San Miguel : 2 - Day Island Tour - East & West Highlights

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
São Miguel Oeste | Discover Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo's highlights
10 stops
1
Praia do Populo
Brief Stop at Praia do Pópulo Enjoy a short stop at Praia do Pópulo, located on the south coast of São Miguel. This black volcanic sand beach provides a convenient spot for a coffee, coastal views, and photography during the tour.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
2
Miradouro da Barrosa
Located atop the Fogo volcano crater, the Pico da Barrosa Viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of western São Miguel. On clear days, visitors can see both the north and south coasts, enjoying the vast Atlantic Ocean and the island’s dramatic volcanic landscape.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
3
Lagoa do Fogo
top at the Lagoa do Fogo Viewpoint and be captivated by one of São Miguel’s most stunning landscapes. A protected natural reserve since 1974, it is also a sanctuary for seabirds and migratory species that find a safe nesting haven here. The viewpoint offers spectacular views of Lagoa do Fogo, a crystal-clear lake nestled within a volcanic crater and the highest-altitude lake in the Azores.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
4
Just a few minutes from Ribeira Grande, the Caldeiras Thermal Springs offer a relaxing thermal retreat in a valley surrounded by Laurisilva forest. Dating back to the 19th century, the site features stone pools filled with naturally heated waters, created by the island’s volcanic activity.
3 hours 20 minutes • Admission ticket free
5
Ribeira Grande
During a stop in Ribeira Grande, explore the charming cobblestone streets lined with historic Baroque and Neoclassical buildings. Highlights include the impressive Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Estrela and the iconic Jardim do Paraíso. The flowing river, arched bridges, and traditional houses create a picturesque and relaxing atmosphere, offering an authentic glimpse into one of São Miguel’s most emblematic towns.
1 hour 20 minutes • Admission ticket free
6
Discover the history of São Miguel pineapples, a unique and authentic Azorean agricultural tradition over a century old. During the guided visit, explore the glass greenhouses where these famous pineapples are cultivated, learning about the artisanal process from planting to harvest. This is the only place in the world with glasshouse pineapple production, taking 24 to 30 months to grow and mature. Its distinct flavor and texture make this fruit a truly unique regional delicacy.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
7
Vista do Rei Miradouro
One of the Azores’ most iconic sights, Vista do Rei offers breathtaking panoramic views of the legendary Blue and Green Lakes. Located in the heart of the Sete Cidades volcanic caldera, local legend says the lakes were formed from the tears of two lovers mourning a forbidden love. The scenery combines natural beauty and tranquility, creating a truly memorable stop on any guided tour of São Miguel.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
8
Sete Cidades
Continuing the tour past the bridge associated with the legend of two lovers, we reach the Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint, offering visitors a stunning perspective over the Sete Cidades Lakes. This vantage point provides a unique panorama of the Blue and Green Lakes and the surrounding mountain range that forms the volcanic caldera.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
9
Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado
This viewpoint, located at the top of the cliff, offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Looking out over the ocean, visitors can admire the Ilhéus dos Mosteiros, small rocky islets rising from the sea.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
As you descend into Mosteiros Village, the offshore rocks reveal the legendary tale of a forbidden love between a priest and a nun. Stop at a black sand beach for dramatic photographs before visiting the natural pools of Mosteiros, a favorite spot among locals. Enjoy the scenery, relax, and, if timed right, experience a spectacular sunset, perfect for a picnic.
25 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
East of São Miguel | Furnas volcano & Nordeste, tea plantation
8 stops
11
Vila Franca do Campo
Morning stop at the Vila Franca do Campo marina, the former capital of São Miguel. Opportunity to admire the Vila Franca islet or have your coffee, savoring the typical and traditional conventual sweet " Queijadas da Vila ".
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
12
Lagoa das Furnas
Discover the beauty of the Furnas lake, walking along its edge passing by the magnificent chapel of Nossa Srª das Vitorias, unique in its gothic style and discovering the various statues made of old tree trunks that adorn the edge.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
13
Lunch Stop or Free Visit – Furnas Village Enjoy a lunch break or free visit in the picturesque Furnas Village, surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes. Stroll through its peaceful streets, explore local shops and cafés, and experience traditional Azorean life while admiring the nearby hot springs and thermal pools. Taste the famous Cozido das Furnas, a unique stew slowly cooked using geothermal heat from the volcanic soil, or try the vegetarian version, made exclusively with local vegetables. Table reservations are strongly recommended, and we can assist in securing your spot—please contact us to arrange.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
14
Caldeira das Furnas
Visit to the Enchanted Valley – "Boca do Vulcão" Explore the Enchanted Valley, also known as the "Boca do Vulcão," walking among boiling calderas and fumaroles, and feel the raw power of an active volcano. Home to multiple mineral springs, it is considered by experts as the largest hydrothermal area in the world, with 22 different mineral water types. Sample some of the most famous waters or enjoy a tasting of traditional liqueurs at a local craft shop. This is truly a place of great diversity and unique beauty, where the surrounding volcanic landscape will leave you amazed.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
15
Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes
Magnificent watermill area, now transformed into a natural park where its waterfalls are the main attraction. Considered one of the most beautiful areas in Nordeste, you can also take the opportunity to find the typical and traditional "corn leaf dolls" made by hand, in the local handicraft store.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
16
Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana
On the way back, a stop at the Gorreana tea factory will give you some leisurely moments as you taste the last all-natural tea in the world. Its undulating plantations are a magnificent decoration for the surrounding valleys.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
17
Miradouro de Santa Iria
Observe from this viewpoint, the immense beauty of São Miguel's north coast, from Sete Cidades to the Northeast, a scenic coastline jutting out into the ocean. This is our last stop before returning to your accommodations.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
18
Parque Terra Nostra
Optional Visit – Terra Nostra Botanical Garden & Thermal Pool This optional visit takes place after lunch; if you choose not to have lunch, you can enjoy extra time exploring the gardens. The Terra Nostra Park, spanning 12.5 hectares and established in the 18th–19th centuries, features lush vegetation, including centuries-old trees, camellia collections, ferns, and endemic and exotic plants, along with shaded paths, lakes, and green areas perfect for strolling and relaxation. At the heart of the park is the famous thermal pool, with iron-rich volcanic water at 35–40 °C, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the local geothermal activity. This optional visit offers a unique experience, blending nature, history, and wellness—perfect for those looking to unwind after exploring Furnas. Entrance ticket: €17 per person, payable on-site.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• IMPORTANT: The order of the day's tours displayed may not be the same as the actual tour, your tour may start on the east or west side. Contact us in case of doubt.

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