and atmosphere. Fajã Grande, on the west coast, provides a dramatic backdrop for hikers and is one of the best places to witness the sunset at the edge of the continent. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Flores remains untouched and wild, making it a dream destination for hikers, canyoning enthusiasts, and those seeking absolute tranquility.

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Geography

Population
1,725
Coordinates
39.46667, -31.21667

Facts

  • UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2009
  • Europe's westernmost point (Monchique Islet)
  • Capital: Santa Cruz das Flores
  • Top Sight: Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro
  • Seven Lakes: Volcanic lakes in the highlands
  • Activities: Hiking and world-class canyoning
  • Flora: Famous for hydrangeas and wildflowers
  • Access: Small airport (FLW) and local ferries

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
Motorhome dimensions

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Flores Island (9)

Zona Balnear da Fajã Grande🎡 recreation

Natural swimming pools formed by lava at Fajã Grande, Flores.

Piscinas Naturais da Fajã Grande🎡 recreation

Natural tidal pools on the coast of Fajã Grande on Flores Island.

Miradouro da Lagoa Seca🌿 nature

Viewpoint over the dry lake Lagoa Seca on Flores.

Morro Alto🌿 nature

Morro Alto is the highest peak on Flores Island, reaching an elevation of over 900 meters.

Praia Fajã Grande🌿 nature

Beautiful natural beach on Flores Island, offering a serene coastal environment with scenic ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Poço do Bacalhau

Popular local attraction on Flores Island, known for its scenic beauty and inviting natural surroundings that attract many visitors.

Miradouro das Lagoas

Scenic viewpoint on Flores Island providing spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscape and lakes.

Miraduro da Pedrinha

Beautiful observation point on Flores Island, offering visitors a sweeping view of the sweeping coastline and nature.

Miradouro

Appealing viewpoint located on Flores Island, well-suited for enjoying the peaceful surroundings and memorable natural scenery of the region.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the island called Flores?
Because of the abundance of wildflowers, especially hydrangeas, that cover the island in summer.
Where can I find the famous waterfalls?
At Poço da Alagoinha, about 20 waterfalls cascade down a green cliff face into a lake.
Is Flores the westernmost point of Europe?
Yes, the Monchique Islet off the coast is considered the westernmost point of the continent.
How do you get to the neighboring island of Corvo?
By small boats or the ferry from Santa Cruz; the crossing takes about 45 minutes.
Are there many accommodations available?
Limited. There are small hotels and cottages, so you must book months in advance.
Flores Island: where is it located?
Flores Island is located in Portugal.
Flores Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Zona Balnear da Fajã Grande, Piscinas Naturais da Fajã Grande, Miradouro da Lagoa Seca.
Flores Island: why is it worth visiting?
Flores, part of the remote western group of the Azores, is a lush sanctuary often described as a garden in the middle of the Atlantic.
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