Itinerary
- Day 1
Ponta Delgada
Get settled into your place and spend the day checking out Ponta Delgada's center. You'll walk around the old streets, see the City Gates and São Sebastião Square, then head to Lagoa das Empadadas lake for something a bit quieter. Fort São Brás is next if you're interested in the naval museum, and you can finish up at a local pineapple plantation to see how they grow the fruit.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Pousada da Vila)
Optional Activities
- Wander through the picturesque streets of Ponta Delgada, admiring historic buildings and traditional architecture
- Visit the iconic Portas da Cidade (City Gates) and explore São Sebastião Square surrounded by churches
- Discover the tranquil beauty of Lagoa das Empadadas lake
- Explore Fort São Brás historic fortress and visit the naval museum
- Indulge at Plantação Ananases A Arruda pineapple plantation to taste pineapple treats and drinks
- Savor authentic local cuisine in a charming restaurant
Landmarks/POIs Portas da Cidade (City Gates) São Sebastião Square Lagoa das Empadadas Fort São Brás Plantação Ananases A Arruda 
- Day 2
Seven Cities Lake & Ferraria
Start at Seven Cities Lake where the water shifts between emerald and deep blue, with volcanic mountains all around it. Vista do Rei is a good spot for views, and from there you'll head to Ferraria for the geothermal thermal baths where warm water meets the ocean. After that, swim at Piscinas Naturais 'Caneiros' in the volcanic pools to wrap up the day.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Pousada da Vila)
Optional Activities
- Experience stunning panoramic views of the three crater lakes from Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
- Marvel at the iconic twin lakes of Lagoa das Sete Cidades with blue and green waters from viewpoints like Vista do Rei
- Stroll across the longest bridge on the Azores with fantastic photo opportunities and walk to Igreja de São Nicolau
- Relax and rejuvenate in the unique natural sea spa of Termas da Ferraria with warm thermal springs blending with ocean water
- Swim at Piscinas Naturais 'Caneiros', a black sand beach with natural volcanic pools and vibrant bars
Landmarks/POIs Lagoa das Sete Cidades Vista do Rei Miradouro da Boca do Inferno Igreja de São Nicolau Termas da Ferraria Piscinas Naturais 'Caneiros' 
- Day 3
Caldeira Velha or Salto do Cabrito
You've got options here. Either spend time at Parque da Caldeira Velha relaxing in the hot springs and natural pools surrounded by green vegetation, or tackle the 8.5 km trek to Salto do Cabrito waterfall which has thermal spots along the route. If you do the hike, you can warm up in hot springs near the base afterward.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Pousada da Vila)
Optional Activities
- Relax and soak in the natural hot springs and geothermal pools at Parque da Caldeira Velha surrounded by beautiful, lush nature
- Explore the scenic trails within Parque da Caldeira Velha, discovering the unique geothermal beauty of the Azores
- Embark on an invigorating 8.5 km trek to the stunning Salto do Cabrito waterfall and swim in its refreshing, albeit cold, waters
- Discover thermal elements along the hiking path to Salto do Cabrito with insights into the island's volcanic activity
- Warm up and unwind in the thermal waters of Termas das Caldeiras after your waterfall trek
Landmarks/POIs Parque da Caldeira Velha Salto do Cabrito Termas das Caldeiras 
- Day 4
Furnas, Parque Terra Nostra & Gorreana Tea Factory
This morning you're in Furnas, which is basically built on geothermal activity with hot springs and mud baths everywhere. You'll see how traditional 'Cozido das Furnas' gets cooked right in the volcanic ground, which is a pretty unique meal. Then walk through Parque Terra Nostra botanical garden with its thermal lake, and finish at Gorreana, Europe's oldest tea factory, where you can tour the plantations and try fresh tea.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Pousada da Vila)
Optional Activities
- Discover the unique geothermal activity of Furnas with thermal springs and bubbling mud baths
- Witness the traditional preparation of 'Cozido das Furnas', a local dish slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of Parque Terra Nostra, a stunning botanical garden with a large thermal lake for swimming and relaxation
- Stroll through the diverse collection of plants and historic architecture within Parque Terra Nostra
- Explore the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, one of Europe's oldest, with a guided tour of the plantation and factory culminating in tea tasting
Landmarks/POIs Furnas Parque Terra Nostra Gorreana Tea Factory 
- Day 5
Northeastern São Miguel
Head to the northeastern part of São Miguel, an area known for its peaceful vibe, waterfalls, and views. You'll find quiet spots and viewpoints where green hills drop down to the Atlantic Ocean. It's a good day if you want to get away from busier areas and just take in the landscape.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Pousada da Vila)
Optional Activities
- Visit Farol do Arnel, the oldest lighthouse on the Azores, offering spectacular views of the rugged coastline and ocean
- Explore the picturesque Ribeira dos Caldeirões with beautiful waterfalls, historic mills, ideal for leisurely walks and photography
- Take in sweeping panoramic views of the coast and surrounding landscape from Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego
- Wander through the vibrant Jardim do Nordeste, a botanical garden showcasing the impressive flora of the Azores
- Step back in time exploring São Jorge, a charming small parish with a historic church and traditional houses
Landmarks/POIs Farol do Arnel Ribeira dos Caldeirões Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego Jardim do Nordeste São Jorge 
- Day 6
Pico da Vara & Ribeira Grande
Hike up to Pico da Vara, the highest point on São Miguel, where you'll get views that stretch way out. After coming down from the summit, you'll head to Ribeira Grande, a coastal town with history and ocean air. Later, soak in the town's natural hot saltwater pools to recover from the hike.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Pousada da Vila)
Optional Activities
- Embark on a rewarding hike to Pico da Vara, the highest peak on São Miguel, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views from the summit
- Discover the protected natural reserve surrounding Pico da Vara, an area of pristine natural beauty
- Unwind and refresh yourself in the natural hot saltwater pools of Ribeira Grande after your hike
- Explore the charming coastal town of Ribeira Grande, known for its historic ambiance and vibrant local life
Landmarks/POIs Pico da Vara Ribeira Grande 
- Day 7
Lagoa do Fogo
Travel to Lagoa do Fogo in the center of São Miguel. This freshwater crater lake has clear water that shifts between blue and green tones. The area around it is mostly untouched with volcanic landscape, and there are several walking trails that lead to viewpoints. It's a good spot for watching sunsets and just taking in the wild surroundings.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Pousada da Vila)
Optional Activities
- Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake known for its clear, vibrant blue and green waters
- Enjoy impressive panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape from elevated viewpoints around the lake
- Explore the various hiking trails leading to stunning vistas of this wild and untouched natural wonder
- Witness a breathtaking sunset over Lagoa do Fogo, painting the sky with unforgettable colors
Landmarks/POIs Lagoa do Fogo - Day 8
Departure
Spend your last morning on São Miguel reflecting on your time here. You've seen misty mountain peaks, dramatic cliffs, and quiet crater lakes over the past few days. Take a moment before you leave to sit with the ocean breeze and salt air, holding onto the memories of what you've done.
