Taste of the Azores: São Miguel's Food, Culture & Nature

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1Saturday: Arrival in São Miguel Island

   

   Welcome to the Azores, São Miguel Island! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   *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: Explore Downtown Ponta Delgada

   It’s time to explore Ponta Delgada, the main city, that beckons not only with its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere but also with its status as the economic heart of the archipelago. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 

   Don’t Miss:

   • Simply Stroll Through Ponta Delgada’s Cobblestone Streets: Start your São Miguel discovery with a stroll along Ponta Delgada's charming city streets. Admire the architecture, from historical buildings to colorful houses. Peek into local shops and soak in the atmosphere.
   • Portas da Cidade: Standing proudly at the entrance to Ponta Delgada, the Portas da Cidade (City Gates) serves as a symbolic gateway to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. 
   • Matriz Church: Visit the impressive Matriz Church, a beautiful example of Azorean religious architecture right in the city center.
   • Pineapple Paradise: Embark on a unique adventure to a nearby pineapple plantation. Learn about the island's pineapple production, witness these fascinating plants, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing pineapple treat.
2. Day 2Sunday: Food Tour & Dinner with Locals (Included)

   Sunday Food Tour (10 AM - 1 PM)

   Start your exploration with a delectable journey through Ponta Delgada! This 2.5-hour tour combines delicious food samples at local spots with captivating stories about Azorean culture and the city's rich history.

   Sample a variety of Azorean specialties as you explore charming eateries and food shops. Learn about local ingredients, culinary traditions, and the connection to the islands' unique lifestyle. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ponta Delgada through insightful commentary from your guide. Hear historical anecdotes, fun facts, and hidden secrets of the city as you explore its architectural landmarks.

   Conclude your tour with a multi-course Volcanic Gourmet meal at a renowned fine-dining restaurant. This exclusive experience features dishes prepared on hot lava stone – a truly unique Azorean culinary adventure!

   What's Included:

   • Chef's volcanic meal, cooked on a hot lava stone
   • Artisanal dessert
   • Food sampling during the tour
   • Azorean Loose-leaf tea
   • Fresh artisanal pastry
   • 2 drinks of choice (soda, beer, wine)

    

   Dinner with Locals (7 PM - 10 PM)

   Go beyond the tourist path and immerse yourself in Azorean culture with this exclusive private experience. Visit a local home and connect with friendly islanders who will welcome you like family.

   Over a delicious 4-course meal featuring Azorean specialties and local wines, you'll gain a firsthand perspective on island life. Engage in lively conversation with your hosts, learning about their traditions, customs, and the unique challenges and rewards of living in the Azores. Hear stories about growing up on these beautiful islands, from the everyday joys to the inspiring resilience.

   This intimate experience offers an authentic glimpse into Azorean culture, creating lasting memories that go far beyond a typical tourist encounter!

   More details:

   • 4-course meal and local wines and beverages included;
   • The menu will be agreed upon beforehand;
   • This experience is always private;
   • Hosts speak English fluently;
   • Vegetarian options are available.
3. Day 3Monday: Furnas Night Thermal Bath & Dinner (Included)

   

   Suggestion for your free morning & afternoon: Immerse yourself in a floral paradise and explore Nordeste

   Unveil the secrets of São Miguel on a captivating full-day journey to Nordeste! Unveil the natural wonders of Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park, where cascading waterfalls and dramatic landscapes steal the show. Witness breathtaking ocean vistas from the iconic Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, a photographer's dream. Savor a delicious local lunch before exploring the charming historic center of Vila do Nordeste. Escape the crowds and discover the hidden treasures of Nordeste.

    

   Furnas Night Thermal Bath & Dinner (6 PM - 11:30 PM)

   Escape the daytime crowds and bask in the mystical atmosphere of Furnas' thermal waters at night. Imagine soaking in naturally heated pools under a canopy of stars – a truly magical experience.

   Your journey begins with a breathtaking stop at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, where you'll marvel at the panoramic vista of the Furnas volcanic crater. Afterward, we'll whisk you away to the renowned Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths. These naturally warm waters are believed to possess therapeutic properties, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate.

   After soaking in the thermal bliss, we'll savor a delicious dinner at one of our trusted restaurants in Furnas. This authentic culinary experience will tantalize your taste buds and complete your evening of pure relaxation.

4. Day 4Tuesday: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo (Included)

   

   Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo (9 AM - 5 PM)

   Embark on a captivating journey that explores the diverse beauty of São Miguel's western half. This comprehensive tour encompasses a variety of must-see sights, offering breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and a taste of local cuisine.

   Start your adventure with a visit to a pineapple plantation near Ponta Delgada. Learn about the unique cultivation process of this iconic Azorean fruit, a delicious introduction to the island's agricultural heritage.

   Venture beyond the city limits and delve into the volcanic wonders of Sete Cidades. Discover hidden crater lakes of captivating beauty and marvel at panoramic island views like the "King's View," a postcard-perfect panorama of the main Sete Cidades lake.

   Savor a delicious lunch featuring authentic Azorean cuisine before continuing your journey westward. Reach the island's westernmost point, where the rugged beauty of Mosteiros awaits. Enjoy a scenic drive along the dramatic northern coast, pausing at breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the island's most impressive cliffs.

   Immerse yourself in the lush vegetation and thermal wonders of Caldeira Velha, a truly exotic natural oasis. Conclude your day with a visit to Fogo Lake, the island's most secluded and pristine body of water, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

5. Day 5Wednesday: Whale Watching (Included)

   

   Whale Watching (8:30 AM - 11:30 AM)

   Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Atlantic in search of majestic whales and playful dolphins. Our half-day whale-watching trips depart from the southern coast of São Miguel, strategically positioned to maximize your chances of encountering these magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat.

   Experienced captains and knowledgeable guides will lead the way, employing specialized techniques to locate whales and dolphins. As you sail along, keep your eyes peeled for breaches, playful leaps, and the awe-inspiring sight of a whale's tail disappearing into the deep blue. This is more than just a sightseeing adventure. Our crew is passionate about marine conservation and will share fascinating insights into the lives of these remarkable creatures. Learn about their behavior, habitats, and the importance of protecting our precious oceans.

   In a few short hours, you'll create memories that will last a lifetime. Witnessing these majestic animals in their natural environment is a truly humbling experience - Prepare to be amazed!

    

   Suggestion for your free afternoon: Hot Pool in a Pineapple Greenhouse at Herdade do Ananás

   Immerse yourself in a relaxing dip at a 12-square-meter pool nestled amidst a captivating pineapple plantation. The luxuriously warm water (36º C/96º F degrees) and the unique atmosphere of the greenhouse create a haven of tranquility. Let the soothing waterfall lull you into a state of pure relaxation. Afterward, embark on a guided pineapple tour led by an expert (5 pm, 20-30 minutes). Learn about the fascinating process of cultivating this unique Azorean fruit and capture a memorable photo amidst the lush pineapple plants.

6. Day 6Thursday: Azorean Cheese & Wine Experience (Included)

   

   Suggestion for your free morning: Choose from a variety of incredible hikes & explore the island's diverse landscapes on foot!

   Hikes recommended by our team:

   • Serra Devassa: Explore a volcanic wonderland on this hike. Traverse a network of trails that wind past volcanic cones and serene lakes, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's fiery past (3 miles, 2 hours, medium difficulty).
   • Moinho do Félix: This hike leads you past hidden waterfalls, lush Laurissilva forest, and the ruins of an old mill, offering a captivating blend of nature, history, and stunning coastal vistas (3 miles, 2 hours, medium difficulty).
   • Salto do Cabrito: Ascend through verdant forests and volcanic landscapes, culminating at a breathtaking and dramatic waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool – perfect for a refreshing dip after conquering the climb! (5.2 miles, 2.5 hours, medium difficulty).

    

   Azorean Cheese & Wine Experience (5 PM - 7 PM)

   Sample a selection of six artisanal cheeses, each bursting with unique flavors and textures, produced on different islands across the Azores. Pair these with three carefully chosen wines - a fortified wine, a table wine, and a spirit - for a truly harmonious exploration of the archipelago's renowned cheese and winemaking traditions. Homemade jams, nuts, and seasonal fruits will further enhance your tasting experience.

   Your guide will provide insightful commentary throughout the evening, revealing the fascinating history and production methods behind each cheese and wine. Learn about the Azores' rich agricultural heritage and discover the islands' unique connection to Portuguese wine regions. Indulge in the delicious foods - This is your chance to connect with Azorean culture through the language of food and drink. (Non-alcoholic beverages are available upon request. Alcoholic beverages are served generously, with a focus on responsible consumption.)

   Includes:

   • 6 artisanal cheeses
   • 1 fortified wine
   • 2 table wines
   • 1 spirit
   • Assorted condiments
   • Dessert
7. Day 7Friday: Farewell Fado Dinner (Included)

   

   Suggestions for your free morning & afternoon: Discover museums or relax at the beach

   • Visit Ponta Delgada's Museums, such as the Carlos Machado Museum (including Núcleo de Arte Sacra and Núcleo de Santo André) or the Museu Militar dos Açores at São Brás Fortress;
   • Relax at a beach nearby beach or a natural swimming pool, like Pesqueiro or Praia do Pópulo/Milícias beaches.

    

   Farewell Fado Dinner (8 PM - 11 PM)

   Immerse yourself in the heart of Portugal with an unforgettable evening of fado and flavors. Indulge in a traditional Portuguese dinner as the captivating melodies of fado fill the air, transporting you to the soul of this vibrant culture.

   Your culinary journey begins with a selection of mouthwatering appetizers. Savor an array of flavored cheeses, tangy olives, and a rich tuna paté, all served with fresh bread – the perfect way to awaken your taste buds. For your main course, experience the quintessential Portuguese dish, Bacalhau na Telha. This delectable creation features confit cod loin and breaded cod, accompanied by a comforting medley of English and sweet potatoes. Then, indulge in a traditional house dessert, the perfect sweet note to complete your delightful dining experience.

   More Details:

   • We understand that dietary needs vary. For those seeking alternatives, we offer a regional-style steak and a vegetarian lasagna.
   • Please let us know in advance if you require any substitutions.
   • Drinks are not included, allowing you to choose the perfect beverage to complement your meal and personal preferences.
8. Day 8Saturday: Return Flight Home

   

   We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

   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!