The Azores & Madeira: Summer Edition

From 10 AM to 11 AM

• Rum Masterclass: Experience the rich history of Madeira's sugar production at Engenhos do Norte in Porto da Cruz, just 45 minutes from Funchal. Built in 1927, this historic mill still operates with original machinery, including unique steam-powered equipment. Join our Rum Masterclass and sample five exquisite varieties of rum, perfectly paired with sugarcane honey bread, including Rum Branco, Rum Barrica Nova, Rum 970 (Reserva 6 years), Rum Produção, and Rum Single Cask.

Suggestion for the second part of your day: 

• While in the area, don't miss Santana's iconic thatched-roof houses, a testament to Madeira's rural charm. Next, explore the dramatic coastline of Ponta de São Lourenço for a memorable outdoor adventure (great for sunset too!) Then, head to the stunning heights of Pico do Areeiro for Madeira's awesome peaks, but make a quick stop at Ribeiro Frio (you won't regret it).

Suggestion for the day:

• Take the First Part of Day for a Hiking Adventure: With its many gorgeous mountains and waterfalls, it’s no surprise that Madeira has long been referred to as a “hiker’s paradise”. Many of these trails follow the old irrigation canals called “levadas” that were used to bring water from the north side of the island to the south. Although still used today, many of these canals are also widely used for walking. No matter your preference or experience level, there are many different types of trails all over Madeira. Beginners or those looking for a more leisurely nature walk should stick to the south side of the island, while those looking for a more exhilarating trekking experience should head north to the mountainous side of the island.

Recommended Hikes:

• Vale do Paraíso (easy)
• Rabaçal - 25 Fontes (moderate)
• Caldeirão Verde (moderate)
• Ponta de São Lourenço (moderate)

From 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM: Say Goodbye to Madeira with a Sunset Boat Tour

• Soak up the beauty of a remarkable Madeira sunset while bobbing along the calm sea off the island´s captivating coastline on a luxury catamaran during this unforgettable 3-hour trip. Keep your eyes open, as you may even see some whales and dolphins, and if the weather is nice, feel free to jump in for a quick swim, too!

Now, welcome to the Azores! Pick up your car on arrival and let the second part of your adventure begin.

Suggestion for the day:

• Take the day 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. 
  • Portas da Cidade
  • Louvre Michaelense
  • Pineapple Plantations
  • Matriz Church

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore the wonders of Sete Cidades, including Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa do Canário, and the captivating Boca do Inferno Viewpoint. Don't miss the chance to venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a perfect spot for a picturesque sunset. While in the western part of the island, treat yourself to the rejuvenating experience of an ocean thermal bath at Ferraria.

From 5 PM to 6 PM: Azorean Gin Masterclass

• Explore the world of Portuguese gin with our expert guide, Ali Bullock, at the Solar Branco Estate. Discover the rich history and flavors of gin as you sample three top Azorean gins paired with select tonics and garnishes. 

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Lagoa do Fogo & Furnas: Venture to the island's northern expanse, where you'll encounter the untouched charm of the Protected Natural Reserve of Lagoa do Fogo. Relax in the rejuvenating thermal pools of Caldeira Velha, then marvel at the Salto do Cabrito waterfall. Journey to Furnas and immerse yourself in its myriad attractions, from the serene lake and Pico do Ferro Viewpoint to the unique caldeiras and Terra Nostra Park. Relish local flavors like cozido das Furnas and bolos lêvedos, and experience a fusion of nature and culture that's truly Azorean.

From 1 PM to 4 PM: Whale Watching in Rabo de Peixe

• The Azores Islands are known for their unparalleled beauty and biodiversity, adored by outdoor adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But what people may not know is that the Azores is also one of the fastest-growing whale-watching destinations in the world. Located in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal and North America, the Azores are a permanent home and natural point of passage to more than 20 different types of whale and dolphin species, making the islands one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries.
• Rabo de Peixe in the Azores is renowned for its thriving fishing industry, particularly for its abundant catches of various fish species. The town's name, which translates to "Fish Tail," reflects its close connection to the sea and its traditional reliance on fishing as a primary economic activity.

Suggestion for the end of the day:

• 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.

We hope you had a fantastic time and we look forward to traveling with you again in the future. Thank you for choosing Azores Getaways!