We begin our approximately 6-mile hike with a short section along the main road. Then begins the steep 710-meter (2,360-foot) climb up towards Raposeira. The trail is rugged, steep, and slippery in places, but the higher we climb, the more impressive the view of Paúl do Mar becomes.
Kitty leads the way, sometimes disappearing for a while, but always returning to check if we can still keep up. She leads us through fields and meadows as we enjoy the silence, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the variety of flowers. Finally, we reach Raposeira, where old houses and friendly locals await us, always open to a bit of conversation.
Our trail takes us along a levada for a while before we switch to a newly created path leading to Fajã da Ovelha. The views are simply spectacular! After that, we walk a short stretch along the road – Kitty, now reluctantly on a leash, acts as if she hasn't taken a single step.
Finally, we reach the starting point of our descent from Fajã da Ovelha to Paúl do Mar. In the warm sun, we make our way downhill, always heading towards the sea. Once at the bottom, the water beckons us for a swim, or we can enjoy a cool drink at the Bar da Praia. Kitty is enthusiastically greeted by the locals – and she's still full of energy!