Exploring Sao Miguel – An Exotic Island in the Azores

Located off the western coast of Portugal lies a stunning archipelago volcanic islands known as the Azores. Inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage list, they count as nine main islands, one of the most renowned being Sao Miguel. With its lush vegetation, exotic landscape and remarkable wildlife, there’s a lot to explore on Sao Miguel.

What Makes Sao Miguel So Special?

Sao Miguel is known for its striking beauty—its unique landscape made up of beautiful meadows, imposing cliffs, and picturesque valleys and amazing natural surroundings. But that’s not all; this island also has plenty to offer in terms of activities and attractions.

This piece of paradise introduces itself with colorful houses, lava stones stores and character streets. Witness the activities of the people who inhabit this island like the farmers or the fishermen.

On Sao Miguel, you’ll find high peaks, lovely beaches, and mountains resulting from numerous lava flows and atypical vegetation. These components form a beautiful yet sometimes eerie landscape inhabited by plenty of endemic species, as well as comprising countless sites of valuable historical and cultural importance.

The unspoiled nature will provide you an amazing experience at anytime of year, but some months are better than others. Spring brings warmer weather and a lively smell of blooms, while summer is the busiest time on the island. Fall is a great period too, as its cooler weather makes it ideal for those who enjoy adventure activities.

Explore Sao Miguel’s Regions

Ponta Delgada
Sao Miguel’s main city and port is Ponta Delgada. Being the largest city of the Azores, it preserves its traditional architecture and style and offers you monuments, churches and amazing natural scenery. Go watch a glorious sunset from Serra de Água or visit the century-old palace at Ponta Delgada city center. Enjoy the spectacular views of seafood restaurants along the quay, try some of local delicatessen or take a stroll around Forte de São Bras. You can reach Ponta Delgada by air or ferry from different points in Europe.

Sete Cidades
No other site on Sao Miguel equals the astounding beauty of Sete Cidades. This spectacular volcanic crater holds two intertwined lakes connected by narrow pathways, granting it breathtaking views and giving it a certain dark charm that contrasts with its brighter sister lake. Being surrounded by a seven-kilometer long trail this crater has breathtaking views and even historic loopholes as Benedictine convent and the chapel near Santa Iria viewpoint.

Furnas
It’s impossible to talk about the Azores without mentioning Furnas—the symbolic municipality of Sao Miguel and home to popular hot springs. Beyond its thermal heated pools, Furnas counts with an impressive geological heritage and marvelous waterfalls to explore. Go visit cozido das furnas, a traditional dish cooked with geothermal steam from inside of the ground and taste some of many locally made liquors.

Takeaway

Sao Miguel is truly an adventure waiting to happen, offering beautiful sights and spotless nature. With plenty of activities to enjoy such as whale watching, rock climbing or canyoning, this place is ideal for anyone seeking a tranquil or an exciting escapade all year long. To know more about Sao Miguel’s activities and other must-see cities on the island [check out this travel guide from visitazores](https://visitazores.com/en/azores-must-visit/activity-guide-azores/). We bet you won’t regret it!

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Sao Miguel Island in the Azores

Sao Miguel is the largest of the nine Azorean islands, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a beautiful island with lush green landscapes, volcanic craters, hot springs, and an abundance of marine life. In this insider’s guide, we will take you through some of the top attractions and hidden gems of Sao Miguel Island.

Local Attractions

1. Sete Cidades: This is one of the most iconic destinations in Sao Miguel. It is a twin-lake area formed by a volcanic crater and surrounded by green hills. Visitors can go for a walk around the lake, enjoy the scenery, and even go kayaking or paddleboarding.

2. Furnas Lake: This is another volcanic lake with hot springs around it. Visitors can smell the sulphuric waters, watch the cooking of “Cozido das Furnas”, a traditional dish cooked in the hot springs, or simply relax in the thermal pools.

3. Parque Terra Nostra: Located in Furnas, this park is well-known for its botanical gardens and thermal pools. Visitors can take a walk around the gardens, take a dip in the hot pools, or simply enjoy the lush green scenery.

4. Ponta Delgada: This is the main city of the island and has lots of attractions worth exploring. Visitors can take a stroll around the marina, visit the Portas da Cidade, a historic gate symbolizing the power of the city, or taste some of the local dishes in the Mercado da Graça.

Dining Spots

1. A Tasca Restaurant: Located in Ponta Delgada, this restaurant is popular for its traditional dishes. Visitors can taste some of the local foods, such as “Cozido das Furnas” and “Alcatra,” a beef stew cooked in a traditional clay pot.

2. Cais 20 Restaurant: This is a seafood restaurant located in the marina of Ponta Delgada. Visitors can try some of the best seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus, tuna tartare, and fish soup.

3. Caldeiras e Vulcões Restaurant: Located in Furnas, this restaurant offers traditional dishes cooked in the natural hot springs. Visitors can try “Cozido das Furnas” or other local dishes, while enjoying the thermal pools’ view.

Cultural Experiences

1. Museu Carlos Machado: Located in Ponta Delgada, this museum is dedicated to the natural history of the Azores. Visitors can explore the collection of fossils, minerals, and other natural wonders of the island.

2. Centro Municipal de Cultura: Located in Ribeira Grande, this cultural center hosts several exhibitions, concerts, and shows from local artists. Visitors can enjoy some of the cultural events or browse through the art gallery.

Local History

1. Forte de Sao Bras: This fortress is located on the hill of Sao Bras in Ponta Delgada and was built to defend the island from pirates. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

2. Gruta do Carvao: This is the largest lava tunnel on the island, discovered in 1949. Visitors can explore the natural lava formations, such as stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about the geological history of the island.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Miradouro do Pico do Ferro: This is a hidden viewpoint in Furnas, where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley and the lake. It requires a short hike, but the view is definitely worth it.

2. Rota do Cha: This is a tea plantation located in Gorreana, where visitors can learn about the process of tea production and taste some of the best teas on the island.

3. Poca da Dona Beija: These are natural hot springs located in Furnas. Visitors can take a bath in the thermal pools, relax in the sauna, or enjoy the natural waterfall.

In conclusion, Sao Miguel Island is a must-visit destination for those who love natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure. By visiting the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions listed above, you will undoubtedly have an unforgettable trip to Sao Miguel Island.