São Miguel & Terceira: Fly & Drive

Suggestion for the day: (Descend into a Volcano's Heart)

• Take your Terceira adventure to another level with a unique experience: exploring the fiery depths of a volcano! This unforgettable itinerary suggestion plunges you into the heart of Terceira's volcanic landscape, offering a glimpse into the island's fiery past.
  • Algar do Carvão: The Star of the Show: Brace yourself for a thrilling descent 90 meters (300 ft) down into the captivating Algar do Carvão! This ancient lava tube and volcanic chimney, formed over 3,200 years ago, is a sight to behold. Explore its cavernous chambers, marvel at the unique geological formations, and feel the cool, damp air that whispers tales of volcanic eruptions.
  • Gruta do Natal: Embark on a journey through the Gruta do Natal, a volcanic cave adorned with colorful formations and offering a glimpse into the island's subterranean secrets.
  • Furnas do Enxofre: Witness the wonders of the Furnas do Enxofre, a historical geothermal site with fumaroles spewing steam and bubbling mud pools bubbling – a testament to Terceira's ongoing volcanic activity.

Suggestion for the day: (Terceira's Highlights)

• Explore volcanic landscapes, immerse yourself in rich history, and savor delicious local cuisine. From panoramic viewpoints to a unique volcanic cave, this tour unveils the essence of this amazing island. This action-packed itinerary suggestion whisks you to captivating highlights like these:
  • Monte Brasil: Ascend this extinct volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of Angra do Heroísmo and the surrounding landscapes. Explore historical sites like the 16th-century Fortaleza de São João Baptista, a testament to the island's rich past.
  • Baía da Salga: Immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural bay on Terceira's north shore.
  • Miradouro da Serra do Cume: A view you won’t forget! Be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing the city of Angra do Heroísmo, the majestic Monte Brasil volcano, and the sparkling Baía da Salga bay.
  • São Sebastião Church: Step back in time at this magnificent 16th-century church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the stunning Baroque architecture and explore the collection of artworks within.
  • Praia da Vitória: Discover the vibrant city of Praia da Vitória, a haven for sunbathers and swimmers. Explore the charming city, known for its colorful impérios (religious brotherhood houses) and its historical significance.

Suggestion for the day: (Explore Downtown Ponta Delgada)

It’s time to explore Ponta Delgada, the main city, that beckons not only with its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, but also with its status as the economic heart of the archipelago. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 

• Simply Stroll Through Ponta Delgada’s Cobblestone Streets: Start your São Miguel discovery with a stroll along Ponta Delgada's charming city streets. Admire the architecture, from historical buildings to colorful houses. Peek into local shops and soak in the atmosphere.
• Portas da Cidade: Standing proudly at the entrance to Ponta Delgada, the Portas da Cidade (City Gates) serve as a symbolic gateway to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. This imposing monument, constructed in 1783, has witnessed centuries of transformations and played a significant role in the island's development. Adorned with three majestic stone arches, the Portas da Cidade showcases a blend of architectural styles, with the central arch standing taller and decorated with intricate Baroque elements. The central arch proudly displays the coat of arms of Portugal, symbolizing the island's connection to the mainland, while the coat of arms of Ponta Delgada signifies the city's unique identity. Originally situated near the harbor, the Portas da Cidade marked the entrance to the walled city of Ponta Delgada. Over time, the city expanded, and the gates were relocated to their current position in Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral, a central square bustling with activity.
• Matriz Church: Visit the impressive Matriz Church, a beautiful example of Azorean religious architecture right in the city center.
• Pineapple Paradise: Embark on a unique adventure to a nearby pineapple plantation. Learn about the island's pineapple production, witness these fascinating plants, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing pineapple treat.

Suggestion for the day: (Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo)

• São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are two 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. There are (amazingly) 11 lakes in total around Sete Cidades, but they can only be seen from certain angles at the different miradouros (viewpoints) in the area. To fully appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views over the mystical blue and green lake, head to the Vista do Rei viewpoint.
• 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. Lagoa do Fogo's crystal-clear turquoise waters are surrounded by tall mountain peaks, lush vegetation, and white sand on all sides. Take in the magnificent views at any of the viewpoints around the mountaintop, or if you're feeling adventurous, venture out on one of the many hiking trails that lead down to the lake's edge.

Suggestion for the day: (Furnas & Tea Plantations)

• The thermal hot spot of the Azores! Furnas Valley is the center of São Miguel's unique geothermal activity. Here you can visit two active volcanic sites to see the boiling caldeiras in action, as well as the gorgeous Terra Nostra Park, multiple hot spring pools for soaking and swimming, and the stunning Furnas Lake that's perfectly sized for an afternoon hike - and, if you time your visit to Furnas Lake just right, you might catch the locals taking their steaming hot Cozido stew out of the ground alongside the caldeiras! From thermal pools to mineral springs, caldeiras to culinary treats, and everything in between: Come explore the majestic and mysterious wonders of Furnas Valley in São Miguel. Here are some highlights:
• Lagoa das Furnas: This beautiful crater lake is surrounded by the steep peaks of the ancient Furnas mountain and its lush, green rim. Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails around the lake, as well as several beautiful parks and the iconic Neo-Gothic Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias.
• Cozido das Furnas Lunch: A longstanding tradition among the locals, this beloved popular dish is a Portuguese stew (cozido) cooked in holes known as fumaroles that are dug in the hot volcanic soil in Furnas. The stew is comprised of a carefully layered pot of pork, beef, chicken, sausages, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and kale that is cooked slowly in the ground for around 6 hours.
• Caldeiras das Furnas: In the center of town, Furnas boasts close to 30 bubbling, steaming calderas and fumaroles of different temperatures and biological compositions, the strong smell of sulfur wafting through the air at every turn. Unsurprisingly, the locals have made the best of having these natural steam pots around. Temperatures range from 70ºC (158ºF)  to 100ºC (212ºF) which is perfect for cooking (but dangerous to get too close to!) 
• Gorreana Tea Plantations: Nestled amidst the lush greenery of São Miguel Island in the Azores archipelago, the Gorreana Tea Plantations stand as a testament to the island's rich history and unique terroir. Established in 1883 by António Agostinho da Silva, Gorreana is the oldest tea plantation in Europe still in operation. A visit to Gorreana Tea Plantations is an immersive experience that unveils the secrets behind the production of world-renowned Azorean tea. Visitors can wander through the verdant tea fields, where rows of tea bushes stretch towards the horizon, basking in the gentle caress of the Atlantic breeze. The air is perfumed with the delicate aroma of tea leaves, a symphony of nature's finest fragrances.

Suggestion for the day: (Whale and Dolphin Watching Experience & Farewell Fado Dinner)

• The Azores Islands are not just known for their volcanic landscapes and charming towns. They are also rapidly becoming a premier destination for whale watching.
  • A Haven for Marine Life: Imagine setting sail on crystal-clear waters, surrounded by volcanic peaks. Suddenly, a pod of playful dolphins leaps from the waves, followed by the majestic spout of a sperm whale! The Azores' unique combination of factors creates a perfect habitat for over 20 species of whales and dolphins, making it one of the world's largest whale sanctuaries.
  • Responsible Exploration: We prioritize accountable and ethical practices on our whale-watching tours. Our experienced captains ensure minimal disruption to these magnificent creatures while providing you with unforgettable experiences.
  • Witness the Wonders: Throughout the year, keep your eyes peeled for resident species like Sperm Whales, Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, and Risso's Dolphins. These fascinating creatures call the Azores home year-round. Depending on the time of year, you might encounter migrating giants like Blue Whales, the largest creatures on Earth. Witness humpback whales breaching or orcas hunting in coordinated packs. Spring brings Pilot Whales and Striped Dolphins, while summer welcomes Minke Whales, Fin Whales, and Sei Whales on their migratory journeys.
• Say Goodbye to the Azores with a Fado Dinner: A captivating and deeply emotional experience that combines the soulful melodies of Fado music with delicious Azorean cuisine. As you enter a cozy, dimly lit restaurant, you'll be enveloped in an atmosphere of nostalgia and tradition. The hauntingly beautiful strains of Fado, performed by local musicians, fill the air, evoking a profound sense of saudade—the Portuguese longing for something lost.

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 all the best until next time!