Sao Miguel is a paradise for road trippers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush green valleys, endless hiking options, hot springs, and waterfalls. What else would you want?

Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links. I will earn a small commission from any qualifying purchases through clicks on these links (which I greatly appreciate and at NO EXTRA COST to you). All opinions are, as always, completely my own.  - Thanks friend!

We had the opportunity to visit this beautiful island for a 10-day road trip. In this blog post, I’ll cover a suggested itinerary that will guide you through the island’s must-see locations, hidden gems, and local experiences and cuisine to make your trip unforgettable. We will explore its historic towns, soak in natural hot springs, and hike to breathtaking viewpoints, and try all the local cuisine.

Overview of the Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Ponta Delgada, Coastal Drive & Moisterios

Day 2: Sete Cidades, Tea House & Lagoa Azul

Day 3: Ribeira Grande

Day 4: Logoa do Fogo, Caldeira Velha & Salto do Cabrito

Day 5: Porto Formoso, Tea Plantations & Winery

Day 6: Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões & Canyoning

Day 7: Nordeste & Lombadas Waterfall Trail

Day 8: Salto do Prego, Sanguinho Village & Poça da Dona Beija

Day 9: Furnas, Terra Nostra & Local Cuisine

Day 10: Ponta Delgada

Travel Information & Tips for Sao Miguel

Nicknamed "The Green Island" (Ilha Verde), it is the largest and most populous island in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. Sao Miguel is located in the heart of the North Atlantic Ocean, roughly 930 miles (1,500 km) west of mainland Portugal. The island covers 760 km2 (290 sq mi) and has around 140,000 inhabitants, with 45,000 people residing in Ponta Delgada, the archipelago's largest city. (Source: Wikipedia)

Best Time to Visit: The great thing about the Azores is that there’s no “off-season” here due to its mild temperatures year-round. Plan for late spring or early fall when the weather is mild, and crowds are minimal. Since Sao Miguel is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the weather can change quickly, so be prepared for an unexpected rain shower, high winds, and a lot of fog. When we visited in early November, we experienced all four seasons in one day, so it’s best to prepare for anything!

Getting Around: If you want to maximize your time, renting a car is necessary for your freedom and flexibility. Having a car will allow you to explore all the hidden gems that many tours don’t go to. Plus you’ll be on your own schedule. We used Discover Cars and found a really great-priced automatic for our 10-day road trip.

Where to Stay: You could technically stay in Ponta Delgada, an excellent base for exploring the island. However, I highly recommend spending a few nights in Ribeira Grande or Furnas to reduce driving times and experience more of the local towns on the island.

What to Pack: Your outdoor basics are needed for this trip. Bring rain gear, hiking shoes, quick dry shorts and shirts, a hat, sunglasses, a swimsuit for hot springs, and a reusable water bottle. Oh, and a backpack! Other then that, Ponta Delgada is very casual - unless you choose to dine at a five star restaurant.

Day 1: Arrival in Ponta Delgada, Coastal Drive & Moisterios

The charming capital of Sao Miguel! You can get a direct flight from Toronto with Sata Azores. The flight time is roughly 5-6 hours, and it is an overnight flight. When you land, explore its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and oceanfront views. There are plenty of options for coffee and a bite to eat. We stopped at this charming cafe for a cappuccino and a “Tosta Mista,” a signature Portuguese melted (grilled) ham and cheese sandwich. It’s simple and delicious.

We then picked up our car rental from ANC Azores Holidays. The staff was super friendly and welcoming, and they gave us suggestions and recommendations for our road trip. They also provide tours of the island, which include things to do and see. I would highly recommend this company. Check out a list of their tours.

Head to Mosteiros Beach, famous for its black sand and volcanic rock formations. The drive from Ponta Delgada was incredible! We took our time, stopped at all the Miradource (look-outs) and came across this adorable - what looked like a chip stand with a stunning ocean view. Rulote A BarracAbana is the first time we tried Super Bock. Super Bock is a Portuguese beer brand, established in 1927 that produces a range of beers under the same name. Super Bock maintains the favourite beer brands of the Portuguese.

We continued to explore the coastline and made our way to Ferraria Hot Springs. Here, you can enjoy a natural ocean pool heated by geothermal activity. But don’t be like us; plan your visit around low tide for the best experience. When we arrived, the waves were massive, and there was a huge current. Regardless, the area was unique and spectacular.

Mosteiros is a small village roughly a 40-minute drive from Ponta Delgada. Driving through the winding roads, it will take you through picturesque countryside, a quaint village and lush greenery until you arrive at the coast. Our Airbnb was a 2-minute walk to soak in and enjoy the beautiful volcanic coastline. I would highly recommend staying here. You can hear the sound of the waves, and as you step out of the property entrance, you will immediately see the ocean across the road, where the famous Mosteiros rock pools are located.

Our Airbnb had a full kitchen, allowing us to cook our meals. We visited the quaint grocery store and stocked up on groceries, wine, and beer for our stay. We then headed to Seaside Vibez for a much-appreciated happy hour. Seaside Vibez offered a massive patio that overlooked the ocean, and we were fortunate to experience such a pretty sunset.

Day 2: Sete Cidades, Tea House & Lagoa Azul

We set out early to hike one of Sao Miguel’s most famous sights (and Instagram famous) Lagoa das Sete Cidades. This massive volcanic crater holds two lakes, one blue and one green, side by side, and the view from the top of this hike is meant to be just incredible; I was so excited to finally hike that it has been on my bucket list forever.

Unfortunately, we did not get the view we were hoping for due to Sao Miguel’s inconsistent weather and the amount of fog. The trail is considered easy but very pretty as it winds through the lush forest. After this experience, we learned that weather cameras around the island can be accessed online to help you plan your day. Fog occurs very often throughout the island, so it’s common. Mentally prepare that you may not experience all the Instagram views when visiting the island.

Alex wanted to cheer me up after our hike, so we made our way to the town of Sete Cidades, where we stopped at the famous CASA DE CHÁ “O POEJO (tea house). With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, CASA DE CHÁ “O POEJO serves local products such as meats, bakery, tea, liqueurs, and other unique products of this region, served at breakfast, snacks, or lunch.

He then found us an alternative hike (literally on the opposite side of the lake) where the sun was shining and clear skies. After our hike, we picked up an espresso and croquettes (a deep-fried ball made with meat, seafood and vegetables) and explored the small town of Sete Cidades. The town itself is very walkable, and it doesn’t take long to stroll through the ‘downtown.’ There’s also an option to rent kayaks and explore Lagoa Azul.

Day 3: Ribeira Grande, Local Cheese & Bafana’s

From Sete Cidades, we drove to Ribeira Grande, the second-largest town in Sao Miguel, where we would call it our home base for the next few days. Ribeira Grande is central to the island, making it another good option to explore. We checked into our bed and breakfast and headed out for dinner. We stayed in Casa Areal de Santa Barbara and chose this place based on cost. Fortunately, this accommodation exceeded our expectations, and I highly recommend it to those looking for a simple and affordable place to stay and explore. Our total cost for four nights came to $243.00 CAD taxes in, averaging $61.00 nightly, which included breakfast! (what a steal!)

We headed out for a walk to have a quick bite to eat for lunch at a local restaurant where we tried the famous Bifana. Bifanas are traditional Portuguese sandwiches made with thin slices of pork marinated and simmered in white wine, garlic, and paprika and served on soft rolls with plenty of mustard and piri-piri sauce. Don’t judge until you tried it!

However, we decided to splurge on dinner and try out the famous TukáTulá Beach + Bar. This restaurant offers an unforgettable experience with spectacular beachfront views, delicious food, and an amazing local wine list. Nestled right on the beach, it was the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy.

We ordered a cheese plate of five different cheeses from the Azore Islands. We paired them with a local wine from Pico Island. We had a fun time tasting the cheeses and rating which we liked best to worst (there was no bad ones by the way). It was interesting to learn about the different regions and how they can make such unique cheeses with different tastes and textures, although all are located within close proximity.

Day 4: Logoa do Fogo, Caldeira Velha & Salto do Cabrito

Although I did not get my Instagram-worthy picture at the Miradouro Sete Cidades, I was very much looking forward to hiking Lagoa do Fogo, which translates to Lake of Fire, which is in a volcano complex. Lagoa do Fogo is the highest lake on the São Miguel island. It is protected by governmental regulations that do not permit any construction around the lake, keeping the area protected for various endemic and introduced plant species and various birds.

But the weather (and fog) had other plans for us. In addition to missing out yet again on a hike I was looking forward to, it began to rain. So, we put our plans on hold and moved to an alternative plan: Caldeira Velha. Tickets are approx CAD 15 per person per visit. This allows you access to the hot springs and ground area for 1 hour and 30 minutes. I highly recommend booking your visit in advance to ensure entry, as it can get quite popular. You can buy your tickets here.

I can only say that Caldeira Velha is simply a dream! We enjoyed our visit so much that we returned twice (after our initial visit). When you go there, you can leave your stress behind and fully immerse yourself in only nature's peace. There are three pools, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 38 degrees Celsius. I suggest starting at the pools nearest to the entrance and gradually making your way to the iconic pool with the waterfall—just be sure to allow enough time for it!

After our time slot at Caldeira Velha hot springs, we stopped at Salto do Cabrito. To get to the waterfall, you need to walk down and back up a very steep hill. Salto do Cabrito is a hidden beauty of São Miguel Island. About 40 metres high, admire this waterfall from the bottom, or hike up the metal steps (as long as you don’t fear heights ), walk around the power station, and observe the waterfall from above.

Day 5: Porto Formoso, Tea Plantations & Winery

The weather turned, and the forecast called for full sunshine! We decided to head up to Porto Formoso, which I might add does not get enough credit to visit. This town straight up looks like right out of a movie - old tile buildings, quaint mom-and-pop shops, and the windiest, smallest streets possible!

Visitors and tourists come for the famous Tea Plantation, but I highly recommend driving into the town and exploring what it has to offer on foot. The locals are super friendly and welcoming, pop into a local cafe and enjoy an espresso and pastel de nada! Then, take a drive to Praia dos Moinhos and enjoy the view (bring an extra pastel de nada!)

After exploring the town, drive to the Porto Formoso Tea Factory—it is definitely worth the visit. Porto Formoso actually offers two unique plantations, along with the bigger Gorreana Tea Plantations, separated by just a 3-minute drive. And because they are so close, why not visit both plantations on the same day? They both offer a unique and different experience on São Miguel Island.

If you know me, you know I love my wine! Quinta da Jardinete is the one and only winery on Sao Miguel Island. We booked our tour, which included a tour of the vineyard, the production process, and taste testing! It doesn’t look like much like a winery from the street parking, but knock during open hours and give them a few minutes to get to the door (they are coming from on the property to get you) - the establishment is massive and will take you by surprise! They opened the gate to a lush vineyard oasis.

I can not recommend this winery enough. It has stunning historic buildings, beautiful views, and delicious local wines you can only experience in Sao Miguel. You are greeted warmly at the front door and given a brief history of the vineyard before exploring the grounds, which are a unique venue. He then showed us around the grounds and let us explore them alone before showing us the production process.

Day 6: Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões & Canyoning

Highly recommended Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park stretches along the Guilherme River, the longest river in the Azores. This park is insanely beautiful, with waterfalls, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths, making it a great spot to get outside and enjoy nature. I recommend hiking the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfall Route, which will take you to two incredible waterfalls. AllTrails rates as a moderate hike but it is perfect for all hiking levels with easy-to-follow route.

We read that canyoning is a highly recommended activity in São Miguel, so we booked a half-day tour with Azorean Blueberry. A local tour company that offers fully qualified guides who will take care of you and ensure you have a fun and safe adventure—and bring another level of service in adventure activities in the Azores.

I was more hesitant about this tour than Alex, but the guide assured me that no canyoning experience was required. Our guides were super kind and patient with me (while Alez was way ahead and loving life). Our tour began with a welcome briefing that explained more about the sports canyoning, the equipment needed, and an agenda for our tour. They then provided us with all the equipment we needed and did a warm-up walk until we reached the canyoning trail.

The descent starts with scrambling, swimming, and exploring a stream. Throughout the experience, we had multiple opportunities to jump, slide, and rappel/abseil along the small waterfalls. Honestly, it was completely out of my comfort zone, but I am so happy I did it! But now Alex wants to pick up a new hobby…

Day 7: Nordeste & Lombadas Waterfall Trail

We finally moved on from our Ribeira Grande home (goodbye included breakfast!) and headed to Nordeste. The drive between the two towns is absolutely incredible, and please make sure to stop at every single Miradouro because they are all worth it!

We came across this hidden gem of a hike. The starting point was very difficult to find. Let’s just say reviewing this one on AllTrails may deter you from hiking. Let me reassure you that I felt that, FINALLY, all the hiking I was trying to do was accomplished on this trail!

Yes, this trail is for more experienced hikers. It is not very well marked and can get confusing at some points, but the bonus was that we had it all to ourselves. So don’t believe everything you see online; know your limits and hike within them. But to this day, I am still convinced we did an extended version—somehow, somewhere, but that will remain unclear. All I know is that this trail was a five-star and more.

We were rewarded with multiple waterfalls and points of interest. If you are an experienced hiker, I would recommend - if you’re a newbie (which is totally ok, by the way), please disregard there are plenty more options!

After our adventurous hike, we arrived at our dreamy Airbnb — a converted watermill house in a botanic garden! This unique Airbnb is in a botanical park with a spectacular water waterfall and a beautiful garden. The best part is the garden is private and exclusively for guests on weekends and weekdays after 4:00 p.m.

Day 8: Salto do Prego, Sanguinho Village & Poça da Dona Beija

We started our day again with, yes, another waterfall hike! Salto do Prego is my favourite hike from our trip. The hike to this hidden gem is through lush greenery with some slopes, steps, and wooden bridges. Don’t be fooled, Alltrails rates it easy to moderate but it definitely gets your heart rate going!

If you visit during the warmer season, bring your bathing suit. I’ve read in reviews that the “water was cold but so refreshing!” I recommend following the trail counterclockwise. During the busy season, there is a lovely abandoned village on the way back. Located within this village, there’s Bar Loja, and I’ve read so many good reviews! “A great way to end your hike! This local bar offers various drinks (beer, lemonade) and snacks. Thoroughly recommend!” Unfortunately, it was closed the day we went, but the views are absolutely incredible!

Sanguinho Village is a charming spot of São Miguel Island. It's an abandoned village belonging to the municipality of Faial da Terra that is currently being restored. In the picturesque village of Sanguinho, you'll find the houses of the 400 people who once lived there, with typical Azorean architecture, and, to top it off, an impressive panoramic view of Faial da Terra. (Source: saomiguelguide.com)

We rewarded ourselves at Poça da Dona Beija, a thermal paradise in Furnas (within walking distance of our Airbnb). Dona Beija has five different thermal pools and a tropical jungle vibe. You must purchase your tickets in advance on the website, and time slots allow you access for one and a half hours.

The ambiance really enhanced the relaxation experience. The baths were at a perfect temperature and plenty of space to unwind without feeling crowded. We booked two different time slots during our time in Furnas, and would highly recommend visiting in the evening!

Day 8: Furnas, Terra Nostra & Local Cuisine

Furnas is a popular destination and the most visited in São Miguel, for good reason. This area is unique and centred around the island’s geothermal activity. Furnas is home to the famous (and gorgeous) Terra Nostra Park. Experience the traditional dish from the locals, who take their steaming hot Cozido stew out of the ground to your plate. Visit Queijaria Furnense for local cheese, bonbons, tarts, and other sweet treats.

Start your day at Terra Nostra, one of the Azores' largest and oldest gardens and thermal pools. It is filled with volcanic water from hot springs and is rich in iron and other highly beneficial minerals for the skin. The water is yellow-brown in colour (it will not stain your skin) and is known for its therapeutic and medicinal benefits. Because of its popularity, I recommend booking in advance. Unlike the other thermal baths and pools on the island, Terra Nostra has no time limit for your stay.

Make sure to also book your local dining experience in advance as well. Restaurante Tony’s and A Quinta are a couple of restaurants where you can have the opportunity to try Cozido stew. Known as Cozido das Furnas, it is a traditional Portuguese stew cooked in a pot buried in the volcanic soil all day. The stew consists of pork, beef, chicken, blood sausage, cabbage, carrots, sweet potatoes, and taro root.

Another Azorian Cuisine to try is Limpets, also known as lapas in Portuguese, are a popular seafood delicacy. Typically, limpets are grilled in their shells with seasonings like paprika, garlic, and butter.

Day 10: Ponta Delgada, Pastel de Nada’s & Departure

We had an early flight the following day, so we decided to end our incredible road trip in Ponta Delgada, the capital of Sao Miguel. We had so much fun strolling the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the tiled buildings, stopping at the local fruit stands, and eating one last (maybe two) pastel de nadas.

As you get lost in the maze of streets in the historic center, you’ll love the mosaic pavings, Portuguese tile, and the pops of brightly coloured buildings against the typical black-and-white ones. Make sure to visit the Mercado Da Graca, a local farmer’s market that offers the freshest fruit and vegetables, along with local cheese and homemade bread.

As our day wandering around central Ponta Delgada ended, it was time for one last happy hour. We had our share of the local beer and found an Irish Pub (Alex loves a good poured Guinness). If you read Ned Kelly’s Irish Pub + Grill‘s Google reviews, you’ll notice a trend - the only Irish pub in Ponta Delgada! We had the pleasure of meeting the owner, and he told us his story of how he had visited Ponta Delgada years ago, fell in love with the island and up and moved his life!

After a good happy hour, we found NONNAS TEETH & TOMATOES PIZZA (we were also tired of seafood and bifanas) and read really good things about it. To this day, it is the best pizza I have ever had! I tried the SCAMPINÚ Pizza with a zucchini cream base, fresh Mozzarella, shrimp, capers, semi-dried tomatoes, stracciatella, and fresh mint!

Sao Miguel is truly an incredible island. Honestly, it’s the most naturally beautiful place I have ever been. It’s overwhelmingly gorgeous, with so much to offer, see and do. The best part is it’s still considered ‘off the beaten path.’ If you’re considering going, I recommend visiting sooner rather than later. It won’t stay off the radar for long.

If you need any more info, have any questions, or need further recommendatios,: connect with me on Instagram!