A week in Azores: Volcano views, thermal soaks, and scenery that takes your breath away
As an Active & Adventure Specialist at Around the World Travel and Tours, I’m always scouting destinations that pair unforgettable landscapes with a comfortable, well-paced experience. Naturally, when I was invited on a fully hosted FAM trip sponsored by SATA Azores Airlines and Visit Azores, I jumped at the opportunity to hop on a mere five-hour non-stop flight from Boston. Over six days on São Miguel we experienced the island’s signature mix of volcanic scenery, charming towns, and restorative geothermal moments.
São Miguel is an ideal first Azores Island: easy to explore, endlessly scenic, and full of “wow” moments that don’t require extreme effort. Ponta Delgada, the downtown area which has a lot of local restaurants and coffee shops exploring local flavors, makes a great base because it is walkable, welcoming, and packed with great local dining.
Several architectural and cultural museums, giving you the vibes of being in the heart of a big European city.
My Trip Highlights
We kicked things off with a short city walk (including the iconic Portas da Cidade and São Sebastião) and a memorable lunch at Alcides—home of the famously satisfying Alcides Steak.
Lagoa do Fogo + Caldeira Velha: On the north side of the island, we visited Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire) which is a volcanic crater lake. The view is breathtaking with a lot of hiking trails and bike paths. Then we visited Caldeira Velha for a warm waterfall soak—nature’s best version of “relax and reset.” This is definitely the place to go if you are looking for your own personal R&R.
Sete Cidades: A true signature of São Miguel, Sete Cidades is known for the dramatic caldera and the famous Green and Blue Lakes, with multiple viewpoints built into the day (including Vista do Rei and Boca do Inferno).
Also Sete Cidades is an area of stunning natural beaty on the western side of Sao Miguel. It’s one of the most visited places on the island and is known for its massive green caldera with twin lakes inside.
Furnas: This is where the island’s volcanic personality shines. We saw Cozido das Furnas cooked underground at Furnas Lake and spent time at Terra Nostra Park, known for its thermal pool and stunning botanical collection.
Tea & coastal stops: We finished with Gorreana Tea Plantation (noted in the itinerary as the oldest tea plantation in Europe, cultivating tea since 1883), plus a stop in Vila Franca do Campo and a can’t-miss pastry tasting: Queijadas do Morgado.
Also Sete Cidades is an area of stunning natural beauty on the western side of Sao Miguel. It’s one of the most visited places on the island and is known for its massive green caldera with twin lakes inside.
Last but not least, the Furnas area is located on the east side of the island, the amazing experience of traditional stew cooked in a pot buried in the volcanic soil of the Furnas soil.
Who I’d recommend this for
For those in the northeast who are seeking a different experience and are looking for shorter non-stop flights across the Atlantic
For those who have loved Hawaii—this is often known as the European version.
Couples who want big scenery + great food + boutique comfort
Families and multi-gen groups who like active-but-not-exhausting days
Small groups who want a curated mix of nature, culture, and relaxation
Quick tip: Pack comfortable walking shoes and a dark swimsuit for the thermal waters.
Contact Around the World Travel and Tours today, and let us design your Azores week-escape.