PR 22 - Vereda do Chão dos Louros

As a circular trail, there are many different ways of doing it, and it can be started from various points.

This trail allows you to explore the area surrounding the Chão dos Louro forest park - an area that forms part of the Natura 2000 network, an ecological network of protected areas in the territory of the European Union, accessing Ribeira Grande by means of an existing connection to the PR21 Caminho do Norte with wonderful views over the whole São Vicente valley from a natural viewpoint en route.

The trail explores the lush Laurissilva forest, which was classified as a world heritage site by UNESCO in December 1999 and where evergreen trees predominate, members of the Lauraceae family. Examples include the Laurel (Laurus novocanariensis) which is often accompanied by the 'Madre-de-louro' (Laurobasidium laurii - caused by a fungus), the Til (Ocotea foetens), and Madeira Mahogony (Persea indica).

Traditionally, as the pilgrims return from the village of Bom Jesus, celebrations take place in Ponta Delgada on the 1st Sunday in September, where they congregate in Chão dos Louros to enjoy various leisure activities and entertainment in this excellent setting.