Azores Summer: São Miguel Car & Ocean Escape

Suggestion for the day: Lagoa do Fogo

• 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.

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 calderas in action, as well as the gorgeous Terra Nostra Park and so much more.

Don’t Miss:

• Lagoa das Furnas: 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. 
• 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. 
• Terra Nostra Park: Terra Nostra Park is one of the Azores’ main attractions and with good reason. From its super cool thermal pools to its lavish and rich botanical gardens, Terra Nostra is at the top of every tourist’s itinerary. 
• Poça da Dona Beija: Also located in Furnas is the lovely Poça da Dona Beija, which offers visitors an exotic and unique array of six natural thermal pools. Each of Poça da Dona Beija’s pools rests at different temperatures, making it possible for every single person to find their perfect fit. 
• Gorreana Tea Plantations: Immerse yourself in history and nature at Gorreana Tea Plantations, Europe's oldest still-operating tea farm (established in 1883). Explore verdant fields, breathe in the fresh scent of tea leaves, and learn the secrets behind Azores' world-renowned tea.

Suggestion for the day: The Wonders of Nordeste

Immerse yourself in the beauty of São Miguel Island's northeast region with a captivating day trip to Nordeste! This haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers boasts breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and a wealth of outdoor activities.

Don’t Miss:

• Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint: Embrace panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
• Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint: Witness the magical spectacle of the sunrise, a moment of pure tranquility.
• Arnel Lighthouse: Discover the majestic Arnel Lighthouse, a towering sentinel guiding ships for centuries.
• Poço Azul Hiking Trail: Embark on an invigorating hike through lush forests and cascading waterfalls, culminating at the breathtaking Poço Azul, a natural swimming basin.
• Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Explore a paradise of cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation, and ancient watermills. Hike the park's trails and immerse yourself in the natural beauty.

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
• Duration: 2 hours
• Trail Type: Circular

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!