Ponta Delgada, Azores

Departing from Ponta Delgada, drive to the north side of the island to reach the city of Ribeira Grande where you’ll have the opportunity to observe the Baroque architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries. Continue driving along the north coast stopping at the belvedere of Sta Iria, at a tea factory to taste the tea and at Pico do Ferro viewpoint. From here you can observe the largest and oldest volcanic crater at the bottom of which lays Furnas Lake and where the spa of Furnas Valley is located. Once in Furnas village, visit the hot springs, an area with diverse forms of volcanic activity, fumaroles spouting boiling water and medicinal mud, one of the most spectacular being Caldeira de Pero Botelho. Furnas Valley is crossed by two fast-flowing streams, one with cold water and the other with warm water colored by an iron suspension, being one of Europe’s richest hydrological regions, with 22 thermal springs. This village is an important thermal center where the water of its mineral springs and the sulphuric mud of its volcanic solfataras are used to treat respiratory affections, reumathism, heart ailments, gastritis, depressions and nervous arrithmia, among others. After the visit to the village, drive to the quiet and romantic Furnas Lake with the Gothic profile of Chapel Nossa Senhora das Vitorias reflected on its clear waters. On its shores the volcanic solfataras and the ‘natural kitchens’ where the Cozido das Caldeiras is cooked, buried in the soil for a few hours with the proper condiments in hermetically closed pots. Once in the restaurant, your lunch consisting of this typical dish will be served, a unique flavor of the island. Return to Ponta Delgada along the southern coast passing by Vila Franca do Campo, the former capital of the island and the home of the artesian potteries. Note: Tour involves approximately .62 mile (1,000 meters) of walking on uneven ground, gravel and cobblestone. Ribeira Grande, tea factory, hot springs area and restrooms not wheelchair accessible. less

Begin your adventure when you board your 4WD vehicle in Ponta Delgada and embark on your exploration to Sao Miguel, not often visited by tourists, as well as some of the most beautiful parts of the island. Join this half-day tour led by guides who are experienced in the natural history and ecology of the area. The ruggedness of the high mountains, covered with trees indigenous to the area, hydrangeas and other varieties of vegetation contrast with the softness of the valleys, running streams and small villages. This way of discovering and touring the island will put you in contact with the local population and nature, far from the daily commotion of city life. Note: This tour is not recommended for guests with physical disabilities, neck or back injuries, or those who are pregnant. This tour has limited capacity. Tour order may vary but all mentioned sights will be covered. less

This touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that really interest you. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, an English speaking driver/guide (other languages available on request) at your disposal. You set your pace and itinerary, just tell us where you want to go. Note: Entrance, parking fees and meals are not included, in order to allow you complete freedom of choice. Bring local currency, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. Extra hours available at an additional cost. Guests, who are planning to visit the religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed in churches. Prices are per vehicle and not per person, so only one person in the party needs to book this tour. less