The Azores

Known as the 'other Eden', this far flung, autonomous, corner of Portugal is the result of volcanic activity with hot springs aplenty making it one of the richest hydrological areas in Europe. The landscape is simply stunning with destinations like Sete Cidades and Terra Nostra Park that you will never forget.

Dramatic Scenery • Stunning Vegetation • Volcanic Activity • Tea and Ceramics

Day 1 Fly from the UK to the Azores and meet your guide for the transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 A half day excursion visiting the island's legendary scenic locations. The first stop is at Vista do Rei Belvedere, so-called because it is where King Carlos and Queen Amélia viewed Sete Cidades Lake when they visited S. Miguel in 1901. The tour continues going down to the Sete Cidades village and then along the north western route, crossing the island's central mountain range, passing through Bretanha, an old village established by French fishermen. Finally, in the outskirts of Ponta Delgada visit Pineapple Plantations where all phases of growth will be explained to you as well as an opportunity for tasting.

Day 3 Independent sightseeing or relax in resort.

Day 4 Today's excursion is a full day to Furnas, situated in a wonderful valley that rests upon a crater of an extinct volcano where flowers and intense green vegetation grow. The first stop is Santa Iria Belvedere, a spot offering an amazing view over a vast extent of the north coast and inland. Continue to Gorreana Tea Factory. Visit this living museum where, today, machines of the 19th century still function and produce the famous Gorreana Tea. Descend to Furnas with its lovely white houses after enjoying one of the most beautiful views at Pico do Ferro Belvedere. Stop at Furnas Village for lunch, one of the region's most typical dishes, 'Cozido das Furnas'. After lunch visit Terra Nostra Park, a paradisiacal garden with lakes, bridges and luxuriant vegetation.

Day 5 Another full day, leaving Ponta Delgada our first stop is at Lagoa village to visit a Ceramics Factory and watch how typical earthenware is manufactured. Continue along the south coast to Pico da Barrosa. Stop at Lagoa do Fogo Belvedere, which offers a magnificent view over the lake. Go down to the north coast, stop at Caldeira Velha, a magnificent and romantic place, with a natural hot water pool, amongst luxuriant vegetation. After lunch at Ribeira Grande, visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Estrela, Eduardo Ferreira's Liquor Factory for a tasting and Arcano Museum.

Day 6 Independent sightseeing or relax in resort.

Day 7 Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK.

All tours are tailored to your requirements and can be adapted for travel by coach and/or air as you prefer. Occasionally itineraries change. Please see our current brochure or contact us for the latest version.

Your Hotel

We will carefully select a hotel to match your requirements. Full details will be provided along with our tailored quotation.

Your tour includes:

• Flights from the UK

• Transfers and coach services

• 6 nights half board in the Azores

• 2 lunches with drinks (¼ water and ¼ wine)

• English speaking guides

• All visits detailed in the itinerary

For a quotation, or to enquire about this tour, fill in our online form, send us an email or call us on 01432 277666.