Portugal: Azores Island Exploration

Explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Azores over the course of your 13.2 km Sete Cidades hike. Start at the Vista do Rei viewpoint, from where you can take in stunning panoramas of the entire volcanic countryside. As you descend from the Caldeira’s highest point, your guide points out the Caldeira Seca and Sete Cidades lakes on your right as well as the western coast of S. Miguel island on your left. Continue on the scenic route, passing unpaved tracks, well-frequented trails and even paved roads till you begin your descent to the parish of Sete Cidades. Soak in the fairytale beauty of this protected landscape which ranges from mist-covered mountain peaks to ethereal lakes, nestled amid forested slopes. One blue and the other green, the lakes are separated by a seven arched bridge to symbolize the seven cities of the lost continent of Atlantics. After a well-deserved break, head back to the trailhead for the return trip to your hotel. (Duration: Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Morning Activity; Time: 0900 hrs; Tour includes private guide services; Fitness level: difficult, this activity involves a 13.2 kms hike; Guests are requested to wear sneakers and bring water & sunscreen)

Discover some of the best kept secrets of Sao Miguel with a tour of Nordeste, or the eastern part of the island. Set off from your hotel for the verdant environs of Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park, where native vegetation and exquisite waterfalls offer a glimpse into how the island must have appeared to the earliest settlers. Stroll past old watermills, picnic areas and quaint cafes. Continue with your tour as you pass the village of Nordeste for breathtaking valley vistas, particularly from the Ponta de Sossego viewpoint. A scenic drive along the southward coast brings you to the quaint village of Povoação, one of the first inhabited parts of the island, a fact marked by architectural elements like the Matriz Velha by the sea and the 15th century Hermitage of Santa Bárbara. After a delicious lunch break, wander through its atmospheric streets, stopping perhaps for a cup of local coffee and the sinfully delicious Fofas da Povoação or traditional éclairs of the region. (Duration: Full Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Time: 1000 – 1800 hrs; Tour includes Guide; Fitness level: easy; Guests are requested to bring comfortable walking shoes)

Explore the volcanic landscape around the crater lake of Lagoa do Fogo on this enjoyable guided hike. Ascend a dirt road that winds past pastoral landscapes and an ancient factory that once produced flax fibers. Hike past a Japanese cedar forest to arrive at a levada or aqueduct. Continue walking along the aqueduct as you keep an eye out for endemic species of flora. Pass by the dam to enter the sprawling valley of Ribeira da Praia. This vast, open space with big slopes on either side is home to numerous water channels. Hike on to the lakeshore and watch the resident colony of seagulls from a safe distance. On the return journey, enjoy scenic views of the island’s southern coast and the uninhabited Islet of Vila Franca. (Duration: Half Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Meals Not Included; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Trekking shoes are recommended; Please bring water and sunscreen; Suggested starting time is 0900 – 1000 hrs in order to avoid the noon heat; Total distance to be hiked is around 7 miles)

Explore the myriad charms of Pico Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Azores. After a scenic cruise, arrive at Pico Island and then set off for its prized vineyards. Learn from your guide how the volcanic black soil of the region lends a distinctive flavor to these wines which have even graced the tables of Russian czars! Next, head for San Matheus for a glimpse into the whaling history of the island. After a delicious lunch break, make your way to the highest point on the island, Mount Pico, whose 900 meter elevation affords spectacular 360 degree vistas of the entire island. Later descend to the charming village of San Rouqe, which has the distinction of being continuously inhabited since 1470. Check out the iconic Cachorro, a cliff site in the shape of dog’s head, before you head back to the pier for your return trip. (Duration: Full Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Time: 0800 – 1730 hrs; Tour includes Guide & Ferry Admission; Fitness level: easy; Guests are requested to bring comfortable walking shoes)