Calheta de São Jorge

The village of Calheta was founded in the late 15th century and rapidly developed, becoming the municipal seat in 1534. With the abolition of the municipality of Topo (in 1867), it now occupies an area of 126.5 km2, corresponding to the entire eastern part of São Jorge Island. The municipality's main tourist attraction is the Fajãs, agricultural areas located by the sea surrounded by steep cliffs. The Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo stands out among these beautiful places where nature and humanity coexist. Economically, the Calheta residents derive their livelihood from the sea, agriculture, and livestock. In recent years, tourism has broadened the horizons of this rural municipality. The region's scenic beauty is immense and captivates every visitor who passes through!

What to do in Calheta de São Jorge

Miradouro para a Fajã dos Cubres

Calheta de São Jorge

From this lookout, we enjoy magnificent views of Fajã dos Cubres, surrounded by the blue sea. Surrounding it, and contrasting with it, are the lush green hills.

Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo

Calheta de São Jorge

Of all the fajãs – fertile places due to the microclimate created by their rugged location – Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo is probably the most famous. This is primarily due to the fact that it is the only place in the Azores where clams can be found. It also includes a lagoon and an underwater cave. Surfers also …

Fajã dos Cubres

Calheta de São Jorge

With a curious name, derived from a plant with small yellow flowers, Fajã dos Cubres, also known as Fajã de Nossa Senhora de Lourdes, is one of the most beautiful and exotic fajãs on the island. The lagoon with the same name is a must-see. It's where fishermen collect shrimp for grouper fishing.

Igreja Matriz de Calheta / Igreja de Santa Catarina

Calheta de São Jorge

The original church, likely founded in the 16th century, was destroyed by fire in 1639. Years later, in the 17th century, a new church was built in a location less exposed to the force of the sea. In 1757, it …

Fajã dos Vimes

Calheta de São Jorge

With jagged cliffs, like most of the fajãs on São Jorge Island, the residents of Fajã dos Vimes have endured numerous misfortunes. The most serious of all occurred during the 1757 earthquake, which completely destroyed the fajã, which was later …

Reserva Florestal de Recreio de Silveira

Calheta de São Jorge

A large forest park created along the route of a water line where some mills are still visible. Classified as a recreational forest reserve since 1989, it features viewing points, animal enclosures, picnic areas, and several tram lines.

Fajã das Fonduras

Calheta de São Jorge

A small fajã located between Fajã da Ponta Grossa or Fajã do Mero and Fajã da Abelheira. It is almost completely abandoned, except for the inhabitants of Norte Pequeno, who come here to graze their cattle and cultivate the land. …

Fajã do Além

Calheta de São Jorge

Access to this fajã, located between Fajã de São João and Fajã do Ginjal, is via a narrow path, where you can enjoy fantastic views. However, this route is only accessible on foot, by donkey, or on horseback. The several …

Igreja Matriz do Topo / Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário

Calheta de São Jorge

The church was built in the 16th century and later expanded and restored in the 18th century. This reconstruction was necessary due to the devastation caused by the earthquake known as Mandado de Deus (Mandate of God). The majestic façade …

Farol da Ponta do Topo

Calheta de São Jorge

Lighthouse located on the southwestern tip of the island, more specifically on Ponta do Topo. It consists of a 16-meter-high circular tower and annexes housing the lighthouse keeper's quarters and a storage area.

Poças Vicente Dias

Calheta de São Jorge

Natural pools with clear waters, located next to the Calheta campsite, just 30 meters from the sea. Offering fantastic panoramic views of the islands of Pico and Faial. Besides some good swimming, you can enjoy sport fishing and diving here.

Miradouro para o Ilhéu do Topo

Calheta de São Jorge

From this viewpoint, we can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the natural pools of Topo, as well as Topo Islet. Topo Islet is an islet measuring approximately 200,000 m2 and is part of the Special Protection Zone of Topo Islet …

Piscina Natural da Pontinha do Topo

Calheta de São Jorge

Natural pools of great beauty, resulting from volcanic rocks.

Museu Francisco de Lacerda

Calheta de São Jorge

Established in 1911, this museum represents the island's culture, showcasing regional ceramics, agricultural implements, basketry, ethnographic pieces related to the cult of the Holy Spirit, and linen works primarily from the 19th and 20th centuries. Also noteworthy is the collection …

Fajã de São João

Calheta de São Jorge

Accessible by car almost to its end, Fajã de São João, the largest fajã on the southern coast of the municipality of Calheta, is a must-see for anyone seeking tranquility in landscapes of rare beauty. It is also known as …

FIND THE BEST PLACES

Where to eat in Calheta de São Jorge

Os Amigos
Regional
15.00 €

Simple but modern space, located right on the sea, in Calheta, serving good regional dishes. His sp…

Califórnia
Regional
16.00 €

Small, simple and familiar restaurant, serving regional delicacies, such as yams and Greaves.

Cantinho da Pizza
Portuguese, Regional
10.00 €

Espaço simples e familiar a servir pratos rápidos, como pizzas, hambúrgueres e alguns pratos do dia.

Where to sleep in Calheta de São Jorge

Hotel Solmar

2 star

Hotel located in the Centre of the typical village of Calheta, offering simple yet functional rooms 17 and a well-equipped apartment.

Near Calheta de São Jorge

Velas

Velas is one of two municipalities on São Jorge Island. Its privileged position on the south coast, with a large hill and natural bay protecting its …