São Miguel: Luxury Spa & Beach Retreat

1. Day 1 Arrival in São Miguel Island & Check-in at Verde Mar Hotel & Spa

   Welcome to the Azores! Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon your arrival and departure, and for a seamless start to your journey, we recommend booking an early hotel check-in.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • After settling in, taking a stroll around downtown Ribeira Grande to appreciate the city's lively lifestyle seems like the perfect way to spend the rest of the day.
     • Ribeira Grande Town Hall
     • Arquipélago - Contemporary Arts Center 
     • Santa Bárbara Beach
     • Monte Verde Beach
2. Day 2 <b>Spa Treatment: Feet on the Sand - Santa Bárbara's Special (Included)</b>

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Why not spend the day immersing yourself in the other natural wonders of Ribeira Grande? Take advantage of your included rental car and visit Lagoa do Fogo*, where the breathtaking scenery awaits, followed by a tranquil soak at the Caldeira Velha Hot Springs*. Don't miss the picturesque Salto do Cabrito Waterfall*, conveniently located nearby. Then, venture to the Santa Iria and Ponta do Cintrão viewpoints for panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Lastly, immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the Tea Plantations of Gorreana and Porto Formoso. 
   • In the late afternoon, indulge in the spa treatment "Feet on the Sand (Santa Bárbara's Special): This revitalizing experience combines a body scrub with sand and essential oils, a soothing reflexology feet massage, and an energizing full-body massage, leaving you prepared to take on any challenge. Please note that the schedule provided is just an example; our Wellness Center is open every day from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, ensuring flexibility to accommodate your schedule.

   * During peak season, access to Lagoa do Fogo Viewpoint by car is restricted. You'll need to park your rental car near Caldeira Velha and take a convenient shuttle minibus to the viewpoint. To ensure a smooth visit to Caldeira Velha, be sure to schedule your visit online in advance. To visit Salto do Cabrito, park your car and enjoy a scenic walk down a well-maintained, paved path to reach the waterfall.

3. Day 3 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • In the morning, take the day to stroll around Ponta Delgada’s city streets. Ponta Delgada, the main city, is not only the hub of the island but the capital of the Azores. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 
     • Portas da Cidade
     • Louvre Michaelense
     • Pineapple Plantations
     • Matriz Church
   • In the afternoon, explore the wonders of Sete Cidades, including Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa do Canário, and the captivating Boca do Inferno Viewpoint. Don't miss the chance to venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a perfect spot for a picturesque sunset. While in the western part of the island, treat yourself to the rejuvenating experience of an ocean thermal bath at Ferraria.
4. Day 4 <b>Spa Treatment: Tranquil Soul Massage (Included)</b>

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Embark on a Whale and Dolphin-watching Experience: The Azores Islands are known for their unparalleled beauty and biodiversity, adored by outdoor adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But what people may not know is that the Azores is also one of the fastest-growing whale-watching destinations in the world. Located in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal and North America, the Azores are a permanent home and natural point of passage to more than 20 different types of whale and dolphin species, making the islands one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries. Click here to schedule this tour from Rabo de Peixe port (available from June to September, and only a 10-minute drive from your hotel), or click here to check other year-round options departing from Ponta Delgada or Vila Franca do Campo.
   • In the afternoon, treat yourself to the rejuvenating "Tranquil Soul" Massage at Verde Mar Wellness Center (included in your package). Please note that this relaxing activity can be conveniently scheduled directly at the hotel at your preferred time. Allow yourself to unwind and recharge, immersing in a blissful experience designed to invigorate both body and mind. Please note that the schedule provided is just an example; our Wellness Center is open every day from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, ensuring flexibility to accommodate your schedule.
5. Day 5 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • It's time to visit Furnas, the Azores' thermal hot spot. Journey to Furnas and immerse yourself in its myriad attractions, from the serene lake and Pico do Ferro Viewpoint to the unique caldeiras and the hot springs at Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija (tickets from 8€-16€ per person). Relish local flavors like cozido das Furnas (mandatory for lunch) and bolos lêvedos, and experience a fusion of nature and culture that's truly Azorean.
   • No visit to Furnas is complete without a visit to the neighboring village of Ribeira Quente, and it will only take you 15 minutes by car. As you start your drive, you’ll pass through the iconic Ribeira Quente tunnel where it’s a local tradition to honk your horn until you see the daylight again. In the area in between the tunnels, you can spot one of São Miguel Island's most magical hidden waterfalls, tucked away behind dense vegetation.  Blink and you'll miss it from the car, so if you want to take your time appreciating this beautiful sight, it's best to park your car and walk to the area. During your visit to Ribeira Quente, take in the charm of this quaint seaside fishing village. Be sure to explore Praia do Fogo, a unique beach where geothermal heat naturally warms the ocean waters. 
6. Day 6 <b>Azorean Gin Masterclass (Included)</b>

   Suggestion for the first part of the day:

   • Hiking Adventure: Whether you're an experienced hiker seeking a rugged challenge or a casual explorer looking for scenic walks, São Miguel Island delivers a hiking experience unlike any other, with every step unveiling the island's natural wonders and rich biodiversity.
     • Serra Devassa (easy) 
     • Moinhos do Félix (medium)

   From 5 PM - 6 PM Azorean Gin Masterclass:

   • The Azores may be a tiny archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, but that hasn't stopped it from producing several excellent gins. You will try 3 gin and tonics with selected tonics and garnishes matched for each. Light snacks will also be served during the tasting. This experience will take place at Solar Branco's Gin Library - Europe's largest gin collection!
7. Day 7 Return Flight Home

   Thank you for choosing Azores Getaways! We hope you had an incredible time. While it's time to head back home, we're looking forward to the chance to travel with you again in the future.

Available Experiences

Included

Special Offer: Azorean Gin Masterclass

Included

Massages: Feet on the Sand (Santa Barbaras Special)

Included

Massages: Tranquil Soul

Optional

Whale watching: Half Day + Vila Franca Islet

Additional cost applies

Optional

Hikes: Moinho do Félix - Waterfalls + Tea Plantations

Additional cost applies

Optional

Cooking Classes: Cook Your Own Cozido ! (Visit to Furnas Not Included)

Additional cost applies

Optional

Walking Tour: Ponta Delgada Wine & Food Tour

Additional cost applies

Optional

Food &amp; Wine: Dinner with Live Fado Show

Additional cost applies