Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Experience the Soul of Sao Miguel Adventure & Rejuvenation in the Azores
Portugal – Azores – Sao Miguel
First, explore the area around Furnas, an enchanting village tucked in the heart of a caldera, which owes its reputation to its therapeutic hot springs. The volcanic experience is unlike any other – a great way to relax your muscles after a walk in the surrounding nature.
Next, settle in Sao Vicente Ferreira for four nights, located further west. While here, dip into natural pools carved out by the sea, explore the local nature on a guided hike and, of course, go whale watching off the coast.
This one-week itinerary highlights the very best of Sao Miguel, letting you explore both sides of the island with the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Your adventure in the Azores kicks off today, so head to the airport to catch your flight to Sao Miguel. Direct flights from the UK take just over four hours, so remember to have a film downloaded or a good book to hand.
Upon arrival, head through customs and collect your bags, then pick up your rental car from the airport: you’re headed to the village of Furnas, a 45-minute drive away. Once you’ve arrived, check into your hotel – your base for the next three nights.
Furnas is famous for its hot springs and beautiful gardens, so why not stretch your legs and explore with a stroll? For dinner, dive right into the local culture and try cozido das Furnas, a delicious Azorean stew slow-cooked in volcanic soil.
On your first day, head out to explore Furnas Lake by bike with a private guide. Hop on bikes and pedal through the lush volcanic scenery, an area home to high geothermal activity.
A dirt path circles the lake before climbing to the highest point of the ride, Pico dos Milhos, where you can admire breathtaking views. You’ll then descend on a separate path that leads back to the village. Along the way, look out for volcanic phenomena such as fumaroles and geysers.
There’s plenty more to keep you occupied while you’re in Furnas. You might like to relax in mud baths and volcanic pools, stroll through the vast Terra Nostra botanical garden or climb Pico do Ferro, a viewpoint where you can take in the scenic surroundings of Furnas.
It’s time to say farewell to Furnas and head to Sao Vicente Ferreira (around a 45-minute drive away), where you’ll stay for the final four nights of your holiday.
After you’ve checked into your hotel, there are even more volcanic swimming pools and lush landscapes to explore. The cliffs along the coastal roads are perfect for enjoying views over the Atlantic, or if you’d like to get in the water, head to Zona Balnear dos Pocos for a swim.
The next three days are yours to spend exploring more of the Azores’ magical landscapes. First, head out on a hike in Sete Cidades with a private guide. This extinct volcano rises to 2,808ft tall, crowned by a three-mile-diameter caldera containing several lakes: the caldera and the natural park are protected areas best explored along its trails leading to one of the island's highest points.
Your excursion in Sete Cidades includes a walk among the lakes, an ascent to Serra Devassa, a hike through the forest and a picnic lunch.
While in Sao Vicente Ferreira, you’ll also get out on the water on a whale-watching boat trip. The location of the Azores makes it perfect for observing numerous species of marine mammals (some are migratory; others are year-round residents). As well as sperm whales – the most common species found here – keep your eyes peeled for short-beaked dolphins, common dolphins and Risso's dolphins. If you’re lucky, you might also be able to spot blue whales during migration periods (from early spring to late summer), alongside playful orcas.
If you’ve energy to spare, we can also arrange a bike tour of Sete Cidades and a trip to the Ferraria thermal baths. What better way to finish up your trip?
Sadly, your time on Sao Miguel has come to an end. Drive for 15 minutes to Ponta Delgada Airport and return your hire car, before catching a direct flight back to the UK (taking just over four hours), landing on home turf the same day.
Suggestions
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
SETE CIDADES BY BIKE & THERMAL BATHS
Set off with a guide for a roughly 9-mile mountain bike ride, mostly on flat, gently rolling terrain, with the captivating caldera and the Sete Cidades Natural Park as an unforgettable backdrop. After lunch, you'll travel to the village of Ferraria, renowned for its thermal baths. Finally, it's time to relax in the saunas, Turkish baths, heated pools and whirlpools.WITH A FEW MORE DAYS...
LISBON
Before and after your flight to Sao Miguel Island, you'll have a layover in Lisbon. Feel free to extend it over several days to fully enjoy the Portuguese capital. As you explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, the city gradually reveals itself, unveiling its rich history and vibrant energy. You can wander through the winding streets of Alfama on foot or by funicular before dancing to traditional fado or more contemporary music along the banks of the Tagus River. We can also arrange for a guide to take you to their favourite spots, from the Baixa and Bairro Alto districts to the Maritime Museum, the Church of Sao Roque, the Jeronimos Monastery, and the foot of Belem Tower. 
Why visit Portugal with Original Travel ?
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
Enquire nowA few of the benefits of travelling with us to Portugal
- Our local Concierges
- The Original Travel app
- Destination Dossier
- 24-hour helpline
- Expert guides
- 100% carbon absorption
