15 day itinerary
Les Açores
Itinerary
The Azores are a stunning archipelago in Portugal, known for their lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and beautiful coastlines. With 15 days to explore, you can really soak in the natural beauty and enjoy some surfing too! Here’s a relaxed itinerary that balances adventure with downtime, focusing on parks, green spaces, and surf spots.
Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel
- Morning: Arrive at in Ponta Delgada. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Stroll around Ponta Delgada. Visit the beautiful , a lovely park with exotic plants.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Azorean dinner at a local restaurant. Try some “cozido,” a stew cooked in volcanic soil!
Day 2:
- Morning: Head to , a stunning twin lake in a volcanic crater. Take a leisurely hike around the lakes.
- Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch with a view. Explore the viewpoints like .
- Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada and relax at your accommodation.
Day 3:
- Morning: Visit , another beautiful lake. Hike down to the lake and enjoy the scenery.
- Afternoon: Spend some time at the beach nearby, , for a swim or sunbathe.
- Evening: Dinner in a local restaurant, perhaps try some fresh seafood.
Day 4:
- Morning: Drive to . Visit the , famous for its thermal pools and botanical gardens.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a soak in the thermal pool and explore the gardens.
- Evening: Try the local dish “cozido” cooked in the hot springs.
Day 5: Surfing in
- Morning: Head to , known for its surf spots. Rent a board and take a surf lesson if you’re a beginner.
- Afternoon: Spend the day surfing at or .
- Evening: Relax at a beachside café and enjoy the sunset.
Day 6: Explore
- Morning: Drive to , one of the most picturesque parts of São Miguel. Visit the viewpoints like .
- Afternoon: Explore the lush gardens and parks in the area, such as .
- Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada for dinner.
Day 7: Whale Watching
- Morning: Take a whale-watching tour from Ponta Delgada. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales!
- Afternoon: Relax at the beach or explore the local shops.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps try some “queijo São Jorge” cheese.
Day 8: Travel to Faial
- Morning: Take a flight or ferry to Faial Island. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore , visit the famous , and stroll along the marina.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the marina.
Day 9:
- Morning: Visit the and the interpretation center. Hike around the volcanic landscape.
- Afternoon: Relax at , a black sand beach.
- Evening: Dinner in , perhaps try some local wine.
Day 10: Surfing in Faial
- Morning: Head to for some surfing. Rent a board or take a lesson.
- Afternoon: Continue surfing or relax on the beach.
- Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachside restaurant.
Day 11: Travel to Pico
- Morning: Take a short ferry ride to Pico Island. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit the vineyards of Pico, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a wine tasting.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, sampling fresh fish.
Day 12: Climbing
- Morning: Start early for a hike up , the highest peak in Portugal. It’s a challenging hike but worth it for the views!
- Afternoon: Enjoy a packed lunch at the summit and take in the breathtaking scenery.
- Evening: Return to your accommodation and relax after the hike.
Day 13: Relaxation Day
- Morning: Take it easy today. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore the local area.
- Afternoon: Visit the local beaches or take a dip in the ocean.
- Evening: Dinner at a cozy restaurant, reflecting on your adventures.
Day 14: Travel to São Jorge
- Morning: Take a ferry to . Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore the island’s stunning landscapes and visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy a local dinner, perhaps try the famous São Jorge cheese.
Day 15: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast and take a last stroll around the island.
- Afternoon: Travel back to São Miguel for your flight home. If time allows, visit any last-minute spots in Ponta Delgada.
Tips:
- Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.
- Surfing: Check local surf schools for lessons and equipment rentals.
- Pace: Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your energy levels and interests!
Enjoy your trip to the Azores! It’s a magical place with so much to offer. 🌊🌿🏄♂️
