The magic of the Azores

Azores - Sao Miguel

Tag 1: Arrival in the Azores

Upon arrival in the Azores, you’ll be able to pick up your rental car at the airport and begin your self-drive adventure. Start by exploring Ponta Delgada founded in the 15th century and the most important city on the island. As you take a stroll through the city streets you’ll easily recognise the Brazilian influence in its architecture. Amble along its seaside promenade stopping to enjoy a drink and the sea air. In the city centre, you will find two beautiful gardens, the University Gardens and the José do Canto Botanical Garden. When the sun goes down head to the charming Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião Square and choose a restaurant for dinner.

Feteiras - Sete Cidades

Tag 2: Exploring Western São Miguel

Today, you will set out to explore the western part of the island. Don't forget your bathing suit and towel, as you’ll have plenty of opportunities for swimming today. Feteiras is the site of a natural pool where warm water mixes with cold ocean water, making it perfect for a first dip. Next, head to the charming village of Candelária with its colourful facades. In Mosteiros you can also swim in the natural pools or if you prefer hit the volcanic black sands of the nearby beach. We continue on our way to an incredible crater that is home to four strikingly coloured lakes. Return to Ponta Delgada for dinner and a relaxing evening.

São Vicente Ferreira - Ribeira Grande

Tag 3: Ocean Pools & Waterfalls

Today you’ll drive north to Capelas with its natural sea pools protected from the crashing waves of the Atlantic. After a good swim, it's time to head to São Vicente Ferreira, a small and very quiet parish with access to one of the island's greatest assets - its dramatic cliffs. You will take a route along the cliffs passing through Fenais da Luz, Calhetas and Rabo de Peixe with the option to stop at some incredible viewpoints along the way. Later arrive at Ribeira Grande, the second largest village on the island before continuing northeast to Salto da Farinha, a monumental waterfall forty meters high. Return to Ponta Delgado for a sundowner by the sea.

Lagoa Do Fogo

Tag 4: Free Day to Enjoy the Coast

Today we recommend enjoying the lovely coastline of São Miguel. There are many options open to you depending on the season and what you’d like to do. You could choose a sailboat excursion, a trip out to the nearby islands or a whale-watching boat tour. If you are more into adventure sports, there's something for everyone here, from canoeing, climbing and abseiling to horseback riding.

Lagoa Das Furnas - Salto Do Cavalo

Tag 5: Walking in the East

We recommend an early start today for one of the longest drives of the trip. You'll be visiting the areas of Furnas and Povoação, in the eastern part of the island. Stop at the Salto do Cavalo viewpoint to observe the Lagoa das Furnas lagoon in its entirety. From there continue to Povoação to enjoy some wonderfully scenic walking trails.

Ponta Delgada - Vila Franca Islet

Tag 6: Discover Vila Franca

Your holiday is coming to an end and what better way to spend the day than enjoying the island's beautiful coastline? We suggest that you lay out your towel and enjoy the sun and water activities on the beaches of Santa Bárbara, Vinha da Areia, d'Amora, Moinhos and, of course, on the fabulous island of Vila Franca. The regular boat service operates between June and September. If your trip coincides with these dates, you're in luck! Take your snorkelling equipment and dive into paradise. 

Ponta Delgada - Airport Ponta Delgada

Tag 7: Time to go

After breakfast, hit the road one last time to the airport where you can drop off your rental car in good time for your flight home.