Farol do Arnel Azores
The oldest lighthouse in the Azores, offering dramatic coastal views and a challenging, rewarding descent.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Farol do Arnel Azores
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The oldest lighthouse in the Azores, offering dramatic coastal views and a challenging, rewarding descent.
"The views from the top are said to be well worth the effort of the steep walk down."
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Drive Down
The road is extremely steep! Walking is safer & more enjoyable. Leave your car at the top.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on a steep path. Good grip is essential for a safe and pleasant experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse
Nordeste, São Miguel
The oldest lighthouse in the Azores, standing dramatically against the Atlantic. A truly iconic and photogenic landmark.
Panoramic Coastal Vistas
Miradouro da Ponta do Arnel
Sweeping views of the wild Atlantic Ocean and São Miguel's dramatic eastern coastline. Perfect for soaking in the island's raw beauty.
Charming Fishing Village
Below the lighthouse
A small, picturesque fishing community nestled below the lighthouse, offering a glimpse into traditional Azorean life.
Hidden Waterfall
On the path down
A small, often overlooked waterfall can be spotted on your right as you descend towards the lighthouse. A delightful surprise!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Steep Descent
Best Views & Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Drive Down
The road is extremely steep! Walking is safer & more enjoyable. Leave your car at the top. 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on a steep path. Good grip is essential for a safe and pleasant experience.
📸 Golden Hour is Key
For the best photos, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light is incredible!
💧 Look for the Waterfall
Keep an eye out for a small waterfall on your right as you descend. A lovely hidden gem!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Drive Down
The road is extremely steep! Walking is safer & more enjoyable. Leave your car at the top.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on a steep path. Good grip is essential for a safe and pleasant experience.
📸 Golden Hour is Key
For the best photos, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light is incredible!
💧 Look for the Waterfall
Keep an eye out for a small waterfall on your right as you descend. A lovely hidden gem!
🚗 Parking Advice
Park at the top. There are picnic spots and parking areas near the main road.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views and the iconic status of the Farol do Arnel lighthouse, calling it a must-see Azorean landmark. The challenging, steep walk down is frequently mentioned, with many advising against driving and recommending comfortable shoes for the descent. Some note the lighthouse's interior may be closed for refurbishment.
"On our way to Gorreana, we only caught a glimpse of Miradouro da Ponta do Arnel from a distance, but even from afar, it truly piqued our interest. It looked like a fascinating spot with a landscape that promised so much.
This viewpoint is renowned for its stunning panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. It's also home to the Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in the Azores, an iconic structure that rises dramatically above the sea. While the road to the lighthouse itself is quite steep, the views from the top are said to be well worth the effort.
If you have the time, a visit to Miradouro da Ponta do Arnel is definitely recommended. Besides admiring the lighthouse and the vast ocean, you can also see the village of Nordeste in the distance. It's an ideal location for memorable photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates a truly magical atmosphere. Apparently, it's a popular spot even among locals, particularly at dusk, offering a chance to soak in the authentic ambiance."
Andra Todor
"A beautiful place as seen in the series Rabo De Peixe. A steep walk down and up but definitely worth it. Please note the waterfall as you go down on your right.
You can drive down but it's not advised by the local authorities.
Lighthouse currently closed for refurbishment."
Ines Rocha
"Nice viewpoint, worth seeing it, if you are passing by. You can park at the near parking lots, one is by the main road, where they have picnic spots, the second is on the left side, direction to the lighthouse (below the picnic spot)."
Marko Intihar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Farol do Arnel is located on the northeastern tip of São Miguel island. You can drive towards Nordeste and follow signs for the lighthouse. Be prepared for a very steep and narrow access road.
Local authorities and many visitors advise against driving down due to the extreme 35% incline and narrowness of the road. Walking is recommended for safety. +2
It's best to park at the top of the steep road. There are parking areas available near the main road and picnic spots.
Public transport is limited in this remote area. Taxis might be an option, but confirm their willingness to navigate the steep road. Walking from the top is the most common and recommended approach.
The walk down is approximately 500 meters, but the steepness means it will take longer than a typical stroll. Allow ample time to enjoy the descent and the views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the viewpoint and the exterior of the lighthouse is generally free. The lighthouse itself may have limited access or be closed for refurbishment.
The lighthouse grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. However, the lighthouse interior may be closed for tours or maintenance. Check local information for current status.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Miradouro da Ponta do Arnel viewpoint. Enjoy the stunning scenery without any cost.
While the viewpoint is accessible, the lighthouse itself might have restricted access. It's best to check for any specific visiting hours or closures, especially if you wish to go inside.
Reports indicate the lighthouse has been closed for refurbishment in the past. It's advisable to check locally or with tourism offices for the most up-to-date information on tour availability.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for stunning photographs. The golden hour casts a magical glow over the lighthouse and the ocean.
Expect breathtaking shots of the historic lighthouse, the vast Atlantic Ocean, rugged coastal cliffs, and the charming fishing village below. Drone photography is also popular here.
The main viewpoint offers incredible panoramic shots. For unique angles, consider the path leading down to the fishing village or framing the lighthouse with the dramatic coastline.
Yes, many drone enthusiasts capture stunning aerial views of the lighthouse and the surrounding landscape. Ensure you are aware of and follow any local drone regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the lighthouse or distant coastline. Don't forget a tripod for low-light photography at sunrise/sunset.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include admiring the historic lighthouse, taking in the spectacular ocean and coastal views from the viewpoint, and exploring the small fishing village below.
The walk is considered difficult due to the very steep incline (around 35%). It requires good physical condition and sturdy footwear. +2
Facilities are limited. There are picnic spots near the parking area at the top, but no cafes or restrooms directly at the lighthouse or viewpoint.
Yes, you can walk down to the small fishing village. It offers a glimpse into a more traditional Azorean lifestyle.
While the views are family-friendly, the extremely steep path down to the lighthouse might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Assess your family's capabilities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are picnic areas near the parking at the top, making it a good spot for a family lunch with a view. The visual spectacle of the lighthouse and the vast ocean can captivate children, but the physical challenge of the descent is the primary consideration for a family visit. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes and plenty of water.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping ocean vistas and a tripod for those low-light shots. For unique perspectives, consider drone photography (check local regulations) or focus on the charming details of the fishing village below. The challenging walk down is rewarded with unparalleled photographic potential.
+1🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
The journey down offers evolving views and the chance to explore the small fishing community. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Azorean coast. The effort is widely considered worth it for the unique perspective and the stunning scenery at the bottom.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse
+2Visitors can admire the lighthouse from the viewpoint and the path leading down. Although the lighthouse interior may not always be accessible for tours due to ongoing maintenance or refurbishment, its exterior presence is powerful. The sheer isolation and the enduring presence of the lighthouse evoke a sense of timelessness, connecting you to the maritime heritage of the Azores. It’s a symbol of resilience and guidance, standing firm against the elements.
Navigating the Infamous Steep Access Road
Instead, the recommended approach is to park your car at the designated areas at the top of the incline and walk the approximately 500 meters down. This allows for a more relaxed experience, enabling you to fully appreciate the unfolding views and the surrounding landscape. The walk, while physically demanding due to the gradient, is considered by many to be well worth the effort, offering a safer and more immersive way to reach the lighthouse and its stunning surroundings.
For those who choose to drive, extreme caution is paramount. The road is narrow, and passing other vehicles can be tricky. If you do decide to drive, ensure your vehicle is in good condition and you are a confident driver. However, the consensus from online discussions and travel advice leans heavily towards the walking option for a more enjoyable and less stressful visit.
Photography Opportunities at Miradouro da Ponta do Arnel
+2The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are particularly magical here. The low-angled light bathes the landscape in warm hues, casting long shadows and highlighting the textures of the cliffs and the lighthouse. Many visitors find these times to be the most rewarding for capturing truly memorable images. The lighthouse itself, standing sentinel against the colorful sky, makes for an iconic shot.
Beyond the grand vistas, keep an eye out for smaller details. The charming fishing village nestled below the lighthouse offers a glimpse into local life, and the hidden waterfall on the path down provides a unique photographic subject. Drone photography is also incredibly popular, offering unique aerial perspectives of the lighthouse and the dramatic coastline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit