Robin Giddings
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival at Ponta Delgada
Upon arrival at Ponta Delgada airport, your welcoming guide will greet you outside customs and transfer you to the serene Senhora da Rosa, Tradition and Nature Hotel.
Indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience as you enjoy a luxurious full-body scrub and massage at the onsite spa. Unwind in the sauna and Turkish bath, or treat yourself to revitalizing and moisturizing treatments with organic products before enjoying dinner and a relaxing evening.
Overnight Senhora da Rosa
Day 2
Furnas Valley
Start your day leisurely with a free morning to enjoy Senhora da Rosa's amenities. Then, around 1 pm, join your guide for an excursion to the heart of the Furnas Valley, where you'll visit Terra Nostra Park, a botanical wonderland boasting a diverse array of vegetation from across the globe (entrance fee included). After the guided tour, you'll have the chance to relax in the soothing thermal waters.
Following your hot springs dip, roam around the lagoon and stroll through the center of the parish. Witness the steaming fumaroles, and experience what it is like to live with a volcano as a neighbor. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant (included) before returning to Ponta Delgada.
Overnight Senhora da Rosa
Day 3
Pico Island
This morning your driver will transfer you from your accommodation to the airport as your next destination awaits.
Shortly after arriving on Pico Island, you'll find yourself navigating through some of the Island's vineyards during a hike. Here at the Azores Wine Company, you'll discover the art of winemaking and savor the unique flavors of Azorean wines. From the inviting Branco Vulcânico to the tropical Verdelho O Original and the intricate Arinto dos Açores, indulge in a tasting experience that promises to captivate your palate. Taste the volcanic notes of Terrantez do Pico, and savor the delightful Arinto dos Açores Sur Lies, all of which will leave you with a profound appreciation for Azorean wine culture.
Overnight Lava Homes
Day 4
Pico Island
Today you'll have an unforgettable day of whale and dolphin watching, giving you insight into the natural habitat of the Azores' diverse marine wildlife.
This experience is the perfect blend of excitement, discovery, and scientific knowledge, with a chance to observe approximately 27 different species of whales and dolphins throughout the year. You'll be accompanied by a professional team of skilled skippers and biologists, ensuring you gain unique insights into these magnificent animals.
As part of this journey, you'll also delve into the Island's history with a visit to the Whalers' Museum in Lajes do Pico. Step back in time as you explore three historic houses, once used by whalers to house their boats and a blacksmith's forge, dating back to the 19th century. The museum showcases a collection of tools and equipment used in whale hunting and carved and engraved pieces crafted from the bones and teeth of whales, a form of art known as "scrimshaw."
Lunch is not included, but it will be an opportunity to explore local culinary delights.
Overnight Lava Homes
Day 5
Pico Island
Today you will hike the highest point in Portugal, Pico Mountain, standing 7,700 feet (2,300m) above sea level. This magnificent composite volcano reaches almost twice the height of other mountains in the Azorean archipelago.
The colossal crater spans 1600 feet (500m) in diameter and descends 100 feet (30m). Within the crater lies the "Piquinho" (Small Mountain), a 230-foot (70m) high volcanic cone. Interestingly, eruptions have left their mark on the volcano's sides rather than within the crater itself, adding to the mystique of this geological wonder.
During your hike, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands of São Jorge, Graciosa, and Faial, which you'll take a trip to tomorrow.
Overnight Lava Homes
Day 6
Faial
Today you'll tour Faial Island to view magnificent landscapes on this full-day adventure. Begin your day by transferring to Pico's port before setting sail (transfers and ferry tickets included).
Your first stop is the Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, which offers a mesmerizing vista over Praia do Almoxarife, the city of Horta, the bustling Marina, and the peaks of Monte Queimado and Monte da Guia.
Next, venture to the heart of the island to discover the awe-inspiring Caldeira, one of Faial's iconic landmarks. This massive volcanic crater, boasting a diameter of approximately 1.2 miles (2km) and a depth of around 1300 feet (400m), is blanketed with lush Laurissilva vegetation. Its ecological significance has earned it the status of a Natural Reserve since 1972.
Continuing your journey, your guide will bring you to Praia do Norte, followed by a stop at the Ribeira das Cabras Viewpoint. Here, take in the stunning view of Fajã da Praia do Norte and the alignment of volcanoes on the Capelo Peninsula.
As you arrive at the Capelinhos Volcano, you'll see where nearby houses and fields were covered in volcanic ash during the 1957/58 eruption, dramatically altering the landscape. This geological site will leave you in awe of nature's power and ability to transform the earth. For small groups of up to 8 people, you have the exclusive opportunity to visit the unique lookout at Monte da Guia.
As you conclude today's adventures, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Overnight Lava Homes
Day 7
São Miguel
Today you'll bid farewell to Pico Island as you transfer to the airport for your flight to São Miguel and a relaxing day at Sensi Nature & Spa Hotel.
Overnight Sensi Nature & Spa Hotel
Day 8
Sete Cidades
Kickstart your day with an E-Bike Experience in Sete Cidades. This guided tour takes you on a delightful journey encircling the volcanic caldera of the Sete Cidades complex. Traverse primarily flat but gently uneven terrain as you embark on this circular route, starting and ending near the picturesque lagoon bridge.
For lunch, delight in the flavors of the Island at a local restaurant, indulging in the region's delicacies.
In the afternoon, prepare for a delightful canoeing expedition. Follow the bank towards Ponte dos Regos, where you'll cross from the blue lagoon to the green lagoon under the bridge arches.
This evening, return to your hotel for a well-deserved evening of relaxation.
Overnight Sensi Nature & Spa Hotel
Day 9
Departure Day
Your private driver will transfer you to the airport for your international flight home, ending your adventurously romantic getaway to the Azores!
