Azores & Madeira

Welcome to the Azores, a breathtaking archipelago nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean! This tour will take you on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders and cultural treasures of this enchanting destination. Get ready to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, indulge in delicious cuisine, and experience the warmth of Azorean hospitality.

Upon your arrival at Ponta Delgada, the capital city of the Azores, you will be greeted by the vibrant atmosphere and charming cobblestone streets. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic center where you can admire the beautiful architecture, visit local shops, and savor the delicious Azorean gastronomy at one of the traditional restaurants.

In the afternoon, experience the geothermal wonders of Furnas, a village famous for its hot springs, geysers, and volcanic activity. Take a relaxing bath in the thermal pools and savor the unique taste of Cozido, a traditional Azorean dish cooked underground using volcanic heat.

Today, we embark on an exploration of São Miguel Island, known as the “Green Island.” Our first stop is the Sete Cidades, a twin lake crater surrounded by lush green hills. Enjoy breathtaking views from Vista do Rei and explore the charming village nestled by the lakeside. Next, we head to Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake situated in the middle of a nature reserve. Hike along the trails surrounding the lake and take in the untouched beauty of the surroundings.

Later in the day, embark on a leisurely whale watching trip to try to spot some of the island’s most majestic visitors. If you’re looking for more adventure, opt to explore by kayak or stand up paddleboard!

After a delicious breakfast, we head to the airport for the short flight to Madeira. You’ll have the afternoon to explore Funchal, the capital city of Madeira. Wander around the charming Old Town (Zona Velha) of Funchal with its narrow cobblestone streets, historical buildings, and quaint local shops and art galleries. 

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant in Funchal. Sample the delicious Madeiran cuisine, including specialties like Espetada (grilled skewered meat) and Black Scabbard fish. After dinner, stroll along the Avenida Arriaga waterfront promenade, and if you’re interested, visit one of the lively bars or cafes for a relaxing evening.

Take a cable car ride to Monte, a picturesque village located on the outskirts of Funchal. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you ascend, and visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, known for its stunning botanical displays and panoramic views. Experience the unique toboggan ride from Monte to Funchal. Hop into a wicker sled and let the carreiros (drivers) guide you down the narrow streets, providing a thrilling and unforgettable experience. We then continue to the Santana Coast, one of the most beautiful parts of Madeira. Santana is a charming village famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. We will spend the next two nights at stunning hotel surrounded by vineyards overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the sea cliffs this area is famous for.

Embark on a thrilling adventure by taking a hike along one of Madeira’s levadas. Levadas are essentially aqueducts for irrigation that double as excellent walking/hiking trails  with breathtaking views of lush forests, waterfalls, and valleys. Then we will drive to Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Experience the stunning views from the glass skywalk platform, which extends out over the cliff and offers panoramic vistas of the coastline. We will also visit Porto Moniz and explore the main attraction, the natural swimming pools. These volcanic rock pools are filled with crystal-clear seawater, providing a unique and refreshing swimming experience. On the way back to Santana, we stop at a winery to sample the island’s famous fortified wines. In the evening, return to Santana to enjoy a relaxing dinner in one of the local taverns, savoring traditional Madeiran dishes and maybe even live folk music.

After one last breakfast overlooking the Atlantic ocean and sea cliffs of the Santana coast, we return to the capital of Funchal. You can extend your stay in Madeira or continue to mainland Europe. Funchal is well connected with direct flights to Lisbon, Porto, Madrid, London and more.