São Miguel: Unwind & Discover (Premium)
Discover São Miguel in a premium-style adventure as you split your stay between two of the island's most iconic hotels.
What's Included?
Why we love this deal:
- São Miguel in Premium Style: Get ready for the best of São Miguel Island with a split stay between the charming thermal village of Furnas and the lively city of Ponta Delgada, the island's hub. The Octant hotels, beautifully situated, offer more than accommodation – they provide an enchanting gateway to the island's main attractions. Revel in their allure and enjoy top-notch facilities as you uncover the gems of this amazing destination-
- Unwind at Octant Furnas: Nestled in the volcanic marvels of Furnas, this oasis offers relaxation amidst bubbling caldeiras and hot springs. Unwind in our thermal indoor and outdoor pools, immersing yourself in the rejuvenating essence of Furnas' thermal waters. Octant Furnas is your perfect retreat for tranquility and relaxation. (3 nights with daily breakfast and free parking)
- Discover the Urban Chic at Octant Ponta Delgada: Positioned as a city chic retreat along the main avenue of Ponta Delgada, Octant invites you to experience the epitome of urban sophistication. Immerse yourself in the vibrant pulse of the city from this prime location, where modern elegance meets the lively hub of Ponta Delgada. Octant Ponta Delgada is your stylish sanctuary in the city. (4 nights with daily breakfast and free parking)
- Make This Trip Yours: Enhance your stay with additional nights or explore exciting local excursions.
Experience São Miguel to the fullest with our self-drive package and guide.
Book with the local experts and receive a complimentary self-drive guide, ensuring you don't miss a single heartbeat of this captivating island!
Itinerary
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)
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)
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
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
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.
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.
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
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!
*itinerary presented is a suggestion and the length of stay may vary. All tours are suggestions unless specifically stated.
Flexibility Policy
About the Hotels:
Octant Ponta Delgada Hotel
With 123 spectacular sea-view rooms featuring sleek, modern amenities alongside creature comforts and world-class service - your experience is sure to be unforgettable. Try something new with the range of outdoor activities on offer or take in some live entertainment from the casino for fun nights out. Relax by taking advantage of their rooftop pool bar & spa before refueling at À Terra restaurant where you can find local delicacies like fresh cheese corner selections too. Don't miss this opportunity to explore all that nature has brought together.
Octant Furnas Hotel
Let the stress of everyday life melt away into natural beauty when you stay at Octant Furnas Hotel. Offering modern amenities and excellent service with indoor & outdoor thermal pools as well as a luxurious spa, this hotel is sure to recharge your soul! Dine at "À Terra" restaurant for an unforgettable culinary experience that celebrates local products from Mother Nature - each dish carefully prepared by passionate chefs using homemade recipes crafted with great love and expertise. Come indulge yourself in a warm atmosphere filled with delicious yet healthy cuisine!
Flexibility Policy
About the Destination:
Often referred to as Europe's “Best Kept Secret”, the Azores have become an increasingly popular destination with year-round appeal for travelers. With stunning lush landscapes, sunny black sand beaches, crystal clear ocean waters, exotic plants, dormant volcanos, and hot springs, São Miguel is the perfect vacation destination for nature lovers, beach bums, or those looking for an off-the beaten path European destination.
Fans of adventure sports will enjoy kayaking and stand up paddle-boarding in the beautiful lakes or ocean, surfing the Atlantic waves or canyoning down the gorgeous waterfalls around the island. If this isn't tantalizing enough, think about seeing Earth breathing through fumaroles and mud pots, and then enjoying a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring gazing at the stars.
Enjoy the island's quaint fishing villages, seaside restaurants and delicious seafood. Taste a superb meal cooked under the ground, the cozido.
There are numerous vacation activities to be enjoyed on the island. Take advantage of this great vacation package and visit a truly magical place.
To make sure you have a great time, here are our staff's top suggestions in each location
- In Furnas make sure you:
- Discover how the famous cozido is cooked (underground with the heat from the active volcano) and taste it
- Visit the Geothermal steam holes (where the cozido is cooked!)
- Explore the beautiful Terra Nostra Garden
- Relax in the natural thermal pools at the Poça Dona Beja
- In downtown Ponta Delgada try to:
- Discover the historical city of Ponta Delgada with its cobbled streets and black and white mosaic pavements
- Check the local farmers' market (Mercado da Graça) and taste the local produce
- Visit the Pineapple Plantation in Fajã de Baixo
Check out our Azores Travel Guide for more informations and tips.
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