https://pt.wikiloc.com/trilhas-trekking/vereda-da-cancela-cascata-agua-dalto-poco-da-cecilia-183572692

Poço da Cecília & Cascata Água d’Alto (Faial, Santana)

Secret waterfall duo in a hidden São Roque valley — just 3 km round-trip with 150 m elevation gain

This two-in-one adventure follows the well-signposted Vereda da Cancela trail starting by the historic chapel in São Roque, leading to the emerald Poço da Cecília, then continuing a short levada walk to the dramatic Água d’Alto waterfall—a waterfall often visited by locals but overlooked by most visitors. Total distance ~3 km, about 2.5 hours total time.

Insider tips

• Begin at the São Roque do Faial fountain signpost near the chapel.

• Café locals say it's best done after rain for full waterfall flow—but bring shoes that handle wet terrain.

• Early morning is quietest; expect to share Poço da Cecília with birds only.

• No guided trail; use maps.me or AllTrails track for navigation.

Why it’s special

I first walked this trail scouting for Homeoffice guests—it starts with lush mountain farmland views, dips into a fern-filled gorge at Poço da Cecília, then reveals the towering Água d’Alto waterfall. Few tourists even know it exists, making it wild, secluded, and perfect for nature lovers.

Context

The route is part of the Vereda da Cancela, a historic local trail once used by farmers to access trout fishing pools and water channels. Now restored by locals and marked from the main road, it ends at two naturally beautiful aquatic features close together but rarely seen together.