If you are pondering of planning a visit to the Azores islands, chances are high you are attempting to determine which island(s) to go to. Because that is precisely what I did as soon as I made a decision I needed to go to this Portuguese island chain.
The factor about visiting the Azores is that its 9 volcanic islands are all fairly totally different – however they’re NOT all grouped shut collectively like you may think. I initially thought my husband Elliot and I may simply go to 2 or perhaps even 3 islands throughout a brief journey to the Azores. But, upon doing extra analysis, I quickly realized that will require inside flights, a number of automotive leases, and total extra of a headache to plan.
So as an alternative we determined to focus simply on ONE island within the Azores for our first, quick journey.
We determined to go to São Miguel, the biggest and most populated island within the Azores. And it ended up being the BEST alternative! We had the liberty and time to completely discover the entire island, and did not must stress about flights or ferries or a number of automotive leases.
This itinerary will cowl my superb journey to São Miguel island within the Azores!
Why select São Miguel within the Azores?
If you are solely going to go to one island within the Azores, I feel there’s an awesome argument to be made for it being São Miguel. A couple of the explanation why we personally selected it:
- São Miguel is well-connected by worldwide flights to each mainland Europe (largely with flights to Portugal) in addition to the US east coast. We hopped on a direct flight to Ponta Delgada, the biggest metropolis on São Miguel, from New York, and have been there in nearly 5 hours.
- It’s the biggest island within the Azores, that means there’s LOTS to see and do. Even should you’re planning an extended journey within the Azores, you actually ought to dedicate no less than 3 days to São Miguel to see all the primary sights.
- And talking of that, there are a number of sights on São Miguel, from scenic lakes to sizzling springs to seashores to geothermal areas to even a tea plantation! It’s an awesome island to get an total style of the Azores.
- Lastly, since it is also probably the most populated island within the Azores, there are additionally extra motels, eating places, and vacationer companies on São Miguel when in comparison with a number of the different islands. If you are visiting throughout excessive season (which, it is probably that you can be), this implies you must nonetheless be capable to discover a place to sleep and a automotive to lease while not having to ebook 6 months prematurely.
We paired up a go to to São Miguel with a while in Porto and the Douro Valley on mainland Portugal, and it was such a enjoyable journey. My instructed 5-day Azores itinerary simply focuses on São Miguel, and will both be achieved by itself, or paired up with a go to to a different island or one other metropolis in Portugal, relying on how a lot time you’ve gotten.
5 day Sao Miguel Azores itinerary
Again, this Azores itinerary is simply going to give attention to the island of São Miguel. And I’ve gone with 5 days, because it’s sufficient time to actually discover the entire island with out speeding in any respect. You may after all spend much less or extra time, however that is the itinerary I personally counsel, based mostly alone travels to São Miguel.
Highlights of this Azores itinerary embody:
- Visiting many scenic viewpoints (miradouros)
- Soaking in pure sizzling springs
- Visiting a pineapple farm
- Seeing Europe’s solely tea plantation
- Going on a meals tour
- Relaxing on some black sand seashores
- Visiting well-known lakes
- A whale watching tour
- And way more!
Sao Miguel shouldn’t be a small island, protecting 287.5 sq. miles. But it is sufficiently small that you will by no means be driving for hours at a time; actually, it solely takes a bit over an hour to drive throughout the entire island.
Who is that this itinerary for? This itinerary is for the traveler who loves stunning surroundings, native tradition and historical past, attempting conventional meals, and a really gentle smattering of outdoorsy journey (suppose: simple walks, sizzling springs, and boat excursions). This is NOT a hiking-focused itinerary, as I’m not that type of traveler!
Day 1: Arrival and western Sao Miguel
Highlights immediately: A pineapple farm, the lakes and views round Sete Cidades (with an non-compulsory quick hike), and a black sand seaside
Total driving time immediately: 2 hours (84 km) (map hyperlink)
I’m going to imagine that you will be arriving on São Miguel on the Ponta Delgada airport (PDL, formally the Aeroporto João Paulo II) within the morning. Flights from the US are quick in a single day flights, normally arriving to Ponta Delgada earlier than breakfast.
I like to recommend grabbing a espresso on the airport, after which choosing up your rental automotive able to hit the street. (You *may* attempt to test into your lodge, however it can probably be too early, and also you’re higher off doing a little sightseeing first and checking into your lodge later.)
A word on driving on São Miguel: Yes, you want a rental automotive on São Miguel. There aren’t a number of public transit choices, and it will be too costly to make use of taxis to get in every single place on this itinerary. The excellent news is that driving right here is fairly simple; the largest highways are nonetheless largely simply 2-lanes, they drive on the best like many of the world, and Google Maps will get you in every single place. You do want to order your automotive properly prematurely, although; I take advantage of Auto Europe for reserving rental vehicles in Europe.
Late morning: Pineapple farm
For a late morning pick-me-up, drive into Ponta Delgada (it is a very quick drive from the airport) and go to a pineapple farm! The Azores develop candy, scrumptious pineapples inside greenhouses, and there are a number of pineapple “farms” proper on the outskirts of the town.
The farm Elliot and I visited was Plantação de Ananás dos Açores, which affords a free self-guided tour you’ll be able to take to study all about rising pineapples. They even have a bit cafe right here the place you’ll be able to attempt a bunch of pineapple meals and drinks, together with even a pineapple beer!
Other pineapple farms close by you’ll be able to go to embody Ananás Santo António and Plantação Ananases A Arruda – however I actually advocate the one above with the cafe!
Afternoon: Sete Cidades
Once you’ve gotten a pineapple-infused meal in you, it is time to discover a number of the finest spots on the western finish of Sao Miguel. Make for Sete Cidades, a bit parish in an historic volcanic crater that is now house to a few of São Miguel’s most well-known lakes and views.
Head to Miradouro da Vista do Rei first, a very talked-about lookout with views over each Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul. In July and August, there may even be a TON of hydrangea buses blooming on this space.
The parking space across the viewpoint (alongside an deserted lodge) can get very busy throughout excessive season, however it’s price being affected person for a spot, because the views are iconic and spectacular!
From the point of view, IF you wish to squeeze in a bit hike, head subsequent to Miradouro da Boca do Inferno. You used to have the ability to drive proper as much as this viewpoint, however now you must do some stroll by a forest first (park the place “Parque estacionamento Lagoa do Canário” is marked on Google Maps, and the path begins proper throughout the road).
This hike is usually flat and simple, save for the final perhaps 10 minutes, the place you do must climb a hill to get to the views. Once up there, comply with the path out to the point of view over two separate crater lakes. Again, the views are very a lot price it!
After your little hike, you’ll be able to comply with the primary street again and down into the city of Sete Cidades (when the hydrangeas are blooming, this drive is particularly gorgeous). If you’d quite skip the hike above, one other factor you are able to do is lease a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard to make use of on the lakes for as much as an hour (extra information right here.)
In Sete Cidades, you’ll want to cease to see the Igreja de São Nicolau, a cute church that is very photogenic.
Late afternoon: Black sand seaside
From Sete Cidades, it isn’t a far drive to the parish of Mosteiros on the northeast coast.
One of my favourite seashores on São Miguel is Praia dos Mosteiros, a small-ish black sand seaside with views out in the direction of some sea stacks and rock formations. The seaside is dramatic, has parking close by, and even has restrooms and a bit snack bar. This is a superb spot to seize a drink, and even go for a day dip should you can stand the chilly water temp.
Pro tip: Black sand will get HOT within the solar; it is a good suggestion to put on sandals or water sneakers right here.
Evening: Ponta Delgada
By now, you can test into your lodge, get dinner, and doubtless have an early evening should you spent the earlier evening on a airplane!
A couple of spots in Ponta Delgada which are good for dinner embody:
- Ta Gente (meals plus good cocktails)
- A Tasca (Portuguese)
- Louvre Michaelense (reservations beneficial)
- Taberna na Boavista (tapas-style with a cute out of doors backyard space)
- Adega do Mestre André (a extra native spot)
Where to remain on Sao Miguel
The most handy place to remain on São Miguel is in Ponta Delgada, the biggest metropolis on the island. It’s situated on the southwestern coast of the island (close to the airport), and makes an excellent base because it has an excellent variety of motels and eating places when in comparison with another cities.
If you are simply staying for a couple of nights, I like to recommend simply choosing one lodge in Ponta Delgada. Bonus should you select a lodge that gives parking, as road parking in Ponta Delgada could be laborious to return by in the summertime. My prime Ponta Delgada lodge strategies are:
- Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico – The top-rated lodge on the island, this luxurious spot is on the water and affords paid parking. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
- Octant Hotels Ponta Delgada – Another nice waterfront choice with fashionable rooms, a rooftop bar, and paid parking. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
- Hotel Gaivota Azores – A smaller lodge in an excellent location that is been just lately reworked. Some rooms have harbor views. Note although that they do not present parking. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
- Villa Esmeralda – This boutique lodge affords apartment-style rooms with full kitchens which are excellent if you wish to cook dinner some meals for your self. Villa Esmeralda contains one parking spot for each house in a lined storage. (This is the place Elliot and I stayed!) (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
- Casa da Galeria – Another apartment-hotel choice, situated inside a historic constructing in Ponta Delgada. Also has parking, although the storage is reported to be tight. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
If you are staying a bit longer or do not thoughts shifting round after only a evening or two, although, then you definitely would possibly wish to spend a pair nights in Ponta Delgada, after which one other couple of nights elsewhere on the island. Some different spots that I’d contemplate embody:
- Solar Branco Eco Estate & Boutique Hotel – Not removed from Ponta Delgada, this eco lodge is situated in a quiet spot and can also be house to the Gin Library!
- Sensi Azores Nature & Spa in Ginetes – An unbelievable spot on the east finish of the island providing luxurious rooms, an infinity pool, a restaurant, and a spa and wellness middle. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
- Terra Nostra Garden Hotel in Furnas – Stay on the lodge inside Terra Nostra Park, which is legendary for its pure sizzling spring. This historic lodge is among the finest within the Azores. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
- Octant Hotels Furnas – Another luxurious choice in Furnas with mountain views, a spa and wellness middle, and a second À TERRA restaurant. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
- The Lince Nordeste – If you wish to keep on the north of the island, this spot is a superb choice. It has an out of doors pool, a spa, and bicycles for friends to make use of. (Read opinions | Book a room right here)
Day 2: Ponta Delgada
Highlights immediately: Exploring Ponta Delgada and a meals tour
Total driving time immediately: 20 minutes (15 km) (map hyperlink)
Have a leisurely morning immediately. Perhaps pop over to Intz48 Coffee Roasters for a very nice cup of espresso – however do not eat a heavy breakfast, as a result of your first exercise immediately is a meals tour!
Morning: Food tour
Start your day without work with a meals and tradition tour round Ponta Delgada with Hungry Whales. This meals tour is among the finest excursions within the Azores, and may have you visiting a neighborhood market and studying loads about Azorean meals tradition and the way it’s been influenced by the islands’ historical past.
The meals tour begins at 10 a.m. and lasts roughly 3.5 hours and can fill you up with 8-10 meals samples and a few drinks. I LOVE meals excursions as a method to study extra about native tradition once I journey, and it is a good one! (Book your spot right here.)
Afternoon: Explore Ponta Delgada
You will wander across the middle of Ponta Delgada in your meals tour, however you would possibly wish to return to a couple spots for photographs, or perhaps dedicate a while to visiting a neighborhood museum or church this afternoon. (You will not want lunch after the meals tour!)
A couple of museum in/close to the middle of city embody:
- Museu Carlos Machado (museum in a former convent with reveals on pure historical past and artwork)
- Núcleo de Arte Sacra (sacred artwork museum)
- Museu Militar dos Açores (army museum)
Or you might go for a bit nature stroll within the Jardim Botânico José do Canto or Jardim Botânico António Borges, each beautiful botanic gardens/parks.
Late afternoon: Optional Gin Library go to
If you are in search of a novel spot to take pleasure in a drink this afternoon/night, I can extremely advocate making the 10-minute drive to the Solar Branco Eco Estate & Boutique Hotel the place you may additionally discover the Gin Library.
The Gin Library is strictly what it feels like: an unbelievable assortment of gins from all over the world. Currently there are 1800+ bottles of gin, making it the biggest assortment in all of Europe! They make their very own gin right here, too, impressed by the flavors of native nature and the ocean.
You can ebook a time for a brief demonstration and tasting, that are supplied each day on the hour within the evenings (after 4 p.m.). More information on reserving right here (a go to prices €15, and contains one gin and tonic).
Evening: Wine bar
OR, should you do not wish to go away the town this night, an excellent choice in Ponta Delgada is to cease in for a wine tasting at Wine & Art by 1001 Garrafas. A 40-minute tasting right here pairs Azorean wines with native cheeses, and comes very extremely beneficial.
Evening: Nice dinner
Go out for a pleasant dinner tonight in Ponta Delgada. I’d advocate making a reservation at A Terra, the upscale restaurant contained in the Octant Hotels Ponta Delgada.
Day 3: North coast
Highlights immediately: Coastal viewpoints, visiting a tea plantation, pure swimming pools, and a beachside dinner
Total driving time immediately: 2.5 hours (140 km) (map hyperlink)
Pro tip: There are a number of non-compulsory stops immediately, and a few stuff you would possibly have to pack in your automotive embody: a swimsuit, towel, water sneakers or mountaineering sandals, and probably your mountaineering sneakers. And a dry change of garments!
Morning: Gorreana Tea Plantation
We’re headed out of the town immediately for a day exploring stunning viewpoints, gardens, pure swimming pools, and seashores, so take pleasure in breakfast at your lodge or on the town.
The first cease I like to recommend immediately is on the solely working tea plantation in Europe!
On the way in which, nevertheless, make a cease at Miradouro de Santa Iria, an exquisite viewpoint overlooking a protracted stretch of Azores coast. From right here, this would possibly remind you of one other European island – perhaps like Ireland due to all of the inexperienced hills.
Then make your method down the street to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, or Chá Gorreana. This tea plantation dates again to 1883, when it was began by Ermelinda Pacheco Gago da Câmara (we love a feminine entrepreneur!). The tea thrives right here on São Miguel due to the island’s humid, moist, and gentle local weather, together with the acidic volcanic soil.
When you go to Chá Gorreana, you’ll be able to discover contained in the tea manufacturing facility (there are guides in sure rooms you probably have questions), take pleasure in some samples of their inexperienced and black tea, and in addition discover the tea fields themselves. The plantation covers 79 acres (32 hectares), and there are some trails by the fields that you’re free to stroll by by yourself.
I extremely advocate strolling up into the fields, because the views are unbelievable!
Pro tip: Cha Gorreana was one of many busiest locations we visited on the island, with a number of massive tour buses dropping teams off. There is parking behind the primary plantation constructing; attempt to keep away from parking alongside the driveway, because it blocks site visitors and slows every part down.
Optional late morning: Natural swimming pools
From the tea plantation, you’ve gotten a pair choices for what to do subsequent. One choice is to go into the close by parish of Maia to swim within the Piscinas Naturais das Calhetas da Maia, that are pure ocean swimming pools. IF the ocean is calm sufficient, you’ll be able to climb right down to the swimming pools and go for a swim (that is finest achieved at low tide, or on calmer days, and I’d advocate water sneakers or sandals for the rocks).
For lunch, Oestrela Bar & Restaurante overlooks a neighborhood seaside right here, or you’ll be able to drive a bit additional to Moofana to get a bifana sandwich.
Optional late morning: Waterfall hike
Another choice alongside the north coast is to see the Cascata do Salto da Farinha, or Salto da Farinha waterfall. This entails a hike, so ensure you come ready!
You can first cease on the Miradouro do Salto da Farinha, which affords up some good coastal views. Grab some lunch on the way in which (perhaps a sandwich from Moofana), and you may take pleasure in it at a picnic desk right here. From this viewpoint, you’ll be able to really take a fast path right down to the waterfall should you simply wish to get some photographs.
OR, you are able to do a little bit of an extended hike by persevering with down the (windy, unpaved and really steep) street to a parking space close to a rocky seaside (it is marked on Google Maps as Pequena Rota PR21 SMI – Salto da Farinha – Podrão das Alminhas). From this parking space, there’s one other path that takes you to the waterfall that’s longer. (Many folks will park their vehicles additional up this street and stroll down, as it’s a little bit of a scary drive!)
Note that the waterfall is finest seen after the island has had some rain; throughout much less moist stretches, it generally dries up.
Afternoon: Nature park
After swimming or your hike (or perhaps each, relying on how a lot you wish to pack in!), the opposite cease I like to recommend making on the north coast is at Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões, a small nature park with stunning landscapes, tons of hydrangea bushes, and even some small waterfalls.
There are paved trails main down into the park, together with a small cafe and restroom services. This spot is free to go to with loads of parking, so it actually needs to be a must-stop!
Optional late afternoon: More pure swimming pools
If you skipped the pure swimming pools this morning, there’s yet another likelihood to take pleasure in some on the north coast within the city of Nordeste, on the far northeastern nook of São Miguel. The Piscina Natural Da Boca De Ribeira is a pure swimming pool fed by ocean waves however arrange extra like an actual swimming pool.
There’s free parking and restrooms close by, and that is one other stunning place for a swim on a pleasant day.
Evening: Beach dinner
From Nordeste (or from Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões should you skipped Nordeste), it is a comparatively simple and quick drive again the way in which you got here (40 minutes’ drive at most) to Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara, or Santa Barbara Beach.
This extensive, lengthy seaside has darkish sand and many lava rocks and is in style with surfers. There’s a beachside restaurant close to the seaside’s predominant parking space known as TukáTulá Beach Bar that’s wonderful for dinner – however it’s good to ebook forward (name or e-mail), or be keen to place your identify on the checklist and wait. Waiting is definitely beautiful, although; you’ll be able to take pleasure in a drink on the rooftop, or perhaps seize a contemporary piña colada and luxuriate in it beachside.
The different choice for a faster dinner at this seaside is to go to the far finish to a spot known as Beach Club – Surf & Snacks. Here you may discover picnic tables overlooking the seaside, and a extra laid-back menu with issues like drinks and pizzas.
Either method, it is a nice seaside to observe the sundown from!
Day 4: Central Sao Miguel
Highlights immediately: Boat journey, a lake journey, and sizzling springs
Total driving time immediately: Up to 1.5 hours (83 km) (map hyperlink)
Morning: Whale watching or boat journey
Start immediately by getting out on the water!
The first choice is to go on a whale watching tour. This whale tour runs from Ponta Delgada, and can take you out to search for whales, dolphins, and different marine life. You can ebook a tour both on a catamaran (extra secure and comfy, with bogs onboard) or on a zodiac-style boat (extra thrilling and you may get nearer to wildlife, however zero safety from the weather).
You can even ebook a whale watching tour from the city of Vila Franca do Campo on the south coast. A tour like this contains whale watching and in addition a brief tour round Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, an island fashioned by an historic volcano eruption. These ones are ONLY supplied on the small zodiac-style RIB boats.
Whichever you select, ebook the earliest tour time for the perfect climate/sea circumstances and a greater likelihood of seeing whales.
Pro tip: Remember, whales are wild animals and sightings are NOT assured in any respect. Also, you WILL really feel the movement of the ocean on the zodiac excursions, so take any seasickness meds prematurely.
If whale watching is not your jam however you continue to wish to get out on the water (hello, it is me! I actually do not love whale watching 90% of the time), there’s nonetheless an choice for you!
Head to Vila Franca do Campo and ebook a fast zodiac tour across the islet. You’ll get to see São Miguel from the water and study all concerning the little volcanic island of Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, which really was once privately owned, and has greater than as soon as hosted the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series.
This boat tour will not allow you to out of the boat in any respect, however is a enjoyable method to get out on the water for a bit.
(You CAN swim within the lagoon at Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, however you must purchase tickets for a ship to take you on the market on the harbor, at Bilheteira Ilhéu de Vila França do Campo. These tickets can solely be purchased in-person day-of, and the boats run to/from the islet hourly.)
Lunch: Bar Carloura
If you opted to go to Vila Franca do Campo for a tour, then having lunch at Bar Caloura is should. This is a extremely beneficial native spot serving up seafood dishes and ocean views. There’s additionally one other pure swimming pool right here, which you’ll be able to see from the restaurant.
If you probably did a tour from Ponta Delgada, then you definitely’ll most likely simply wish to have lunch on the town.
Optional afternoon: Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo, or the “Lake of Fire,” is a big lake situated in an previous volcanic caldera within the middle of São Miguel island. The lake could be very typically shrouded in clouds and fog, which is why I’m including this as a non-compulsory exercise immediately. Going up the mountain to solely have a look at fog most likely is not price it.
BUT, should you handle to hit a transparent day, then you definitely would possibly wish to do that. (Elliot and I did hit a transparent day, however we didn’t know the following bit of information on the time…)
As of 2024, you’ll be able to not drive the street EN5-2A to the Lagoa do Fogo viewpoints in your personal automotive throughout the excessive season (even when Google Maps tells you you’ll be able to, you can’t!). Instead, from mid-June by September, the island now affords a shuttle service to take you as much as the lake and its viewpoints.
Buses run round, hop-on hop-off model routes between two parking areas: one on the Caldeira Velha car parking zone, and one other on the Casa de Água lot. However, it is price noting that after you get off the bus (like, at a viewpoint), one other bus will not come round for about half-hour. Meaning you most likely want to permit 2+ hours even should you simply wish to go to the 2 predominant lake viewpoints.
Personally, should you’re visiting throughout the obligatory shuttle season, I’m undecided visiting Lagoa do Fogo only for the viewpoints is price it by yourself.
Another choice: If you do not thoughts a really busy day, you might ebook this half-day tour that features visiting Lagoa do Fogo plus entry to the new springs I point out under! It leaves from both Ponta Delgada or Vila Franca do Campo within the early afternoon.
Late afternoon: Caldeira Velha sizzling springs
A spot I contemplate to be a must-visit is the Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha, a nature protect with a sequence of naturally-fed sizzling springs. This spot provides main Jurassic Park vibes with massive ferns and plush greenery, and there are three predominant swimming pools at various temperatures to soak in.
The coolest pool is the biggest and has a small waterfall cascading into it, whereas the warmer swimming pools are smaller. Entry to Caldeira Velha is ticketed and timed, although, to make sure it does not get *too* overly crowded.
You can pre-book tickets your self on-line right here (you MUST ebook greater than 24 hours prematurely), however bear in mind the timing should you plan to attempt to go to Lagoa do Fogo by yourself. (The Lagoa do Fogo bus has a cease proper on the Caldeira Velha car parking zone, although, which is helpful!) The newest entry occasions are both 4:30 p.m. (in spring and fall) or 6 p.m. in summer time, and you purchase tickets for a 90-minute go to.
(OR, like I discussed above, this half-day tour contains visiting Lagoa do Fogo AND entry to Caldeira Velha.)
Return to Ponta Delgada (or wherever you are staying) tonight and have dinner there.
Day 5: East finish of Sao Miguel
Highlights immediately: Lots extra coastal viewpoints, plus visiting two geothermal parks
Total driving time immediately: 2.75 hours (144 km) (map hyperlink)
You can have a extra leisurely morning immediately and luxuriate in breakfast at your lodge or on the town. Then hit the street and head east in the direction of Furnas, which is probably the most geothermally-active a part of São Miguel island.
Morning: Furnas viewpoint
On your method into the city of Furnas, take a fast detour to the Miradouro do Lombo dos Milhos. From this viewpoint you may get wonderful views over Furnas, surrounded by inexperienced mountains and colourful hydrangea bushes.
Morning: Fumaroles at Lagoa das Furnas
From the point of view, head right down to Lagoa das Furnas and the fumaroles and boiling mud alongside the lake at Antigo Pomar das Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas (free to go to, however you must pay for parking). There’s a really quick sequence of boardwalks right here to get nearer to the vents and boiling mud, and you too can see the place they’re cooking Cozido das Furnas, a neighborhood dish of meat and root veggies that is cooked underground utilizing the volcanic warmth.
There’s a small bar/cafe proper subsequent to the fumaroles tucked into some tall timber that is an awesome spot to seize a drink (although I would not have the cozido right here).
There’s additionally a nature park right here with some strolling trails, although I’d skip it since we’ll go to a greater one in a bit!
Afternoon: Lunch in Furnas
Have an early lunch in Furnas city. We had a wonderful meal of native beef at Queijaria Furnense, however if you wish to attempt the Cozido das Furnas dish, the place to go on the town is Tony’s.
Afternoon: Terra Nostra Park
Next up is the big Parque Terra Nostra, which has a number of strolling trails by native flora, plus an enormous thermal pool. An entry ticket will get you entry to every part, so deliver a swimsuit if you wish to go for a dip!
Pro tip: The thermal pool right here has a number of iron within the water (which is why it appears orange), and it WILL stain any light-colored swimwear. So both put on one thing you do not thoughts getting stained, or put on a darkish coloration like black or navy.
If you propose to swim right here, permit no less than a pair hours to take pleasure in every part. If you simply wish to stroll the paths, permit maybe one hour.
Late afternoon: More viewpoints
There are LOTS of fantastic miradouros alongside the southeastern coast of São Miguel, so I like to recommend stopping to see a couple of earlier than you come to your lodge for the evening.
Stop at Miradouro do Pôr-do-Sol for stunning inland views, Miradouro de Água Retorta for views over a cute Azorean city, Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada for a dramatic view of lush coast, and Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego for a garden-like setting with much more views.
Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego is one you have maybe seen in photographs, with a “trail” alongside a cliff lined with hydrangea bushes. This path does exist right here at this viewpoint (slightly below the picnic space), however simply word that it isn’t really a mountaineering path and could be very quick in actuality! It does make for unbelievable photographs, although, even when the bushes aren’t actually in full bloom.
Also do not be stunned to search out a number of cats at a few of these miradouros! Locals feed the cats right here and supply them with little homes and shelters.
Then it is time to head again to your lodge for yet another evening, and put together to go house (on onwards to a different island or elsewhere in Europe) tomorrow.
How to do Sao Miguel in 3 days
If you are planning an extended journey to the Azores and wish to go to Sao Miguel alongside extra islands, then you definitely would possibly wish to shorten your go to right here to only 3 days. If that is the aim, here is what I’d do with simply 3 days:
- Day 1: Arrival, pineapple farm, Sete Cidades, Praia dos Mosteiros, dinner in Ponta Delgada
- Day 2: Tea plantation, Caldeira Velha sizzling springs, Santa Barbara seaside
- Day 3: Optional morning round Ponta Delgada, Furnas/Terra Nostra Park, all of the viewpoints within the southeast
So principally I’d minimize the day in Ponta Delgada (sorry, meals tour!), minimize the whale watching, and minimize Lagoa do Fogo. This would nonetheless permit you to hit all of the highlights on Sao Miguel in simply 3 days.
When to go to the Azores
The Azores are pretty gentle and humid year-round, however do have a definite excessive and off-season. High season falls throughout the European summer time months, typically June-August, when temperatures common between 70-80 levels F and you may positively wish to ebook issues like motels and rental vehicles prematurely.
Low season within the Azores is the European winter months, when temperatures hover within the 55-60 levels F vary, and a few vacationer companies may not be open.
Personally, I’d go for shoulder season journey within the Azores and on São Miguel. The months of April-May and September-October will nonetheless typically have good climate, however you may face smaller crowds on the predominant vacationer websites.
All of my photographs on this submit have been taken throughout a mid-September journey!
Who’s able to plan a visit to Sao Miguel within the Azores?
Amanda Williams is the award-winning blogger behind A Dangerous Business Travel Blog. She has traveled to greater than 60 nations on 6 continents from her house base in Ohio, specializing in experiential and considerate journey by the US, Europe, and remainder of the world. Amanda solely shares suggestions based mostly on her private experiences and locations she’s really traveled!