Azores Islands Tour
São Miguel
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SEVEN CITIES (Seven Cities) – Half-Day Tour (no lunch) |
Islands:
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LAGOA DO FOGO (Lagoon of Fire) - noon (no lunch)
Departures from the hotel will be at 9h30 or at 14h30. We will follow the north coast to visit the first town of this tour, Ribeira Grande and its surrounding areas. A short stop is scheduled at the former site of the church of Santa Barbara in Ribeira Seca which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1563. On site is a historic fountain, built in memory of this event. Next stop is in Ribeira Grande, with its stunning typical architecture of the XVII and XVIII centuries. Here you will visit some of the most remarkable monuments of the city.
Afterwards, heading down a winding mountain road we arrive at Lagoa do Fogo (Lagoon of Fire) A scheduled stop is made at the viewpoint to enjoy the extraordinary landscape of the Lagoon of Fire. From the top of the mountain visitors will get the opportunity to see both the north and south at the same time. Descending the mountains, we walk along the coast to the town of Lagoa. Stop and enjoy a beautiful view of the central part of the island, where, at the same time, the ocean and the coast are clearly visible. It seems like the lake and the mountains of the Seven Cities go far beyond the horizon! Here on the coast, we will visit a pottery factory and observe first-hand how local artisans make a variety of local products. Return to Ponta Delgada. Scheduled arrival at the hotel at 13h00 or 17h30.
SEVEN CITIES (Seven Cities) – Full-Day (with lunch).
Departure scheduled from the hotel at 9:30 am towards the hills of the Seven Cities. The route stretches along the road to the south-west coast full of green pastures and cows. Scheduled stop at the Vista do Rei viewpoint. Do not miss out on the opportunity to see the magical and the breathtaking panorama of the the Seven Cities Lakes: blue and green water on the inside of a huge volcanic crater!
The tour continues along the village road with such rare beauty and views of the north and south coastlines and of the island´s mountainous center. A traditional lunch is scheduled at the "Cavalo Branco" restaurant in the city of Bretanha, whose previous owner was a French fisherman. After lunch we will visit a greenhouse where pineapples are cultivated to observe the secrets of how these exotic fruits are grown. A tasting of pineapple liqueur is scheduled on the final leg of the tour. Return to hotel at 17h00.
FURNAS - full day (with lunch)
Departure from Ponta Delgada on the road north towards Ribeira Grande. A short stop is planned at the centre of Ribeira Grande, the second largest city of the island. Following Ribeira Grande, we will stop at the St.Iria viewpoint in Furnas to admire the panorama of the north coast. Along the way we will stop to visit tea plantations and factories. The next scheduled stop is at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, which offers a fantastic view over the valley, located at the crater of the volcano you will be able to see the Furnas village and lake, surrounded by lush vegetation. Then we will visit the Furnas Valley, where you can actually see volcanic activity, cold water sources, and hot mineral waters. Lunch is scheduled at the Terra Nostra Garden restaurant. After lunch, visit Terra Nostra, sprawling on 20 hectares of land and showing visitors a variety of plants from around the world. Return to Ponta Delgada on the road south along the Lago das Furnas, Village of Vila Franca do Campo (the first capital of the island) and the Village of Lagoa. Return to Ponta Delgada at approximately 18h00.
The departure from the hotel is scheduled at 09h00 in direction towards Lagoa, on the south coast, to Montet Barrosa. On the way up the mountain it is possible to see both coasts of the island.
A stop is made at the top of the mountain to enjoy the variety of plant species. Then we head down the northern coast, making stops along the way to a viewpoint, where the Lagoa do Fogo can be seen clearly as well as the beautiful landscapes that surrounding it. Heading further down, we reach the town of Ribeira Grande, situated on the coast. The city is famous for its beautiful baroque palaces of the XVII and XVIII centuries. Take a short break in the city centre. Once on the north coast we will stop at the Santa Iria viewpoint, where the entire coast is visible to. Here on the north of the island, visit the vast tea plantations. Huge tea bushes grow here on terraces built purposely for them. Following the tea plantations we will pass through the Achada Furna, a plateau famous for its vast pastures. Scheduled stop at a viewpoint. The next scheduled stop is at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, which offers a fantastic view over the valley, located at the oldest and largest volcano crater where you will be able to see the Furnas village and lake, surrounded by lush vegetation. This is one of the richest in the hydrological area world, with its twenty two hot springs. At the feet of the volcano, lunch is scheduled at the Terra Nostra Garden restaurant. After lunch, we stroll through a beautiful and romantic garden, where you will have the opportunity to see a variety of plants collected here from all over the world. In this park, there is a huge thermal pool. From here, go to the hot springs in the valley of Furnas. This volcanic phenomenon is known worldwide for being unique and very important in the Azores. Return to Ponta Delgada taking the road south along the Lagoa das Furnas, Village of Vila Franca do Campo (the first capital of the island), and the beaches Água d'Alto and Pópulo. Arrival at Ponta Delgada at approximately 17h30.
Departure at 09:00 towards the Lagoa do Fogo, on the south coast. On the way to Pico da Barrosa take a glance at both coasts of the island! Scheduled stop at the Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint on the way to the northern capital of the island, Ribeira Grande. A brief stop is made to get acquainted with this town. Continuing west, we pass through the quaint villages of Ribeira Seca, Rabo de Peixe, and Calhetas Fenais, located on the northern road. Lunch is provided in the “Capelas da Cidade”. After lunch we returned to the south coast in the direction of the Seven Cities. Stopping on the way to the Belvedere Vista do Rei viewpoint. Return to Ponta Delgada, through Pico do Carvão, where you can see the coast north and south. Arrival at the hotel at approximately 17h30.
This tour starts at 09h00 with an introduction to the island's southern coast. Scheduled stop in Vila Franca, the first capital of the island, where the Church of St. Michaels (Igreja de S. Miguel), one of the oldest churches built in Gothic style, is located. Inside the church pay close attention to the wonderful work done on the wooden altar covered with gold. Moving on, we pass by Furnas, in the direction to Povoação in the northeast of the island. It was here that the early Portuguese navigators first landed. Here you will get a chance to walk along the coast. Following Povoação we arrive at the Ponta da Madrugada viewpoint, one of the most beautiful on the island, offering an incomparable view of the ocean. The tour continues through the settlements north of the island. Lunch is provided here, at a traditional restaurant. After lunch, we will observe the surrounding villages, and the incredible variety of landscapes. All these cities are located at the feet of Pico da Vara, the highest mountain on the island. Return to Ponta Delgada along the north coast. Scheduled arrival at the hotel at approximately 19h00.
Terceira
ISLAND TOUR – Half-Day (no lunch)
Departure scheduled from the hotel at 09h30 or at 14h30 on route to the top of Mount Brazil, passing the city of Angra do Heroismo, recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Site. Stop scheduled at the viewpoint on top of Mount Brazil, which offers a wonderful view over the city and its surroundings. The tour continues to the east side of the island along the coast, where we can see the beautiful natural pools of volcanic origin, as well as several beautiful villages. Next stop is São Sebastião, the first settlement of the island. Here you can observe the characteristics of the "empire" and see a church of the XV century. Enjoy the exquisite architecture and impressive Gothic frescoes covering the walls. The next destination is the Vitoria beach where we will go on a short walk on foot. Here you can read the island´s past from the writing on the mountain slopes and reflected in some of the monuments. We will then follow through the Serra do Cume, with its panoramic views of the ocean and the city of Lagos. Biscoitos, and its wine cellars, is the next stop. You will have the opportunity to sample local wines that are featured here! Arrival at the hotel at 12h30 or 17h30.
ISLAND TOUR - full day (with lunch)
Departure scheduled from the hotel at 09h00 on route to the top of Mount Brazil, passing the city of Angra do Heroismo, recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Site. Stop scheduled at the viewpoint on top of Mount Brazil, which offers a wonderful view over the city and its surroundings.The tour continues to the east side of the island along the coast, where we can see the beautiful natural pools of volcanic origin, as well as several beautiful villages. Next stop is São Sebastião, the first settlement of the island. Here you can observe the characteristics of the "empire" and see a church of the XV century. Enjoy the exquisite architecture and impressive Gothic frescoes covering the walls. Vitoria beach where we will go on a short walk on foot. Here you can read the island´s past from the writing on the mountain slopes and reflected in some of the monuments. We will then follow through the Serra do Cume, with its panoramic views of the ocean and the city of Lagos. Biscoitos, famous for its wild bulls and wine cellars, is the next stop. Bullfights take place on the streets of this town! You will get the opportunity to sample local wines that are featured here! Arrival at the hotel at approximately 17h30.
Faial
Departure from hotel at 09h30 or at 14h30 towards the city of Horta, the only city in the Azores, where there is an international yacht marina. Here sailors from all over the world stop to fish and for transatlantic travel as well.Scheduled stop in Espalamaca, from which the city of Horta, the port and surrounding area are clearly visible. We will pass through the Largo Jaime Melo until we arrive at Caldeira, a large crater in the central part of the island. This is a protected area, as its landscape consists mainly of sparse vegetation. After observing these amazing species we head on to the Capelinhos Volcano, a new generation of territory, thanks to an underwater volcanic eruption in 1957/58. Return to Horta taking the road along the coast. Arrival at the hotel at 12h30 or 17h30.
CAPELINHOS Volcano & CALDEIRA – Full-Day (with lunch)Departure from hotel at 09h30 towards the city of Horta, the only city in the Azores, where there is an international yacht marina. Regattas and international angling competitions take place here every year. Here sailors from all over the world stop to fish and for transatlantic travel as well.Scheduled stop in Espalamaca, from which the city of Horta, the port and surrounding area are clearly visible. We will pass through the Largo Jaime Melo until we arrive at Caldeira, a large crater in the central part of the island. This is a protected area, as its landscape consists mainly of sparse vegetation. After observing these amazing species we head on to the Capelinhos Volcano, a new generation of territory, thanks to an underwater volcanic eruption in 1957/58. Lunch scheduled at "Varadouro, Spa & Summer Resort," with its famous natural pools of volcanic origin. After lunch, we return to Horta taking a scenic road along the coast. On the way back we will stop at the village of Ponta Furada. Arrival at the hotel at approximately 17h30
Tour starts at the port of Horta at 07h45 on a ferry boat to the island of Pico. Arrival in the city of Madalena at 08h15 and the tour of the island of Pico begins immediately. The first stop is in Arcos do Cachorro which are impressive cliffs where the ocean creates a wonderful show of sound and color. Following Arcos do Cachorro we head on to Mistérios da Prainha a gorgeous area of extensive fields of lava spilled from early volcanic eruptions. From S. Roque, crossing the island to the south, we will encounter a large number of endemic plants. Lunch is provided along the way. After lunch, a visit to the whaling museum is scheduled. On the return to Madalena stop to see an exhibition of handicrafts, cheese makers and wineries. Scheduled to arrival at Madalena at 16h45 for departure on the ferry boat. Arrival in Horta expected half hour later.
Pico
ISLAND TOUR - full day (with lunch)
The departure from the hotel in Madalena is scheduled at 09h30. The tour starts along the road leading to the north of the island. The first stop is scheduled in the Dog Bows, some impressive cliffs, near the sea, creating a wonderful spectacle of sound and color. We then into the Mystery of Prainha area, with its famous early lava of volcanic eruptions. The first stop is in Arcos do Cachorro which are impressive cliffs where the ocean creates a wonderful show of sound and color. Following Arcos do Cachorro we head on to Mistérios da Prainha a gorgeous area of extensive fields of lava spilled from early volcanic eruptions. From S. Roque, crossing the island to the south, we will encounter a large number of endemic plants. Lunch is provided along the way. After lunch, a visit to the whaling museum is scheduled. On the return to Madalena stop to see an exhibition of handicrafts, cheese makers and wineries. Arrival at Madalena is scheduled for 17h30.
Santa Maria Island
ISLAND TOUR - full day (with lunch)
The tour starts with a visit to the São Pedro Church on the way to Lagoinhas. Next stop is the town centre of Santa Barbara, where we will visit a local church. From Santa Barbara we will head west to see the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Afterwards, in the village of Espirito Santo, a visit is scheduled at the Ethnographic Museum, and at a Church of the sixteenth century, whereas history goes, was the first church to hold mass service in the Azores. Return to Vila do Porto, traveling through the Almagreira area. Lunch is scheduled here in a traditional restaurant. After lunch, we will visit the airport near Santa Maria, then head towards the village of Anjos, where Columbus held a Mass in a small chapel, that has been preserved until this day. Then visit the hotspots of the city of Vila do Porto. Arrival at the hotel.
São Jorge
ISLAND TOUR - full day (with lunch)
Departure from the hotel to the westernmost point of the island, Ponta dos Rosais, where we will visit a forest and the cheese factory. Then crossing the island, we will head north to enjoy the view of so-called "fajãs" (coves), land platforms at sea level due to cliff erosion. This location is home to several small villages due to its favourable climate. The Fajã do Ouvidor and the Fajã dos Cubres - are the most interesting and most important coves to observe. Next from the village of Norte Pequeno, we head south to the village of Calheta. Lunch is scheduled here. After lunch, proceed to the parish of Manadas, to see the beautiful church of St. Barbara of the eighteenth century, built in Baroque style. Next stop is at the village of Urzelina to visit the remains of a church, buried under the lava after the eruption in 1808, surrounded by fruit trees and lush vegetation. Return to Velas, a walk in the center is scheduled to observe the most important points of the city. Arrival at the hotel.
Flores Island
ISLAND TOUR - full day (with lunch)
Departure from the hotel to the northeast of the island to the Ponta dos Cedros viewpoint. Along the way we have yet another scheduled stop at another viewpoint, where the island of Corvo is clearly visible. Then we will make a short stop in the village of Lages. The journey continues along the southwest coast, stopping at Rocha dos Bordões, very interesting and unique formation of basalt in the Azores. Lunch is scheduled in the village of Santa Cruz. Then the tour leads to the Fajãzinha and Faja Grande, two beautiful places, which are located at sea level. On the way back we will take a road down that crosses the island. This picturesque area is rich with its lakes and incredible scenery, especially when the hydrangeas are in bloom. Return to Santa Cruz and the hotel.
Geo Tourism
The natural habitat of Whales and dolphins - During this tour, guests will have the opportunity to see over 20 species of cetaceans, which can be found in the Azores. Before starting the tour, a short demonstration is given about the species that can be seen, on the security measures on board, how to protect marine animals and some history. On board, each passenger is required to use a lifejacket (except for travel by catamaran). The team also provides its passengers with raincoats and waterproof pants.
Swimming with the dolphins - Before diving into the water all tourists will be equipped with masks and snorkels, in order to enjoy the blue waters of the ocean and be close to the dolphins. This way, you can see and hear them! Unique and incredible experiences! Before the tour a short lecture will be given to familiarize passengers with the various types of marine animals, which can be seen during the tour, as well as the safety rules on board, the protection of marine animals, and some historical facts. On board, passengers must wear a lifejacket. The team also provides a mask and snorkel for those who wish to dive and if necessary, raincoats.
Mixed Tour 1: dolphin watching / islet tour - Whale watching in the morning with a stop in Vila Franca, where lunch is scheduled. Following lunch, onboard a traditional boat we will sail to a nature reserve. Once on the islet, we have a scheduled tour to swim and snorkel in a huge natural lagoon. The return to Ponta Delgada may be either by sea or by minibus. Aboard the boat, each passenger must wear a lifejacket. The crew also provides its guests with a raincoat and waterproof pants. In addition, anyone can wear a mask and snorkel while diving.
GEOTOUR (São Miguel Island) - Departure from the hotel, an all-day walk is scheduled in the northeast of the island for the observation of volcanic formations, and lava rocks along the coast. The tour includes lunch and a visit to the gruta do Carvão. Travel accompanied by a geologist or licensed professional.
Jeep safari tour (S. Miguel Island) - Leaving the hotel in the morning an excursion by jeep-day or full day to visit: the Seven Cities (noon), the Lake of Fire (noon), the Seven Cities and the Lake of Fire (all day) the northeast of the island (on), Furnas (all day). The program includes lunch all day.
Walking Tours (Ilha de S. Miguel) - Take a half-day or full day walk to explore: Relva (all day) Seven Cities (half day / full day), Lagoa do Fogo (half day / full day), Faial da Terra and Sanguinho (day / day half full), Gaiteira and Lagoa das Furnas (all day), Praia da Viola and Chá Formoso do Porto (all day), Pico da Areia (all day). All full day programs include lunch.
“Five senses" Walking Tour - Seven Cities, Ferraria, Ginetes – full day program that includes a half-day observation of the Seven Cities and a "return to the past" in Ginetes participating in traditional bread and pastry making, milking cows, and other local agricultural activities. Tour includes a snack.
Birdwatching - Given the location of the archipelago of the Azores, we can find over 300 species of birds prevailing of the European and American continents, which makes the Azores an attractive place for bird watchers. There are over 33 species of breeding birds in Sao Miguel. The “Azores Bullfinch
Sunset tour - Boat ride to the village of Ginetes with its magnificent views over the volcanic formations along the coast. The tour offers a walk through Rocha da Relva, with its peculiar location is a hotspot for summer houses, accessible only on foot. Tourists will have the chance to see the incredible beauty of the sun setting on sea, while tasting a fine wine from the island of Pico and local cheese.
Island Tours (São Miguel) - Spend the day aboard our catamaran - one of the most amazing views and experiences for visitors of the island of São Miguel. The tour runs along the coast, providing an opportunity to enjoy almost every angle of this amazing island. Learn more about the flora and fauna, geological formations and volcanic islands in a completely different angle! Scheduled stop in the harbor for lunch at a traditional restaurant. During the trip, passengers will get a chance to swim in the clear waters of the ocean.
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