October invites you to discover São Miguel at a different pace, with nature, local flavours, thermal waters and plenty of adventures on land and at sea.
Experiencing autumn on the Green Island
São Miguel is known as the Green Island, thanks to its lush vegetation, volcanic lakes, mountains and fields stretching across the island. In October, São Miguel takes on a more autumnal atmosphere, with cooler days and a higher chance of rain, while still keeping all the natural beauty that makes the Azores so special.
It is a great time to slow down, explore different corners of the island and combine outdoor adventures with local food experiences and moments of relaxation.
Discover São Miguel’s landscapes
October is a great time to explore some of the most iconic landscapes of the Green Island. The lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo remain must-see destinations, while places such as Furnas Lake, Serra Devassa and Ponta do Sossego offer the chance to discover different sides of São Miguel’s natural scenery.
Hiking is also one of the best ways to experience the island. Walking through São Miguel brings you closer to its lush vegetation, streams, volcanic craters and small villages, offering a different perspective from the one found at the island’s main viewpoints.
And what if it rains? It does not necessarily have to be a bad thing. Rain is part of São Miguel’s natural rhythm and can make some of its landscapes even more atmospheric.
Meet the giants of the Atlantic
Autumn does not mean the end of life at sea. Whale and dolphin watching remains one of the most popular experiences in São Miguel, offering the chance to discover the incredible marine life found in the waters surrounding the Azores.
In October, set out on a whale watching experience and look for different cetacean species in their natural habitat. Accompanied by a specialised team, every trip is different, depending on sea conditions and the presence of the animals.
More than simply looking for the perfect photo, it is an opportunity to observe marine wildlife responsibly and learn more about the marine ecosystem of the Azores.
Unwind in the thermal waters of Furnas
As the days get cooler, São Miguel’s warm thermal waters become even more inviting. The Furnas Valley is one of the best places to enjoy this experience, thanks to its intense volcanic activity.
Poça da Dona Beija and Terra Nostra Park are two of the options for those looking to relax surrounded by nature.
While in Furnas, make the most of your visit with a walk around Furnas Lake, a trip to the hot springs and fumaroles and, of course, a taste of the famous Cozido das Furnas.
Savour the flavours of autumn in the Azores
Discovering the Green Island also means discovering it through its food. São Miguel’s cuisine brings together local ingredients and traditional recipes that reflect the island’s identity, making autumn a great time to explore some of its most distinctive flavours.
Cozido das Furnas is, of course, one of the island’s most iconic culinary experiences. But there is plenty more to discover, from local cheeses and Azorean pineapple to traditional sweets, fresh fish and other regional products that are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
And why not pair it with a cup of locally grown tea? A visit to São Miguel’s tea plantations offers the chance to discover one of the island’s most distinctive local productions and taste tea grown right here, in a setting where landscape and tradition come together.
Keep the adventure going outdoors
Despite the change of season, October still offers plenty of opportunities for those who enjoy adventure. Canyoning, hiking, nature tours and other outdoor activities are great ways to experience São Miguel from a more active perspective.
Canyoning, for example, combines hiking, river descents, waterfalls, abseiling and direct contact with nature. It is a particularly exciting option for anyone looking to go beyond the usual routes and discover a more adventurous side of the Green Island.
Ponta Delgada: culture, history and local life
Not everything happens in the great outdoors. A visit to São Miguel would not be complete without taking some time to discover Ponta Delgada.
Wander through the historic centre, visit Mercado da Graça and explore landmarks such as the City Gates, Forte de São Brás and Campo de São Francisco. These are just some of the places where you can discover more about the island’s history and identity.
And when the weather is not ideal for outdoor activities, Ponta Delgada is a great alternative for a slower-paced day, with plenty of heritage, shops, restaurants and cafés to explore.
