7-Night Hiking Adventure in the Volcanic Islands of the Azores, Portugal

Your adventure begins in Furnas, located in the heart of São Miguel Island!

After breakfast, you'll head out for a scenic hike around Furnas Lake. Starting from the hotel, follow the GPS route that gradually ascends. After about an hour of walking uphill, you’ll reach a high vantage point with sweeping 300-degree views—rolling valleys, scattered villages, green farmland, and lush mountains stretch as far as the eye can see.

Descending from the ridge, you'll approach the peaceful Furnas Lake, where a dedicated walking path circles the shoreline. There are benches and picnic spots along the way, and you’ll pass through steaming geothermal vents and traditional volcanic cooking pits—a fascinating natural kitchen still in use today.

As you walk around the lake, keep an eye out for bubbling geothermal craters, some of which release visible steam. Take your time to explore this unique volcanic landscape—or even go for a swim in its warm, therapeutic waters.

Nearby, Terra Nostra Park, famous for its 200-year-old trees and thermal pool, is right at the starting point of your hike. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy nature.

Bonus adventure!
If you’re feeling energetic, we highly recommend an additional 4 km uphill trail (about 1 hour) to Pico do Ferro, a mid-level hike with around +400 m elevation gain. You’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the entire Furnas Valley and lake—absolutely worth the climb! Don’t feel like hiking back down? No problem—ask the gift shop at the summit to help call a taxi back to your hotel.

In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing soak in the famous Terra Nostra hot springs, just a short walk from your hotel. Don’t forget your swimsuit!

• Main loop: 11 km / Elevation gain: +200 m
• Optional climb to Pico do Ferro: 4 km / Elevation gain: +400 m
• Overnight at Furnas Lake Forest Living ( or similar hotel of the same class, Standard room included )

Start the day with a picnic and a nature getaway! After a short 15-minute transfer, you'll first visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, the only tea plantation in all of Europe. Here, you’ll get a closer look at the island’s unique tea culture and its centuries-old traditions.

Following a short drive, you’ll begin the hike to Pico da Vara, the highest point on São Miguel Island at 1,105 meters above sea level. The trail winds through a protected natural forest reserve, once used by locals for charcoal production and livestock grazing. Today, it’s an area of great ecological importance—home to rich biodiversity, efforts to restore the native Laurissilva forest, and a sanctuary for the Azores Bullfinch, one of the archipelago’s rarest endemic species.

After the hike, your route continues with scenic stops at several stunning mountain viewpoints, including Pico do Ferro overlooking Furnas Lake, Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire), São Brás Lake, and of course, the charming Gorreana Tea Factory—perfect for photos and a relaxing walk through history. This tea plantation has preserved its original methods since 1883.

• Hiking Distance: 10 km / Elevation gain: +400 m
• Overnight at Furnas Lake Forest Living ( or similar hotel of the same class, Standard room included )

Today we hike to Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire), one of the most beloved trails among locals. This stunning crater lake, surrounded by lush green mountains, is located in the central highlands of São Miguel Island.

In the morning, a short 15-minute transfer will take you to the trailhead. From there, you’ll begin your ascent through a forested mountain path with incredible views—on clear days, you can even see the southern coast of the island. The trail follows a stream uphill until you reach the volcanic crater. From the top, you'll enjoy a jaw-dropping view of Lagoa do Fogo. It's a scene made for photos—breathtaking and only accessible to hikers, as vehicles can’t reach this viewpoint.

You can choose to descend to the lakeshore, where you can rest, enjoy the peaceful scenery, and get closer to the pristine waters. After soaking it all in, it’s time to hike back.

• Hiking Distance: 12 km / Elevation gain: +500 m

• Overnight at Vila Galé Collection S. Miguel or similar ( hotel of the same class, Standard room included )

   

Take a well-deserved break today in Ponta Delgada. Instead of exploring by land, why not change things up and head out to sea? This is a fantastic opportunity for whale watching. The waters surrounding the Azores are rich in marine life—you might spot some of the 27 species of marine mammals found here, making for a thrilling and memorable experience.

While you're on São Miguel Island, don’t miss the included half-day dolphin and whale watching tour. It's just a 15-minute walk from your hotel to the harbor. The island’s surrounding waters are home to various species of dolphins and seasonal whales, making it one of the best places in the world for marine wildlife sightings.

Whales are irresistibly drawn to this volcanic Atlantic archipelago. The crystal-clear waters, abundance of food, and strict legal protections make the Azores a true sanctuary for these majestic creatures. Watching massive whales glide gracefully through the deep Atlantic is an unforgettable experience. You may also spot sea turtles, dolphins, sharks, and flying fish during this marine adventure.

And don’t miss Tasca, a seafood restaurant that’s always packed—for good reason! The trick is to go right when they open at 11:30 AM, and you’ll almost always get a seat.

Scenic Walk to the Twin Crater Lakes of Sete Cidades

After breakfast, enjoy a short transfer to today’s trailhead. Located on the western side of the island, Sete Cidades is famous for its iconic twin crater lakes — the Blue and Green Lakes — known in local legend as the “Lakes of the Monster.” This part of the hike follows a gentle downhill path with wide, easy trails and constant views of the stunning volcanic lakes ahead.

We will take you to the Serra da Devassa mountain range, where the goal is to hike along volcanic cones and small lakes that are part of the protected Sete Cidades volcanic complex. The trail passes through hidden landscapes and dense forest, offering a peaceful and immersive nature experience.

Highlights of the hike include visits to Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa Rasa, Caldeirão Grande, and Lagoa das Empadadas. On misty days, this trail transforms into a dreamlike setting with a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere.

Around midday, you’ll arrive at the lake area where we recommend stopping for lunch at Lagoa Azul, a local favorite restaurant known for its traditional Azorean cuisine. After your meal, your driver will take you back to the hotel.

Along the trail, you’ll pass through forests of eucalyptus, pittosporum, and acacia trees, eventually following a stream toward the shores of Lagoa do Fogo.

Please note: This hike takes place within a protected natural reserve. All participants are expected to respect the environment and help preserve the biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.

• Hiking distance: 8 km / Elevation gain: +100 m
• Overnight: Vila Galé Collection S. Miguel ( or similar hotel of the same class, Standard room included )

Today, you’ll experience one of the most postcard-perfect hikes in the Azores!

The protected landscape of Sete Cidades Lake is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal and is among the most photogenic spots in the Azores. Starting from Vista do Rei, you'll be greeted with stunning panoramic views of the mysterious Blue and Green Lakes. The trail then leads downhill toward Lagoa Azul.

Along the way, you may spot cheerful cows grazing peacefully on the slopes — a charming scene that perfectly captures the tranquility and beauty of this pastoral landscape. Take your time, breathe it all in, and savor the moment. End your day with a taste of local cuisine.

Be sure not to miss the most iconic viewpoint of the twin lakes — a popular YouTube destination. Follow the park signs toward Boca do Inferno, and after about 30 minutes, you’ll reach a specially built viewing platform offering the most breathtaking view of the day!

A return transfer to Ponta Delgada concludes your day.

• Hiking distance: 12 km / Elevation gain: +400 m
• Overnight: Vila Galé Collection S. Miguel ( or similar hotel of the same class, Standard room included )

You will be picked up at the hotel and transferred to the airport.