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São Miguel
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The
largest Azorean Island |
We also offer the islands of Pico,
Faial and
Sao Jorge
The Island
São Miguel is famous for its beautiful landscapes and exceptional
volcanic lakes. The largest of the Azorean islands, it measures 65km
long by 16km wide and is
known as Ilhe Verde - Green Island. A stunning coastline, of small bays
with black sand and precipitous sea cliffs interspersed with small
harbours adding further interest. The island features three major
calderas, volcanic craters, now with lakes sparkling at th e
bottom. Sete Citdades, even has a village at the bottom of the crater
and two lakes one blue and one green. At Lagoa das Furnas boiling
sulphurous water comes to the surface through hot springs near the lake
and is a reminder of the volcanic origin of all of the islands. The
mountains rise to over 1000m. As an example of São Miguel’s climate one
finds the only tea and pineapple plantations in Europe, both well worth
a visit on non walking days. Rarely could a visitor fail to be impressed
by the incredible myriad of all the different shades of greens exhibited
by its extensive prairies, forests, tobacco fields and tea plantations
as well as the abundance of hues this island has to offer. We recommend
a stay of a week on this island with the highlights walkable during a
four night stay.
The
Walking
Three key walks take in the three largest volcanic lakes. They are all
very diff e rent, in colour, setting and terrain despite their common
origins and are scattered across the island. Walk coastal paths linking
fishing villages interspersed by high cliffs or wind your way across
emerald fields passing through small villages with sea views ever
present. Plenty of opportunity for a refreshing sea swim or a hot-pool
bath.
Self Guided
We offer a choice of walks of an easy to medium category. A number of
walks can be accessed by public transport, others will require a taxi,
our local representative will arrange these
for you upon request.
Guided - Independent Walking
Guided walks are available six days every week and we include four walks
during a seven night guided walking stay. Walks are from 4 - 9 miles in
length and considered easy or moderate level. We offer walks to the
three major volcanic lakes as well as coastal and rural walks. All have
been chosen to ensure the walker sees the best that São Miguel has to
offer.
When
to go
Walking is possible all year around in the Azores. Spring is early here
so April and May are good times and Autumn extends into November. Being
islands in the middle of the
Atlantic it does rain with the wettest months from October to March. The
driest are July and August. There is only a 9C variation (15 - 24C) in
temperature between the coldest and warmest months, so it is never very
cold nor are there prolonged hot days.
The hotels We feature two hotels on Sao Miguel, the
4* Do Colegio and the
3* Vila Nova
How to get there There is a non stop service from London to
São Miguel, also the island can be reached by flight from Lisbon on a
daily basis. There are flights to
Lisbon from a number of UK points.
Getting about
On guided walks you will be transported from near you
hotel and returned back. Self guided walkers There is an bus service which reaches all
corners of the island, and a bus stop is close to both hotels. We
provide the bus timetable before you leave. Some walks are more
conveniently reached by taxi, which we can arrange.
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