Self-guided walking
7 nights,
single centre
Level: 2
Moderate
Headwater
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It is hard to believe that the Azores are part of Europe. Born from the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, this lush green archipelago of volcanic islands is a far cry from continental Portugal. The nine Islands of the Azores are Europe's western most point located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The Azores have long been known as one of the most scenically varied areas to explore, each of the nine islands has its own characteristics, from steep craters to abundant wildlife and sites of historical interest. The islands of the Azores are a paradise for walkers and nature lovers with their blue lakes bordered by flowers, dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters,
Sao Miguel is famous for its beautiful landscapes and exceptional volcanic lakes. The largest of the Azorean islands it is known as Ilhe Verde - Green Island. A stunning coastline of small bays with black sand and precipitous sea cliffs interspersed with small harbours add further interest. The island features three major calderas (volcanic craters) now with lakes sparkling at the bottom. Sete Cidades even has a village at the bottom of the crater and two lakes, one blue and one contrasting green.
At Lagoa das Furnas boiling sulphurous water comes to the surface through hot springs near the lake and is a reminder of the volcanic origin of all of the islands. The mountains rise to over 1000m. As an example of Sao Miguel's climate, one finds the only tea and pineapple plantations in Europe, both well worth a visit on non-walking days. Rarely could a visitor fail to be impressed by the incredible myriad of all the different shades of greens exhibited by its extensive prairie forests, tobacco fields and tea plantations as well as the abundance of hues this island has to offer.
Walks are along dirt tracks (both broad and narrow) and minor roads with tarmac or gravel. Footpaths are marked reasonably well.
Arrive in Ponta Delgada and your base for 7 nights.
You stay at Hotel Talisman.
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The charming Hotel Talisman is an Art Deco Boutique hotel located in the historical centre of Ponta Delgada. The rooms are large with comfortable beds. The partially covered outdoor swimming pool offers stunning views over the city, ocean and mountains. The Palm Terrace Restaurant has two modern dining rooms with an outdoor terrace serving seafood and Portuguese cuisine. There is also a Skylight Bar and Lounge where you can enjoy an after dinner drink.
Take the bus (payable locally) to Sete Cidades, set within the volcanic crater containing Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, a must on any visit to Sao Miguel. Head up to the Vista do Rei viewpoint before either returning the way you came or taking a transfer (must be pre-arranged locally) back to Ponta Delgada.
Take the bus (not included) to Furnas and walk to the Lagoa das Furnas. The walk starts and finishes in the attractive village of Furnas, with an optional extra walk round the village at the end. Confirmation of the volcanic origins of São Miguel is nowhere more evident than here. The picturesque Parque Terra Nostra is in the village centre, together with thermal baths.
Take a day to relax, or you could book a boat trip to try and spot some whales and dolphins.
Take a short taxi ride (not included) to Nine Windows Wall where the route takes you around the east and north sides of the crater rim of the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. After only a short climb the track undulates along the ridge, affording splendid views on both sides.
Take the bus to Praia (not included). This walk takes you from almost sea level, steeply uphill across meadows, through dense woodland, alongside a levada (water channel), and finally over heather covered mountainside to arrive at the remote shore of Lagoa do Fogo, the highest lake of Sao Miguel.
Take the bus to Lomba da Cruz (not included). This is a real roller coaster of a route, basically parallel with the main west coast road westwards, but lower and nearer the sea. The views are best from Ginetes, and at Ponta do Esclavado.
Depart from your hotel after breakfast.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Hotel Lisboa Plaza, Lisbon.
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Owned by the same family since 1953, the 4 star Hotel Lisboa Plaza is an imaginatively designed hotel, just off the famous Avenida da Liberdade. All rooms have en-suite marble floored bathrooms, air conditioning, satellite television, direct dial telephones, hairdryers and mini-bar. The public rooms are elegantly furnished and there is a pleasant bar and dining room.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £378.
These flight inclusive prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £378.
Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable for choice and flexibility. We've listed our most popular travel options below, however you aren't limited to these - we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit.
Air prices include our standard flights/transfers
Out: TAP London Heathrow to Ponta Delgada via Lisbon then transfer from Ponta Delgada airport to Ponta Delgada Hotel 10 minutes
Return: Transfer from Ponta Delgada Hotel to Ponta Delgada Airport 10 minutes then TAP Ponta Delgada to London Heathrow via Lisbon
Business/club/first class seats are available on request.
Alternative transfers
If you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).
To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 01606 720199, use our live webchat (we're open from 9am today) or email sales@headwater.com
Should you require overnight airport accommodation, airport parking or even a uniformed chauffeur to take your car from your departure terminal and park it for you, we can arrange this for you through Holiday Extras. You can book airport parking, airport hotels and executive lounges through their website or contact us for further details. Early booking is recommended to obtain the best availability and prices.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
single centre
Level: 2
Moderate
Headwater
Navigation App
