The lighthouse of Farol da Ribeirinha is probably the most emblematic memorial of the massive earthquake that hit Faial on the 9th of July 1998. Originally inaugurated in 1919, it served until its destruction in 1998 as lighthouse showing ships the path in the Triangle of Faial, Pico and São Jorge. The earthquake which had a magnitude of 6.2 on the Richter scale caused massive destruction on Faial and left 1000 people homeless. The parishes of Ribeirinha and the neighboring Pedro Miguel were most affected by the event and still today there are several ruins.
How to get to the Farol da Ribeirinha
From Horta take the regional road towards Cedros, after about 10 kilometres you reach Ribeirinha, just at entering the village, leave the main road by turning left. Follow the signs to the Farol, the last couple of hundred meter will be in the forest steep up to the ridge where the lighthouse is situated.
What to do at the Farol da Ribeirinha
Enjoy the view of Pico, São Jorge and on clear days Graciosa.
Ribeirinha is the starting point of several hiking trails, instead of starting in the village itself, you can leave your car at the Farol da Ribeirinha and do you trail from there.
The Ribeirinha trail is a circular, easy trail that lets you hike through the slopes around Ribeirinha. It is circular and takes about 2 hours 30 minutes to complete.
The Coast to Coast trail and its segment Caminhos Velhos also starts in Ribeirinha, but instead of returning back to Ribeirinha, they will lead you to the Caldeira and to Capelinhos.
