The Azores, also known as the Hawaii of Europe, is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. With both the European Continent and North America at a 5 hour flight away, you will escape reality by traveling to the Azores. The Azores consist of nine small island, with as biggest of all Sao Miguel. We will take you to the best places to visit in Sao Miguel.
TO DINE
1. Sao Jorge Restaurante
A cute little place in the heart of the old city of Ponte Delgado, that you might walk past if you would not know it was there. The aesthetically pleasing interior design, already get you into a relax and excited mood for the good food that is about to be served at your table. A recommendation is the ravioli with local cheese.
2. Fort Terrace
A short drive east from the main city of Ponte Delgado, there is a little place next to the ocean. With beautiful view of the ocean this bar and restaurant offers you a culinary meal for a very decent price. The Espresso Martini’s tastes amazing, especially with an ocean view.
3. Alcides
A three star high end restaurant, specialized in steaks. Because of a very high demand for a dinner at this restaurant, reservations are fully booked a week ahead during the summer season. The dessert on the menu are more than worth the try.
TO SEE
1. Cha Gorreana
The only tea plantation in Europe. The tea field are open to the public. With the scenic ocean view in the background this will make a perfect picture spot. The museum and gift shop next to the tea field are open to the public as well, with the option of tasting the tea that is made on site.
2. Ribeira Grande
Sao Miguel is known for the island with the many natural spa’s. The hotsprings that can be found all over the Island are turned into a wellness center. The Ribeira Grande is one of the favorites. As you move from one natural spring to another, it feels like you are in Bali with all the green that surrounds you.
3. Sete Cidades
Tucked away on São Miguel Island, Sete Cidades is a dreamy volcanic crater, home to two stunning lakes—one blue, the other green—surrounded by lush hills and forests. The village below, with its whitewashed cottages and tranquil vibe, feels like a step back in time. Whether you're hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking in the views, Sete Cidades offers a serene and romantic escape into nature's embrace.
TO STAY
1. Octant Ponta Delgada
Octant Ponta Delgada is a cosmopolitan and vibrant hotel with an outdoor pool and stunning ocean views from the hotel rooms. This stay will bring you into a spa and resort like feeling, with Spa and Wellness facitily, the outdoor pool and the modern rooms with all the luxury you will need for a relaxed stay.
2. The Farm
The Farm is a recently renovated boutique hotel with a beautiful pool and garden in the courtyard. Each Room has a coffee machine, private bathroom and some of the rooms will have a terrace for you to enjoy the slow summer mornings with your morning coffee.
3. Solar de Santo Andre
A newly renovated guest house in the capital of Ponta Delgada. The house includes an outdoor swimming pool, garden and terrace. The location is in the midst of the old town of Ponta Delgada, ideal for walking to the culinary options around you.
The Azores, especially Sao Miguel, is an European gem that is still very unknown. We can't get enough of this magical and beautiful place.