SNL3 | Ribeira Prata – Tarrafal

Ribeira Prata – Tarrafal

16,44 km

Hard

This connecting route is more than just that; it connects Ribeira Prata and Tarrafal to the Main Route. If completed in its entirety, you can cross the island from coast to coast. The route begins at the entrance to Ribeira Prata, near the telecommunications antennas. The summit is the limit, and it is to this point that you must follow the path that climbs along the Ribeira de Fragata. Along the way, it is essential to look back to observe the full splendor of this valley, which cuts through the rocks to the sea. After passing the village of Fragata, you reach the intersection with the Main Route and follow it for some time until the signs indicate that you should continue climbing to the Tope Matin pass. Here you reach the highest point of the route and marvel at the Ribeira de Calhaus valley and its agricultural fields ahead. But to get there, you must descend. From Ribeira de Calhaus, the climb begins along volcanic ash that takes you to the village of Hortelã. From Hortelã, the descent is along Espigão, and the descent to Tarrafal is via a cliff that offers some of the best views of Tarrafal. The trail ends in Tarrafal in front of the Fishing Museum, a must-see.