Hike, Indulge, and Unwind on São Miguel, The Azores
Part of the remote Azores archipelago in the North Atlantic, São Miguel is often dubbed the “Hawaii of Europe”, but quieter, greener, and blissfully undiscovered. While the other Azorean islands each have their charms, São Miguel shines for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, thanks to its refined accommodations, accessible scenic drives, and dramatic landscapes that reward every step.
São Miguel offers what many destinations can’t: immersive nature without the crowds, refinement without pretension, true escape without sacrificing comfort, and experiences that feel as exclusive as they are wild. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning hiking through a volcanic caldera and the evening soaking in a thermal spa under the stars. This is not your typical European getaway. It’s more soulful, and completely unforgettable. It’s not made for tourists. It’s made for travelers who know how to tune in.
Here, volcanic landscapes, thermal springs on natural pools, waterfalls, lush rolling hills collide with the Atlantic to create a rare playground, perfect for those craving exclusivity, comfort, and awe-inspiring nature.
Even the trails here feel refined. They’re well-marked paths with breathtaking payoffs, and offer rare sense of solitude. From late spring to summer, roads and trails framed by wild hydrangeas, turning paths into watercolor dreamscapes.
This lush gem in the Azores archipelago (Portugal’s best-kept secret) is made for those who crave space, serenity, and soul-stirring scenery. While the rest of the world rushes, São Miguel moves to nature’s rhythm, and she’s moody in the best way. With the Azores set in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, you might get four seasons in a day, but that’s part of the magic. Mornings may greet you with fog-draped cliffs, afternoons with golden sun over Sete Cidades.
There’s endless spectacular hiking opportunities around the island of Sao Miguel, but if you have a limited time, here are top hikes not to miss during your trip:
- Lagoa do Fogo: A soul-stirring descent into a volcanic lake basin.
- Salto do Prego: A lush waterfall trek ending in a storybook cascade.
- Sete Cidades Rim Trail: Sweeping crater views with Atlantic on the horizon.
- Salto do Cabrito: Hidden, dramatic, and a rewarding plunge.
The heart of São Miguel’s geothermal life, Furnas is where you literally feel the earth breathe. Witness steaming earth vents, bubbling mud pots, and geysers, and taste the iconic Cozido das Furnas — a traditional meat stew slow-cooked underground in volcanic soil.
Aside from waterfalls, the sheer number of natural geothermal baths scattered across São Miguel is a delightful surprise. Some are hidden in forests, others overlook the ocean. No two pools feel the same, and each one invites you to pause, soak, and recalibrate.
São Miguel’s charm extends to its timeless architecture, a minimalist blend of basalt stone, whitewashed walls, black trim, and terra cotta roofs. Whether you’re strolling around Ponta Delgada or a mountain village, there’s a sense of refined simplicity and enduring elegance. Even the chapels, windmills, and abandoned estates feel like they belong in a Wes Anderson dream sequence.
In São Miguel, the luxury is in the silence. The fog that rolls over a crater rim. The untouched beaches. The sense that you’ve stumbled on something rare. It’s not just a place you visit. It’s a place that changes you, whether you’re chasing adventure or just chasing peace.
Ready to Elevate your Hiking Escape?
Discover Sao Miguel, The Azores, and unlock the luxury adventure of a lifetime. Note though that the best experiences are often unmarked, and the most coveted stays book out far in advance. The right planning makes the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a logistical headache. Let Peekture help you secure stays at handpicked eco-luxury lodges, the right vehicle to rent, and everything you didn’t know you needed for an unforgettable São Miguel escape. Message us when you’re ready to hike, indulge, and unwind at the Azores.
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