Sao Miguel: Europe’s Breathtaking Green Oasis
Why you should visit
Located in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, Sao Miguel is the crown jewel of the Azores archipelago. With an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and adventure, it should be one of your bucket list destinations. This lush, emerald island captivates travellers with its dramatic landscapes, from the green rolling hills and pristine crater lakes to the steaming hot springs and rugged coastlines. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a water sports enthusiast, or simply someone in search of serene vistas, Sao Miguel promises an unforgettable escape into nature’s untouched splendour.
How to travel to Sao Miguel?
Being located in the heart of the Atlantic Oceans means that the only way to get here is by plane. The cheapest flight you can take would be from Lisbon, starting as low as €60 for a return flight.
How to get around
Sao Miguel is the largest island in the Azores, which means it’s relatively easy to get around. It offers various options to suit different preferences and budgets from car rental to tours and public transport. I’d personally recommend booking a car since price aren’t that high and it lets you travel at your own pace.
Tip: Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Ensure you’re comfortable with driving on narrow, winding roads.
Top Things to do:
1. Explore the City of Ponta Delgada
Stroll through the historic streets of Sao Miguel’s largest city, visiting landmarks like the Portas da Cidade and Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião.
Enjoy the local cuisine at the city’s many restaurants and cafes.
2. Carvão Aqueduct
Built in the 17th and 18th centuries the aqueduct was constructed to transport water from the Lagoa do Canário and Lagoa das Empadadas lagoons to the city of Ponta Delgada.
3. Explore Sete Cidades
Visit the twin lakes of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, situated in a massive volcanic crater.
Hike or drive to the Miradouro da Grota do Inferno viewpoint for breathtaking views of the lakes and surrounding landscape.
Tip: Check the visibility before heading up to the viewpoint by using the webcams set all over the island.
4. A Porta do Diabo
This dramatic natural arch is mesmerising to watch, particularly when the ocean is turbulent. Watching the way the waves crash will make you understand how the arch got its name.
5. Piscina natural da Sofia
Piscina Natural da Sofia is located nearby the arch and is perfect for a refreshing swim while taking in the rugged coastal scenery. In the area you will also find Termas da Ferraria, a thermal spa perfect for relaxation. The offer a range of spa treatments, and geothermal pools and they even have a restaurant.
6. Mosteiros
Explore this picturesque village on the western coast of Sao Miguel, known for its beautiful black sand beaches and striking rock formations. It’s a great spot for swimming and watching the sunset.
Budget find: If you decide to stop here for lunch I would recommend Restaurante O Chico. Really good food and budget-friendly prices.
7. Piscinas Naturais de Santo António
Enjoy the natural ocean pools in the village of Santo António, offering a safe and scenic spot for swimming and relaxing by the sea.
8. Praia Baixa d’Areia
You can easily spend a day at this beautiful black sand beach. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the serene coastal scenery.
9. Vila Franca Do Campo
Discover the charm of the island’s former capital with its historic architecture, lovely waterfront, and the nearby Ilhéu de Vila Franca, a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling.
To reach the islet, buy a boat ticket early in the morning at the marina booth. It costs €5 per person for the round trip.
10. Cha Gorreana Tea Factory
Visit the oldest tea plantation in Europe, located on Sao Miguel’s northern coast. Learn about the tea production process and enjoy a cup of locally grown tea.
Entrance is free and you get to sample the tea from their own production. They also have a restaurant and a gift shop if you want to buy some tea to bring back home with you
11. Furnas
Explore the geothermal marvels of Furnas, including hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. Don’t miss trying the traditional “Cozido das Furnas,” a stew cooked using geothermal heat.
Make sure to stop by Casa Invertida for a cute photograph.
Visiting the Formarolas Lagoas de Furnas costs €3.
Tip: If you want to experience the “Cozido das Furnas” make sure you book it in advance.
Where should you stay?
Depending on how you choose to travel you can either stay in multiple places or just set up base in one location. I drove around the island and I found that Ponta Delgada was a good base to get around.
Budget – Azores Youth Hostels – Offers both shared and private rooms and is located less than 4 km from the airport. There is also a car park available.
Medium – Neat Hotel Avenida – modern rooms, close to the beach in Ponta Delgada
High – Coast Flats by Azores Villas – sea view suites with terrace and access to a hot tub.
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