Azores Islands Walking Tour

Azores Islands Walking Tour

Day 1 Arrive

Welcome to São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores! Once you touch down at João Paulo II Airport (PDL), a private transfer will take you to your accommodations.

The excitement begins right away with a half-day walking tour of Ponta Delgada. Once a simple fishing village, Ponta Delgada is now a cosmopolitan city and the Azores' largest municipality. Next up, a visit to the urban botanical garden of Jardim António awaits, where you'll delight in hundreds of rare and exotic plants introduced to the island.

To wrap up your first day of exploring in São Miguel, you'll visit the Mercado da Graça, a vibrant local market showcasing the island's exotic produce and artisan cheese. You'll have no doubt scouted an excellent spot for dinner during today's walk. Enjoy a local dinner followed by a good night's rest!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ponta Delgada
Distance: 3 hours, 6 km
Meals: None

Day 2 Walk to Sete Cidades

Today’s walk begins at the Muro das Nove Janelas, a stone aqueduct once used to supply water to the public water fountains of Ponta Delgada. Stunning blue-green lagoons grace the trail, as well as several species of endemic flora. Sweeping views of the north and south coasts of the island make this a delightful walk.

The trail will lead you to the center of Sete Cidades, where you’ll discover the beautiful church of São Nicolau. Towering pine trees flank the path leading to the church, and the church itself is built with grey volcanic stone, painted white. This peaceful setting is a delight to explore.

Enjoy a leisurely evening in Ponta Delgada, exploring its lively streets and enjoying another excellent dinner here.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ponta Delgada
Distance: 5 hours, 12 km
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch

Day 3 Hot Springs at Poça da Dona Beija

Today's walk begins with a stop at Vila Franco do Campo, where you'll spot the Vila Franca Islet, an uninhabited islet rising out of the ocean off the south-central coast of São Miguel. Be sure to try the famous "Queijadas De Vila Franca," a traditional pastry made initially by the convent's nuns here during the 1600s.

On the dreamy banks of Furnas Lake, you'll join a trail bound for Furnas. A visit to the Parque dos Cozidos (not included) will introduce you to the birthplace of this island's famous "Furnas Stew."

Continuing the trail to the Parish of Furnas, you'll visit the Poça da Dona Beija, the highly anticipated geothermal baths (hot springs). Enjoy soaking in the hot mineral-rich waters surrounded by a tropical landscape. From here, you'll head to a local restaurant, where the famous "Furnas Stew" will be served (included) for lunch.

Today's walk ends with a stop at the beautiful tea plantations of Gorreana before returning to your accommodations in Ponta Delgado.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ponta Delgada
Distance: 3 hours, 9.5 km
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 4 Waterfall at Faial da Terra

Today’s walk will take you on a short circular route in Faial da Terra alongside the picturesque Faial da Terra stream.

Continuing the trail towards Salto do Prego, you’ll discover one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island, Ribeira do Faial da Terra. For those interested, an icy dip under the cold waterfall is an option here! Feeling refreshed, you’ll continue the trail towards Sanguinho, a charming small village set amidst rich vegetation.

Finally, following the trail back to the parish of Faial da Terra, you’ll complete today’s loop.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ponta Delgada
Distance: 2.5 hours, 4.5 km
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch

Day 5 Exploring Santa Maria Island

This morning a private transfer will take you to the maritime terminal, where you’ll catch the ferry to Santa Maria Island.

Today you’ll explore your second island in the Azores, the beautiful island of Santa Maria. The trail starts on the forest road of Pico Alto, taking you through the fascinating terrains of the Barreiro da Faneca, with its bright red desert-like sands that flank the landscape.

Continue the trail to the small village of Anjos, set on a beautiful bay and home to a medieval chapel.

Take some time to enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches of Santa Maria as you soak up the splendour of this magical island before catching the ferry back to São Miguel.

Enjoy your final evening in the beautiful Azores with a delicious dinner and some further exploration of Ponta Delgada!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ponta Delgada
Distance: 2 hours, 6.2 km
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch

Day 6 Depart São Miguel

The time has come to bid farewell to the beautiful Azores Islands. After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to João Paulo II Airport (PDL) where you’ll depart.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast