8-Day Azores Adventure: Exploring São Jorge, Pico, and Faial Islands

São Jorge is renowned for its fajãs—lush, flat areas nestled between towering cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. Our day begins in Fajã de São João, a serene southern paradise. Next, we’ll visit Fajã dos Vimes, home to one of Europe’s only coffee plantations. Witness the fascinating process of turning locally grown beans into a rich, aromatic brew.

After lunch in the charming village of Calheta, we’ll explore its picturesque port and coastal scenery. The day ends in Urzelina, where historic windmills and natural pools provide the perfect setting for a refreshing sunset swim.

Rise early for a short hike to Pico da Esperança, where you’ll witness a mesmerizing sunrise over São Jorge’s rolling landscapes. After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 4-hour hike through Serra do Topo, passing the stunning Cascata da Caldeira de Cima waterfall and exploring the remote Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, a true hidden gem.

The trail continues through Fajã do Belo and Fajã dos Cubres, where nature’s serenity takes center stage. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Fajã do Ouvidor and Poça de Simão Dias, two natural pools perfect for a refreshing dip.

As the day ends, we’ll sail to Pico Island, enjoying a scenic 1-hour and 15-minute boat ride across the Atlantic.

Start your day in Madalena, exploring its charming streets, the 17th-century Church of Santa Maria Madalena, and the historic Town Hall. Next, we’ll visit Gruta das Torres, a UNESCO-recognized lava cave stretching 5,150 meters. Marvel at unique geological formations like lava stalactites and stalagmites.

After lunch, we’ll explore Criação Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning vineyards cascading toward the ocean. The day concludes in Lajes do Pico, where we’ll visit a local cattle breeder and experience the Azorean dairy tradition firsthand.

Today, we’ll embark on a partial ascent of Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak at 2,351 meters. Our hike takes us to Furna Abrigo, a volcanic cave at 1,400 meters, offering breathtaking views of Pico’s west coast and neighboring Faial Island.

Descending through Pico’s untouched interior, we’ll discover pristine lagoons like Lagoa do Capitão, Lagoa do Caiado, and Lagoa do Paul. In the afternoon, we’ll set sail for an unforgettable whale-watching experience, encountering majestic whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

Our day begins in Cabrito and Cachorro, where striking volcanic rock formations create dramatic coastal landscapes and natural pools. After lunch, we’ll visit the Pico Wine Museum to learn about the island’s UNESCO-listed winemaking heritage.

Next, we’ll wander through the enchanting Mata dos Dragoeiros, a rare forest of dragon trees. The day ends with a refreshing swim in Barca’s natural pools and a sunset toast at the iconic Cella Bar. Finally, we’ll sail to Faial Island for the next chapter of our adventure.

Our exploration of Faial begins in Horta, a vibrant maritime city. Visit the world-famous Horta Marina, adorned with colorful murals left by sailors, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.

Venturing inland, we’ll explore the Caldeira do Faial, a vast volcanic crater blanketed in lush greenery. Next, we’ll visit Ribeirinha, a village marked by the 1998 earthquake, and admire charming wooden windmills in Cedros.

The day concludes at Capelinhos Volcano, where lunar-like landscapes tell the story of the island’s last volcanic eruption. After exploring the lighthouse-turned-interpretation center, we’ll unwind at Varadouro’s natural pools, soaking in the Atlantic’s crystal-clear waters as the sun sets.

As our adventure comes to an end, we bid farewell to this Atlantic paradise. Cherish the memories, experiences, and friendships made along the way.

Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey. Until next time!