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Azores Grand Tour (B): Sao Miguel, Faial, Sao Jorge, Terceira and Santa Maria
Overview
Introduction
The unique beauty of the Azores and the individual character of each island provide an opportunity to explore an area of spectacular natural scenery.
To really appreciate the unique natural beauty of this Portuguese archipelago, we recommend a multi-island itinerary to make the most of your visit. Each island has a particular characteristic that makes them stand out from one another whether it be the landscape, transatlantic ports, lava caves, high peaks like Mount Pico, fabulous crater lakes or the local delicacies such as Sao Jorge cheese, Pico wine and Sao Miguel pineapples.
Itinerary includes:
- Flights from London Heathrow to Ponta Delgada, São Miguel with British Airways (Saturday departures) - other routes on request
- All transfers, inter-island flights, boat tickets, entrance tickets (botanical garden/museums) and five lunches (Days 3, 5, 6, 10 and 12)
- Guided excursions as stated (minibus and guide or taxi/jeep with English speaking driver): SAO MIGUEL Two Half Day Tours (Sete Cidades and Ponta Delgada); SAO MIGUEL Full Day Tour (Furnas); FAIAL Highlights of Faial Full Day Tour; PICO Full Day Tour; SAO JORGE Half Day Tour of Sao Jorge; TERCEIRA Full Day Tour of Terceira; SANTA MARIA – Full Day Tour of Santa Maria.
- 14-nights’ accommodation based on Bed & Breakfast basis.
- 3-nights Talisman Hotel, Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) - Standard Room
- 3-nights Azoris Faial Garden Hotel, Horta (Faial) - Classic Garden View Room
- 2-nights São Jorge Garden Hotel, Velas (São Jorge) - Standard Room
- 2-nights Azoris Angra Garden Hotel, Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira) - Classic Room
- 3-nights Charming Blue Hotel, Vila do Porto (Santa Maria) - Standard Room
- 1-night Azoris Royal Garden Hotel, Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) - Classic Room
General Notes:
- The Interpretation Center of Capelinhos (Museum) included in the full day tour of Faial is closed on Mondays and bank holidays.
- The volcanic cave ‘Algar do Carvão’ included in the half day tour on Terceira is only open between Apr-Sep.
- The tour on Pico includes the entrance fee to two museums (Whalers Museum and the Museum of the Whaling Industry) or one museum and the volcanic cave of Gruta das Torres - this information will be advised locally.
- We cannot guarantee that you will be on a tour with other people.
Agenda
Day 1 - Sao Miguel: Day of arrival
Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport and transfer to your hotel
Overnight at the Talisman Hotel, Sao Miguel on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Talisman Hotel, Sao Miguel
Day 2 - Sao Miguel: Two half day tours - Sete Cidades and Furnas
Departure for Sete Cidades with a stop at ‘Vista do Rei’ belvedere to marvel at the magnificent view over the lakes. Free time for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Ponta Delgada starting at the City Garden and continuing on foot to see some of the highlights that the city has to offer.
Overnight at the Talisman Hotel, Sao Miguel on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel
Day 3 - Sao Miguel: Full day tour - Furnas
In Furnas you will have time to visit the beautiful 30-acre botanical gardens and the hot springs before stopping for lunch - Cozido meal included. Continue to the town of Ribeira Grande, visiting a tea plantation.
Overnight at the Talisman Hotel, Sao Miguel on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Furnas Lake, Sao Miguel
Day 4 - Faial
Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for the flight to Faial (1 hour). On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight at the Azoris Faial Garden Hotel, Faial on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Do Canal Hotel, Faial
Day 5 - Faial: Highlights of Faial - Full day tour
The tour starts with a visit to the village of Flamengos and the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Next, head to the Natural Reserve of the Caldeira of Faial, surrounded by rows of blue hydrangeas. Then on to Ribeira das Cabras viewpoint, along the Serra of Feteira. Stop for lunch (included). Descend to the Fajã in Praia do Norte. Visit Capelinhos - the site of the last volcanic eruption in the Azores, and the Interpretation Centre which retells the drama. On the way back to Horta, a quick stop at Varadouro to admire the Morro of Castelo Branco, ending the day in Monte da Guia, in Horta, to admire one of the best views of the city and the bay of Porto Pim.
Overnight at the Azoris Faial Garden Hotel, Faial on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Jeep Tour, Faial
Day 6 - Pico: Full day tour
Transfer to Madalena harbour for a boat crossing to Pico (30 minutes). Travel along the north coast in the direction of Cachorro and Lajido on to Sao Roque to visit the whale factory and the natural swimming pools. From here you will take the mountain road towards Lake Capitao (900m) and then to Lajes do Pico. At Lajes do Pico you will visit the whaler’s museum with its fascinating exhibition illustrating whaling in the Azores which, until its ban in 1987, was the main industry on the islands. There will be a short stop for lunch (included). Continue along the south coast to Misterios de Sao Joao where there will be a short stop and then on to Sao Mateus to visit the church. From here you will visit Criacao Velha with its vineyards (awarded UNESCO World status) bordered by black volcanic rock and Mount Pico towering above. Return to Madalena for boat crossing to Faial.
Overnight at the Azoris Faial Garden Hotel, Faial on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Pico, The Azores
Day 7 - Sao Jorge
Transfer to Horta harbour for a boat crossing to the island of Sao Jorge (90 minutes). On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight at the Sao Jorge Garden Hotel, Sao Jorge on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Sao Jorge Garden Hotel, Sao Jorge
Day 8 - Sao Jorge. Half Day Tour of Sao Jorge
Morning departure from Velas towards Beira where you will visit a cheese factory – tastings included. Continue to Calheta, Manadas and Urzelina, stopping at several breathtaking viewpoints en route. In Manadas you will visit the beautiful baroque parish church dedicated to Santa Bárbara. Continue to Urzelina before returning to Velas. Free afternoon.
Overnight at the Sao Jorge Garden Hotel, Sao Jorge on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Cheese factory, Sao Jorge
Day 9 - Terceira
Transfer to Sao Jorge airport for the flight to Terceira (35 minutes). On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight at the Azoris Angra Garden Hotel, Terceira on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Azoris Angra Garden Hotel, Terceira
Day 10 - Terceira. Full Day Tour of Terceira
Driving through trees and pastures, often overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, you will discover places and landscapes of rare beauty. During the trip there will be several stops with time to enjoy the beautiful scenery including a visit to Serra do Cume viewpoint and the vineyards in the village of Biscoitos. Discover the history and culture of Terceira, connect with nature and enjoy a traditional lunch (included). Taste the delicious ‘Alcatra’, a dish of rump cooked for 12 hours to intensify the flavours and textures at a typical restaurant, with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Please note that a picnic lunch is provided if the tour falls on a Sunday. Visit the ancient Algar do Carvao volcanic pit (open Apr-Sep only). This is a slow pace full day tour and a very special experience. Return to the hotel.
Overnight at the Azoris Angra Garden Hotel, Terceira on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Terceira
Day 11 - Santa Maria
Transfer to Terceira airport for the flight to Santa Maria via São Miguel (c.1 hour 20 minutes). On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight at the Charming Blue Hotel, Santa Maria on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Charming Blue Hotel, Santa Maria
Day 12 - Santa Maria. Full Day Tour
Depart from Vila do Porto to the small seaside resort of Anjos and its small chapel where Christopher Colombus attended mass on his return from America. From Anjos, on a clear day, it is possible to see the island of São Miguel on the horizon. Continue to the typical village of Santa Barbara where it’s possible to admire the simple and beautiful architecture of the traditional houses with their tall chimneys. Then proceed to the pretty village of Santo Espirito, surrounded by green pastures and hills, where you will visit the beautifully restored 17th century baroque church. Return to Vila do Porto via Maia, the Goncalo Velho lighthouse that lies on a cliff top and the viewpoint overlooking the bay of São Lourenco. Lunch included.
Overnight at the Charming Blue Hotel, Santa Maria on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Santa Maria
Day 13 - Santa Maria
Free day to relax. Explore the local area or enjoy a book by the pool.
Overnight at the Charming Blue Hotel, Santa Maria on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Charming Blue Hotel, Santa Maria
Day 14 - Sao Miguel
Transfer to Santa Maria airport for the flight to Sao Miguel (30 minutes). On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight at the Azoris Royal Garden Hotel, Sao Miguel on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Azoris Royal Garden Hotel, Sao Miguel
Day 15 - Day of departure
Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for your return flight home to the UK.
Accommodation
Talisman Hotel - Night 1 to 3
This elegantly styled hotel is conveniently located in the historical centre of Ponta Delgada overlooking a public garden.
This elegantly styled hotel is conveniently located in the historical centre of Ponta Delgada overlooking a public garden. The rooms are decorated in a modern minimalist style with wooden floors and there is a charming winter garden and an excellent restaurant specialising in regional dishes. The rooftop swimming pool – unique for a city hotel, offers a view over the rooftops of the city.
Accommodation
- 57 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms and suites.
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- 'Palm Terrace' restaurant serving regional and international cuisine
- ‘Sports One’ pub with pool table and often with live music is open from 5pm to 1am (Fri-Sat) or to midnight (Sun-Thurs) cafe opens up on to a paved esplanade
- Cafe opens up on to a paved esplanade
- Lounges
- Business centre
- Rooftop heated swimming pool (3.5 x 7m) and sundeck open all year – pool towels provided. The pool is accessed by a flight of stairs from the 3rd floor
- Mini gym
- Lift to 3rd floor only
- 10 minutes’ walk to the marina
- Private parking - payable locally at 6 Euros per day
Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel - Night 4 to 6
The Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel is situated in a private park just 5 minutes’ walk from the harbour front of Horta. The accommodation is divided between the main building, side annexe and five traditionally styled buildings located around a central lawn area.
The Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel is situated in a private park just 5 minutes’ walk from the harbour front of Horta. The accommodation is divided between the main building, side annexe and five traditionally styled buildings located around a central lawn area. Panoramic views across the sea to the island of Pico and its spectacular volcano can be enjoyed from the hotel restaurant and swimming pool.
Accommodation
- 133 air-conditioned rooms including classic rooms, executive rooms and suites.
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- Restaurant with buffet service in summer
- Bar and TV lounge
- Complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel
- Safe deposit at reception (free of charge)
- Lift (main building only)
- Sun terrace
- Outdoor swimming pool (15 x 30m) open May-Oct – pool towels provided
- Snack bar by pool (summer only)
- Two tennis courts and a volleyball court (c.10 Euros per hour plus c.10 Euros for equipment hire)
- Health club with heated indoor swimming pool (6 x 10m), mini gym & Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath
- Free parking
Sao Jorge Garden Hotel - Night 7 to 8
This modern, friendly hotel is well situated on the oceanfront of Velas, the island’s capital which is located on Sao Jorge’s southern coast. Within a 5-minute walk guests can reach this small compact centre with its pretty square and park, a harbour with regular boat crossings to Pico and Faial, and a selection of restaurants and bars.
This modern, friendly hotel is well situated on the oceanfront of Velas, the island’s capital which is located on Sao Jorge’s southern coast. Within a 5-minute walk guests can reach this small compact centre with its pretty square and park, a harbour with regular boat crossings to Pico and Faial, and a selection of restaurants and bars.
The hotel affords wonderful views of Mount Pico, across the water, which can be enjoyed from all the guestrooms, as well as from the panoramic breakfast room. There is a large outdoor salt water pool, with a separate area for children, and surrounded with sun loungers. The rooms are simply decorated in neutral colours and have wooden furniture. Although the hotel has no restaurant, the town centre, which has a good choice of restaurants, is only 200 metres away.
- 58 air-conditioned standard rooms
- Continental buffet breakfast
- Lobby bar
- Complimentary WiFi at reception
- Comfortable sitting room
- Outdoor, salt water swimming pool (8 x 15m) and sun terrace open May-Oct – pool towels provided
- Children’s outdoor pool
- Lift
- Lawned gardens with palm trees
- Free parking
- 1km to the natural swimming pool in Velas
- 10km to Urzelina’s natural rock pool
Azoris Angra Garden Hotel - Night 9 to 10
Centrally located in the historic town of Angra do Heroismo, this modern property was in fact the first hotel (in 1968) to offer accommodation to visitors on Terceira.
Centrally located in the historic town of Angra do Heroismo, this modern property was in fact the first hotel (in 1968) to offer accommodation to visitors on Terceira. The hotel is ideally positioned opposite the main square of ‘Praça Velha’ and adjacent to the botanical gardens, from which there is a path that leads uphill (well worth the effort) to the ‘Miradouro of Memory’ with excellent views over the town of Angra.
Accommodation
- 120 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, triple rooms, executive rooms, junior suites and a duplex senior suite.
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- Restaurant serving international cuisine (à la carte menu – evening only)
- Banqueting room
- Bistro bar
- Terrace with panoramic views over Angra do Heroísmo, the ocean and Monte Brasil
- Lift
- Health suite with indoor heated swimming pool (5 x 10m) – pool towels provided, and gym, sauna, Jacuzzi and Turkish bath (no charge)
- Free access to the botanical gardens (closes at 23:00 in summer and 18:00 in winter)
- Street parking (payable at metre)
Charming Blue Hotel - Night 11 to 13
The Charming Blue is located in the centre of Vila do Porto, the island’s capital.
The Charming Blue is located in the centre of Vila do Porto, the island’s capital. The main building, dating from the 1860s, is an historic ‘family home’ that has been beautifully restored and converted in to a small and charming hotel with fifteen tastefully designed and spacious guest rooms, a refined à la carte restaurant and pleasant outdoor space with swimming pool.
Accommodation
- 15 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms and superior rooms
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- ‘Mesa d’Oito’ à la carte restaurant
- Bar
- Lounge with fireplace
- Library
- Complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel
- Lift (main building)
- Outdoor swimming pool (7 x 12m) open all year – pool towels provided
- Pool bar serving snacks (seasonal)
- Laundry service (payable locally)
- Free parking
Azoris Royal Garden Hotel - Night 14 to 14
The Azoris Royal Garden Hotel is located in the capital, Ponta Delgada, just 250 metres from the town’s historic centre and cobbled shopping streets.
The Azoris Royal Garden Hotel is located in the capital, Ponta Delgada, just 250 metres from the town’s historic centre and cobbled shopping streets. Within the grounds is a central Zen garden with water features and seating areas, outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, spa, wellness centre with indoor pool, gym, sauna and Jacuzzi and garden restaurant and coffee shop.
The guest rooms are modern and offer options for families or larger groups in suites or executive rooms which interconnect. There is a large covered parking garage, 6 Euros per day, which makes this the convenient location if hiring a car during your stay.
Accommodation
- 193 air-conditioned rooms including classic rooms, executive rooms, level family room and suites
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- Garden restaurant serving international and regional dishes (buffet and à la carte)
- Bar serving snacks and light meals in the afternoon
- Coffee shop, located near the outdoor swimming pool, open daily Apr–Oct
- Spacious seating areas
- Outdoor swimming pool (8 x 18m) open all year - pool towels on request (free of charge). Pool heated Nov-Mar
- Children’s outdoor pool (2.20 x 2.20m)
- Tennis court (c.20 Euros per hour including equipment)
- Bikes for hire - 7.50 Euros for a half day or 10 Euros per day (payable locally)
- Lotus Spa offering massages and facials (payable locally)
- Wellness centre (free entry) with indoor heated pool (6 x 12m), sauna, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and mini gym
- Snooker room (payable locally c.7.50 Euros per hour)
- 4 Lifts
- ATM machine for cash withdrawals (Visa/Maestro/Mastercard) in the reception area
- Covered indoor parking payable locally - the first 15 minutes are free; after the first 1st hour 1,00 Euro per hour; maximum daily rate 6,00 Euros and lost card charge 10,00 Euros
- 15 minutes walk from the centre and 25 minutes walk from the marina
Route Map
Best time to go
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
Time Difference
GMT - 1 hour
Currency
Euro
Language
Portuguese
Average flight times
4 hours 5 minutes
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Average temperature
Average rainfall
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC