The Azores: São Miguel & Faial
Join us as we explore volcanic landscapes and immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of the Azores!
What's Included?
Why we love this deal:
- It offers incredible value for anyone looking to escape from everyday life and explore some stunning beauty in nature. Imagine feeling immersed in wild landscapes surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant local culture – it's hard not to fall in love.
- Opportunity to Explore Neighboring Islands: From Faial, take advantage of the time and opportunity to visit the neighboring islands of Pico and São Jorge. Discover their unique landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary beauty, adding an extra dimension to your Azorean adventure.
- Vibrant Azorean Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Azores, from Horta's historical marine to São Miguel's tea plantations.
- Convenient and Hassle-Free: Our travel package takes care of the details, providing you with seamless logistics and comfortable accommodations ensuring a stress-free and memorable vacation.
- Customizable: Add more nights to your stay, a rental car or even local excursions.
Itinerary
We recommend booking airport transfers or reserving a car rental (available during the booking process).
Suggestion for the day:
- Take the afternoon to stroll around Horta’s quaint city streets.
Highlights:
- Marina da Horta
- Peter Café Sport
- Nossa Senhora da Conceição Viewpoint
- Monte da Guia
- São Salvador Church
- Porto Pim Bay
- Santa Cruz Fort
- The View Across the Bay to Pico Island
Suggestion for the day:
Highlights:
- Caldeira do Faial
- North Beach
- Capelinhos Volcano Site & Lighthouse
- Almoxarife Beach
- Windmills
- Ribeirinha Village (São Mateus Church)
Suggestion for the day (Pico Full-Day Tour):
- Embark on a captivating tour of Pico Island, starting in Madalena and heading to São Mateus to visit the Sanctuary of "Bom Jesus Milagroso".
- Admire exquisite handicrafts at the House of Regional Crafts.
- Enjoy lunch with local specialties at a nearby restaurant.
- Visit Lajes do Pico - famously known as “Vila Baleeira”- followed by Captain's Lagoon along Portugal's northern coast.
- Explore Sao Roque’s commercial pier before returning through Mistério das Bandeiras volcanic landscape.
- Marvel at iconic rock formations including fascinating tunnels and caves such as Cachorro dos Arcos!
Suggestion for the day (São Jorge Full-Day Tour):
- Explore the breathtaking sights of Velas viewpoint and Urzelina
- Visit Manadas' Igreja de Santa Barbara
- Learn about cheese-making and sample fresh cheese at an Azores factory
- Take an excursion around Rosais village and Sete Fontes park
- Admire Faial, Pico & Graciosa from Pico da Velha peak
We recommend booking airport transfers or reserving a car rental (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.
Not to miss:
- Portas da Cidade
- Louvre Michaelense
- Pineapple Plantations
- Matriz Church
Suggestion for the day (Sete Cidades):
- Embark on a captivating journey to Sete Cidades, home to enchanting landscapes including Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa do Canário, and the awe-inspiring Boca do Inferno Viewpoint. While there, don't miss the chance to experience the magical sunset in the neighboring village of Mosteiros. And for the ultimate indulgence, treat yourself to a soothing ocean thermal bath at Ferraria, located in the western part of the island.
Suggestion for the day (Lagoa do Fogo & Furnas):
- Discover São Miguel's captivating north side, home to the stunning Lagoa do Fogo Reserve. Relax in Caldeira Velha's thermal pools and marvel at the majestic Salto do Cabrito waterfall. Continue to Furnas, where Porto Formoso and Gorreana Tea Plantations await. Explore the lake, Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, Grená Park, and Terra Nostra Park. Rejuvenate in Dona Beija hot springs and savor local delicacies like cozido das Furnas.
Suggestion for the day (Hiking Adventure):
- The Azores, a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, beckon with their awe-inspiring landscapes and thrilling experiences. Embark on an exhilarating hiking journey to uncover the islands' hidden treasures. Whether you choose to join an official Azores hiking tour led by knowledgeable local guides or venture out on your own, over 60 well-maintained trails await, ensuring a safe and rewarding walking experience. Discover the Azores at your own pace, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you.
Recommended hikes:
*itinerary presented is a suggestion and the length of stay may vary. All tours are suggestions unless specifically stated.
Flexibility Policy
About the Destination:
The Azores Islands are an unexpected pleasure and a stepping stone into Europe" says the New York Times. They are indeed a real pleasure and a pristine destination unspoiled by mass tourism. Discover two of the most prominent islands of the Azores archipelago, São Miguel and Faial, with this exclusive deal.
São Miguel Island
São Miguel is the largest and most populated island of the Azores. It is called the "ilha verde" (green island) for its lush landscape, green pastures and forests of laurel and cedar. Visit the only tea plantation in Europe, marvel at the beauty of the extinct volcanos and lakes, soak in hot springs surrounded by nature, and enjoy a thermally cooked meal in Furnas. Be dazzled by the awe-inspiring views of the island and its volcanic activity. As an eco-tourist's paradise São Miguel offers a variety of hiking trails, water sports and activities (whale-watching, diving, surfing). Have an exquisite meal in one of Ponta Delgada's fine restaurants and enjoy a nice walk on its seaside avenue.
Faial Island
An island aptly deemed “The Blue Island” of the nine Azorean islands for the rich blue hue of the robust hydrangeas dotting each roadway and farmland, Faial Island is teeming with Azorean heritage, unbounded botanical gardens and caldeiras, and access to the Atlantic’s best seawater activities. Anchored by the city and port of Horta on the southeast side of the island, Faial abounds with opportunity for both adventure and relaxation; hike the rim of the vast Calderia nature reserve located in the center of the island, venture out to the Capelinhos Volcano where the lush greenery gives way to a rough and intriguingly grey terrain that will have travelers feel as if they’ve been transported to an otherworldly locale; set sail with Noberto Diving to experience whale and dolphin watching just off the island’s coasts; and of course, raise a glass at Peter Café Sport, an iconic watering hole in the port of Horta welcoming transient travelers, weathered whalers, and visiting sailors for a century. And of course, no trip to Faial would be complete without one of its finest features, the striking view of Mount Pico across the Faial-Pico Channel, accessible at most every lookout.
Check out our Azores Travel Guide for more informations and tips.
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