Guest Contributor: Letícia Oliveira
I was born on São Miguel Island, and have been lucky enough to call this place home my whole life. Growing up here meant afternoons swims, weekend drives to chase viewpoints, and learning that the weather changes whenever it wants.
It’s so important to me because it gave me a different lifestyle, and I’m so grateful to have been raised on this beautiful island.
If a friend asked me how to explore the island in just a few days, this is the route I would suggest. It includes relaxation, lots of nature and unforgettable views with some adventurous activities.
Considering you are staying at our wonderful guesthouse, just 10 minutes from the center of Ponta Delgada, start the day by taking a 10-minute walk into the city to explore our culture and monuments, and take plenty of pictures right next to the sea. You’ll walk by many different coffee shops and souvenir shops. If you love natural markets with fruits, vegetables, cheese, and so many other things, definitely make a stop at Mercado Da Graça.
After visiting our wonderful city, nature begins. Head towards the western part of the island and visit the little town called Sete Cidades. It’s known for having a big lagoon divided by a bridge, and each side of it has a different color, one blue and one green. To see the famous viewpoint of Sete Cidades, drive up to Vista Do Rei. There, you can take photos and learn about the story of how the lagoon has two different colors.
Even though you might think it’s the best view of the island, there are still so many more just as good as Sete Cidades. For example, the next stop: Mosteiros. Here you will find a beach that holds the best sunsets of São Miguel. Finish your day with a walk on the black sand beach, enjoying the stunning sunset view.
Good morning, travellers! Today is a great day to start heading East, towards Furnas. If you’re a tea lover, on the way there, make sure to stop at Gorreana Tea Plantation, the oldest tea plantation in all of Europe. There, you have a guide through the factory, and learn how tea is made as you watch the process take place in front of you. At the end, you can enjoy a cup of complimentary tea from the plantation. We recommend pairing it with one of their tea-infused cookies! There is also a trail through the tea plantations at a distance of 3,5km which takes about 1h30m, and is considered soft and easy.
After learning more about our island, we’re going to explore another famous lagoon: Lagoa Das Furnas. Here you’ll find out about our volcanic activity and the so-called fumarolas. These are known for the traditional Cozido Das Furnas, which is cooked in the fumaroles, under the dirt, with just the volcanic heat. I know it’s hard to believe, but when you try it for the first time, it’s even more unbelievably good. Take a look at the fumarolas near the lake, to see where your dinner is cooked. Then, later head into town to a local restaurant to enjoy. We recommend Caldeiras e Vulcões. It’s a good idea to reserve a table in advance, the famous dish sells fast! Just ask Vanessa, she’ll be happy to call and reserve a table for you!
Still in the lagoon, you can enjoy taking a walk around it and discover a natural park called Parque da Grená. It offers forest trails, waterfalls, and wooden walkways. On the lake, you’ll also find a tree-top adventure activity for adventurous people, where visitors can climb and move between trees.
Next, head to the center of the furnas, where you’ll see even more fumarolas. The ones in the center are mostly used for cooking corn on the cob, but make sure to go between June and September, which is the only season they sell it. Since it’s a small village, the center is also small and quick to explore, so take advantage. Also, you must try out the natural hot springs, my personal favorite, Poça Da Dona Beija. It’s the best place to relax in the middle of nature. Pro tip: wear dark colored swimwear, as the mineral-rich waters can stain fabrics. You can also ask Vanessa for a black towel to bring with you!
Last day on the island, unfortunately, but with so many fun activities. Starting the day early, we’re going to head to the downtown Ponta Delgada Marina for whale watching. It’s such a fun and unique experience that you can’t miss. Count on two or three hours on the boat with a full view of the island, dolphins, and, if you’re lucky, whales!!!
After a wonderful morning, we all know we need some food in our bellies, so right next to the whale watching center in the marina, there are so many restaurants to choose from, but I have to admit my favorite is definitely “Stage”. It has great fresh fish and a lot of Portuguese food.
After a crazy morning of activities, what better way to relax than at the beach? That’s right, let’s go to Santa Bárbara Beach, known for its surfing conditions and the beautiful scenery around it. If you’ve tried or wanted to try surfing during the summer, there are so many classes for tourists, but I recommend booking in advance because it’s always full.
If you’re still on time to catch your plane home and can do one last activity, I recommend another natural hot pool. This time, in the middle of the jungle, with a waterfall called Caldeira Velha. Make sure to book your ticket a day in advance, or try your luck at the door.
And last but not least, just 9 minutes away by car, there is another viewpoint with a scenic 360º view of the Atlantic Ocean: Miradouro De Santa Iría.
That’s it, our 3-day guide to São Miguel! I hope you enjoyed it and that it gives you some ideas for exploring the island.
If you have any questions at all, just email us. We’d love to help you plan your visit!
