4.5
(22)
103
hikers
Nordeste - Arnel Lighthouse Trail
01:22
4.14km
170m
Hiking
Hike an easy 2.6 miles (4.1 km) route to the historic Farol do Arnel lighthouse, featuring dramatic coastal views and a steep descent.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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210 m
Seven Arches Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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Tip by
287 m
Parish Church of Saint George in Nordeste
Highlight • Religious Site
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423 m
Historic Center of Nordeste
Highlight • Settlement
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1.44 km
View of the Farol do Arnel
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
2.06 km
Farol da Ponta do Arnel
Highlight • Monument
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4.14 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.67 km
1.44 km
Surfaces
3.08 km
1.03 km
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Elevation
Highest point (160 m)
Lowest point (20 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 23 May
21°C
17°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the actual difficulty of the Nordeste e Farol do Arnel trail, especially the descent to the lighthouse?
While the overall trail is considered easy, the access road leading directly to the Farol da Ponta do Arnel is famously steep, with an incline of approximately 35%. This section makes the descent and subsequent ascent quite strenuous. It's highly recommended to walk this part rather than attempt to drive, and sturdy footwear is essential.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?
The terrain features rugged coastal cliffs and lush landscapes typical of São Miguel. The path to the lighthouse is a very steep and narrow paved road. You should be prepared for significant inclines and declines, requiring good grip and comfortable, sturdy shoes.
What are the main points of interest along the way?
This route offers several notable sights. You'll pass by the Seven Arches Bridge and the Parish Church of Saint George in Nordeste. The highlight is undoubtedly the Farol da Ponta do Arnel, the first lighthouse built in the Azores. You'll also enjoy a View of the Farol do Arnel, a small fishing village at its base, and potentially a hidden waterfall along the descent.
Is there parking available at the trailhead for the Farol do Arnel hike?
Parking near the start of the steep descent to the lighthouse is limited. Due to the extreme steepness and narrowness of the road, it's generally advised to park further up in Nordeste and walk down to the lighthouse. This also allows you to fully appreciate the dramatic scenery.
Is this trail suitable for families with children?
While the overall distance is short, the very steep section leading to the lighthouse can be challenging for young children or those with limited mobility. Families with active children who are comfortable with steep descents and ascents might enjoy it, but caution is advised for this specific part of the route.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer (April to September) are ideal for experiencing the lush greenery and vibrant flora. For photographers, sunrise and sunset offer particularly magical light that enhances the dramatic coastal views.
Are dogs allowed on the Nordeste e Farol do Arnel trail?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on this trail. However, given the steep and narrow sections, especially the road to the lighthouse, ensure your dog is comfortable with such terrain and always keep them on a leash for their safety and the comfort of other hikers.
Do I need any permits or have to pay an entrance fee to access the trail or the protected area?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail or to enter the surrounding Área Protegida para a Gestão de Habitats ou Espécies da Ponta do Arnel. However, always respect local regulations and natural habitats.
Does this trail connect with any other hiking paths in the Nordeste area?
Yes, this route incorporates sections of other local paths. Approximately 26% of the trail follows the Caminho da Lomba, and about 22% runs along the Caminho dos Dez Alqueires, offering a glimpse into the wider network of trails in the region.
What kind of views can I expect along the Nordeste e Farol do Arnel route?
You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the wild Atlantic Ocean and São Miguel's dramatic eastern coastline. As you descend, you'll get evolving perspectives of the whitewashed Farol da Ponta do Arnel against black volcanic cliffs, and glimpses of a charming fishing village nestled below.
Are there any facilities like cafes or restrooms near the Farol do Arnel lighthouse?
The small fishing village at the base of the lighthouse is very traditional and does not typically have cafes or public restrooms. It's best to plan for facilities in the nearby Historic Center of Nordeste before or after your hike.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Anna: After breakfast we go through the village, past the church, to the lighthouse and all the way down to the tiny fishing port. It's very leisurely everywhere here and the woman at the tourist information office has plenty of time to give me recommendations. For the next month, she expects numerous tourists. In the summer months, however, many who have emigrated from the Azores come to visit their families. We are still almost the only ones it seems.
When my son happily tried to steer down the hill, I almost had a heart attack! 35% gradient... Is that even possible? Then I read the signs again carefully: Driving private cars without a special permit was prohibited anyway. Lucky for me!! (Walking down was enough to make you dizzy...🥴) So we were able to enjoy the view of the pretty lighthouse, the tiny harbor and the sea in peace. After that, we took a look at the town of Nordeste, which has not been connected to the rest of the island by a good road for very long and is therefore called the 10th island. After the usual sweet break with a galao (milk coffee) and the typical puff pastry tarts, we continued on by car. First a leisurely little tour around the "Reserva Florestal de Recreio da Cancela do Cinzeiro" (nature and leisure park), then it would be exciting again with the motorized ascent of the "Pico Bartolomeou" 🫡(I still don't get along well with the extreme gradients of the small, narrow, bumpy, sometimes unpaved roads here.). At the top of the summit there is a remarkable antenna system. The large steel structures rise a few meters further into the air. The view from this summit: Again breathtakingly beautiful! As a relaxing end, we stopped again at one of the many viewpoints (Ponta da Madrugada), which is surrounded by a beautiful garden on the slope where visitors can wander around. Unfortunately, photos of this can no longer be uploaded here because the route was not recorded.