The azores
The Azores archipelago, made up of 9 different volcanic islands, sits 750 miles west of Lisbon, Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. These islands - all different from each other - are incredibly special and one of Europe’s best kept secrets.
Each island is unique: from Faial, the Island of Hydrangeas, to Pico with its dramatic volcanic peak; from São Jorge’s rugged coastline and unique culture to Terceira's stunning scenery; and finally to São Miguel and its flower-lined walking trails that spiral around dormant volcanoes and natural thermal pools.
Enjoy fresh seafood, taste delicious local wine, interact with friendly locals, experience dramatic sunrises & sunsets, explore some of the most stunning hiking trails and quickly embrace the easy-going way of the Azorean culture.
The beauty of the Azores is overwhelming and unlike anywhere else in the world.
“This was a truly extraordinary trip – absolutely one of the best we have ever taken. And you made this happen! I am so impressed with the choices you made for us and the care and detail you put in to making this trip work. It was absolutely perfect – even the weather! I greatly look forward to working with you in the future for another trip.”
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
When to go: May - October
Start/End Airport: Ponta Delgada
Minimum recommended length: 8 days / 7 nights
Average Mileage: 3 - 7 miles/day (options to shorten or lengthen)
Pre- or post-trip ideas: Lisbon, Terceira Island, Flores Island, São Jorge Island
Hop from island to island, discovering the gorgeous Azorean landscape & interesting culture and history.
Stunning views full of hydrangea hedges, verdant vineyards, dramatic coastline, rugged volcanoes, lush forests and charming villages.
Walk along trails above turquoise lakes and around caldeiras, deep volcanic cones full of rare and endemic flora including the famous Sete Cidades.
Enjoy the local cuisine of fresh seafood, cheese & wine.
Learn about the unique method of wine making on Pico Island (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) as you walk through vineyards that grow out of black lava.
For the adventurous, trek up to the top of Mount Pico (Portugal’s tallest mountain, sitting at 7,713ft) where you’ll have magnificent views across to the island of Faial and as far as São Jorge Island.
Option to add a local guide for all or part of your trip
Enjoy a customized itinerary tailored to your preferred activity level, budget, accommodation preferences, interests & schedule
how it works
All of our itineraries are handcrafted and completely customizable to your preferred travel dates, budget, accommodation preferences and activity level.
From the initial proposal, we’ll work with you to refine your itinerary until it’s just right. On your trip, we'll provide you with everything you need to enjoy a local, authentic Pathways experience and the liberty to explore at your own pace.
To request a personalized proposal, please complete the form below
and we’ll contact you to chat about next steps.
“It’s going to be hard to travel any other way!! It’s wonderful that the hikes, restaurants, hotels and experiences have all been personally vetted and curated.”
ACCOMMODATIONS
Where you stay on your Pathways trips will only enhance your experience. We'll work with you to select beautiful, authentic boutique lodging that will allow you to even more deeply connect with the local culture and cuisine of the place you're visiting.
The lodgings we choose are locally or family owned, making your stay welcoming, unique and personal - the best spots to end an active day with relaxation, delicious food & wine, gracious hospitality and fun.
Some of our favorite accommodations:
White Azores on Saõ Miguel Island
Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort on Saõ Miguel Island
Lava Homes on Pico Island
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