Adventures in Paradise: 4 Days in Azores, Portugal
Discover paradise in the captivating Azores, Portugal.
20 July 2023
The Azores, Portugal's hidden gem, is a tropical paradise awaiting adventurous travelers. With its breathtaking volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and lush greenery, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Explore its historic towns, soak in the rejuvenating hot springs, and embark on thrilling outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and diving, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Travel plan
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- Check into the charming Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, a blissful oasis nestled among lush gardens and thermal pools.
- Unleash your wild side at Lagoa das Furnas, an enchanting crater lake where you can witness boiling springs and bubbling mud pots.
- Dive into the gastronomical wonders of Azorean cuisine at Restaurante Tony's, savoring their infamous cozido, a unique meat and vegetable stew cooked underground.
- Embark on a sunset hike to Sete Cidades, a mesmerizing twin lake cradled within a volcanic crater, offering panoramic vistas that will steal your breath away.
- Sip on a Pink Gin cocktail, made with local Azores gin, as you unwind at Cais 20, a trendy bar with a buzzing atmosphere and captivating harbor views.
- Begin your day by strolling along the vibrant Ponta Delgada Marina, soaked in a kaleidoscope of colors from the charming fishing boats.
- Hop on a boat excursion to spot majestic whales dancing in the Atlantic Ocean, with Futurismo Azores Adventures providing a magical experience.
- Dive into the culinary scene at A Tasca, a cozy local eatery serving up mouthwatering seafood, including the island's famous limpets, cooked to perfection.
- Soak up the sun and enjoy the pristine beaches at Praia das Milícias, where golden sand meets crystalline waters, inviting you for a refreshing dip.
- Indulge your sweet tooth at Gelados Loulé, a delightful gelateria boasting a myriad of unique flavors, such as pineapple-basil or passion fruit-mint.
- Hike up Mount Pico, Portugal's tallest peak, for an adrenaline-inducing adventure, rewarded with awe-inspiring views of neighboring islands.
- Immerse yourself in the majesty of nature at Terra Nostra Park, wandering through dense fern forests, stumbling upon hidden hot springs, and bathing in the iron-rich thermal pool.
- Satisfy your cravings at Adega do Zapata, a rustic wine cellar turned restaurant, offering delectable Azorean dishes paired with exceptional local wines.
- Embark on an unforgettable boat tour to explore the mystical caves and grottoes of Gruta do Carvão, revealing intricate geological formations that will leave you in awe.
- Witness the captivating sunset from Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, translating to "Mouth of Hell," where the stunning coastal cliffs create a dramatic backdrop for the fiery sky.
- Step into the past at Furnas, a charming village filled with historic houses and known for its traditional cozido, cooked using the geothermal heat of the earth.
- Discover the secrets of tea production at Chá Porto Formoso, a picturesque tea plantation, indulging in an aromatic cup while overlooking breathtaking coastal views.
- Wander through the historic streets of Ponta Delgada, marveling at the intricate architecture and stopping for a refreshing gin and tonic at a local bar.
- Delight your taste buds at Linha D'Água, a trendy gastronomic market where you can sample a variety of local delicacies, from artisanal cheeses to freshly caught fish.
- End your journey on a sweet note by savoring a Michelin-starred dessert at ANA Restaurant, where innovative flavors and stunning presentations will leave you wanting more.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Azores, Portugal by plane is to fly to Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) located on the main island of Sao Miguel. There are direct flights available from major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Paris, and Amsterdam.
Car
To reach Azores, Portugal by car, you can drive to one of the major coastal cities in Portugal such as Lisbon or Porto, and then take a ferry from the respective ports to Azores. The journey duration may vary depending on the ferry schedule and route chosen.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no train service available to reach Azores, Portugal.
Boat
The best way to reach Azores, Portugal by boat is to take a ferry from one of the major coastal cities in Portugal such as Lisbon, Porto, or Setubal. The ferries depart from their respective ports and arrive at various islands within the Azores archipelago. The duration of the journey depends on the specific route and the island you wish to reach.
Bus
While it is not possible to take a bus to Azores directly as it is an archipelago, you can take a bus to the city of Vila do Porto, situated on Santa Maria Island, which is part of the Azores.