Monte da Guia
A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Horta, the Atlantic, and Pico island, accessible by hike or car.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Monte da Guia
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Horta, the Atlantic, and Pico island, accessible by hike or car.
"The views over the caldeira, the town or even Pico (if the visibility permits) are indeed great."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🚗 Drive or Hike?
You can drive to the top, but the hike from Horta offers incredible views and is highly recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Island Views
Summit of Monte da Guia
Breathtaking vistas of Horta, the Atlantic, and Pico island. A must-see for any visitor.
Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Guia
Near the summit parking
A charming, small chapel adding a touch of local culture to the scenic landscape.
Oceanfront Trail
West end of the hill
A marked trail offering stunning views over the open ocean and unique coastal scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike
Check the Weather for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Faial 1 day trip
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🚗 Drive or Hike?
You can drive to the top, but the hike from Horta offers incredible views and is highly recommended.
📸 Capture the Vistas
Bring your camera! The views of Horta, Pico, and the Atlantic are spectacular, especially on a clear day.
☀️ Check the Weather
Visibility is key for the best views. Plan your visit for a day with clear skies to see Pico island.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🚗 Drive or Hike?
You can drive to the top, but the hike from Horta offers incredible views and is highly recommended.
📸 Capture the Vistas
Bring your camera! The views of Horta, Pico, and the Atlantic are spectacular, especially on a clear day.
☀️ Check the Weather
Visibility is key for the best views. Plan your visit for a day with clear skies to see Pico island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Monte da Guia for its spectacular panoramic views of Horta, the Atlantic, and Pico island, making it a highly recommended stop. The option to hike from Horta is particularly appreciated for the immersive experience and rewarding vistas. Some minor drawbacks include potential visibility issues due to weather and the presence of a radio station that can obstruct certain views.
"Whether you have the option to drive, bike, walk or even run here, you should definitely make this one of your stops when visiting Horta. The views over the caldeira, the town or even Pico (if the visibility permits) are indeed great. The little delightfull chapel next to the small parking place adds another interesting sight to behold. Just behind the chapel you can find a marked trail,which will take you on a short hike around the western end of the hill, offering a great view over the open ocean."
Andrej Michal
"Oké. You have a gret view here. To the Atlantic. The town of Faiala.
The only drawback. The radiostation is blocking the view and way to the west. There is no chance to watch the sun go up."
Jan Wegner
"Nice to hike, with lots of shade and great views. Some steep areas and uneven terrain."
Julia DS
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Monte da Guia by car, taxi, or by hiking from Horta harbor. The hike is approximately 2.5 kilometers and offers beautiful scenery along the way.
Yes, there is a road that leads to the top of Monte da Guia, with a small parking area near the chapel.
Many visitors enjoy hiking the trails around Monte da Guia for the best experience and views.
Public bus services to Monte da Guia are not common. Driving or hiking are the primary modes of transport.
While there is road access to a parking area, some trails can be steep and uneven, which might pose challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Monte da Guia is a natural attraction and is free to visit. There are no admission fees.
Monte da Guia is accessible at all times, as it is an open natural area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and views.
There is no formal visitor center at Monte da Guia. Information is primarily gained through signage and personal exploration.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors are expected to respect the natural environment. The very top of the hill might be closed to the public.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The marked trail around the western end of the hill offers great ocean views. There are also shortcuts via steps from Horta.
Expect stunning panoramic views of Horta, the Atlantic Ocean, and Pico island, including its conical mountain.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscapes and sweeping vistas make it a prime location for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
There are very limited facilities. A small chapel is present, but no cafes or restrooms are typically available on the hill itself.
The terrain includes some steep areas and uneven ground, making sturdy footwear essential for hiking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Monte da Guia: Trails and Tips
Be prepared for varied terrain, including some steep sections and uneven paths. Wearing comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
For those who prefer a less strenuous approach, driving or taking a taxi to the summit parking area is also an option. However, many travelers find that the physical effort of hiking significantly enhances the overall experience and the appreciation of the panoramic vistas.
Capturing the Scenery: Photography at Monte da Guia
Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – to take advantage of the soft, warm light that can dramatically enhance the landscape. The small, delightful chapel near the summit parking also provides a picturesque foreground element for your photographs, adding a touch of local character to the natural beauty.
Social
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