PR 2 — Vereda do Urzal
Briefly
A demanding mountain trail that follows an ancient path connecting the southern valley of Curral das Freiras to the northern coast at Boaventura. The route climbs steeply to the mountain crest at Boca das Torrinhas before plunging into the dense, pristine UNESCO Laurissilva forest. It is one of the best trails for experiencing the island’s raw, uncrowded interior.
Basic information
Start: Fajã dos Cardos (Curral das Freiras)
End: Lombo do Urzal (Boaventura)
Distance: 10.6 km (one way)
Time: 4.5 – 5.5 hours
Elevation gain: 1083 m
Difficulty: Hard
Entrance: €4.50
Parking: Curral das Freiras (Fajã dos Cardos)
Best season: All year round (avoid during heavy rain or strong winds)
: How to find
The trail begins at the very end of the road in Fajã dos Cardos, located in the northernmost part of the Curral das Freiras valley.
: Open Curral das Freiras on Google Maps
The finish is in Lombo do Urzal, a quiet hamlet in the Boaventura valley on the north coast.
Important: This is a linear trail. Since it ends on the opposite side of the central mountain range, you will need to arrange a taxi or a pre-booked transfer from Boaventura to return to your starting point or accommodation.
What you need to bring:
Sturdy hiking boots (mandatory for steep and often muddy sections)
Trekking poles (highly recommended for the intense climb and descent)
Plenty of water and snacks (no services along the trail)
Windbreaker/Raincoat (weather changes rapidly at the mountain crest)
Important to know:
Boca das Torrinhas: This is the highest point of the trail (1450m) and a major trail junction. From here, you can see both sides of the island on a clear day.
The Descent: The path down to Boaventura is steep and can be very slippery due to the high humidity of the north-facing Laurissilva forest.
Solitude: PR 2 is much less traveled than the “famous” trails. You are likely to enjoy the forest in near-total silence.
Junctions: At the top, PR 2 meets PR 1.3 (Vereda da Encumeada). Be careful to follow the signs for “Boaventura / Urzal” to stay on PR 2.
Reservations
Mandatory online booking required for all hikers.
Book: SIMplifica
Similar Trails you might like:
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PR 1.3 — Vereda da Encumeada: For those who want to continue along the mountain ridge instead of descending.
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PR 12 — Caminho Real do Monte: Another historic stone-paved path crossing the island’s ridges.
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PR 16 — Levada Fajã do Rodrigues: A shorter northern trail with spectacular forest scenery and tunnels.
*Hiked this trail? Share your photos and current conditions in the comments! 