Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Açores > Nordeste > Achada > Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões

Location

The Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park is located in the locality of Achada, within the municipality of Nordeste, on the island of São Miguel, in the Azores archipelago. This natural area is nestled on the slopes of Serra da Tronqueira and is characterized by the course of Ribeira do Guilherme, a central aquatic element in the surrounding landscape.

Old Mills and the Rural Legacy

One of the most distinctive elements of this park is the presence of several water mills, some of which date back to the 16th century. These historic structures are a testament to the island's rural past and their importance to the life of local communities. Some of these mills are classified as public interest heritage and, on certain occasions, it is possible to observe their operation, keeping the tradition of milling alive.

One of the mills houses an ethnographic space, offering a perspective on the practices and way of life from yesteryear. The old millers' houses, present on site, complement this journey into the past, evoking the history and daily routines associated with these ancient constructions.

Exuberant and Aquatic Nature

The scenic beauty of the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park is dominated by an imposing waterfall, accompanied by other cascades that harmoniously integrate into the landscape. The flora is abundant and varied, with emphasis on the Laurissilva forest, an ecosystem millions of years old. Here, visitors can observe large tree ferns, as well as the striking presence of massifs of hydrangeas and cryptomerias.

The park constitutes an important habitat for various species, including endemic birds of São Miguel, such as the Azores bullfinch (priolo) and the chaffinch. The conservation of these species is one of the park's priorities, with part of the protected area covered by a special protection zone. This environment invites tranquil walks, ideal for contemplating nature and carefully observing the local biodiversity.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt