Self-guided walking
7 nights,
single centre
Level: 2
Moderate
19.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
It is hard to believe that the Azores are part of Europe. Born from the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, this lush green archipelago of volcanic islands is a far cry from continental Portugal. The nine Islands of the Azores are Europe's western most point located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The Azores have long been known as one of the most scenically varied areas to explore, each of the nine islands has its own characteristics, from steep craters to abundant wildlife and sites of historical interest. The islands of the Azores are a paradise for walkers and nature lovers with their blue lakes bordered by flowers, dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters,
Sao Miguel is famous for its beautiful landscapes and exceptional volcanic lakes. The largest of the Azorean islands it is known as Ilhe Verde - Green Island. A stunning coastline of small bays with black sand and precipitous sea cliffs interspersed with small harbours add further interest. The island features three major calderas (volcanic craters) now with lakes sparkling at the bottom. Sete Cidades even has a village at the bottom of the crater and two lakes, one blue and one contrasting green.
At Lagoa das Furnas boiling sulphurous water comes to the surface through hot springs near the lake and is a reminder of the volcanic origin of all of the islands. The mountains rise to over 1000m. As an example of Sao Miguel's climate, one finds the only tea and pineapple plantations in Europe, both well worth a visit on non-walking days. Rarely could a visitor fail to be impressed by the incredible myriad of all the different shades of greens exhibited by its extensive prairie forests, tobacco fields and tea plantations as well as the abundance of hues this island has to offer.
Car hire is included to allow you to make the most of your stay and visit other sites on your way to and from the walks. It is possible to do the walks using a combination of public transport and taxis shoud you prefer, please ask at time of booking if you would prefer this.
Walks are along dirt tracks (both broad and narrow) and minor roads with tarmac or gravel. Footpaths are marked reasonably well.
Arrive in Ponta Delgada and your base for 7 nights.
You stay at Hotel Talisman.
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Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon
Safe
Tea/coffee
The charming Hotel Talisman is an Art Deco Boutique hotel located in the historical centre of Ponta Delgada. The rooms are large with comfortable beds. The partially covered outdoor swimming pool offers stunning views over the city, ocean and mountains. The Palm Terrace Restaurant has two modern dining rooms with an outdoor terrace serving seafood and Portuguese cuisine. There is also a Skylight Bar and Lounge where you can enjoy an after dinner drink.
Follow the coastal road to Sete Cidades, set within the volcanic crater containing Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, a must on any visit to Sao Miguel. Head up to the Vista do Rei viewpoint before returning the way you came.
Head to Furnas and walk to the Lagoa das Furnas. The walk starts and finishes in the attractive village of Furnas, with an optional extra walk round the village at the end. Confirmation of the volcanic origins of Sao Miguel is nowhere more evident than here. The picturesque Parque Terra Nostra is in the village centre, together with thermal baths.
Take a day to relax, or you could book a boat trip to try and spot some whales and dolphins.
Take a short taxi ride (not included) to Nine Windows Wall where the route takes you around the east and north sides of the crater rim of the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. After only a short climb the track undulates along the ridge, affording splendid views on both sides.
Drive to Agua de Alto to walk from sea level, steeply uphill across meadows, through dense woodland, alongside a levada (water channel), and finally over heather covered mountainside to arrive at the remote shore of Lagoa do Fogo, the highest lake of Sao Miguel. Return to your car and maybe spend some time at the beach before returning to your hotel.
Head to the east of the island to Faial da Terra from where you walk to Salto do Prego waterfall. Pass through the small hamlet of Sanguinos, only accessible by foot (or donkey) and mostly abandoned today.
Depart from your hotel after breakfast.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Hotel Lisboa Plaza, Lisbon.
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Market
Bank
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Owned by the same family since 1953, the 4 star Hotel Lisboa Plaza is an imaginatively designed hotel, just off the famous Avenida da Liberdade. All rooms have en-suite marble floored bathrooms, air conditioning, satellite television, direct dial telephones, hairdryers and mini-bar. The public rooms are elegantly furnished and there is a pleasant bar and dining room.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing. Single supplement from NZ$717.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
single centre
Level: 2
Moderate
19.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
