Itinerary for 10 day trip to Les Açores

The Azores are a stunning archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, known for their lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and breathtaking coastlines. With your preferences in mind, here’s a relaxed 10-day itinerary that focuses on parks, green spaces, and the natural beauty of the islands. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel

Morning: Arrive at in Ponta Delgada. Settle into your accommodation and take a moment to relax.
Afternoon: Stroll through the beautiful . Enjoy the gardens, ponds, and the lovely views of the ocean.
Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and try some traditional Azorean cuisine, like “cozido” (a stew cooked in volcanic soil).

Day 2:

Morning: Head to , one of the most iconic spots in the Azores. Take a leisurely hike around the crater lakes, and .
Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view at Vista do Rei viewpoint. Afterward, explore the surrounding trails at your own pace.
Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada and enjoy a relaxed dinner.

Day 3:

Morning: Drive to , a stunning crater lake. Take a gentle hike down to the lake and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Afternoon: Spend some time relaxing by the lake or take a swim if the weather permits. Bring a book and enjoy the tranquility.
Evening: Head back to your accommodation and unwind with a nice dinner.

Day 4:

Morning: Visit , known for its geothermal activity. Start with a walk around , where you can enjoy the lush gardens and a thermal pool.
Afternoon: Explore the area and see the hot springs. Don’t forget to try the famous “cozido” cooked in the ground!
Evening: Relax in one of the thermal baths in before heading back to Ponta Delgada.

Day 5: Nordeste

Morning: Drive to the northeastern part of São Miguel, Nordeste. Stop at the Ponta do Sossego viewpoint for breathtaking views.
Afternoon: Explore the , where you can wander through lush greenery and see beautiful waterfalls.
Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner in Nordeste and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 6:

Morning: Take a ferry to . Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation.
Afternoon: Visit and take a leisurely walk along the coast. Enjoy the views of , Portugal’s highest peak.
Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some fresh seafood.

Day 7:

Morning: If you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided hike up (this can be a full-day activity). If not, explore the surrounding vineyards and enjoy the unique landscape.
Afternoon: Relax in the area, perhaps visiting a local winery for a tasting.
Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner and reflect on your day.

Day 8:

Morning: Take a ferry to . Once there, head to and explore the marina.
Afternoon: Visit and take a walk around the area, enjoying the unique volcanic landscape.
Evening: Have dinner in , enjoying the local atmosphere.

Day 9:

Morning: Ferry over to . Settle in and enjoy the views.
Afternoon: Explore the Fajãs (coastal plateaus) of São Jorge. Take a leisurely hike in , known for its stunning scenery.
Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner, perhaps trying the local cheese, which is famous in this region.

Day 10: Return to São Miguel

Morning: Head back to São Miguel via ferry. Spend your last day relaxing and soaking in the beauty of the island.
Afternoon: Visit for a tour and some tea tasting, surrounded by beautiful tea fields.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Ponta Delgada, reminiscing about your adventures in the Azores.

Tips for Your Trip:

Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the islands at your own pace.
Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for both sun and rain.
Relaxation: Don’t hesitate to take breaks and enjoy the stunning views. The Azores are all about nature and tranquility!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic and relaxing time in the Azores! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌿🌊✨