Fajã dos Cubres: the Sea Village That Won Portugal’s 7 Wonders Award
Not every fajã on São Jorge survived the earthquakes that shaped the island. Fajã dos Cubres was completely destroyed in 1757 — and yet, rebuilt, it became the most awarded sea village in the entire country.
A name that comes from a plant
The name “Cubres” comes from a plant of the same name, abundant in the area. A small settlement once stood here, completely levelled by the earthquake of 9 July 1757, but it was rebuilt and repopulated, eventually having a primary school, later closed for lack of students.
Winner of Portugal’s 7 Wonders
On 3 September 2017, through a public vote hosted by broadcaster RTP, Fajã dos Cubres was named the best village in the “Sea Villages” category of the 7 Wonders of Portugal competition. The recognition highlights the village’s historical, natural, and culinary value, its economy always rooted in fishing and sugarcane.
A lagoon protected under the Ramsar Convention
The fajã’s lagoon, with its unique lagoon system, has been classified as a Wetland of International Importance since 2005, under the Ramsar Convention — the same status held by neighbouring Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. It’s a prime spot for observing seabirds and migratory species.
A chapel with miraculous waters
Dating to 1908, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Lurdes holds a well whose waters locals consider miraculous, leading island pilgrims to wash in them — a tradition that survives to this day.
Planning your visit
- Location: Ribeira Seca parish, Calheta municipality.
- Access: via a winding, narrow road from the plateau; drive with care.
- Trail: links Fajã dos Cubres to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, one of the island’s most iconic routes.
Best time to visit
Summer brings more visitors, but any season lets you enjoy the lagoon’s stillness.
Nearby highlights
Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, with its clam lagoon, is a short walk away.
After Fajã dos Cubres, follow the trail to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo to complete one of the most award-winning routes on the entire island of São Jorge.
