The Azores | São Miguel & Flores
Combined together, Flores and São Miguel create an exciting destination for eco-adventurers looking to explore some of Europe’s wildest scenery amidst centuries-old culture!
What's Included?
Why we love this deal:
- This travel package to the Azores Islands of Flores and São Miguel is a great way for travelers to experience the best of the Azores stunning nature.
- Flores Island is known as the “Island of Flowers”, boasting some of the most spectacular landscapes in Europe. With breathtaking mountain views, cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters - this small island paradise is sure to captivate even the most seasoned traveler. Plus, you're a short boat trip away from Corvo Island!
- São Miguel Island provides visitors with a range of activities for all tastes. Its volcanic landscapes are ideal for hiking or biking; its thermal baths offer relaxed days in the spa; its extraordinary fauna will amaze wildlife enthusiasts; and its beautiful beaches invite days spent soaking up the sun or participating in sailing and scuba diving adventures.
- Traveling has never been easier - you can now customize your travel package to suit your individual preferences and needs.
Itinerary
It is recommended to get a rental car (available during the booking process).
Suggestion for the day:
- Stroll around the historical center of Santa Cruz das Flores and appreciate the old-world architecture and the daily life of the locals. Take the chance to dip your toes in the natural swimming pools of Santa Cruz.
Suggestion for the day:
- Take the day to travel the “Route of the Lakes” and visit the 7 lakes in the island. Also cross the island’s heart with a drive through its longest straightaway road, stopping at the several viewpoints
Highlights:
- Lagoa Negra
- Lagoa Comprida
- Lagoa Rasa
- Lagoa Funda
Book here your Lake Tour.
Suggestion for the day:
- Explore the Island’s Waterfalls: Visit Alagoa Bay, Ponta Delgada, and Poço do Bacalhau, where you’ll be able to witness a 90 meters high waterfall (that’s a whopping 295 feet).
Book here your Waterfall and North Tour.
It is recommended to get a rental car (available during the booking process).
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. Or book here your Ponta Delgada City Tour.
Not to miss:
- Portas da Cidade
- Louvre Michaelense
- Pineapple Plantations
- Matriz Church
Suggestions for the day:
- Visit Sete Cidades (Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa do Canário and Boca do Inferno Viewpoint) and take this opportunity to visit the neighboring village of Mosteiros - ideal for sunset! Once you’re in the west part of the island you can also indulge in an ocean thermal bath at Ferraria.
Book here a guided tour around the west part of the island that will have you discovering this and much more in the company of a local guide.
- Take the day for a hiking adventure.
Recommended hikes:
Suggestion for the day:
- Head to the north side of the island to visit the Protected Natural Reserve of Lagoa do Fogo and take this chance to visit (and maybe bath) in the thermal pools of Caldeira Velha. Once you’re here you can also visit the Salto do Cabrito waterfall! On your way to Furnas, we recommend that you stop at Porto Formoso and Gorreana Tea Plantations (the only ones in Europe).
- In Furnas there’s just so much to explore, such as the lake, the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, the Grená Park, the caldeiras, the fumaroles, the Terra Nostra Park, the Dona Beija hot springs and so much more. Make sure to try out the local delicacies: the cozido das Furnas and the bolos lêvedos!
Book a Furnas guided tour here.
*itinerary presented is a suggestion and the length of stay may vary. All tours are suggestions unless specifically stated.
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. Striking the perfect balance between lush volcanic landscapes and seaside cities exuding charming European vibes, you will be pleasantly surprised by the Azores.
São Miguel Island
An exotic green jewel in the middle of the Atlantic, São Miguel, the largest island of the archipelago, offers several places of interest that will surely enchant you. Among a plethora of other activities , highlights you can expect include: a hike down a dormant volcano and relaxing on the beach surrounding its lake, a visit to the only tea plantation in Europe, and getting a taste of the delicious locally grown pineapple. You can also look forward to discovering the historical city of Ponta Delgada with its cobbled streets and black and white mosaic pavements.
São Miguel is also a geothermal hot spot, giving you something else to look forward to experiencing, especially on your visit to Furnas Valley. Also among the exciting things you can expect to find on this idyllic island? Warm water to swim in year-round, particularly in one of the natural spas and hot springs found inland, or tucked along the island’s stunning, volcanic rocky coast.
Flores Island
Your trip will also take you to Flores, the westernmost point of the Azores and a true haven of pristine natural beauty. Here, you can marvel at its deep valleys and high peaks, and admire the array of crystal-clear waterfalls and streams around the island.
Flores Island is one of the few official UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the world, which is a special protection given for natural landscapes. But that’s not the only unique thing about it, as this Azores island is known as the ‘’Island of Waterfalls’’, being a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The waterfall of Poço do Bacalhau, found in Fajã Grande, is especially perfect to dive in at sunset, when the mountains are illuminated in the background. Also a must-see on your list? The Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro and its more than 20 waterfalls, which provide a stunning scenescape that will take your breath away at any time of the day, year-round.
Check out our Azores Travel Guide for more information and tips.
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