São Miguel Island, the perfect getaway for this winter
The island of São Miguel, during the winter season, has a relatively mild climate, which allows you to fully enjoy various adventures. Discover some of the experiences that you cannot leave out of your itinerary when visiting the Green Island.
1 – The city of Ponta Delgada
Stroll through the streets of Ponta Delgada and discover the various places of importance in its historic centre. One of these places is Alto e Ermida da Mãe de Deus. As its name implies, it was built in invocation of the Mother of God in the 16th century. This building is very important from the 20th century neo-baroque revivalist religious architectural point of view. Around the chapel, you can enjoy a panoramic view over the city.
On Rua dos Mercadores, you will find the famous Príncipe dos Queijos store. Here you can taste the best cheeses from the Azores and buy. Other regional products are also for sale.
If you are looking to visit cultural places in the city, be sure to visit the Nossa Senhora da Esperança
Convent, in Campo de São Francisco. Here is the Sanctuary of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres.
Other points of cultural interest are the Forte de São Brás, a monument from the 16th century and, where the Military Museum of the Azores is currently located, and the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião, with Gothic and Manueline architecture.
Don’t forget to visit the Augusto Arruda Pineapple Greenhouse. Here you can enjoy the tastiest pineapple in the archipelago. However, the pineapple tasting is not free. Another product you can try at this point is the famous pineapple liqueur, produced by hand.
If you are looking to venture a little further, a tour of Gruta do Carvão is ideal! Through a guided tour, you can discover the interior of São Miguel Island, walking through the tunnels formed by the lava of the volcanoes.
2 – The Municipality of Ribeira Grande
A visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory is something you cannot miss! This is the oldest tea plantation in Europe. On site you can observe the process of making tea made, predominantly, by hand.
In turn, it is in the Municipality that the oldest baths in the Azores archipelago are located. The Thermal Baths of Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande originated in the 17th century. In this space, you can experience a bath in the thermal pool in the outdoor pool and massages, done using volcanic mud.
Another place of interest to enjoy relaxing thermal baths in the Municipality is the Natural Monument of Caldeira Velha. Here you will find several natural pools of iron waters ready to be debuted by you. The pool with the hot water waterfall and the exotic surroundings are the ex-libris of this place. To visit the place without worries, it is recommended to book in advance.
3 – O Vale das Furnas
On this side of São Miguel Island, take the opportunity to stroll through the bucolic Lagoa das Furnas. Here you can enjoy the peaceful landscape and the sublime reflection of the hills on the emerald green water of Lagoa das Furnas. You can take the trail around the banks of the Lake, if you wish. In the Caldeiras of Lagoa das Furnas you can feel the bubbling and true power of the volcanic nature of the Azores. Next to the Lagoa there are two parks where you can enjoy the interior of nature, such as Mata Jardim José do Canto and Parque Grená. These will surprise you with wild nature, incredible waterfalls and superb views.
Bathe in the thermal waters of Parque Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija. Either location is perfect for relaxing your mind and body. Its iron waters vary between 35ºC and 40ºC. In addition to resting your body, they help with their therapeutic properties.
