# Pico Alto Route

> A mountain bike route whose highlight, in every sense, is Pico Alto, the highest point in Santa Maria, offering views across the whole island. The trails in the east are technical and challenging, followed by the descent to Anjos and the crossing of Vila do Porto, from the Fort of S. Brás to the Valverde Forest Park.

URL: https://naturasports.pt/en/percurso/rota-do-pico-alto

- **Activity:** BTT
- **Distance:** 34.0 km
- **Elevation gain:** 1195 m
- **Elevation loss:** 1195 m
- **Altitude:** 5–564 m
- **Technical difficulty:** Hard (red)
- **Route type:** Loop
- **Best season:** Spring, Summer, Autumn
- **Code:** SMA_BTT03VRM
- **Centre:** [Santa Maria - Açores](https://naturasports.pt/en/centro/santa-maria-acores)
- **GPX:** https://naturasports.pt/percurso/rota-do-pico-alto/export-gpx

A Rota do Pico Alto has a clear objective: to reach the highest point of Santa Maria and, from there, to take in the whole island at a glance.

The natural viewpoint. From Pico Alto, the two faces of the island are clearly visible: the flatter, drier west, and the typically Azorean east, with its rugged, humid terrain. The trails in this area are challenging — a full-suspension bicycle helps to enjoy them with ease.

Descent to Anjos. After passing once more through Barreiro da Faneca, the route heads to Anjos, a bathing area and small fishing harbour. The trails, marked by lava flows, are tough and technical, demanding close attention.

Vila do Porto, from fort to park. The route closes with a longitudinal crossing of Vila do Porto, from Forte de S. Brás to Parque Florestal do Valverde — a finale that invites visits to museums and monuments. The drier months of May to August are recommended.

## Quick answers

### How long is the Pico Alto Route route and how much climbing does it have?

34.0 km, with 1195 m of elevation gain. It is a loop route.

### Is the Pico Alto Route route difficult?

The technical difficulty is hard (red). Physical effort: 4 out of 5.

### When is the best time to ride or walk the Pico Alto Route route?

Recommended season: spring, summer, autumn.

### Where does the Pico Alto Route route start?

The route belongs to the Santa Maria - Açores centre.

### Is the Pico Alto Route route waymarked?

Yes, the route is waymarked on the ground.

### Where can I download the GPX for the Pico Alto Route route?

The GPX track is available at https://naturasports.pt/percurso/rota-do-pico-alto/export-gpx.