São Miguel: Summer Adventure

Suggestion for the day:

• Azorean & Portuguese Gin Masterclass: The Azores may be a tiny archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, but that hasn't stopped it from producing several excellent gins. Botanicals and ingredients grown on the islands are also used in several gins made in mainland Portugal. Baleia, which means “Whale” in English, is one of the gins you will try and is created by your host and gin curator here at the Solar Branco Eco Estate, Ali Bullock. 

From 9 AM to 4:30 PM: 

• Salto do Prego - Sanguinho Hiking Trail + Furnas: Explore the Sanguinho Trail in Faial da Terra, São Miguel Island's hidden gem. This remote village captivates with its rustic houses and fruit orchards, evoking a simpler time. The trail's crowning jewel is the awe-inspiring Salto do Prego spring, complete with a cascading waterfall that feels like a scene from a movie, reminiscent of Avatar. The water is crystal clear, surrounded by lush, vibrant greenery that's purely the work of Mother Nature. Take a refreshing dip in the small pool below the waterfall before returning to the trail's starting point. This unforgettable experience will leave you yearning to return to this natural paradise again and again.

From 10 AM to 4:50 PM

• Winery Tour: Embark on the first winery tour of São Miguel island: an unforgettable journey through picturesque landscapes, tastings, and vineyard visits. Your adventure begins with a visit to the centenary stone corrals to learn about the unique terroir that gives Azorean wines their distinct character and the traditional vineyard cultivation.
• Afterward, indulge in a delicious lunch at our culinary studio, where you'll feast on local cheese, finger food, and wines. Then, visit a charming family-owned winery where passionate wine lovers will guide you through the winemaking process, learning about age-old techniques and the modern innovations that create these exquisite wines.

From 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM 

• Explore the volcanic crater of Sete Cidades, marveling at the stunning views of lakes and sea while traversing thrilling off-road paths for moments of excitement and adrenaline.

Suggestion for the day:

• A Whale & Dolphin Watching Excursion on the Islands' North Shore: Known for its unruly seas, the north coast presents challenges that make this expedition an authentic adventure. From assessing the conditions of the sea to the moment when the spotter gives the order to leave, this activity celebrates the memory of the first whale-watching trips in our archipelago, having as a starting point the fishing village of Rabo de Peixe.
• 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.

Thank you for choosing us! We hope you had an incredible time.