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PS PR3 - Vereda do Calhau
Add to my brochure   Fonte da Areia
A brief linear walk that descends 80m to the sea shore at Calhau, crossing a spectacular fossil-bearing cliff. (The sea is not suitable for bathing at this point.)
This walk can easily be combined with PR2 PS to give an interesting day on Porto Santo.
 

Distance: 0,5 Km (+0,5 Km return)

Time: 30m

Highest point: 80 m

Lowest point: 0 m

Start: Fonte d’Areia

Finish: Fonte d’Areia

Water springs unavailable, take drinking water


This trail begins at the Regional Road and is characterised by its descent along the face of the fossil cliff of Fonte da Areia to the Calhau beach.

The spectacular sandy cliff sculpted by the wind over the years is a good example of the effects of wind erosion, which is found on the island of Porto Santo.

As you begin your descent, you come across a fountain dated 1843, which is obviously responsible for the origin of the name of the place. In years past, this water was greatly appreciated for its therapeutic and medicinal properties, being used to supply the residents of Camacha. Today, the water is not suitable for drinking.

A few steps further on, there is a small belvedere on the right that has an impressive view of the sea cliffs on the north side of the island.

The local residents consider the Calhau beach an excellent fishing spot, and use it frequently.

The vegetation found along this trail is essentially herbaceous and includes some rare plants, such as Limonium ovalifolium and sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias L.).

The path zig-zags down to the rocky beach. Access to the sea is not always safe, not only because of the wave action, but also because of the rocks in this beach area. Content yourself with the blue of the water and the horizon and admire the small islets that can be seen from here.



PS PR3 - Vereda do Calhau - Portuguese (395 Kb)
PS PR3 - Vereda do Calhau - English (376 Kb)
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