Canadiano

Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel

Not Included: $ 200 air tax per person

Whale Watching

The waters of the Azores are whale sanctuaries. Among resident and migrant species, 27 different types of cetaceans can be spotted here. It is an impressive figure and corresponds to a third of the total number of existing species. Sao Miguel Island has several places for whale watching. Whale and dolphin watching is possible throughout the whole year due to the great number of species that exist in the waters of the Archipelago. In addition to resident species, such as common bottlenose dolphins, there are also the whales that pass through the Azores on their migration routes. Spotted dolphins are more common during the summer, while blue whales can be spotted at the end of the winter. Sperm whales and bearded whales are frequent in the summer. Whales or dolphins are spotted in 98% of the trips, regardless of the time of the year.

Furnas

Visit one of the island’s pineapple plantations where you can try the locally-produced liqueurs before continuing to Ribeira Grande, the oldest and largest town on the north coast. From here, stop at Santa Iria Belvedere for dramatic views of the coast, and then continue to Pico de Ferro which overlooks the magnificent Furnas Valley, one of the richest hydrologic regions in Europe. In the town of Furnas, no fewer than 23 mineral springs spout boiling water into a sulphur-laden atmosphere. You easily can discern the difference in temperature and taste from faucets which dispense the mineral water from various sources.

By the lake of Furnas, pots containing meat and vegetables buried in the hot volcanic soil. The food cooks for approximately 5 - 6 hours. Enjoy this delicious meal, called ‘cozido’ at the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel. After lunch stroll through the stunning Terra Nostra Park. This beautiful 18th century garden is home to a wonderful collection of trees from all over the world.

Mountain Biking

The island of Sao Miguel is a great place to bike. Explore the unspoilt natural beauty, charming villages and incredible views out to sea.

Mata do Canario - Sete Cidades (11km / 3 Hours)                                                             Rated: Easy

This trail starts on a tarmac road that descends to an aqueduct and gets as far as Muro das Nove Janelas (Nine Windows Wall). Here turn to the left to an unpaved track. This part of the trail ascends to the highest point of the northern hillside of Sete Cidades’ Blue Lake. Descend to the parish of Sete Cidades, where the trail ends.

Praia da Amora - Lobeira  (5.7km / 2Hours 30 minutes)                                                  Rated: Medium

This trail is characterized by many ascents and descents and runs mainly along the coast, crossing several rivulets. It begins on a beaten earth track that descends to the sea. Halfway you will stairs, which is an access to Amora Beach. Return by the same stairs and continue descending towards the sea, passing two small beaches. Continue until you reach an area with a small house and traditional vineyards. From that point on, the trail runs along a narrow short cut. You will pass by a traditional “adega” (wine cellar); next you will reach cement stairs that will take you to Lobeira, parish of Ribeira Quente where the trail ends.

Vila Franca do Campo - Ponta Garça (13 km  / 4 Hours)                                                  Rated: Easy
This trail begins at the 16th century church in the town of Vila Franca do Campo, goes through the parish of Ribeira das Tainhas, and ends in the parish of Ponta Garça. The route takes you to Corpo Santo Beach, Olaria João da Rita, one of the traditional potters in the Azores. Continue on to the spot called Poço Largo, which has a magnificent view of the Vila Franca Islet. Turning inland, you can visit the Town Park and the Municipal Museum. Walking back to the coast, you will come to the port, and just beyond it, the marina. Keep on going, past the Vinha da Areia Beach, towards Ribeira das Tainhas. About 2 km further on, you will find a right hand turn which will take you to the quiet little beach of Calhau da Areia, where several endemic plants grow, such as the wild fig tree and fescue. Further on you have a wonderful view from the Miradouro da Costa da Furada, where there is a whale lookout station. A short way beyond is a lighthouse with spectacular views of the coast. Continue through the town of Ponta Garca to the chapel of Nossa Senhora das Mercês.