São Miguel: three days in the heart of the Azores

Among its volcanic lakes, captivating gardens and ever-present ocean, São Miguel is somewhere to discover at your ease. Three days are sufficient to visit some of the island’s most iconic features, that said, it’s also enough to give you the bug to want to return to see other parts of the island.

Day 1: lagoons and viewpoints

It’s one of the most photographed places on the island; however, it doesn’t make it any less magical to visit – no photo beats that sensation of being on top of the world. Sete Cidades Lagoon is the perfect way to start an itinerary around São Miguel and get into the Azorean swing of things. Located in a huge volcanic crater, the lagoa boasts two distinct colours, blue and green, which make it worthy of a picture postcard.

Passing by, Lagoa do Canário appears more sheltered, surrounded by dense vegetation and with a more mysterious ambience. Similarly, Lagoa das Empadadas is made up of small twin lagoas surrounded by cryptomerias.

In the surrounding area, it’s worth stopping at the Boca do Inferno viewpoint, a particularly popular spot with photographers, and then descending to the parish of Sete Cidades to explore the area by the water. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there’s canoeing or short walks around the lagoa. Equipment can be hired nearby, from canoes to bicycles, which allow visitors to seamlessly discover the area and gain a different perspective.

On returning, the route via the west coast reveals cliffs, small parishes and rural landscapes that help you understand – and absorb – the island’s peaceful atmosphere.

Day 2: furnas and geothermal power

The second day is focused on Vale das Furnas, a part of the island with considerable volcanic activity. At Lagoa das Furnas, visitors can see the caldeiras, where traditional local cuisine is served, such as the well-known cozido das Furnas, which is slowly cooked with the natural heat of the soil. The entire experience can take hours and hours, especially at the weekend when groups of families and friends take part in the ritual. It’s interesting to learn how to do it like the locals and it’s possible to have the same experience (with a lot less work) if you pay the local restaurants for their services, who prepare the complete picnic for an unforgettable meal sitting on the stone benches.

A few minutes away, the Parque Terra Nostra combines nature and relaxation. The huge botanic garden boasts species from different continents, which create different ambiences as you make your way through the greenery. To end the visit, ready yourself for a sensory experience: there’s a thermal pool with brown, iron rich water, well-known for its constant temperature and minerals with therapeutic properties. The bath seems even better on cold days.

Before leaving, it’s worth exploring the centre of Furnas, where you can try some local sweets and observe the fumaroles by the lake, where the geothermal steam creates a unique ambience.

Day 3: city and sea

The last day begins in Ponta Delgada, the island’s main town. In Portas da Cidade, the marina and historic churches help us understand the Azores’ secular connection to the Atlantic. The streets house various shops and cafés, and it’s worth entering some of the town’s oldest spots where the retro vibe endures. At the same time, there are various art galleries in the historic centre, demonstrating that São Miguel and the Azores offer an interesting cultural scene.

Leaving from the port, there are daily excursions for whale and dolphin watching, which is one of the most popular activities on the island. The Azores’ marine biodiversity means that it’s possible to see different species throughout the year, always shepherded by specialised teams. Not even the gloomiest days justify remaining on terra firma.

Where to stay for those unhurried

For those who wish to explore the island with time and in comfort, it’s a good idea to stay somewhere strategically positioned in the middle of the island. The Pestana Bahia Praia, which is located on the southern coast, very much fits the bill, just a few kilometres from Ponta Delgada and well placed for different sights. Staying in Hotel on São Miguel Island with this type of location means it’s possible to combine busy days with relaxing time by the sea – the Pestana Bahia Praia has direct access to the Água d’Alto beach, situated in a bay.

Amongst the excursions, trails and gastronomic experiences, return to the hotel to enjoy the proximity of the ocean, the outdoor pool or simply contemplate the Atlantic landscape. Near the hotel are Caloura and Vila Franca do Campo, picturesque coastal spots well worth checking out and great places for a dip.