Route: There is a longer route to the Graminhais Plateau, starting from the Salto do Cavalo Regional Road, but we have chosen to suggest a shorter route that starts in the municipality, in the parish of Achada.
In the parish of Achada, near the junction of the highway that gives access to the parish, take the forest path (Caminho Florestal) by car. As you climb, you'll be able to enjoy the scent of the cryptomeria that flanks this forest access, pass an old Guard House, where there is still a plant nursery of the Nordeste Forestry Service.
As the altitude increases, the landscape changes from cryptomeria forest to almost total ground cover with scrub moss, adapting to the harsh temperatures of these higher areas.
At a certain point in the ascent, the access will change to gravel and you will find yourself near the start of the trail. Park your car near the trail entrance sign, which you'll find on your left, and get ready for an extraordinary walk.
When you reach the end of the trail, you can either return to the starting point or continue on to Pico da Vara, depending on the time you have available.
You should return by the same access and before getting back in the car, walk a little further up and get another view of the island.

Authorization for Protected Areas: Because it gives access to the Pico da Vara ZPE, please request a prior authorization at https://servicos-sraa.azores.gov.pt/doit/mdls/fill.asp?id_modelo=1451.