PS PR2 - Vereda do Pico Castelo
Start: Moledo
Finish: Canhão Belvedere
Time: 1h30m / 2h15m
Distance: 3.2 km / 4.6 km
This trail begins at Moledo, next to the Regional Highway, and continues up the forestry road. There are two alternate routes to follow, one along the north side and the other along the south side of Pico do Facho.
The south route is the longest footpath on Porto Santo Island. As we cross the central zone of the island at the base of Pico do Facho, we can see traces of old farmlands and the impressive cut stone walls built by hand. We can also appreciate the incredible efforts made by humans to reforest the island.
At the top of Pico Castelo, there is a statue in honor of António Schiappa de Azevedo, who played a significant role in the reforestation of Porto Santo.
The reforestation process has helped control erosion on the island. Exotic species, such as Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), Maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), and Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa), were introduced due to their resilience to adverse conditions.
Indigenous species that can be found include the dragon tree (Dracaena draco), olive tree (Olea sp.), holm oak (Quercus ilex ssp. rotundifolia), fire tree (Myrica faya), broom heath (Erica scoparia), and pride of Madeira (Echium nervosum).
During the walk, you can observe various fauna on the island, including red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa), common buzzards (Buteo buteo buteo), kestrels (Falco tinnunculus canariensis), house sparrows (Passer domesticus), and hoopoes (Upupa epops).
After reaching the summit of Pico Castelo, the trail ends at Canhão Belvedere. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Vila Baleira and the entire length of the island. In the distance, you can also see the Deserted Islands and Madeira.
The name Pico Castelo dates back to the 15th century and originated from the fort that served as a refuge for the local inhabitants during attacks by French pirates or Algerians. Its central location and defensibility made it a true castle.