12 Things to Do in São Miguel Azores: An Island Escape Like No Other
In São Miguel, the air is thick with the essence of creation—where the earth exhales steam into the heavens, and emerald hills embrace sapphire lakes. Sao Miguel Azores is a place where the ancient rhythm of the Atlantic murmurs age-old secrets, crafting a world that balances delicately between myth and reality, shaped by volcanic fire and mellowed by the passage of time.
My fascination with Portugal—its rich tapestry of history, culture, and irresistible allure—deepened over the years. When my husband and I chose to forgo a traditional wedding for something more magical and meaningful, São Miguel beckoned us. And there, amid its mystical landscapes, we pledged our lives to each other, surrounded by nature’s profound spectacle.
São Miguel is more than a retreat; it’s a portal to the very edge of the ancient world, offering a peek into its mystical core. This island was the perfect canvas to paint the beginning of our shared journey. As you wander its misty trails, every step reveals wonders—hydrangeas burst in vibrant arrays along every path, painting the island in strokes of bold blues and purples.
The air carries an earthy scent, a reminder of the pastoral life that thrives here, mingled occasionally with the sharp, refreshing aroma of mint fields that suddenly envelop you in their invigorating embrace. At night, a symphony of crickets fills the air, their music a fitting lullaby in this land of whispered legends and natural enchantment.
Come, lose yourself in the profound stillness and beauty of São Miguel, an island where every moment is steeped in legend and every breath is a story waiting to be told. Be sure to check out my other posts for more stories and insights from the Azores, as each one offers a unique glimpse into the enchanting world of this archipelago:
→ Indulge in Dining: 10 Restaurants in São Miguel, Azores
→ Explore Furnas in São Miguel: A Hidden Gem in the Azores
→ Discover the Delicious Main Dishes of Each Island in the Azores
1. Visit Sete Cidades Crater Lakes
Journey to Sete Cidades and discover the mystical twin lakes of Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, nestled within an ancient volcanic crater. Each lake, one a deep emerald and the other a vibrant blue, mirrors the sky above in stunning contrast. Standing at the crater’s edge, you’re drawn into the profound beauty and tranquility of this iconic site on Sao Miguel. Here, amidst this breathtaking panorama, the lakes offer a serene glimpse into the soul of the Azores, inviting you to reflect on the legendary stories woven into their waters.
2. Enjoy a day in Furnas
Immerse yourself in the mystical world of Furnas, where the earth’s fiery heart powers natural hot springs and fumaroles. Relax in the therapeutic waters and savor a traditional Cozido lunch, uniquely cooked underground by geothermal heat. This experience connects you deeply with the ancient, renewing forces of nature.
For more insights and activities in Furnas, visit my blog post, “Explore Furnas in São Miguel: A Hidden Gem in the Azores“, where I unveil the enchanting details of this magical spot in the São Miguel Azores. Join me in exploring a place where nature’s magic is palpable in every steam rise and bubbling spring.
3. Hike to Lagoa do Fogo
Embark on a transformative hike to Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake set within dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. This challenging trail rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views, connecting you deeply to the mystical forces that shaped this volcanic sanctuary. As you ascend, each step offers not just a physical challenge but a profound spiritual journey, unveiling the raw majesty São Miguel of the Azores in every sweeping vista.
4. Explore Tea Factory
Step into the verdant world of the Azores at the Gorreana Tea Factory and Cha Porto Formoso, rare gems among Europe’s few tea plantations. Gorreana, the more tourist-friendly of the two, welcomes visitors with well-established tours that showcase the lush tea fields under the gentle Atlantic breeze. Here, you can learn about the intricate process of tea production and sample the island’s unique green and black teas, each infused with the distinctive flavors of São Miguel’s volcanic soil and misty climate.
Cha Porto Formoso offers a quieter, more intimate experience, allowing for deeper exploration into the tradition of tea cultivation that has thrived on these islands for over a century. Both locations provide a profound connection to the land and its history, inviting you to savor the taste and tranquility of Azorean tea culture.
5. Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz
Ascend to the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz, a sacred sanctuary perched high above the village of Vila Franca do Campo. This chapel, dedicated to Our Lady of Peace, offers not only spiritual solace but also breathtaking views that stretch over the lush landscape and out to the sea. The path leading to the chapel is lined with steps, each one inscribed with the mysteries of the Rosary, inviting pilgrims to reflect and meditate as they ascend.
Surrounded by tranquility and the scent of hydrangeas, this place feels like a bridge between heaven and earth. Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz is more than just a site to visit; it’s a journey into the heart of Azorean spirituality, where the divine seems to touch the earth, offering a moment of profound peace and connection in the midst of the world’s natural beauty.
6. Discover the Castle in the Sky Secret Hike
Quatro Fábricas da Luz, nestled away on Sao Miguel Azores, stands as a testament to nature’s reclaiming of manmade structures. This hike, one of my personal favorites, leads you to an abandoned electric generating plant, where the juxtaposition of industrial decay and natural beauty creates a hauntingly beautiful scene. The trail to Quatro Fábricas da Luz is less traveled, offering a quiet escape from the more frequented paths of the island.
As you explore the remnants of the old power stations, you’re enveloped by the serene silence that only such forgotten places can offer. The structures, overtaken by the lush greenery of the Azores, tell a story of a time when they buzzed with energy, now giving way to the persistent force of nature. This hike isn’t just a physical journey; it’s a profound exploration into the quiet corners of São Miguel, where history and the wild embrace in their timeless dance. The solitude and unique atmosphere of Quatro Fábricas da Luz make it a truly remarkable experience, perfect for those seeking a path less trodden.
7. Rent a Car and Drive around the island
Embark on a mystical journey around Sao Miguel Azores by renting a car, the key to unlocking the island’s hidden wonders at your own pace. As my husband and I discovered, driving across this enchanting island offers an intimate glimpse into its soul, from breathtaking vistas to secluded miradouros (viewpoints) and vibrant hydrangeas lining the winding roads. The freedom of a car allows you to explore these magical spots, each offering a new perspective of the island’s profound beauty.
During our own adventure, we drove in search of the perfect spot to elope, a quest that led us through landscapes that seemed to whisper tales of love and time. This exploration is a reminder that on São Miguel, the journey is as significant as the destination. Finding a taxi willing to traverse the island for long distances is a rare feat; the islanders usually consider even a 15-minute drive too far. This only adds to the charm and challenge of discovering São Miguel’s hidden gems.
For those inspired by tales of love and discovery, I invite you to read about our elopement in “Our Magical Elopement in the Azores: A Love Story Captured in a Postcard” on my blog. It’s a testament to the magic that awaits those willing to explore this mystical island behind the wheel, where every turn brings you closer to finding your own slice of paradise.
8. Enjoy Hot Springs
Immerse yourself in the transformative waters of São Miguel’s renowned hot springs, where the volcanic essence of the island infuses every soak with deep, ancient energies. Each site offers a unique embrace of nature’s healing powers:
- Termas da Ferraria: Experience the raw power of the Atlantic as it meets geothermal springs in a rugged coastal setting, where the ocean’s tide blends with hot volcanic waters. THE COOLEST HOT SPRING EXPERIENCE! (& I’ve been to a lot!)
- Poça da Dona Beija: Night or day, indulge in the therapeutic, mineral-rich waters of these lushly landscaped pools, illuminated under the stars for a truly enchanting soak.
- Parque Terra Nostra: Submerge yourself in the iron-rich, thermal waters of a pool set within one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens, a site where time seems to stand still.
- Termas das Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande: Refresh your body and spirit in the revitalizing springs of Ribeira Grande, where the warmth sourced from the earth’s depths offers a soothing retreat.
- Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha: Wander through a tropical rainforest setting to find naturally heated waterfall pools that invite a serene connection with the environment.
For those drawn to the mystical allure of thermal waters and their ancient, restorative properties, delve deeper into the world of sacred soaks. Discover “Sacred Soaks: My Favorite Bathhouses & Hot Springs” on my blog, where I explore the profound impact these waters can have on body, mind, and spirit. Join me in uncovering the sacred rituals of bathing that span cultures and centuries, offering a gateway to rejuvenation and tranquility.
9. Explore the Pineapple Plantations
Discover the enchanting world of pineapple cultivation at Plantação Ananases A Arruda and Ananás Santo António on Sao Miguel Island, Azores. These plantations, nurtured by the island’s rich volcanic soil and unique climate, offer a glimpse into a profound tradition deeply rooted in local culture.
Wander through the greenhouses where the warm, moist air and a near-mystical aura transform spiky crowns into golden fruits. The scent of ripening pineapples fills the air, embodying the natural alchemy of the Azores. These visits are not just about seeing pineapples grow but experiencing a connection to the earth and celebrating the sweet, enduring spirit of the islands.
10. Visit Ceramic Shops
Explore the vibrant craft of Azorean ceramics at Cerâmica Vieira in São Miguel. This renowned shop showcases the skill and creativity of local artisans, offering a rich array of handcrafted pottery and intricately painted tiles. Each piece captures the natural beauty and volcanic essence of the island, providing a tangible connection to the Azorean spirit. Visiting Cerâmica Vieira is not just a shopping trip; it’s an immersive experience into a craft that weaves the past into the present, allowing you to bring home a piece of the island’s soul.
11. Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões
Step into the mystical realm of Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões on São Miguel, where ancient rhythms of nature resonate through cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. This park is a profound sanctuary, offering an escape into a world where time pauses and the earth’s whispers become clear. Towering cliffs, dense woodlands, and the gentle murmur of streams create a backdrop that invites deep connection with the island’s volcanic spirit and rich ecosystems. Here, in the heart of the Azores, experience the living, breathing essence of the island, inviting you to explore and connect with the primal forces of nature. My husband and I took some of our elopement photos here and it was absolutely gorgeous. If you are interested in seeing more about our elopement, you can check out my post, → “Our Magical Elopement in the Azores: A Love Story Captured in a Postcard“
12. Europe’s Largest Gin Library
Discover a sanctuary of spirits at the Gin Library, the largest gin collection in Europe, nestled on the enchanting island of São Miguel. This unique venue offers an immersive experience into the world of gin, featuring over 400 varieties from across the globe. Each bottle tells its own story of botanicals, craftsmanship, and tradition, inviting you to explore the depths of gin’s rich history and diverse flavors.
The Gin Library is more than just a place to sample gin; it’s an environment steeped in sophistication and discovery. Surrounded by elegant decor that reflects the storied past of gin-making, guests are encouraged to savor each sip and learn about the intricate nuances of their chosen spirits. This venue transforms a simple tasting into a profound journey through the senses, making it a must-visit for both connoisseurs and curious explorers alike. Here, in the tranquility of Sao Miguel Azores , the Gin Library offers a refined escape where the spirit of adventure is captured in each glass.
As we wrap up this journey through the top 10 things to do in São Miguel, Azores, one thing is clear.
This island offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant, everyday culture.
From the mystical trails of Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões to the aromatic charm of pineapple plantations, it enchants. Then there’s Lagoa do Fogo, where still waters reflect the sky and invite moments of quiet connection. Altogether, each experience draws you closer to the soul of the island—genuine, grounded, and unforgettable.
My explorations have only scratched the surface of what São Miguel has to offer. This is a place I dream of returning to often, each visit an opportunity to uncover more of its hidden treasures, learn about its storied past, and traverse its breathtaking hikes. The warmth of its people and the richness of its culture beckon for a deeper exploration.
São Miguel, Azores is more than a destination—it’s a call to adventure, alive in every corner of the island. With each visit, I hope to keep answering that call, diving deeper into its beauty and quiet mysteries. Along the way, I continue learning, growing, and reconnecting with the spirit of wonder that brought me here.
