Treks

Florianopolis is at its most beautiful when you get off the beaten track and explore on foot. Trekking will give you access to fabulous views from the mountains, hidden bays, waterfalls and natural pools.

We can give advise on any of the treks listed below, and are in the process of producing a downloadable guide sheet for each one.

Sambaqui peninsula: two hour circular walk that takes you round Sambaqui headland, with fabulous views towards Daniela beach and the north of the island. Download trail

Santinho to Mozambique: two hour circular coastal walk with a chance to sit on the beach in the middle! Great views of the Atlantic ocean, and a shady walk through the dunes on the return leg. Download trail

Ratones to Costa da Lagoa: This shady trail takes you straight over the spine of the mountains and down to Costa da Lagoa, a traditional fishing village on the north tip of the Lagoa da Conceição. Worth timing your arrival in Costa for lunch, as there are several great fish restaurants. 45 minutes each way. Download trail

Lagoa to Costa da Lagoa: A relatively easy 2 hour walk. This well trodden route starting in the town of Lagoa follows the side of the lagoon and provides the only land access to Costa. If you don't want to retrace your steps back, you can catch a water bus.

Barra da Lagoa to Praia Mole: Probably our favourite trek. Incredible views of the coast to the north and south, as well as Lagoa da Conceição. Two hours each way, with the option of getting a bus back

Lagoa to Joaquina: 1 hour walk through stunning sand dunes, ending on Joaquina beach. Option of getting a bus back.

Armação to Lagoinha do Leste: Stunning 2 hour coastal trek to Lagoinha do Leste beach which can only be reached by foot, starting in the pretty fishing village of Armação. Either retrace your steps, or carry on to Pântano do Sul and get a bus back.

Lagoinha do Leste to Pântano do Sul: Shady but steep climb over the mountain, and the quickest way to access Lagoinha do Leste. 1 hour walk.

Lagoa da Peri: Shady 1 1/2 hour walk along the side of another beautiful lagoon. After a steep climb at the end you will be rewarded with fabulous natural pools to cool down in.

Farol dos Naufragados: Explore the very southern tip of the island and another beach that can only be reached by trekking. A relatively easy 45 minute walk, with the option of getting a boat back.

Lagoinha do Leste. Photograph: Eduardo Green

Lagoa da Conceição

Santinho beach