Endemic plants, sphagnum peat bogs and geothermal bathing spots give São Miguel a varied character. As the largest island in the Azores, it consists of two volcanic massifs separated by a low central ridge. Nature, thermal waters and island culture each offer their own starting points for planning a trip.

Volcanic Landscapes and Special Habitats

Endemic plants grow in the higher sections of the Pico da Vara trail, where sphagnum peat bogs are also found. These bogs are important for retaining water. Those interested in the relationship between landscape and nature can get a closer look at a distinctive island habitat here.

To access the Pico da Vara trail, you must complete the form available on the official website; access is restricted. Check the access requirements before setting out, as they may change.

The Green and Blue Lakes lie in the Sete Cidades caldera. The Protected Landscape of the Lake of Sete Cidades is one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders. Lagoa do Fogo offers a different perspective on the landscape: the lake displays various shades of blue, and the views from there extend to the ocean.

Thermal Waters and Geothermal Cuisine

The Furnas Valley has more than twenty thermal springs. Local cuisine also makes use of the earth’s heat: Cozido das Furnas is cooked underground in geothermally heated soil for about five hours. This makes the cooking method a distinctive part of the culinary tradition, though no specific serving times can be inferred from it.

The bathing options also differ in character. Caldeira Velha is a waterfall with warm, iron-rich water where visitors can bathe. Terra Nostra Park has a thermal pool and is also home to more than 2,000 different trees. Ponta da Ferraria is a thermal bathing area with therapeutic water springs that have been mentioned since the 16th century.

Specialist companies offer whale watching on São Miguel year-round.

Tea Production and Island History

The Gorreana Tea Plantation has been operating since 1883 and is considered Europe’s oldest tea plantation. At the Gorreana factory, visitors can enjoy tea and learn more about growing it on the island and about different production methods. The visit thus combines a tasting with an insight into tea production.

The Porto Formoso Tea Factory is another stop on the island’s tea trail. It preserves the history of tea production in the Azores as a museum. Guided tours are available at scheduled times; afterward, guests are offered several teas to taste. Gorreana and Porto Formoso therefore have different focuses: the former plantation centers on growing tea and production methods, while Porto Formoso also highlights its museum history and guided tour.

The Romeiros are part of São Miguel’s religious culture. During Lent, they spend eight days walking and praying across the entire island. This tradition offers a different way to experience the island than its nature and food experiences, and takes place during Lent.

Plan Your Arrival

São Miguel can be reached from major European airports via Lisbon on mainland Portugal. When planning, it is also worth prioritizing your interests: the experiences described range from hiking landscapes and volcanic nature to thermal waters, tea production and religious tradition.

Discover more destinations: Ginetes, Fajã Grande, Mosteiros, Furnas, Horta, Urzelina, Ponta Garca, Topo

To the overview of destinations: Azores.