A magical route through the Azores
A magical route through the Azores
6 days and 5 nights
Explore volcanic lakes, waterfalls and landscapes that will leave you breathless
The Azores are a group of Portuguese islands famous for their volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, and picturesque villages. Its largest island, São Miguel, combines lush nature with cultural charm, offering a destination where adventure and tranquility coexist in perfect harmony.
An unforgettable trip that combines nature, adventure and relaxation.
Start by exploring Ponta Delgada, the capital of São Miguel, before exploring the verdant landscapes of the western part of the island, where the lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo will take your breath away. Discover natural hot pools in Feteiras and Caldeira Velha, and explore the cliffs and viewpoints in the north and east of the island. Experience the magic of the waterfalls and hot springs of Furnas, and enjoy local cuisine with dishes like cozido cooked over volcanic waters. Top off your experience by relaxing by the sea, surrounded by a landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale. A perfect trip to connect with the unique and serene nature of the Azores.
Day 1 - Hometown - São Miguel (Ponta Delgada)
Arrival at João Paulo II International Airport (PDL – Sao Miguel) with private transfer to the accommodation.
We will come to meet you to perform a Private transfer to your accommodation In the heart of Ponta Delgada. It's time to breathe the pure Atlantic air and prepare yourself for landscapes that seem straight out of a fantasy film.
Once settled in, the best way to stretch your legs is to go down to Portas do MarWe'll take a stroll through this modern complex that connects the cruise port with the marina. It's the liveliest spot in town: you can grab a homemade ice cream, enjoy the (free) natural ocean pools, or simply sit on a terrace and watch the sailboats as the sun sets.
If you arrive before sunset, a must-do free activity is to climb the 106 steps of the Sineira Tower of the Town HallWe'll go and admire a 360-degree view of Ponta Delgada's red rooftops, volcanic stone churches, and the Atlantic horizon. It's the best way to get your bearings and understand the scale of the capital.
For the first free dinner, recommend to them “A Tasca” or the “Fish Market”. These are the locals' favorite spots to try grilled limpets (a typical mollusk) and cheese from São Jorge Island. It's the perfect way to start your trip off on a high note!
Day 2 - Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo
We'll begin the day immersed in the sweet, tropical aroma of São Miguel pineapples. We'll stroll through the historic glass greenhouses of the Arruda family, where time seems to stand still. We'll discover the fascinating artisanal cultivation process that transforms this fruit into the "gold of the Azores," and we'll have the opportunity to taste liqueurs and jams that capture all the flavor of the Atlantic.
We will leave the coast behind to ascend towards the peaks, where one of the most spectacular sights awaits us. most impressive in the world. We will walk along a path that winds over a ridge of unreal green until we reach the natural balcony of the “Grota do Inferno”. From here, the immensity of the crater opens up before us, revealing four volcanic lakes embraced by wild vegetation that seems endless.
We'll descend into the depths of the gigantic volcanic caldera to explore the village of Sete Cidades. We'll stroll along the shores of the legendary Green and Blue Lakes, listening to the echoes of the legends that gave these waters their names. It's a place of absolute peace, where the white architecture of the houses contrasts with the dramatic vertical walls of the volcano.
After this, we'll seek out the island's most iconic viewpoint from Vista do Rei. This spot offers a cinematic vista where the chromatic division of the lakes is clearly visible. Behind us, the ruins of the old, abandoned hotel add an air of nostalgia and mystery to this picture-postcard landscape that has become world-famous.
We'll take a well-deserved break to savor the vastness of the ocean. At the Ondas do Mar restaurant, we'll enjoy a lunch showcasing the bounty of the Azorean land and sea. Fresh produce and traditional recipes blend seamlessly with the sound of the waves crashing in the background, transforming this stop into a moment of absolute relaxation.
Later, we'll venture into a natural sanctuary of well-being. Caldeira Velha is a Jurassic forest where water springs from the earth at comforting temperatures. We can bathe in volcanic rock pools beneath a warm waterfall, surrounded by giant ferns and a steamy atmosphere that will transport us to a prehistoric era.
We'll cap off the day by reaching the Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint, located in the heart of a pristine volcano. Far from any trace of civilization, this crystal-clear lake unfolds at the bottom of a protected caldera. It's the perfect place to watch the mist play with the peaks and feel the raw power of nature before heading back.
Day 3 - Exploring Furnas and its geothermal wonders
We'll begin with: The Charm of Caloura
Our route begins in the picturesque port of CalouraA secluded haven sheltered by basalt cliffs. We'll stroll along this small fishing pier, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vineyards growing on the black rock. It's the very image of harmony between man and ocean in the Azores.
Next, we will ascend the elegant tiled staircase of the Hermitage of Our Lady of PeaceEach section is a balcony overlooking the sky, and upon reaching the summit, the view over Vila Franca do Campo and its volcanic islet is simply breathtaking. It is a place of silence that offers one of the most beautiful panoramas on the entire island.
We will enter the Furnas Valley, where the breath of the earth becomes visible through sulfurous fumaroles. We will stroll along the shores of the mystical lake and witness the ritual of the “Cozido”: buried pots that take advantage of volcanic heat to slowly cook the delicacy that we will taste next.
But the show doesn't end with the fumaroles. We will walk We walked along the wooden walkways that skirt the active boilers, feeling the roar of the steam beneath our feet. It is here that nature reveals its wildest and most fascinating side, transforming the landscape into a scene of mist and volcanic rocks that seems otherworldly.
We'll lose ourselves in the lush beauty of one of the world's most romantic botanical gardens. Terra Nostra Park is a labyrinth of exotic flowers and centuries-old trees. The perfect ending will be a dip in its large thermal pool (38°C), a deeply relaxing sensory experience that regenerates body and soul.
Before daylight fades, we'll climb Pico do Ferro. From here, the Furnas Valley reveals itself in all its grandeur. We'll see the steam from the fumaroles rise among the mountains, creating a magical atmosphere that will help us understand why this place is the beating heart of São Miguel.
Day 4 - Northeast and Ribeira Grande
We will explore The elegance of the northern coast in Ribeira Grande. We will stroll through its historic center, where the contrast between the black volcanic rock And the white of its facades defines the island's identity. We'll cross its iconic eight-arched bridge and discover the artisanal distilleries where the famous [brandy] is produced. passion fruit liqueurIt is the heartbeat of northern culture, indomitable and eternal facing the Atlantic.
We'll take a look at one of the most dramatic cliffs of the Azores. From this natural balcony we will contemplate how the infinite green The high-altitude pastures merge with the deep blue of the ocean. It is the perfect place to feel the magnitude of the wild geography from São Miguel and enjoy a cinematic panorama that seems to have no end.
We will visit an exclusive treasure: the only industrial tea plantation in all of EuropeWe will walk among rolling hills of shrubs overlooking the sea, cultivated in a 100% ecological Thanks to the Atlantic microclimate, we'll visit its factory-museum, which maintains original machinery from 1883, and taste freshly brewed tea with a flavor you can only find in this corner of the world.
We will venture into a valley that seems straight out of a fantastic legendThis natural park is a sanctuary of crystal clear waterfallsGiant ferns and ancient watermills. We will stroll surrounded by the exuberance of the Laurisilva, the prehistoric European forest, in an environment where the constant sound of water invites disconnection and absolute peace.
Finally, we will admire the brute force of nature From this viewpoint overlooking the abyss of the sea, we will witness the vertical drop of this spectacular waterfall as it plunges towards the rocky coast. A corner of serenity and visual power Absolute, ideal for reflecting on the magnitude of the island before starting the return to Ponta Delgada.
Day 5 - Secret Gardens and the Ocean Giant
We'll begin the morning by losing ourselves in a true romantic oasis from the 19th century. This garden is more than just a park; it's a labyrinth of biodiversity designed in the Victorian style, where volcanic rock grottoes and winding paths transport us to a world of fantasy. The star attraction is undoubtedly the majestic aerial-rooted fig tree, a tree of unreal dimensions whose roots hang from the sky, creating living sculptures that seem straight out of a surrealist painting. Strolling in its shade is to experience the profound peace of a green lung that shelters species brought from all corners of the globe, making it the perfect refuge before embarking on our ocean adventure.
We'll discover the true pulse of the island in its most iconic market. Here, the aroma of freshly cut pineapples mingles with the salty breeze of fresh fish and the rich scent of aged cheeses. Walking through its aisles is like participating in a daily ritual where local farmers proudly offer the treasures of this volcanic land. It's the perfect opportunity to observe the authenticity of Azorean life, savor a piece of cheese from São Jorge Island, or marvel at the variety of exotic fruits that only grow in this privileged microclimate. A feast for the senses that connects directly with the gastronomic essence of the Azores.
We will sail even to this ancient submerged volcano whose collapsed vent has created a perfect circular natural poolInside, we'll discover a sanctuary of turquoise and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and surrounded by volcanic stone walls. It's one of Portugal's most stunning gems: a ring of life in the middle of the blue where the sensation of bathing inside a crater is simply unforgettable. (OPTIONAL)
We will go out to meet them of the true masters of the Atlantic in one of the world's most important cetacean sanctuaries. Accompanied by marine biologists, we will search for the blows of the majestic sperm whales or the dolphins' acrobatics in the open sea. Feeling the magnitude of these animals in their natural habitat, with the island's silhouette in the background, is the most unforgettable experience. exciting and transformative that you can live in the Azores. (OPTIONAL)
Day 6 - Return
Enjoy your last few hours in Ponta Delgada exploring the town center at your own pace, getting lost in its cobbled streets, and bidding farewell to the Atlantic with a final stroll along the marina. It will be the perfect moment to savor one last Azorean coffee before a private transfer picks you up from your accommodation and takes you, in complete comfort, to the João Paulo II Airport (PDL)Thus concludes your expedition to São Miguel, taking with you the peace of the volcanoes and the power of an unforgettable ocean.
