The Triangle Islands: 10-Day Island Hopping

Suggestion for the day: Conquering Pico Mountain

Pico Island offers a thrilling adventure for those seeking to challenge themselves – scaling the majestic Pico Mountain, the highest peak in Portugal at an impressive 2,351 meters (7,713 feet). This itinerary outlines three exciting options to tackle this volcanic giant, catering to different preferences and experience levels.

• Day Climb: A challenging but rewarding full-day hike (morning to afternoon)
• Night Climb: Summit Pico at sunrise after a thrilling night climb, then descend with renewed energy under the morning light.
• Overnight Experience: Spend an unforgettable night within Pico's volcanic crater: climb by day, stargaze at night, and witness a breathtaking sunrise from the summit before your descent.

Other Hiking Options

While Pico Mountain offers an impressive challenge, Pico Island boasts a wealth of hiking experiences for those seeking a more relaxed pace. Here are some captivating options to explore the island's stunning landscapes:

 Lajido da Ponta da Ilha

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 3.5 km (roundtrip)
• Description: Embark on a scenic coastal trail along the westernmost tip of Pico Island. Witness dramatic lava formation and breathtaking vast ocean views. Keep an eye out for nesting seabirds and the occasional pod of dolphins frolicking offshore.

Caminho dos Burros

• Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Description: Known as the "Donkey Path," this trail traverses the island’s central highlands, providing a mix of volcanic landscapes and lush forests.

Vinhas da Criação Velha

• Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Description: Walk through the unique landscape of the Criação Velha vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where grapes are cultivated in basaltic rock enclosures.

Welcome to São Jorge 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.

Suggestion for the day: Explore the City of Velas

This itinerary provides a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend your arrival day, exploring the charming town of Velas and soaking in the island's natural beauty.

• Downtown Velas: Embark on a leisurely stroll through the heart of Velas. Admire the colorful houses and traditional architecture. Take in the relaxed atmosphere and friendly vibes of this island town.
• República Garden: Seek a moment of tranquility at the República Garden (Jardim da República). 
• Natural Swimming Pools: In the afternoon, head to one of the natural swimming pools tucked along the coast of  Velas. Popular options include Poça da Preguiça or Poça do Morro. 
• Ponta dos Rosais: If time permits, venture out to Ponta dos Rosais, the westernmost tip of the island. Witness the dramatic coastline and visit the old lighthouse offering panoramic views.

Suggestion for the day: Explore the Beauty of São Jorge

This island stuns with hidden waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and natural pools begging to be explored. Hike volcanic peaks for panoramic views, discover unique coffee plantations and indulge in the famed Queijo São Jorge cheese. São Jorge Island offers a charming escape for nature lovers and adventurers.

Don’t Miss: 

• Fajã dos Cubres: Explore this picturesque fajã, a coastal plain formed by volcanic activity, offering stunning views of cliffs and lush greenery. 
• Coffee Plantation at Fajã dos Vimes: Learn about the fascinating process of coffee cultivation on the island and indulge in a tasting of their locally-grown coffee.
• Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo: Drive to Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo, renowned for its dramatic beauty and serene environment. Embark on a hike through the fajã, discovering the unique ecosystem and the captivating caldeira.
• Pico da Esperança: Visit the highest point on São Jorge Island. Witness breathtaking panoramic views encompassing the entire island and neighboring Pico Island. 
• Poça Simão Dias: Unwind after a day of exploration at Poça Simão Dias, a natural swimming pool on the southern coast. 

Welcome to São Miguel Island, for the last part of your trip! 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.

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.

Suggestions for the day: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Lakes or Furnas

São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are two of its most captivating gems. Today, embark on a journey through volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and charming villages, and discover the essence of this enchanting island.

• Sete Cidades (A Realm of Twin Lakes): Begin your adventure in Sete Cidades, a village nestled within a vast volcanic crater. As you descend into the caldera, prepare to be awestruck by the sight of Lagoa das Sete Cidades a mesmerizing twin-lake complex. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping crater full of lakes has become one of the signature and most famous images of the Azores. 
• Mosteiros & Ferraria: Venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a photographer's paradise known for its breathtaking sunsets. As you explore the western region, don't miss the chance to rejuvenate at Ferraria's unique ocean thermal baths. Remember, these thermal pools are best enjoyed during low tide when warm spring water mixes with the ocean for a truly luxurious experience. 
• Lagoa do Fogo (A Crater Lake of Tranquility): Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into "Lagoon of Fire", is a crater lake at the center of São Miguel Island. This Protected Natural Reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far from the whir, hum, and hurry of civilization below. 
• Caldeira Velha Hot Springs: Caldeira Velha is an official natural monument, and the best thing about this lovely locale is not even the thermal pools (although they are divine), but rather the verdant vegetation. Visitors will find that Caldeira Velha is so lush and tropical, that you’ll almost find it hard to believe you are even in Portugal.

You can also dedicate this day to the thermal hot spot of the Azores instead! Furnas Valley is the center of São Miguel's unique geothermal activity. Here you can visit two active volcanic sites to see the boiling calderas in action, as well as the gorgeous Terra Nostra Park and so much more.

Don’t Miss:

• Lagoa das Furnas: Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails around the lake, as well as several beautiful parks and the iconic Neo-Gothic Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias.
• Cozido das Furnas Lunch: A longstanding tradition among the locals, this beloved popular dish is a Portuguese stew (cozido) cooked in holes known as fumaroles that are dug in the hot volcanic soil in Furnas. 
• Caldeiras das Furnas: In the center of town, Furnas boasts close to 30 bubbling, steaming calderas and fumaroles of different temperatures and biological compositions, the strong smell of sulfur wafting through the air at every turn. 
• Terra Nostra Park: Terra Nostra Park is one of the Azores’ main attractions and with good reason. From its super cool thermal pools to its lavish and rich botanical gardens, Terra Nostra is at the top of every tourist’s itinerary. 
• Poça da Dona Beija: Also located in Furnas is the lovely Poça da Dona Beija, which offers visitors an exotic and unique array of six natural thermal pools. Each of Poça da Dona Beija’s pools rests at different temperatures, making it possible for every single person to find their perfect fit. 
• Gorreana Tea Plantations: Immerse yourself in history and nature at Gorreana Tea Plantations, Europe's oldest still-operating tea farm (established in 1883). Explore verdant fields, breathe in the fresh scent of tea leaves, and learn the secrets behind Azores' world-renowned tea.

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!