Individual arrival in São Miguel (Azores). We are happy to assist with booking your flight and airport transfer. After individual check-in and a warm welcome, we will begin our trip with a relaxing visit to Terra Nostra Park – ancient tree-lined avenues, exotic plants, and the warm sulfur thermal pool invite you to unwind and rejuvenate. Should a visit to Terra Nostra Park not be possible due to arrival times, this highlight will be rescheduled for another day. For the sulfur thermal pools, we recommend bringing a towel and wearing dark swimwear, as the mineral-rich water can stain.

Today's hike takes us up to the impressive crater rim of Sete Cidades. To the left, the vast Atlantic Ocean stretches out, while to the right lie the famous twin lakes – the deep blue Lagoa Azul and the emerald green Lagoa Verde. Along the scenic ridge path, one postcard-perfect panorama follows another: gentle meadows, blooming hydrangeas, and dark volcanic rock alternate, interspersed with spectacular viewpoints that invite you to marvel and pause. In the village of Sete Cidades on the lake shore, we'll take a leisurely break, perfect for an espresso or some regional specialties. Finally, we'll climb once more to an abandoned hotel high above the crater. From here, a magnificent view opens up across the lakes, the steep crater walls, and out to the Atlantic – a truly breathtaking panorama. The hike is of moderate difficulty overall, as it covers a considerable distance and includes some exposed sections along the crater rim. The hike follows mostly forest and meadow paths, occasionally gravel, with a few shorter, somewhat steeper sections. It can be cool and gusty at the crater rim, so wind and rain protection is recommended. You should also bring plenty of water and snacks, even though there are places to stop for refreshments in the village.

Today, a varied coastal hike awaits us on São Miguel, showcasing the island's full diversity. Along the rugged basalt coast, we follow narrow paths past cliffs and natural rock arches, while breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean repeatedly unfold. In shady gorges, roaring waterfalls plunge into clear pools, inviting us to take a refreshing break. Along the way, we encounter traces of the island's volcanic past, with small caves, lava tubes, and striking rock overhangs that vividly tell the story of its formation. Finally, we reach the famous tea gardens of the Gorreana Tea Factory on the north coast of São Miguel. Among lush green plantations, we enjoy a tasting of the distinctive flavor of the locally grown tea and let the day come to a relaxing close – a captivating blend of the Atlantic, volcanic landscape, and the delicate aroma of fresh tea leaves. The hike is somewhat challenging overall and, due to its length, involves several ascents and descents. The hike takes place on coastal paths, over stairs, and on forest and partially paved paths, which are narrow in places and can be slippery when wet.

After three active days, today is time to relax and unwind. Ponta Delgada welcomes us with whitewashed houses, artistic azulejos tiles, and a lively harbor promenade that invites a leisurely stroll. Between the famous Portas da Cidade gates, winding alleyways, and cozy cafés, it's time to slow down, soak up the atmosphere, and simply enjoy the moment. The day is yours to explore at your own pace, offering numerous opportunities for a relaxed tour. Perhaps the morning begins with an espresso at Praça Gonçalo Velho overlooking the city gates, followed by a quick visit to the impressive Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião church. Afterward, the marina beckons for a walk along the waterfront, while at the Mercado da Graça, you can sample local specialties such as pineapple, cheese, and fresh bread. Around midday or early afternoon, a break in the verdant Jardim António Borges is a welcome respite, or alternatively, a visit to one of the island's pineapple greenhouses. Those who fancy a taste of volcanoes can explore the Gruta do Carvão and stroll through a short lava tunnel. Later, the sea air beckons at the Piscinas do Pesqueiro, or perhaps an ice cream along the waterfront promenade. The day concludes with a relaxing evening at the marina. It's the perfect day to unwind, savor the moment, and discover the city at your own pace.

Today we climb to the summit of São Miguel. From the tranquil village of Algarvia, the trail leads steadily uphill through mossy laurel and heath forests, into the mysterious laurisilva atmosphere of the evergreen cloud forest. Among ferns, moss-covered trunks, and drifting wisps of mist, the air is fragrant with earthy moisture and fresh greenery. With a bit of luck, we might spot the rare Priolo, the Azores bullfinch, which is found only in this part of the island and is considered a true natural gem. Time and again, impressive panoramic views open up, offering sweeping vistas of the northeast coast and out to the Atlantic Ocean, before we finally reach the island's highest point, Pico da Vara. We continue our hike along the scenic ridge towards the coast, accompanied by the interplay of clouds, light, and vastness. The trail then leads down to the Farol do Arnel lighthouse, a fitting finale to the hike. The steep final climb demands one last burst of energy from the legs, but at the top, an unforgettable moment awaits: crashing surf, black basalt cliffs, and the striking red and white lighthouse ensemble create a picture-perfect maritime scene, impressively rounding off this long and varied day of hiking. The tour is challenging and requires good physical condition due to the long distance and numerous ascents and descents. The route follows forest paths, meadows, ridge trails, and gravel tracks, while the final section to the lighthouse is partly very steep and follows asphalt. It's a long, intense day amidst tranquil mountain forests, sweeping panoramic ridges, and the powerful Atlantic Ocean.

One day, three highlights – we experience São Miguel with all our senses. In the morning, we glide out onto the Atlantic Ocean with a marine biologist, searching for dolphins, majestic sperm whales, and other fascinating marine life. These encounters adhere to strict eco-standards, respecting and protecting the environment, ensuring the experience is not only impressive but also sustainable. When a dorsal fin slices through the waves or a whale surfaces from the depths, the ocean becomes the stage for an unforgettable natural spectacle. At midday, the turquoise lagoon of Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo awaits us. In the ring-shaped, protected bay, clear water, black lava rocks, and colorful schools of fish converge. Swimming or snorkeling, we enjoy this unique natural gem, which lies like a perfect postcard image in the middle of the Atlantic. In the afternoon, the scent of ripe fruit fills the air as we visit a traditional pineapple plantation. In the warm greenhouses, the aromatic fruits ripen slowly before we sample them ourselves. This day combines the sea, volcanic landscape, and culinary delights into an intense Azores experience that will be remembered for a long time.

Gentle waves, black lava cliffs, and lush green terraced fields accompany us on this leg of the journey along the south coast of São Miguel. Small hamlets and idyllic coastal paths alternate with comfortable connecting trails, while breathtaking views of secluded coves and striking basalt cliffs repeatedly unfold. The gentle ups and downs lead us to ever-changing perspectives of the Atlantic, whose deep blue contrasts impressively with the dark lava rock. Sheltered spots by the sea frequently invite us to take a short break, listen to the sound of the waves, and enjoy the vastness of the landscape. The paths are mostly easy to walk and lead along coastal trails, through small villages, and over short stretches of asphalt and steps. Finally, we arrive in Povoação, feeling refreshed and relaxed. Along the promenade, in small squares and in cozy cafes, the day comes to a delightful end with an espresso, a piece of cake or perhaps even a swim in the warm evening atmosphere – a perfectly harmonious conclusion to an active day with breathtaking views of the south coast and impressive lava bays.

A leisurely breakfast and a final glance at the Atlantic before we say goodbye. After checking out, we'll head to Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL). With a backpack full of memories – emerald-green crater lakes, mystical cloud forests, crashing waves, and the scent of fresh tea gardens – we'll begin our individual journeys home. Obrigada/Obrigado, Azores – see you soon!