Portugal: The Azores Islands

Bom dia, and welcome to Ponta Delgada, the gateway to the Azores! As the largest city in the archipelago, Ponta Delgada blends centuries of history with a lively contemporary spirit, offering a perfect introduction to São Miguel’s unique culture and charm. We’ll begin with a Welcome Meeting at 10AM before we set off on a guided walking tour that traces the soul of this Atlantic island capital. Our first stop is the Mercado da Graça, the city’s beloved farmers’ market. From here, we’ll stroll toward the Marina, where sleek boats bob in the harbor and the scent of the ocean floats on the breeze. We’ll continue to Portas da Cidade, Ponta Delgada’s famous triple-arched city gates, a relic of its 18th-century heritage. Next, we’ll explore Forte de São Brás, a sea-facing fortress that once defended the island from pirates and invaders. With its cannons still standing guard, this historic site offers sweeping views and a glimpse into the Azores’ strategic past. Later, we’ll wander through São Francisco Square, where the imposing Convento da Nossa Senhora da Esperança watches over the city, then through the Sena Freitas Garden, a peaceful urban oasis that showcases the elegant Palácio da Conceição. We’ll wrap up our tour at the António Borges Botanical Garden, where winding paths lead through exotic trees, grottoes, and quiet corners. We’ll end the tour with an included lunch at a historic house in the city center, then have the rest of the afternoon free to explore, shop, or relax. This evening, we’ll gather for an included Welcome Dinner.

After breakfast, we’re off to explore São Miguel’s most spectacular natural wonder: the Sete Cidades volcanic complex. We’ll begin at Lagoa do Canário, where our expert guide will provide a short trail briefing before we lace up our hiking boots and step into nature for our 4 mile (6.3 km) hike. The trail unfolds through a scenic network of lakes, including Lagoa das Éguas, the peaceful Lagoa Rasa, and the tranquil Lagoa do Canário itself. As we climb toward Pico das Éguas, the highest point of the Sete Cidades region, we’ll pause to admire panoramic views and learn about the critical role these freshwater sources play in supplying the municipality of Ponta Delgada. One of the highlights along the way is the dramatic Grota do Inferno viewpoint, perched above the vast Caldera of Sete Cidades. From here, we’ll gaze out over a mesmerizing patchwork of lagoons and volcanic ridges. We’ll conclude our hike with a visit to the Vista do Rei. From this breathtaking vantage point, we’ll look down upon the dual-colored lakes cradled in the volcanic crater, a sight that has captured the imagination of travelers for generations. After a catered picnic lunch, we’ll journey to São Miguel’s wild west coast for a relaxing soak in a hot spring-fed pool. Nestled in the coastal cliffs of Ponta da Ferraria, this natural spa is one of the island’s most extraordinary geological treasures. Depending on the tide, water temperatures can range from 65°F (18°C) to 82°F (28°C) – but be mindful! At low tide, near the spring’s source, temperatures can spike up to 140°F (61°C). Afterwards, we’ll return to Ponta Delgada and have the evening and dinner at our leisure.

Today will be an early start, with a 1-hour flight to Faial Island. Upon landing, we’ll journey to one of the most otherworldly landscapes in the Azores: the hauntingly beautiful site of the Capelinhos Volcano. Our visit begins at the Capelinhos Interpretation Centre, a museum built partially underground so as not to disturb the raw volcanic terrain. Inside, we’ll step into the powerful story of the 1957-58 eruption, when an underwater volcano burst to life just off the coast, gradually building new land as ash and lava transformed the shoreline. Through striking exhibits and interactive displays, we’ll learn how this 13-month-long eruption reshaped Faial’s geography and community, prompting nearly half the island’s population to emigrate to North America in search of new beginnings. Later, we’ll enjoy a catered picnic lunch at Capelo Forest Park before heading to Horta to check into our hotel. This afternoon is free to explore the city, go shopping, or relax at the hotel. This evening, we’ll gather at a local restaurant for a delicious included dinner.

Another early morning has us departing the hotel for a 30-minute ferry to Pico Island, where we’ll split off into our two activities: hiking or whale watching.

Pico Mountain Hike: If you fancy a challenge, and don’t have knee or ankle problems, hike to the summit of Portugal’s tallest mountain (2,351m/7,713ft) for stunning views of the archipelago. Enjoy a pre-packed picnic lunch at the summit before descending back down to sea level. PLEASE NOTE: This hike is only recommended for those with hiking experience and above-average fitness.

Ascent / Descent: 1,121m / 3,677ft
Distance: 7.6km/4.7mi
Approximate hiking time: 8 hours

Whale Watching & Vineyard Visit: Enjoy a laid-back whale-and-dolphin-watching tour in Lajes do Pico. We can’t guarantee cetacean sightings, but look for turtles, seabirds, and other marine mammals. Back on land, we’ll chow down on an included lunch at a local restaurant. We’ll continue on a scenic drive along Pico Island’s stunning south coast, heading toward Madalena and the vineyards of Criação Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our guide will share the story behind Pico’s wine culture, its enduring connection to the land, and the centuries-old techniques that make this place unlike any other wine region in the world. Later, we’ll pause at a natural ocean pool carved into the lava rock, offering spectacular views across the channel to Faial Island. With a rustic stone bar nearby and the sound of waves lapping against the shore, it’s the perfect spot to relax, take a refreshing dip, and soak in the serene beauty of the Azores. PLEASE NOTE: it is important that you let us know if you have any back problems, as there are some restrictions on the boat tour. 

Later this afternoon, we’ll reunite and board the ferry back to Faial for an included dinner.

Rise and shine! This morning, we’ll head to the airport for a 1-hour morning flight back to São Miguel island. Upon landing, we’ll visit a local farm that blends tradition, sustainability, and Azorean hospitality. We’ll start with a guided walk around the property to learn about the farm’s history, its deep-rooted connection to the land, and the agricultural practices that have shaped life here for generations. As we explore, we’ll see how the rhythms of the seasons influence everything from the crops in the fields to the ingredients in the kitchen. Then, it’s time to gather at the dining area, where a thoughtfully curated seasonal tasting menu awaits. Each dish is crafted using fresh ingredients and paired with local vintages to complement and elevate every bite. This afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel in Furnas and have some time to get settled and relax before we gather for a fantastic, included dinner.

Our morning begins with an included breakfast before a leisurely guided stroll through the charming village of Furnas. We’ll stop at the local market to shop for fresh, regional ingredients needed to prepare a beloved Azorean classic: the Furnas cozido. Then, we’ll head back to our hotel’s kitchen for a hands-on cooking class. But here’s the twist: although we’re preparing dinner, it’s still morning! Why? Because this meal is cooked slowly underground, using only the natural steam from the Earth’s core. After prepping our dish, we’ll head to the Caldeiras, where local chefs and families have been cooking this way for generations. We’ll lower our pot into a steaming geothermal oven and leave it to slow-cook for the next six hours. With dinner simmering beneath our feet, we’ll settle in for a lakeside picnic lunch with stunning views of Lagoa das Furnas, a peaceful volcanic crater lake surrounded by forested hills. This afternoon, we’ll continue our exploration of Furnas’ geothermal wonders with a guided thermal green tea tasting. But this isn’t your ordinary cup of tea. Here, we’ll discover how three different types of naturally occurring mineral waters are used to brew local green tea. As we sip, we’ll learn how mineral content can subtly shift the tea’s flavor, aroma, and even color. Later, we’ll enjoy some free time before we unveil our homemade cozido for tonight’s included dinner.

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind at the hotel, stroll through Furnas, or revisit a favourite spot from earlier in the journey, the day is wide open for exploration and relaxation. This evening, we’ll gather one final time for our Farewell Dinner, a delicious, heartfelt send-off to an incredible tour of the Azores Islands.

After an included breakfast, guests will enjoy a complimentary transfer to the airport. Safe travels home, and até à vista!