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Offered languages
- Portuguese
- English
This route on the east side of the island is a complete journey between history and wildlife, starting with the iconic Villa Franca do Campo. There, we uncover the past of the first capital and taste the famous Queijadas of the Villa, before going to Povoação, the cradle of the island's settlement, where the landscape opens into deep valleys and green slopes.
The journey culminates in the Northeast, passing through the waterfalls of the Ribeira dos Caldeirões and the blooming miradours that seem to float over the Atlantic. Taking this journey with us means traveling with those who know every shortcut and secret: we guarantee that you will not miss the hidden corners between the seven lumps of the Povoação nor the best angles to photograph the Northeast, allowing you to relax and absorb all the cultural and natural heritage without the concern of the winding roads.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The Guide will be at the meeting point at 9:00 am if you do not request a change of time.
At the beginning of the trails and pick up at the end of the trail.
Itinerary
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1Vila Franca do Campo
Villa Franca do Campo is one of the most historic locations of São Miguel, having been the first capital of the island until the devastating earthquake of 1522. Today, it enchants visitors with its iconic Ilhéu, a natural Reservation in a submerged volcanic crater, and with the iconic Hermitage of Our Lady of Peace, which offers one of the most famous views of the archipelago. Inseparable from the Villa are the Queijadas da Villa, a relic of conventual sweets created more than 500 years ago by the nuns of the former Convent of Santo André. Made from milk, sugar and many egg yolks, these cheesecakes are famous for their juicy texture and generous finish in powdered sugar. At the Morgado Factory, you can still observe the handmade manufacturing process as the proofs just come out of the oven.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
2
The Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada, located in the Northeast, is world famous for being the best place on the island to watch the sunrise. It is a space that combines large gardens full of flowers with vertigous views over the cliffs and the sea.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, located in the county of Nordeste, is widely considered one of the most beautiful places in the Azores. Faithful to its name, it offers an atmosphere of absolute serenity with superb views over the cliffs that dive into the Atlantic Ocean.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
The center of the Villa do Nordeste is known as the "most prosperous municipality" of São Miguel. It is an impeccably clean historical center, where the imposing Matriz Church of St. George stands out, with its characteristic basalt stone facade, and the municipal gardens that seem hand-painted. The walk through the center is complete with the passage through the historic Seven Arcs Bridge, a 19th-century engineering work that is the Villa's postcard. For those who love culture, the Nordeste Municipal Museum offers a look at the local traditions. It is a quiet place, where the silence and care with the public spaces invite to a relaxed walk. Stop for lunch.
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
5Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes
The Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park is an authentic fairy-tale setting in the Nordeste county. This refuge stands out for its stunning waterfalls, centuries-old water mills and a lush vegetation made up of giant fetuses and hortensias. It is the ideal place for those looking to relax in impeccable gardens, explore the Azorian ethnographic heritage or venture in the canyoning. With free entrance and excellent leisure areas, it is a must stop to feel the green soul of São Miguel.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
6
The Villa da Povoação is the historic cradle of São Miguel, where the first settlers landed. The tour begins at the monument Porta do Povoamento, following the picturesque streets to the Hermitage of Santa Barbara (one of the oldest on the island) and to the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. Alongside the sea, you can relax in the beach and harbor area, but the mandatory stop is at a local pastry store to taste the famous Fofas da Povoação, the typical candy filled with cream. It is a serene Villa, encased between mountains, which perfectly combines the cultural heritage with the Azorian serenity.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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