São Miguel, the largest and most populated island in the Azores, is often the gateway for travelers visiting this stunning archipelago. With flights from both the U.S. and Europe connecting here, it’s a convenient and rewarding stop. We spent three nights on the island before flying back to New York, exploring its diverse landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and charming towns.

Ponta Delgada: A Perfect Base

We chose to base ourselves in Ponta Delgada, the island’s capital. This charming town is close to the airport and filled with trendy restaurants, quaint cafes, historic churches, and cobblestone streets. Each evening, we enjoyed strolling along the seafront and through the winding streets in search of dinner, soaking in the town’s relaxed atmosphere.

Eastern São Miguel: Tea Plantations and Geothermal Wonders

Our first full day was dedicated to exploring the eastern side of the island, with stops at tea plantations, scenic coastal towns, and geothermal hotspots.

Gorreana Tea Plantation

Founded in 1883, Gorreana is one of only two tea plantations in Europe. It’s free to visit and offers a fascinating look at the tea-making process. We wandered through the lush tea fields, toured the factory, and enjoyed a cup of freshly brewed tea in the plantation’s cafe. The stunning views of the surrounding countryside made this a highlight.

Nordeste

Continuing along the coast, we reached Nordeste, a picturesque town known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic viewpoints. While there isn’t much to do in the town itself, the coastal vistas at Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego are worth the stop.

Lagoa das Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden

Furnas is a geothermal wonderland and home to Lagoa das Furnas, one of the island’s three main lakes. The area’s volcanic activity creates bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs. We had lunch at the Terra Nostra Hotel, which gave us complimentary access to the stunning Terra Nostra Garden. This botanical paradise features plants and flowers from around the world and a naturally heated iron-enriched thermal pool, kept at a soothing 39°C (102°F).

We also tried the local dish, cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked underground using geothermal heat. While it’s a regional specialty, we found it bland and the meat dry and wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to try it.

Western São Miguel: Sete Cidades and Coastal Beauty

The second day of our visit focused on the western side of the island, particularly the breathtaking landscapes of Sete Cidades and Ponta da Ferraria.

Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades is famous for its twin lakes, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake), nestled within a volcanic caldera. The contrast between the vibrant blue and green hues of the lakes against the lush surroundings is mesmerizing.

• Miradouro da Vista do Rei: This popular viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the lakes and the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel, which you can explore for a unique perspective.
• Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: Reached by an easy, short but steep hike, this viewpoint provides some of the most iconic vistas in the Azores. Wear sturdy shoes for the muddy sections of the trail.

Ponta da Ferraria

Ponta da Ferraria features a unique natural hot spring located in the ocean. We swam in the protected pool, where geothermal activity warms the Atlantic waters. The contrast between the hot springs and the cool ocean waves was a surreal experience.

Final Thoughts

São Miguel’s diverse landscapes, rich geothermal activity, and charming towns make it a must-visit destination in the Azores. From the serene tea fields of Gorreana to the dramatic vistas of Sete Cidades and the soothing hot springs of Ponta da Ferraria, the island offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring volcanic craters or savoring a quiet evening in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel leaves an unforgettable impression.