Azores - Between Hiking trails and landscapes 8 Days

Begin your Azorean adventure on the enchanting island of São Jorge, where your guide will greet you upon arrival and escort you to your comfortable hotel in Velas (or similar). After settling in, enjoy a relaxed afternoon to unwind or explore the town at your leisure. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, savoring local flavors and learning about the journey ahead. Your guide will be available for recommendations and to answer any questions, ensuring a smooth and memorable start to your multi-day tour.

Embark on a scenic exploration of São Jorge’s southern coast, starting in the peaceful village of Urzelina. Discover the lush Fajã de São João and the unique Fajã dos Vimes, where you’ll visit a rare organic coffee plantation and learn about the island’s coffee-making traditions. Continue to the charming village of Calheta, where the picturesque harbor and tranquil seascapes invite relaxation. As the sun sets, return to Urzelina to admire historic windmills and enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools. The evening is yours to explore local cuisine or simply unwind at your own pace.

Rise before dawn for an invigorating hike to Pico da Esperança, where the sunrise paints the island in golden hues. After breakfast, set out from Serra do Topo on a four-hour trek through São Jorge’s most dramatic landscapes, passing by the cascading waters of Caldeira de Cima and the secluded beauty of Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. Continue through Fajã do Belo to the tranquil Fajã dos Cubres, where nature’s serenity awaits. In the afternoon, visit the northern fajãs, including Fajã do Ouvidor and the crystal-clear Poça de Simão Dias natural pool. As evening approaches, board a scenic ferry to the island of Pico, where new adventures await.

Start your day in the vibrant village of Madalena, wandering its charming streets and visiting the historic town hall and the 17th-century Church of Santa Maria Madalena. Delve into Pico’s volcanic past at Gruta das Torres, Portugal’s largest lava tube, where fascinating rock formations await. After lunch, stroll through the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Criação Velha, marveling at the unique landscape shaped by centuries of winemaking. Journey south to Lajes do Pico, where you’ll meet a local cattle farmer and experience traditional dairy farming. Spend the night in Lajes, with dinner at your leisure to sample the island’s culinary delights.

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a partial ascent of Pico Mountain, Portugal’s tallest peak. Reach the volcanic cave of Furna Abrigo at 1,400 meters, where sweeping views of the island and the Atlantic await. Descend to Casa da Montanha and continue through Pico’s pristine interior, discovering the tranquil lagoons of Capitão, Caiado, and Paúl. In the afternoon, set out on an exhilarating boat trip to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable highlight of your Azorean journey.

Begin your day exploring the dramatic volcanic coastline of Cabrito and Cachorro, where striking rock formations and natural pools create a photographer’s paradise. After lunch, immerse yourself in Pico’s winemaking heritage at the Pico Wine Museum and stroll through the mystical Mata dos Dragoeiros forest. Enjoy a swim in Barca’s inviting natural pools before raising a glass at the iconic Cella Bar as the sun sets. In the evening, take a scenic boat ride to Faial Island, arriving in the lively town of Horta for an overnight stay.

Discover the vibrant port city of Horta, famed for its colorful marina murals and sweeping views of the Atlantic. Venture inland to the lush Caldeira do Faial, a vast volcanic crater teeming with greenery. Visit the resilient village of Ribeirinha, then admire the traditional windmills in Cedros. Journey west to the Capelinhos volcano, where lunar landscapes and the iconic lighthouse tell the story of Faial’s most recent eruption. Conclude your day with a relaxing swim in the natural pools of Varadouro, soaking in the sunset before returning to Horta for your final night.

As your Azorean odyssey draws to a close, take time to reflect on the unforgettable moments and friendships forged during your journey. After breakfast, bid farewell to the islands, carrying with you cherished memories of volcanic landscapes, vibrant villages, and the warm hospitality of the Azores.