Description
Experience an active holiday and try hiking on the volcanic crater of Sete Cidades or bathing in a thermal natural pool in the midst of pure nature. Go on a whale watching tour to encounter a variety of marine wildlife, such as our resident sperm whales, common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins. This is a package for a complete active experience!
Summary
- Day 1 | Arrival
- Day 2 | Hiking Faial da Terra (FD)
- Day 3 | Hiking in Sete Cidades (FD)
- Day 4 | Walking Thematic Tour Furnas (FD)
- Day 5 | Hiking Lagoa do Fogo (HD)
- Day 6 | Hiking Tour Nordeste (FD)
- Day 7 | Free day
- Day 8 | Departure
Itinerary
Day 1- Arrival
Arrival and transfer to the hotel. Free day.
Day 2- Hike Faial da Terra (Full Day)
Pick up at the hotel. Faial da Terra is a small village belonging to Povoacao, located in the South East of Sao Miguel Island. The hike starts on a steep narrow road that leads us to Sanguinho – a village that has been abandoned since the early 70’s and is now being restored. The rest of the trail is in the woods, with a lot of short up and down hill stretches between very dense and beautiful vegetation. Upon reaching Salto do Prego’s waterfall, we have the opportunity for a dip before our picnic lunch. On the way back we follow a different trail but with the same characteristics. When we finish the trail we have time for a snack in town and to mingle with the local people. This trail is not recommended for people with knee or ankle problems. Drop off at the hotel.
Day 3- Hike Sete Cidades (Full Day)
Pick up at the hotel. This full day tour will start with a drive by the south road with a picturesque view till Vista do Rei, the most famous viewpoint of Sete Cidades, where you can see the green and the blue lake. This is where the hike 8 km/+-5miles starts. The hike will go through the rim of Caldeira das Sete Cidades, on the right there will be Caldeira Seca, the parish and on the left, a view to the southwest coast of the island and its small villages. Stop for lunch/picnic by the lake and time to rest and enjoy the view. Return to Ponta Delgada and short tour at the Pineapple Plantion with an explanation on how this fruit is cultivated in the island. Drop off at the Hotel
Day 4- Thematic walking Tour Furnas (Full Day)
Pick up at the hotel. This day will be a little more relaxing, a mix between van and walking to fully enjoy the beauty of this Village, which wouldn't be seen on a hike. The tour starts by the south part of the island, there will be a passage thru inumerous villages like Lagoa and Vila Franca do campo ( former Capital), viewpoint at Caloura. The first stop in Furnas will be at the Lake and where the fanous "cozido das Furnas" ( several vegetables and meats) is cooked undergrounf by the heat of the volcano), brief explanation about how its processed and how long it takes as well observe hot springs and fumerolles. Continue to the charming and unique Village of Furnas and stop for lunch at a local restaurant, the cozido. Please advise if there's any allergies or food restrictions. After lunch, stroll thru the historic Botanical Park Terra Nostra, planted in the 18th century with breathtaking views, there will be an opportunity for a small swim at their natural warm water pool, which yellow/brown color is due to the high level of iron (we advise used swimwear that you won't mind having stained). The tour will continue taking the North side of the island, stop at viewpoints and visit Europe's only tea plantation at Gorreana. Brief explanation how the tea is processed and opportunity to have a cup of tea. More villages will be seen on your way to the Hotel in Ponta Delgada. Drop off at the hotel.
Day 5 - Hike Lagoa do Fogo (Half Day)
This hike will show different views and vegetation ending at a crater and highest Lake on the island, considered a Natural Reserve. Fire Lake is the youngest volcano of Sao Miguel. Stop for lunch/ picnic and continue the hike. drop off at the Hotel
Day 6- Hike Nordeste (FD)
Pick up at the hotel. Located in the eastern-most part of the island, Nordeste is considered to be the most beautiful region in the island and it has already been considered to be the most flower-rich region in Europe. this hike will take you to the most bautiful landscapes, stop fot lunch/picnic. continue the hike and return to the hotel.
Day 7
Free day.
Day 8
Transfer out and departure.