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Blog Travel Ideas

Explore the Azores - 5 unique experiences you can't miss (and one more for gastronomy lovers)

By We Love Small Hotels | 11 June 2024

Discover the Azores, a breathtaking archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, that offers many unique experiences which highlight the dazzling landscapes, the natural beauty of the island with its volcanic craters and lagoons, its picturesque villages and cultural richness

From more adventurous activities to culinary delights, here are our top 5 must-do experiences in the Azores:

 

Go on a kayak around the Islet Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel

The Islet of Vila Franca do Campo is a beautiful and tranquil lagoon with clear waters. The calm waters around this volcanic islet make it perfect to go on a kayaking adventure, both for beginners and experienced kayakers.

While there, enjoy the panoramic views of São Miguel island and go for a snorkel to explore underwater life.

Adventure yourself on a kayak in our Portugal’s Family Activities Holiday tour

 

Discover the beautiful Lagoa do Fogo and Lagoa das Sete Cidades, São Miguel

Lagoa do Fogo is a protected area in São Miguel island due to its unique volcanic landscape and endemic forest. To truly unravel this beautiful place, hike along the trails and reach the summit of “Pico da Vela“ to get unique views of the volcanic lagoon.

More to the west of the island, find Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a volcanic crater that gave place to two natural lagoons, a truly nature wonder and the perfect place to enjoy the sunset.

Both places boast stunning views and lush surroundings, perfect for hiking some trails and exploring underwater. 

Be dazzled by these two lagoons while doing our Off the beaten Azores Nature Expedition tour

 

Do the most exuberant hiking trail in the Azores - Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, São Jorge

Another island, another dazzling experience. Embark on this beautiful hiking trail at Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. This trail leads through verdant landscapes to a picturesque coastal lagoon, renowned for its natural beauty and tranquillity.

To walk through this hiking trail join us on our Wines, Volcanoes and Whales - The best of Azores tour

 

Walk in the crater of a dormant volcano, Faial

This is an opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring landscape of Faial by walking in the crater of a dormant volcano. The hike offers panoramic views of the lush crater and its unique geological features. While walking, be dazzled by the surreal landscape of lush vegetation and volcanic rock formations 

The hike starts at the Caldeira viewpoint and then descends to the heart of the dormant volcano.

Do this activity on our Wines, Volcanoes and Whales - The best of Azores tour

 

Climb to the top of Pico Mountain, Pico

This experience will leave you at the top of Portugal's highest peak, Pico Mountain. This challenging hike rewards adventurers with unparalleled views from the summit, encompassing the entire island and the vast Atlantic Ocean. 

The climb is a testament to nature's grandeur, offering a sense of accomplishment as you reach the summit.

Discover this activity in our Wines, Volcanoes and Whales - The best of Azores tour 

 

Apart from the more adventurous experiences and dedicated to the ones who seek the best at the table, here is an extra activity to sample the gastronomy of São Miguel’s island.

 

Heritage Food Tour with The Art of Tasting Portugal, by the hands of Chef Cláudio Pontes, São Miguel

This experience is dedicated to all the food lovers. The Art of Tasting Portugal will host a true gastronomic experience by the hands of Chef Cláudio Pontes. You will visit a Bio Farm, do a vulcanic tour to cook bread, taste some tea at Gorreana and have a fabulous authentic lunch, together with some local delicacies like São Miguel cheese and Pico Wines.

More about this experience in our Nature & Food Lovers Azores tour

 

Find other amazing experiences in Portugal here or explore our travel ideas.