São Miguel: Unwind & Discover (Premium)

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1Arrival in São Miguel Island

   

   Welcome to São Miguel Island! Let’s explore together: pick up your car rental on arrival and get ready for adventure. Drive to Furnas to check in at your hotel.

   * Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

   Suggestion for the day: Take the day to stroll around Furnas and indulge in a thermal bath.

   Highlights:

   • Furnas Lake
   • Caldeiras
   • Food: Cozido das Furnas and Bolos Lêvedos
   • Flowing Spring Water
   • Queijaria Furnense (delicious cheese with local sour water)
   • Terra Nostra Park
   • Poça da Dona Beija
   • Pico do Ferro Viewpoint 
   • Furnas Golf Course 
   • The Drive to Ribeira Quente (While in Ribeira Quente, enjoy this little seaside fisherman's village and visit the beautiful Praia do Fogo, or stop into one of the handful of restaurants serving up delicious, fresh seafood)
2. Day 2Furnas, São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Drive to Vila Franca do Campo 

   Highlights:

   • Vila Franca do Campo Islet
   • Whale Watching Experience
   • Senhora da Paz Viewpoint 
   • Castelo Branco Viewpoint
   • Lagoa do Congro
   • Queijadas da Vila Factory 
   • Água D’Alto Beaches

   In the afternoon:

   • Visit Cerâmica Vieira Pottery Shop in Lagoa 
   • Visit Caloura (beach and harbor)
3. Day 3Furnas, São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Visit Nordeste

   Highlights:

   • Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint
   • Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint
   • Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse
   • Ponta dos Barcos Viewpoint
   • Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park 
   • Poço Azul Hiking Trail
4. Day 4Drive to Ponta Delgada (45 minutes)

   

   Say goodbye to Furnas and check in at Octant Ponta Delgada.

   Suggestion for the day:

   Take the afternoon to stroll around Ponta Delgada’s city streets. Ponta Delgada, the main city, is not only the hub of the island but the capital of the Azores. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene.  Tour. 

   Not to miss:

   • Portas da Cidade
   • Louvre Michaelense
   • Pineapple Plantations
   • Matriz Church
5. Day 5Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Sete Cidades Lake

   São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and Sete Cidades is one of its most captivating gems. Today, embark on a journey through volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and charming villages, and discover the essence of this enchanting island.

   • Sete Cidades (A Realm of Twin Lakes): Begin your adventure in Sete Cidades, a village nestled within a vast volcanic crater. As you descend into the caldera, prepare to be awestruck by the sight of Lagoa das Sete Cidades a mesmerizing twin-lake complex. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping crater full of lakes has become one of the signature and most famous images of the Azores.
   • Mosteiros & Ferraria: Venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a photographer's paradise known for its breathtaking sunsets. As you explore the western region, don't miss the chance to rejuvenate at Ferraria's unique ocean thermal baths. Remember, these thermal pools are best enjoyed during low tide when warm spring water mixes with the ocean for a truly luxurious experience. 
6. Day 6Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Lagoa do Fogo Lake

   Explore the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most breathtaking lakes in the Azores. For the best experience, visit on a clear day, as the views are most spectacular when the skies are cloud-free. Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading up the mountain.

   • Lagoa do Fogo (A Crater Lake of Tranquility): Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into "Lagoon of Fire", is a crater lake at the center of São Miguel Island. This Protected Natural Reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far from the whir, hum, and hurry of civilization below.
   • Caldeira Velha Hot Springs: Caldeira Velha is an official natural monument, and the best thing about this lovely locale is not even the thermal pools (although they are divine), but rather the verdant vegetation. Visitors will find that Caldeira Velha is so lush and tropical, that you’ll almost find it hard to believe you are even in Portugal.
   • Ribeira Grande: Discover the charm of Ribeira Grande, a vibrant town nestled on the north part of São Miguel Island. Explore its historic center, relax on the stunning Santa Bárbara Beach, known for its black sand and impressive waves, or embark on a hiking adventure through the lush countryside. Immerse yourself in the local culture, savor fresh seafood, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal paradise.
7. Day 7Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Unforgettable Hikes

   One of the best ways to discover São Miguel Island is through its stunning and well-preserved hiking trails. Here are our top picks:

   Sanguinho/Salto do Prego Hike

   • Highlights: Discover the hidden gem of Salto do Prego waterfall on this captivating hike and a secluded hidden village. Immerse yourself in lush forests, refreshing waterfalls, and the charming civil parish of Faial da Terra, known locally as "The Nativity Scene of the Island" for its picturesque houses.
   • Distance: 4.5 km (2.7 miles)
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Trail Type: Circular

   Moinho do Félix Hike

   • Highlights: Explore the charm of the Moinho do Félix trail. This coastal walk takes you through lush landscapes, past a historic windmill, and several stunning waterfalls. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty and capture unforgettable memories on this beautiful hike.
   • Distance: 5.5 km (3.4 miles)
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Trail Type: Circular

   Serra Devassa

   • Highlights: Uncover the enchanting beauty of Serra Devassa, a hiker's paradise in São Miguel. This stunning landscape boasts a collection of pristine lakes, including the iconic Lagoa do Canário. Immerse yourself in nature as you traverse through lush forests and volcanic terrain, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the trail's highest point, Pico da Éguas.
   • Distance: 4.9 km (3 miles)
   • Difficulty: Moderate
8. Day 8Return Flight Home

   

   One last stop: returning your rental car.

   Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!