Picture lakes of breathtaking beauty. All the hustle and bustle of a large city alongside ample quiet green open spaces adorned with
flowers. Museums, churches and palaces embellished with treasures of art and history. Golf, walking and cycle paths, horseback riding…
or simply some time relaxing in the sun and sand. All this and more on an island catering for those who love culture and sports… or who
simply delight in the contemplation of Nation.
Lakes and so much more
Sao Miguel's lakes, the inspiration behind many a poem,
are what first captivates the heart. Sete Cidades, where emerald green and sapphire blue are the dominant colors is the source of the
legend of sorrowful princesses, of lost kingdoms. Fogo Lake, a dramatic landscape of lava and sea. Furnas Lake, mirroring its surroundings
like a fairy tale image overlooked by a chapel's gothic tower.
Then there is Vale das Furnas, a vivacious garden at the bottom of a
vast crater where hot water springs run free. Within you'll find the romantic Parque Terra Nostra (Park of Our Land), where exotic tropical
species blend with varieties from Nordic countries. The fervent vapor of Caldeiras is reminiscent of the original volcano of the island.
Finally, visit the only tea plantation in Europe whose vantage points allow you to look out across the rolling pastures dotted with lazy
Holstein cows, the dense woodlands and the inevitable riot of flowers.
Ponta Delgada, a charming city
Set within the confines of a wide inlet, Ponta Delgada is the tourist
heart of Sao Miguel. Museums and monuments abound, and historic streets
connect hotels, restaurants
and shops. A marina harbors sailboats from Europe and America. And for
those who enjoy entertainment after hours, the night brings with it a
touch of color and animation.
On the other side of the island the mother church in Ribeira Grande boasts the curious "Arcano".
Island landmarks include Lagoa, Nordeste, Povoacao, all landing spots of the first settlers. Vila Franca do Campo, was the island's very
first capital.
Active holidays to suit all tastes
There are two flower-bedecked golf courses to choose from, Bird-watching hides,
native greenery and phenomenal volcanoes. Diving centers to observe fish and submarine terrain.
Golden beaches beckon you to bathe in an
ocean warmed by Gulf currents or to take on the waves on a surfboard. Tennis, horse riding, sailing and deep-sea fishing are among the
other pleasures offered by Sao Miguel for an invigorating and action-packed holiday.
Shopping and gastronomic delights
Take in the
blue-tinged ceramics from Lagoa or the picturesque day pottery of Vila Franca do Campo. The delicate embroidery and the decorative wickerwork
and crafts, which maintain secular traditions and serve as delightful souvenirs of Sao Miguel.
Who could ever forget the unique taste of
the delicious cuisine of Furnas, prepared on volcanic rocks? Or the fresh fish and shellfish, the tender meat grilled simply or prepared
according to age-old traditional recipes.
The culinary feast continues with deserts flavored with fresh pineapples, traditional sweets,
and the celebrated "passion fruit liqueur". Turning you meal into an experience you'll never forget.