Ponta Delgada (Azores)
San Miguel is the most spectacular island of the Azores, with its calderas filled with little lakes, its sulphureous springs and puddles of boiling mud. The county town of the island Ponta Delgada has a great artistic heritage.
Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life
LAKES, SETE CIDADES & WINE TASTING
Please note: Limited number of guides in languages other than English. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in Portuguese only. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. Min. age to participate: 16 years old.<-p>
OFF-ROADING ADVENTURE AMID THE ISLAND S BEAUTY
Please note: this tour is unsuitable for pregnant women as well as for guests with mobility, back or neck problems. The guide will provide basic information in English only. Min. age to participate: 6 years old.<-p>
SETE CIDADES CRATER LAKES
Please note: Limited number of guides in languages other than English. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in Portuguese only. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems. Min. age to participate: 4 years old.<-p>
FIRE LAKE & RIBEIRA GRANDE
Please note: Limited number of guides in languages other than English. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in Portuguese only. Min. age to participate: 4 years old.<-p>
FIRE LAKE & RIBEIRA GRANDE FOR ANNIVERSARY
DOLPHINS AND WHALE WATCHING
Please note: this tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems. Sightings of whales and dolphins cannot be guaranteed. Guests walk onto a floating pontoon to enter the catamaran, the staff on board will assist guests to board the catamaran. The skipper will provide basic information in English only. Min. age to participate: 6 years old.<-p>
CRATER LAKES SCENIC DRIVE
Please note: Limited number of guides in languages other than English. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in Portuguese only. Min. age to participate: 4 years old.<-p>
FURNAS VALLEY IN A DAY
Please note: guides for languages other than Portuguese are limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in Portuguese only. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems. Drinks included in the lunch: red or white wine, mineral water, soft drink, coffee, or tea. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. Min. age to participate: 4 years old.<-p>
CALDEIRA VELHA E TEA FACTORY
Please note: guides for languages other than Portuguese are limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in Portuguese only. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems as it includes periods of walking and 80 steps at Caldeira Velha. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. Min. age to participate: 4 hours.<-p>
E-BIKE TOUR TO DISCOVER PONTA DELGADA
Ready for an adventure that will make you fall in love with Ponta Delgada? Climb into the saddle of one of our e-bikes and set off to discover iconic, picture-postcard places, local markets and delicacies, volcanic beaches and even pineapple plantations!
Main stops
- Electric bike tour
- Tasting of local products
- Visit to a pineapple plantation
The programme
Ready for an adventure that will make you fall in love with Ponta Delgada? Jump onto the saddle of one of our e-bikes and begin your journey at the pier, before heading towards Forte São Brás, the fortress that once defended the port from enemy attack. From there, stop off at the Portas da Cidade, the iconic city gates that are not simply a way into the center, but also a symbol of the city's hospitality.
Pass the Matriz church, which dates back to the 16th century and proudly expresses the island's deep religious devotion. Then, are you ready for a dose of authenticity? Head to the Mercado da Graça, where you can take a very tasty break: sample the local products, it'll be love at first bite!
The seafront is always a good idea: enjoy a stroll to the Rosto do Cão viewpoint, where the views are so spectacular that every photo you take will be a dreamy picture-postcard. And if you fancy a little relaxation, set off towards the beaches of Milícias and Pópulo, famous for their black volcanic sands: dipping your feet in the ocean is a must here!
All this movement works up an appetite...let yourself be tempted by a gourmet tasting that will take you on a discovery of the unique flavors of the Azores: local cheeses, Bolo Lêvedo, typical conserves and so much more - so good!
And it doesn't end there! Stop off at one of the pineapple plantations and discover how these super-fruits are grown, then taste a typical pineapple liquor - it's a real delicacy.
Explore the António Borges garden, an oasis of tranquility where nature surrounds you and beauty is everywhere - perfect for a moment of Zen before returning to the bustle of the city. And just when you think the tour is coming to an end, stop off at Campo São Francisco, the biggest square in the city, where history, life and energy come together in an irresistible blend.
Good to know- Wear appropriate sports shoes and clothing for the trail, without forgetting a light, windproof jacket.
- We'll take care of the bicycle, helmet and water bottle.
- The tour takes guests along the main public roads, official hiking trails, farm access routes and protected landscapes. Please behave in a respectful and responsible manner in order to safeguard the environment.
A TREK AMONG EVOCATIVE MOUNTAIN LAKES
The magical mountain colours and scents in an excursion to discover the numerous bodies of water dotted around the imposing Sete Cidades massif scenery with a well-deserved final stop in an ancient town.
Main stops
- Trek on the Sete Cidades massif
- Lagoas: characteristic mountain lakes
- Breathtaking views over the sea and mainland
- Picturesque town of Sete Cidades
- Vista do Rei viewpoint
The programme
- We begin the excursion on a comfortable coach which takes us on a 40-minute journey to the starting point of our trek.
- The path winds its way through the Sete Cidades massif known for its numerous lagoas, i.e. small bodies of water or true lakes such as Lagoa das Éguas, Lagoa Rasa, Lagoas Empadadas*, which we see along the way. The scenery changes several times providing amazing views of the sea and the mainland.
- After the trek, we enjoy a well-deserved relaxing break in the town of Sete Cidades and one last stop at the Vista do Rei viewpoint to admire breathtaking views over the crater and the lake, probably the most famous on the island.
- The feasibility of this trek depends on the weather and the maintenance conditions of the path, so it may be cancelled or delayed in case of adverse conditions.
- Visibility during the tour is subject to weather conditions.
- The order of the stops may be subject to modification without prior warning for operational reasons or to avoid the crowds.
- We recommend wearing trekking shoes and suitable clothing appropriate for the weather conditions as well as bringing with you a waterproof jacket, sun lotion, water and energy bars.
A TOUR OF SÃO MIGUEL… ON A MEGA TRUCK!
A truly adventurous way to explore the island of São Miguel? On board a fun mega truck, amazement and adrenaline build as you take in the wild landscapes around the volcanic Lagoa do Fogo lake. When it's time to stretch your legs, wander through the streets of Ribeira Grande and make the secrets of tea-growing your own on a historic plantation.
Main stops
- Sightseeing tour of the island of São Miguel in a mega truck
- Fogo lake: photo stop
- Walk around the city of Ribeira Grande
- Tea plantation: interior visit and tasting
The programme
- Jump into the mega truck and start your adventure as you drive along dirt roads through the breathtaking landscapes of São Miguel to Lagoa do Fogo, where nature is truly spectacular.
- It's got to be seen to be believed: climb down from the truck and let yourself be amazed by the large green lake inside the volcanic caldera, surrounded by vegetation.
- After taking endless photos, you'll head to Ribeira Grande, where you'll learn interesting facts about the town and traditions of the island, as you wander its streets with your guide. Did you know that tea growing here is really important?
- You'll discover all the details at the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest European tea factory still operating. The various steps that go into processing this traditional product will no longer be a secret to you, and the same is true of the flavors of four different varieties. What are you waiting for? Happy tasting!
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the experience.
OCEAN SAFARI AMONG WHALES AND DOLPHINS
An excursion dedicated to sea and nature lovers with a particularly adventurous spirit. A unique occasion to get to know the world of cetaceans up close as we observe them (with a bit of luck) swimming in the Atlantic waters. While we wait to spot them, an expert marine biologist reveals various curiosities regarding these fascinating mammals.
Main stops
- Speedboat excursion with a marine biologist as a guide
- Possible sighting of cetaceans
The programme
- We start the excursion by getting on a coach taking us to the harbour where we board our speedboat.
- A marine biologist provides important information to understand the extraordinary variety of the local marine ecosystem, which is home to 24 cetacean species including sperm and humpback whales and 6 dolphin species.
- With a bit of luck, we might spot some of these species in their natural habitat and discover just how common whale hunting used to be and how, thanks to the efforts made to safeguard them, these amazing animals can now live and reproduce freely.
- We make our way back to the ship with our hearts filled with memories of an unforgettable experience.
- The excursion is reserved for guests in good health, leading an active lifestyle and lovers of adventure.
- Pregnant women and people with back and neck problems are not advised to take part in this excursion.
- This excursion is not available to wheelchair users.
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
- Minimum age: 16 years old.
PONTA DELGADA: THE AZORES TO BE SAVORED
If you want to explore the traditions of the Azores in a different, tasty way, set out on this gastronomic journey. With your guide, wander the streets of Ponta Delgada and take part in tastings that will immerse you in the history and culture of São Miguel via the local scents and flavors. Where? In a tea house, at the farmers market and at a number of typical restaurants.
Main stops
- Walk through the old town of Ponta Delgada
- Farmer's market: interior visit
- Tea tasting at the Tea House
- Tasting of local specialties in typical restaurants
The programme
- Your voyage among the local flavors begins in a typical “Tea House”: between sips of tea, you'll discover the history and background that connect the island of São Miguel to its crops.
- Now, head to the farmer's market in the city - the perfect place to come face to face with all the stars of the local gastronomic scene. Does any fruit stand out in particular? Yes, pineapple is a real icon of the Azores.
- You'll find that it features in the tastings that await you in a series of typical restaurants. Here, the party for your palate will be based around dishes that use traditional ingredients: from mackerel to "chorizo," a typical spicy sausage, before ending on a sweet note with a homemade dessert.
- So how would you describe the flavor of the Azores in one word?
AN ADVENTURE TO THE LAKE OF FIRE AND A GIN TASTING
Is there such thing as a lake of fire? Find out for yourself on this tour to Lagoa do Fogo on the island of São Miguel. Let yourself be enchanted by Santa Barbara beach and then, visit the largest gin collection in Europe at the Gin Library - we've saved the best until last!
Main stops
- Lagoa do Fogo*
- Santa Barbara beach*
- Gin tasting*
The programme
We'll set off from the ship and head towards Lagoa do Fogo, one of the biggest and most fascinating lakes in the Azores, at the heart of the island of São Miguel. The name is no coincidence - it is the crater that was left by the last eruption of the volcano here, back in 1563. From this position, the panorama will take your breath away, with views of the entire lake shore: it's time for a selfie!
Now it's time to hit the beach in Santa Barbara - a little corner of paradise for surfers and body-boarding fans. Dark sands, powerful waves crashing on the shore and cliffs soaring above the sea - the thrill of adventure is tangible here!
And now comes the moment you've been waiting for: a stop at the Gin Library ! With the largest collection of gin in Europe, you'll find the perfect tipple for every palate. And as you savor the local specialties, you'll discover the charm and history of gin, the liquor that has taken over the world.
Good to know- This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems.
- The legal drinking age in Portugal is 18. Only guests aged more than 16 years are allowed to take part on the tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the experience.
- Visibility at the various viewpoints will depend on the weather conditions.
SPECTACULAR MOUNTAIN SCENERY AND WINE AND CHEESE TASTING SESSION
Breathtaking views over volcanic lakes, lush vegetation, inviting thermal water pools: a scenic route along winding mountain streets takes us to discover the typical Lusitano horses ending with a delicious tasting session of local cheeses and wines.
Main stops
- Panoramic tour in the nature reserve of the Fogo volcanic lake
- Natural thermal pools in the Calderia Velha regional park
- Ribeira Grande: an architectural gem
- Lusitano horse breeding centre and visit of the stables
- Cheese and wine tasting session
The programme
- We set off on our coach from Ponta Delgada and head towards the central part of the island to Pico da Barrosa to admire the spectacular volcanic lake of Fogo, the highest above sea level on the island of San Miguel. The area, classified as a nature reserve, is surrounded by thick vegetation made up of local evergreen bay trees.
- As we drive up the winding mountain road to the northern coast, we reach Caldeira Velha, a magnificent regional park characterised by a lush varied vegetation as well as by thermal pools where nature presents us with a thousand shades of green embellished by brightly coloured berries.
- We continue to Ribeira Grande to visit its charming town centre. The narrow streets and municipal gardens are flanked by 17th and 18th-century urban architecture. The Church of the Holy Spirit is particularly noteworthy and is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in the archipelago.
- The tour ends on a farm famous for breeding Lusitano horses, animals known for their energetic and courageous temperament, so much so that they were used in war and corridas.
- After visiting the stables, we are offered a delicious tasting session of local wines and cheeses.
- Visibility during the tour is subject to weather conditions.
- The order of the stops may be subject to modification without prior warning for operational reasons or to avoid the crowds.
- We recommend wearing comfortable flat shoes and clothing suitable for the weather conditions.
BAROQUE RIBEIRA GRANDE AND THE MARVELS OF THE LAKE OF FIRE
This excursion starts off from a true Baroque gem that provides an intriguing step back in time only to continue among the natural marvels of the marvellous volcanic scenery on the island that triggers evocative emotions.
Main stops
- Panoramic coach tour among cultivated fields
- Picturesque town of Ribeira Grande
- Imposing Pico da Barrosa
- Lake of Fire: idyllic scenery
- Ceramic workshop
- Local pineapple plantation
The programme
- We set off by coach to discover the north-eastern part of Ponta Delgada among endless cultivated fields providing lovely views.
- We reach the delightful small town of Ribera Grande, the centre of Baroque Art in St. Miguel, famous because it was initially populated by French craftsmen fleeing from religious persecution and who imported the art of flax and silk processing.
- The tour continues along the characteristic mountain roads as far as the top of Mount Pico de Barrosa, where we enjoy breathtaking views over one of the most beautiful lakes on the island, i.e. the Lake of Fire, located in a crater and surrounded by idyllic scenery, crystal-clear waters and a white sandy peninsula.
- We make our way back via Remédios and stop off at a ceramic workshop and a local pineapple plantation.
- You must be physically fit.
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
THE ENCHANTING VOLCANIC LANDSCAPE OF SETE CIDADES
A thrilling adventure in a place where magma and lapilli used to dominate in the past and now home to two amazing volcanic lakes of different colours - one green and one blue - with a final stop in a lush botanical garden and an interesting pineapple plantation.
Main stops
- Sightseeing coach tour among picturesque towns
- Sete Cidades massif
- Crater and volcanic lakes
- António Borges Botanical Gardens
- Local pineapple plantation
The programme
- We leave the port behind us by coach and drive along the coastal road that winds its way from Ponta Delgada through the many picturesque towns found along the way toFeteiras.
- Once in this small town, we go to the top of the Sete Cidades massif to reach the crater of the now-extinct volcano now home to two spectacular lakes of a different colour, the Green Lake and the Blue Lake.
- On the way back, we visit the António Borges Botanical Gardens, a precious gem boasting rare and exotic plants.
- The tour ends with an interesting visit to a local pineapple plantation.
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
CORNERS OF THE CITY AND FLOWER OASES
Ponta Delgada is a collection of stunning examples of Azorean architecture and lush 19th-century gardens. Explore it on foot with your guide, step inside two iconic churches in the city and let yourself be seduced by the scents of the José do Canto and Antonio Borges botanical gardens, first on board a sightseeing train and then on a stroll. Shall we go?
Main stops
- Walk through the historic center of Ponta Delgada and the Antonio Borges botanical garden
- Church of St. Sebastian and Convent and Church of Our Lady of Hope: Interior visits
- Sightseeing train tour of the José do Canto botanical garden
The programme
- As soon as your walking exploration of Ponta Delgada begins, a few details will immediately catch your eye: the distinctive features of Azorean architecture in white stone decorated with basalt elements, a volcanic stone that is typical of the island.
- This style also characterizes the famous church of St. Sebastian, which stands out for the portals and wooden carvings that adorn its interior.
- Then continue to Our Lady of Hope and you'll find yourself face to face with the much-venerated statue of Jesus Christ of the Miracles, an icon cloaked in legend: ask your guide for details!
- It's time to climb aboard the little train that runs through the José do Canto botanical garden, among the trees, plants and flowers from all over the world, as you discover the story of the man who gave the park its name.
- At the Antonio Borges botanical garden, meanwhile, you'll come across caves and tunnels surrounded by thick vegetation. And before you go…you'll see the fig tree with its tangle of exposed roots - it's a real work of art by Mother Nature!
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the experience.
TEA AND THERMAL SPRINGS: ENSURED WELL-BEING
A spectacular stretch of tea plantation starts off this excursion to discover the best the local climate, history and territory have to offer: from Baroque buildings, volcanic landscape and culinary delicacies to the thermal springs - everything is extremely fascinating.
Main stops
- Tea plantation - the only one in Europe
- Ribeira Grande and its Baroque tradition*Pico do Ferro viewpoint: breathtaking views over the Furnas valley
- Terra Nostra subtropical park
- Typical Portuguese lunch
- Thermal springs
The programme
- After leaving Ponta Delgada by coach, the excursion starts with a visit to the only tea plantation left in Europe to discover how this plant is grown and processed. The locals add mineral water from the thermal springs to the green tea variety to create the famous volcanic purple tea.
- By crossing one of the most important agricultural areas on the island, we reach the oldest Baroque city on the northern coast, Ribeira Grande, characterized by its architectural beauties of clear Portuguese influence.
- Our itinerary then takes us to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint to enjoy breathtaking views overlooking the entire Furnas Valley, famous for its fumaroles releasing vapour and hot mud.
- As we venture into the Furnas thermal centre, we reach Terra Nostra Park an idyllic place known for its splendid subtropical fauna.
- In a local hotel, we delight our palate with a lunch featuring typical Portuguese dishes and get to know the flavours that accompany many natural beauties.
- The last stop before returning to Ponta Delgada is a visit to the famous thermal springs considered the most interesting natural phenomenon in the Azores.
- We then drive through Vila Dranco do Campo, a picturesque city that used to be the island’s capital.
- The excursion involves some walking.
- You must be physically fit.
- The order of the foot and coach excursions may be inverted.
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
A WALK AROUND PONTA DELGADA AMONG CHURCHES AND BOTANICAL GARDENS
The lively streets of Ponta Delgada provide the perfect occasion for a stroll to discover some of the city’s most unique churches and two historic botanical gardens where we can admire numerous specimens or rare and exotic plants.
Main stops
- Stroll in Ponta Delgada’s city centre
- Church of St. Sebastian: between Gothic and Baroque
- Intricate marble work in the Convent of Our Lady of Hope
- Visit to the José do Canto Botanical Garden
- Visit to the António Borges Botanical Garden
The programme
- After leaving the port, our coach takes us on a short transfer to the centre of Ponta Delgada, a city famous for its multiple churches. From there, we walk to one of the better known, the Church of St. Sebastian built in the Gothic style between 1531 and 1547 to ask for the Saint’s protection during a plague epidemic and later extended and embellished with wooden furnishings in the Baroque style made using prestigious Jacaranda wood imported from Brazil.
- We continue our walk along the lively streets of Ponta Delgada before stopping at the Convent and Chapel of Our Lady of Hope dating back to the 16th century. The convent façade seems to be covered in precious intricate embroideries while the richly decorated chapel, home to the statue of Our Lord the Holy Christ of Miracles donated to the convent nuns by Pope Clement VII in 1530.
- After the walking tour, we return to our coach and drive to the José do Canto Botanical Gardens to discover the story of José do Canto, famous gardener and botanist, and enjoy a walk in the lovely gardens.
- Finally, another short transfer takes us to the António Borges botanical garden, founded in the 19th century by local politician and tradesman António Borges Medeiros, a botany enthusiast, to discover the rare and exotic plants scattered among the garden’s paths and caves.
- The tour includes approximately 2 hours walking on cobbled surfaces and stairs.
- Due to the gravel paths found in the garden, we recommend wearing non-slip trekking shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.
- Clothing that is appropriate for the places of worship is compulsory to visit the churches.
- When one of the churches is being used for religious ceremonies, our tour will be limited to the exterior of the building.
- Visibility during the tour is subject to weather conditions.
- The order of the stops may be subject to modification without prior warning for operational reasons or to avoid the crowds.
- We recommend bringing water and energy bars.
BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE MOUNTAINS: PONTA DELGADA AND SETE CIDADES
The evocative atmosphere of Ponta Delgada with its lively streets, characteristic market, countless churches and the fort contrasts with the natural beauty of the Sete Cidades massif where we can admire breathtaking views over volcanic lakes.
Main stops
- Walk to discover Ponta Delgada
- Visit to the evocative Manufacts da Graham
- Portas de Cidade arches
- Chapel of Our Lady of Hope
- Fort of São Brás
- Volcanic lages and ancient town of Sete Cidades
- Miradouro da Vista do Rei viewpoint and Pico do Carvão
The programme
- We set off on foot to discover Ponta Delgada, the largest and most populated city in the Azores and current capital of the archipelago. The fishermen’s village founded 5 centuries ago developed considerably after the earthquake of 1522 destroyed Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s ancient capital.
- We pass by some of the city's main sights and reach the famous picturesque Mercado da Graça where the locals buy their fresh products.
- We continue along the lively streets as far as the area of Matriz to admire the unique Portas da Cidade composed of three arches, the Church of St. Sebastian with its intricate wooden inlays and watchtower and finally the City Hall with the Statue of St. Michael.
- Once in São Francisco square, we can admire the Chapel of Our Lady of Hope and finally the Fort of São Brás, built in the 16th century to defend against the attacks of pirates and privateers.
- We leave Ponta Delgada behind us by coach and head out to the western part of the island as we admire the succession of green pastures and woods and blue ocean as far as the Sete Ciudades massif in an area characterised by spectacular volcanic lakes.
- After a stroll around the town located in a crater, we head to the Miradouro da Vista do Rei viewpoint offering enchanting views over the Sete Ciudades crater, the lake and the town.
- On the way back to Ponta Delgada, we stop briefly at the Pico do Carvão viewpoint where we can admire both the northern and southern part of the island as well as the series of volcanic peaks.
- Visibility during the tour is subject to weather conditions.
- The order of the stops may be subject to modification without prior warning for operational reasons or to avoid the crowds.
- We recommend wearing comfortable flat shoes and clothing suitable for the weather as all the places visited except for the local market are outside.
- When one of the churches is being used for religious ceremonies, our tour will be limited to the exterior of the building.
4x4 TOUR AMONG THE VOLCANIC PEAKS OF SÃO MIGUEL
The magical colours and scents of nature during a thrilling 4x4 excursion to discover what has been nicknamed “green island”, which boasts countless pools of water, woods and pastures dotted around its striking scenery.
Main stops
- Jeep excursion among villages, woods and pastures with curious anecdotes on the island’s culture and history
- Miradouro da Vista do Rei: belvedere over two volcanic lakes
- Cumieira Pequena dirt road on the edge of a crater
- Ancient town of Sete Cidades
- Panoramic route along the banks of the volcanic lake
- Miradouro da Pico do Carvão: exceptional views of the volcanic peaks
The programme
- We leave our ship and get on a comfortable Jeep headed to the western part of the island.
- As we drive through the lush vegetation made up of woodland and pastures, we soon discover why São Miguel is known as Green Island.
- Our expert guide provides us with interesting information about its culture and history as well as on the flora and fauna we encounter along the way.
- We make a stop at Miradouro da Vista do Rei, the viewpoint named in honour of King Carlos I of Portugal who, in 1901, stopped at this point to admire the impressive panorama. The view stretches along an enormous crater featuring two twin lakes of different colours - the Blue Lake and Green Lake separated by a narrow bridge.
- As we drive along the Cumieira Pequena dirt road, we take in the breathtaking scenery from the edge of the crater and enjoy exceptional views over Mosteiros, the area affected by the latest eruptions, from Miradouro da Lomba do Vasco.
- We then reach the ancient town of Sete Cidades, a charming place where the population still leads a traditional lifestyle.
- We get back to our Jeep for a panoramic drive along the volcanic lake.
- Before returning to the ship, we make one last stop for photos at Miradouro da Pico do Carvão offering exceptional views over both the northern and southern coasts as well as over various volcanic peaks.
- The order of the stops may be subject to modification without prior warning for operational reasons or to avoid the crowds.
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.
- The excursion is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with back problems.
- Participants must be able to get on and off the Jeep on their own.
- Part of the excursion takes place on uneven and cobbled grounds and includes steps in Sete Cidades.
- Minimum age: 6 years old.
AMONG LEGENDS AND TRADITIONS: VOLCANIC LAKES AND WINE AND CHEESE TASTING SESSION
The fascinating panorama of Caldeira das Sete Cidades whose spectacular volcanic lakes and lush vegetation that have given rise to myths and legends is the background to the sweet life in this place where ancient traditions contribute to creating excellent products which we discover during an unmissable tasting session.
Main stops
- Sightseeing tour of Caldeira das Sete Cidades
- Miradouro da Vista do Rei viewpoint overlooking volcanic lakes
- Ancient town of Sete Cidades
- Volcanic landscape and Santiago Lake
- Ponta Delgada: wine and cheese tasting session
The programme
- We leave the ship behind us and head out on our coach to Miradouro da Vista do Rei, the King's View viewpoint named in honour of King Carlos I of Portugal who, in 1901, stopped at this point to admire the impressive panorama. The view stretches along an enormous crater featuring two twin lakes of different colours - the Blue Lake and Green Lake separated by a narrow bridge.
- According to popular legend, the different colour of the two lakes derives from the fact that they were formed by the tears of a blue-eyed princess who loved a green-eyed shepherd but whose love was opposed by the royal family.
- On the banks of the Blue Lake, we find one of the oldest towns on the island of San Miguel, i.e. Sete Cidades, where the population still leads a traditional lifestyle. It is named after the legend of a bad-tempered king due to the fact that he had no son and heir, and of a woman who promised him a daughter provided that he made up for his cruelty by building a palace surrounded by seven cities.
- The town is surrounded by the thick vegetation of the Caldeira which, thanks to its hydrangea and azalea bushes, explodes in a profusion of colours and scents.
- A short break enables us to admire the inaccessible Santiago Lake, a place of rare beauty located inside an extinct crater.
- We finally head to Ponta Delgada where we enjoy a selection of the best wines and cheeses in the Azores in one of the area’s main hotels.
- Visibility during the tour is subject to weather conditions.
- The order of the stops may be subject to modification without prior warning for operational reasons or to avoid the crowds.
- We recommend wearing comfortable flat shoes and clothing suitable for the weather conditions.