Guide to São Miguel, Azores: How to Make Every Moment Count
From volcanic craters and natural hot springs to lush landscapes and reconnecting with nature, São Miguel offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility for your next adventure.
São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores, is best known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, abundant marine life, and laidback charm.
The island's volcanic origins have shaped its breathtaking scenery, from the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades to the geothermal hot springs of Furnas, where you can even enjoy a traditional stew cooked underground using volcanic heat.
Trip Highlights: Why Go Here?
Stunning scenery and big Mother Nature energy
Relaxed island pace of life
Old-world charm and affordable accommodations
Volcanic landscapes with crater lakes and hot springs
Fresh, locally-sourced cuisine
Rich cultural heritage and history
The lush, rolling farmland on São Miguel adds to the island’s natural beauty, with unique features like the Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe’s oldest, offering a peaceful glimpse into its agricultural heritage.
Local cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood, sweet greenhouse-grown pineapples, and rich Azorean cheese and butter making for an unforgettable culinary experience.
It’s a hotspot for whale watching, with sperm whales, blue whales, and dolphins frequently seen off the shores of São Miguel (especially from April through October).
And it’s one heck of a place to take a solo roadtrip.
That’s the focus of this post, and I hope you find everything you need to get inspired for your next adventure. Who knows? Maybe it’ll be exclusively to São Miguel, or you might add a stopover here on to another adventure you’re planning.