Sao Miguel Island Highlights

Upon arrival at São Miguel Airport, make your way to the arrivals hall where a representative will be waiting to assist you. We will then take you on a shared transfer to your hotel for check-in. Once settled, we suggest exploring the southern streets towards the sea, leading you into the heart of Ponta Delgada. Here, you will find Pra?a Gon?alo Velho Cabral, a striking square featuring its own statue. Just behind it, the Portas da Cidade?a noble monument with three arches?marks the historic entrance to Ponta Delgada as the island's main city. Beyond the arches, wander through narrow streets lined with traditional shops, caf's, restaurants and banks, offering a glimpse of local life. If you prefer to stay along the main avenue, head to Portas do Mar, the island's newest waterfront development supporting the dock and cruise ship port. This platform above the sea is a popular spot to relax, enjoy a coffee, local beer or cocktail while watching the bay. Overnight in Ponta Delgada.

After an early breakfast, we set off on a full-day 4x4 tour exploring some of São Miguel's most remarkable sites. We begin at around 09:00 with a visit to the rim of Sete Cidades caldera, where you can admire the striking contrast between the green and blue lakes from several viewpoints. Next, we head to Ponta da Ferraria, a unique spot where you can take a dip in naturally heated Atlantic waters warmed by volcanic activity?perfect when the tide is low. Lunch is included at a local restaurant en route to Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning natural reserve surrounding a volcanic crater. From the summit, you'll enjoy panoramic views of both the island's north and south coasts. Our final stop is Caldeira Velha, home to a warm, iron-rich waterfall where you can relax in thermal waters heated to around 26?C (79?F), set amidst lush forest. We return to Ponta Delgada by late afternoon, having experienced a diverse and captivating introduction to the island's volcanic landscapes.

After breakfast, we collect you from the hotel at around 09:00 for a full day of exploration in the eastern part of the island. This area is known for its active volcanic features, including hot springs and geysers, which demonstrate the island's geothermal activity. We begin with a mountain bike ride on a circular 10.5-kilometre route starting from Furnas village. The trail follows the shores of Lagoa das Furnas and passes through dirt roads around the lake, reaching its highest point at Pico dos Milhos, where you can enjoy views over the village. The route then descends back to the starting point via secondary paths. After the ride, we stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Furnas (included). In the afternoon, we visit Terra Nostra Park, an 18th-century botanical garden renowned for its diverse plant species from around the world. You will be guided on a brief tour through the garden's paths, culminating in a chance to relax in the thermal outdoor pool, warmed by volcanic activity. We return to Ponta Delgada along the island's North Coast, offering a fresh perspective on São Miguel's varied landscape. Overnight in Ponta Delgada.

Enjoy a light breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a day of exploration with a car delivered to your accommodation for your convenience. We suggest heading along the south coast towards Vila Franca do Campo, making stops at São Rique and Livramento to see their three distinctive black sand beaches, and Lagoa with its natural swimming pools. In ?gua de Pau, take the opportunity to enjoy a sunny morning and sample some of the island's finest fish dishes. In the afternoon, join the island's most popular sea excursion ? Whales and Dolphin Watching ? departing from Vila Franca do Campo marina. The briefing begins at 12.15 pm, where you will learn about the local marine species, safety procedures, and the tour itinerary. The guided boat trip lasts approximately three hours, offering impressive coastal views of São Miguel as you search for these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Afterwards, be sure to try the famous Queijadas da Vila ? small, powdered sugar-topped sweet tarts ? available at a nearby bakery above the marina. If the weather is favourable, drive up to the ?Nossa Senhora da Paz? chapel. A short walk to the top rewards you with stunning views over the islet and the town of Vila Franca do Campo, which was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1522. Take a moment to appreciate the panorama and, if timing allows, enjoy the sunset before returning to Ponta Delgada for the night.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting out for your final full day at leisure on the island. We recommend exploring the northern and eastern regions, beginning with a visit to Faj? de Baixo to see the renowned pineapple plantations?an iconic Azorean fruit?with the Arruda plantations being a popular choice. From Ponta Delgada, take the motorway north to Ribeira Grande, the island's second-largest city, where you can explore the historic centre and visit the well-known local liquor factory. Continuing north, you'll come across the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe's largest tea producer, set amidst stunning scenery. Next, head towards Furnas village and stop at Pico do Ferro viewpoint for a striking panorama over Furnas Lake. Descend to the lakeshore to observe the geothermal activity?fields dotted with steaming vents and bubbling holes, some covered with wooden lids. Return to Furnas village and stroll or drive along the scenic promenade to the Caldeiras geysers area, where you can experience the island's volcanic activity through the smell of sulphur and the sight of boiling springs. Complete your day with dinner at Tony's Restaurant, the most traditional eatery in Furnas, where your booking is confirmed and ready for you. Overnight in Ponta Delgada.

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before driving to the airport. Please allow at least two hours for car return and check-in ahead of your flight. We hope the experiences and memories from your time here will stay with you long after you leave.