São Miguel Island

Largest of the nine Azorean islands, São Miguel seems to encompass everything that is best about the archipelago in its 40-mile stretch. The ‘Green Island’ (‘Ilha Verde’) easily lives up to its nickname, with a spread of woods and exotic vegetation over its mountainous terrain. The volcanic nature of the Azores is well-represented on São Miguel – calderas and hot springs can be found all over the island.

Our Volcanic Wonderland holiday is based solely on São Miguel and you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel in the island’s main town of Ponta Delgada, the ideal location from which to explore the island.

We’ll show you the west and Lagoa das Sete Cidades, or ‘Lagoon of the Seven Cities’, which consists of two sparkling blue-green crater lakes surrounded by forested slopes – the perfect place for a spot of kayaking which we offer during the holiday.

Centrally located in the marvelous ‘Lagoa do Fogo’, a ‘Lagoon of Fire’ with waters that flicker like gemstones. You will witness this for yourself during our Jeep tour to Fogo which also includes lava tunnel exploration.

Further east is Lake Furnas, set in a region with notable underground volcanic activity. Here, steam from the ground is used by locals to cook their traditional ‘Cozido das Furnas’, which adds a geothermal twist to the classic Portuguese ‘cozido’ stew. You’ll also visit the stunning Terra Nostra Garden and have the chance to bathe in a hot spring.

To cap off an incredible stay, you will travel in a Zodiac boat to try and locate some of the dolphins which inhabit the area. Once located, you will have the opportunity to swim with these incredible animals in their natural habitat.

For one island, São Miguel packs a serious punch when it comes to providing unforgettable holiday experiences.

Photography by Futurismo Azores Adventures, AntóNio Carvalho E Cunha, S. Miguel, Associação Turismo dos Açores