São Miguel: Volcanic Landscapes, Tea and Hot Springs

São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores. Its geological structure is shaped by two volcanic massifs separated by a low central ridge. The island offers different highlights for choosing a destination within the Azores: landscapes and hiking trails, thermal waters, tea and cultural traditions.

Volcanic landscapes and hiking trails

The Green and Blue Lakes lie in the Sete Cidades caldera. The protected landscape of Lake Sete Cidades is one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders. At Lagoa do Fogo, different shades of blue come into view, with vistas stretching to the ocean. These are two distinct landscapes: at Sete Cidades, the two lakes lie in a caldera, while Lagoa do Fogo stands out for its variations in color and views extending to the ocean.

The Pico da Vara trail also combines hiking and nature. Its higher elevations are home to endemic vegetation and Sphagnum bogs, which are important for water retention. Access to the trail is restricted; the form is available on the official website. Check access conditions before setting out, as they may change. The Complexo Ambiental da Lagoa das Sete Cidades provides information about the protected areas of the Natural Park, including hiking trails.

Thermal waters and geothermal cuisine

The Furnas Valley has more than twenty thermal springs. Cozido das Furnas is also connected to the geothermal landscape: it is cooked underground in geothermal soil for about five hours. Caldeira Velha is a waterfall with warm, iron-rich water where bathing is possible. Ponta da Ferraria is a thermal and bathing area; its therapeutic springs have been mentioned since the 16th century. Terra Nostra Park has a thermal bath and contains more than 2,000 different trees. Furnas combines thermal springs with geothermal cuisine, while Caldeira Velha and Ponta da Ferraria offer different experiences centered on warm water and bathing.

Tea and island traditions

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 tea cultivation on the island and the different production methods. The Porto Formoso Tea Factory preserves the history of tea production in the Azores as a museum. Guided tours are held there at designated times; afterward, guests are offered several varieties of tea to taste. While Gorreana focuses on cultivation and production, Porto Formoso combines the history of tea production with a museum visit and a tasting.

Another island tradition is the Romeiros pilgrimage: during Lent, participants spend eight days walking and praying across the entire island of São Miguel. Its timing during Lent distinguishes this religious tradition from whale-watching trips, which are offered year-round. These are organized from São Miguel by specialist companies. Check operator availability before booking.

Getting to São Miguel

São Miguel can be reached from major European airports via Lisbon on mainland Portugal. Routes and flight schedules may change, so check current connections when planning your trip.

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

For the main travel overview: Azores.