São Miguel & Porto: 15-Day Guided Adventure

09:30AM - 12:00PM: Ponta Delgada City Tour 

This tour takes place in what is considered the "capital" of São Miguel Island – the city of Ponta Delgada. During this tour, we will discover the main historical, cultural, and noteworthy sites of this wonderful city.

Highlights of this tour include:

• Old churches and convents
• Monument of Portas da Cidade 
• Pineapple plantations (* if not possible during the City Tour, this visit will take place during the Full-Day Tour of Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo)
• Historical Beautiful gardens
• São Brás Fortress and São Francisco square

9AM - 5PM: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour

A full-day tour that takes you to the two most famous lagoons of São Miguel Island. 

Sete Cidades: One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping, lake-filled crater has become one of the signature and most famous images of the Azores. There are (amazingly) 11 lakes in total scattered around Sete Cidades, but they can only be seen from certain angles from the various miradouros (viewpoints in Portuguese) in the area. 

Lagoa do Fogo: Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into "Lagoon of Fire", is a crater lake located at the center of São Miguel Island. This protected nature reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far above the whir, hum, and hurry of civilization below. 

Highlights of this tour include:

• Pineapple plantations (* if already visited during the City Tour, it will be substituted for a different point of interest)
• Escalvado viewpoint (offering a magical view to Mosteiros)
• Sete Cidades parish
• Santiago lagoon
• Vista do Rei viewpoint (overlooking the most famous lagoons of Sete Cidades) 
• Pico do Carvão
• Lunch at a local restaurant 
• Local ceramics factory (Cerâmica Vieira)
• Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint
• Ribeira Grande city center, with a visit to the local liquor shop

9AM - 5PM: Furnas Tour

Furnas Valley is famous worldwide for its bubbling caldeiras and hot springs, where visitors can relax while soaking in a thermal bath any time of year, but this mystical volcanic valley is full of many more interesting surprises. 

Highlights of this tour include: 

• Vila Franca do Campo (offering a viewpoint to the iconic islet)
• Furnas Lake (here, learn how the famous "cozido" dish is cooked underground by heat from the actual volcanic vents!)
• Furnas parish (you will have free time to bathe in the thermal waters here, or visit the Terra Nostra Garden)
• Cozido lunch 
• Visit Furnas "calderas" to see the volcanic activity
• Pico do Ferro viewpoint
• Tea Factory
• Santa Iria Viewpoint

Please note: Terra Nostra Park and/or Dona Beija entrance fees (8€-10€ each) are not included. Also, it is advised that you bring dark-colored bathing suits, an old towel, and a change of clothes (bathing in the thermal waters is known to stain fabrics). And blondes who dye their hair are cautioned to close pay attention as well, as the waters here contain iron and can stain hair the lighter hair pigments.

08:30AM - 12:30PM: Whale & Dolphin Watching Excursion

Take the opportunity to observe some of the dozens of cetacean species that are usually seen in the Azores. While nature is indeed wild, and offers no guarantees, whales and dolphins are regularly seen during our half-day tours. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to observe turtles, birds, and other marine species. Before you embark on the boat trip, expert biologists hold a small informative talk to explain which cetacean species can be observed, the safety measures and protocols for behavior on board – including how we respect animals and what the rules for observation at sea are. You will even learn some fascinating historical facts.

Suggestion for the day:

• Azorean 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. 

Suggestion for the day:

• Sanguinho Salto do Prego Waterfall + Furnas: We start this tour by going to a beautiful view called "Salto do Cavalo" where we can overlook Furnas and Povoação. Then we visit Povoação village - the oldest on the Island - and then we go to Faial da Terra, where the trail starts. This is a beautiful hike inside a valley, once attacked several times by pirates and you will get to see a hidden small village "camouflaged" in the beautiful nature. During this hiking trail, you will also get the chance to see and/or swim on a breathtaking natural waterfall. After the hike, we will go to Furnas where you can relax and bathe in the hot springs (entrance fee not included - from 8€ to 10€ per person).

Enjoy included airport transfers for your arrival and departure. For your comfort, consider booking an early check-in in advance.

Suggestion for the day:

• Take the day to explore your hotel facilities and the surrounding area.

9AM - 1PM 

• Uncover the captivating tales behind Porto's main attractions, including the iconic São Bento station.
• Includes a visit to a prestigious port wine cellar, where you'll indulge in a wine tasting.

8PM - 11PM

• Enjoy a delectable dinner accompanied by a captivating Fado performance in a typical and traditional House of Fados in Porto. Experience the timeless essence of this UNESCO Intangible Heritage firsthand.

08AM - 6PM

• Experience the rich wine culture of the Douro Valley with a visit to its most famous Wine Estates and tast their delicious Port Wines.
• Delight in authentic lunch served on a picturesque family wine estate, offering stunning views of the vineyards.
• Enjoy a scenic cruise in Pinhão, immersing yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.

8:45AM - 5:45PM

• Braga, known as the "Rome of Portugal," is a city steeped in religious significance and ancient charm.You'll love visiting the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte Church! 
• Guimarães, recognized as the "Birthplace of Portugal," holds a special place in the nation's history. As you wander through its medieval streets, you'll feel transported back in time. Visit the imposing Guimarães Castle, a symbol of the country's foundation, and explore the well-preserved historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Santiago de Compostela, Spain, one of the most important religious destinations in the world, where the majestic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral awaits with its awe-inspiring architecture and rich spiritual significance.

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Aveiro: Experience the charm of Aveiro, often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," with its picturesque canals, colorful Moliceiro boats, and stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Indulge in delicious local cuisine, including the famous Ovos Moles, and explore the beautiful sandy beaches along the Costa Nova.

Wishing you a safe and cozy flight back, and eagerly look forward to exploring more adventures with you in the near future!