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Azores Family Holiday
Action packed week of family fun
You are here: Home > The Azores > Azores Family Holiday
Highlights
Swim in the famous volcanic hot springs at Furnas
Kayak on the Sete Cidades crater lake
See bottlenose dolphins and sperm whales in the natural enviroment
Abseil down the waterfalls of the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes
Spend a week exploring the volcanoes, mountains and marine wildlife of Sao Miguel on our Azores Family Holiday.
If you’re planning a first visit to the Azores, we’ll often recommend Sao Miguel for it’s beautiful landscapes and welcoming locals. Being the largest island in the Azores, it has the most to see and do, making it perfect for active families. There’s an excellent range of activities to choose from – with our Azores Family Holiday you can pick & mix your four favourites:
- The Azores are one of the best whale watching destinations in the world.
- You might like to include a jeep tour exploring the hot springs at Furnas.
- You could include a guided horse ride; great for abilities and riding experience.
- You might like to go canyoning down the waterfalls of the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes
- Or explore the great crater at Sete Cidades by kayak and by bike.
Your home for the week is our three-bedroom family cottage at Casa das Pedras – we always advise booking early and it’s currently available for the following dates:
Saturday 18th July to Saturday 25th July
Saturday 25th July to Saturday 1st August
Saturday 8th August to Saturday 15th August 2020
Saturday 15th August to Saturday 22nd August
Saturday 22nd August to Saturday 29th August
We’ll also include a hire car during your stay and explore the island at your leisure – time to enjoy the relaxing pace of Azorean life.
Day 1
You’ll begin your holiday by flying to the Azores – direct or via Lisbon. You’ll be transferred by our driver to your accommodation in the south coast village of Caloura.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 2
We’ll arrange for your hire car will be delivered and you can begin exploring Sao Miguel.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 3
You’ll head to the marina in nearby Vila Franca for a whale and dolphin watching trip.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 4
You’ll head up to the north coast for a guided canyoning trip through the Riberia dos Caldeiroes river valley.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 5
You might like to explore Ponta Delgada; capital of the Azores and the main town on the island.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 6
You’ll head east with our guide, to swim in the geothermal pools and hot springs in Furnas.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 7
For your final full day on the island, you’ll west to kayak in the great crater at Sete Cidades.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 8
You’ll return your hire car to the airport before flying home.
Our holidays have a nice balance of activities and free time. Everything’s flexible and you can personalise your trip.
Whale watching
The Azores are one of the premier whale and dolphin watching destinations in the world, with a wide range of species including resident sperm and pilot whales, migratory blue and fin whales, and bottlenose and spotted dolphins.
Walking
Walking is one of the best ways to explore the Azores, and there are guided and self guided walks to suit everyone's level of fitness.
Canyoning
Canyoning is fast growing in popularity and the Azores have excellent routes on Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge and Flores.
Cycling and mountain biking
Cycle from village to village along the quiet roads or take an adrenaline fuelled guided mountain biking ride down from the crater lakes, the Azores have lots of exciting two wheel options!
Jeep tours
Get off-road with our friendly knowledgeable guides along the dirt tracks of the Azores.
Kayaking and Paddle boarding
Kayak and paddleboard on the breathtaking crater lakes or along the rugged coastline of Sao Miguel and Terceira.
Horse riding
From one hour lessons in an indoor arena to full day rides, riding is one of the best ways to explore the Azorean countryside. You'll be riding beautiful pure and cross bred Lusitano horses and be in the safe hands of our experienced guides.
Surfing
With its year round mild climate and sea temperatures, the Azores is starting to become more popular with surfers. Working with a school on the north coast of Sao Miguel, we can provide lessons with our friendly instructors or just hire the boards and wetsuits and ride the waves on your own.
Diving
As well as offering unique diving experiences for qualified divers, beginners can also learn at the excellent schools on the islands. Dive sites are varied from offshore reefs and volcanic caves to drop-offs, impressive arches and flat seabed. Most dives rarely go deeper than 15m and average sea temperatures are 17-22°C. Visibility is very good at 20-25m.
Birdwatching
With close to 400 species sighted in the archipelago, this is a rewarding yet quiet bird watching destination. For many the highlight is spotting the endemic Azores Bullfinch found only in a small part of the main island of Sao Miguel. There's also the large Cory Shearwater and Roseate Tern colonies, Atlantic canary, several subspecies of the Common Chaffinch, the São Miguel Goldcrest and the Azores Woodpigeon. In October, the Azores become the undisputed rarity hotspot of the Western Palearctic with a wealth of America vagrants on offer from shorebirds and wildfowl to wood-warblers and vireos.
Sailing
With pretty marinas and opportunities to sail between islands, the Azores offering wonderful sailing opportunities and allow you to see the islands from a different perspective.
Golf
Golfing in the Azores is a real pleasure. Courses are quiet and spectacular offering views over the ocean and volcanic craters. On São Miguel, Batalha overlooks the sea and is the newest and most challenging course while Furnas (located in the mountains at an altitude of 500m) is sprinkled with lakes and stands of Japanese Cryptomeria and then there's the heavily wooded course on Terceira close the beautiful town of Angra.
Fishing
For many the draw of the Azores is the big game fishing to catch the blue marlin and tuna, but you can also go coastal or deep water fishing with our guides.
Casa das Pedras
The peaceful south-coast village of Caloura is one of our favourite spots on the main island of Sao Miguel – and one our best-loved family cottages is Casa das Pedras.
This traditional lava-stone house sits at the western-end of Caloura, close to the beach at Praia da Baixa da Areia, and has a pleasant walled garden (shared with Casa do Jardim) with a terrace and BBQ. Inside, the decor is entirely modern with a well-equipped open-plan kitchen/diner and lounge, two double bedrooms and two shower rooms all on the ground floor. There’s also an open-plan first floor mezzanine with a third double bedroom, leading to a smaller single bedroom – the casa sleeps seven in total.
Really great company, will be recommending them. We had never visited the Azores before but this company helped us decided which islands to visit.
Janice
Great little company with friendly staff. Organisation of flights & accommodation very efficient. When problems arise they are helpful and very reasonable in their efforts to resolve them. We would definitely use them again for a return trip.
Recommended small travel company!
Azores Choice provided a prompt, helpful service. they found us the perfect accommodation for our needs and provided superb, expert advice on how to spend our week walking on San Miguel. I would certainly use them again.
Joan from Durham
Where are the Azores?
The Azores are 1564km directly west of Lisbon.
When is the best time to visit the Azores?
The Azores’ seasons follow a similar pattern to our own: it’s mild in Spring and Autumn and hotter from around May through to October. July and August are the busiest times to visit so we advise booking early.
How do I get to the Azores?
From the UK you can fly direct from Stansted, or via Lisbon from Heathrow and Manchester. From the USA and Canada, you can fly direct from Boston and Toronto.
What languages do they speak the Azores?
Portuguese, and English is widely spoken.
Is it safe to drive in the Azores?
Very; the quality of the roads is generally excellent and it’s very easy to navigate around the islands.
Do I need an international driver’s license for the Azores?
All you require is a valid UK, US or Canadian driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit the Azores?
We strongly recommend you have travel insurance to cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents, personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi in the Azores?
Most hotels offer WiFi.
Can I use my mobile phone in the Azores?
Yes, there’s good mobile reception across all the islands.
What is the food like in the Azores?
Azorean’s love seasonal food, particularly fresh fish. The restaurants on the larger islands of Sao Miguel and Terceira offer a good mix of Portuguese and more European-style menus, with interesting vegetarian options. On the smaller islands, you’ll tend to find more traditional-Portuguese menus.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in the Azores?
Yes, although some smaller bars and cafes are cash only.
What type of plug adapter do I need in the Azores?
You will need a Type F plug adapter.
Is tap water safe to drink in the Azores?
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink in the Azores.
Do I need to tip in the Azores?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
How do I go about booking my holiday to the Azores with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to the Azores?
Our advice is to start planning around six to nine months before your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to the Azores?
This is certainly possible; however you may need to be flexible on with the dates so that we can find the best airfares, also bear in mind that some hotels may not always be available.
Highlights
Swim in the famous volcanic hot springs at Furnas
Kayak on the Sete Cidades crater lake
See bottlenose dolphins and sperm whales in the natural enviroment
Abseil down the waterfalls of the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes
Spend a week exploring the volcanoes, mountains and marine wildlife of Sao Miguel on our Azores Family Holiday.
If you’re planning a first visit to the Azores, we’ll often recommend Sao Miguel for it’s beautiful landscapes and welcoming locals. Being the largest island in the Azores, it has the most to see and do, making it perfect for active families. There’s an excellent range of activities to choose from – with our Azores Family Holiday you can pick & mix your four favourites:
- The Azores are one of the best whale watching destinations in the world.
- You might like to include a jeep tour exploring the hot springs at Furnas.
- You could include a guided horse ride; great for abilities and riding experience.
- You might like to go canyoning down the waterfalls of the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes
- Or explore the great crater at Sete Cidades by kayak and by bike.
Your home for the week is our three-bedroom family cottage at Casa das Pedras – we always advise booking early and it’s currently available for the following dates:
Saturday 18th July to Saturday 25th July
Saturday 25th July to Saturday 1st August
Saturday 8th August to Saturday 15th August 2020
Saturday 15th August to Saturday 22nd August
Saturday 22nd August to Saturday 29th August
We’ll also include a hire car during your stay and explore the island at your leisure – time to enjoy the relaxing pace of Azorean life.
Day 1
You’ll begin your holiday by flying to the Azores – direct or via Lisbon. You’ll be transferred by our driver to your accommodation in the south coast village of Caloura.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 2
We’ll arrange for your hire car will be delivered and you can begin exploring Sao Miguel.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 3
You’ll head to the marina in nearby Vila Franca for a whale and dolphin watching trip.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 4
You’ll head up to the north coast for a guided canyoning trip through the Riberia dos Caldeiroes river valley.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 5
You might like to explore Ponta Delgada; capital of the Azores and the main town on the island.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 6
You’ll head east with our guide, to swim in the geothermal pools and hot springs in Furnas.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 7
For your final full day on the island, you’ll west to kayak in the great crater at Sete Cidades.
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Pedras
Day 8
You’ll return your hire car to the airport before flying home.
Our holidays have a nice balance of activities and free time. Everything’s flexible and you can personalise your trip.
Whale watching
The Azores are one of the premier whale and dolphin watching destinations in the world, with a wide range of species including resident sperm and pilot whales, migratory blue and fin whales, and bottlenose and spotted dolphins.
Walking
Walking is one of the best ways to explore the Azores, and there are guided and self guided walks to suit everyone's level of fitness.
Canyoning
Canyoning is fast growing in popularity and the Azores have excellent routes on Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge and Flores.
Cycling and mountain biking
Cycle from village to village along the quiet roads or take an adrenaline fuelled guided mountain biking ride down from the crater lakes, the Azores have lots of exciting two wheel options!
Jeep tours
Get off-road with our friendly knowledgeable guides along the dirt tracks of the Azores.
Kayaking and Paddle boarding
Kayak and paddleboard on the breathtaking crater lakes or along the rugged coastline of Sao Miguel and Terceira.
Horse riding
From one hour lessons in an indoor arena to full day rides, riding is one of the best ways to explore the Azorean countryside. You'll be riding beautiful pure and cross bred Lusitano horses and be in the safe hands of our experienced guides.
Surfing
With its year round mild climate and sea temperatures, the Azores is starting to become more popular with surfers. Working with a school on the north coast of Sao Miguel, we can provide lessons with our friendly instructors or just hire the boards and wetsuits and ride the waves on your own.
Diving
As well as offering unique diving experiences for qualified divers, beginners can also learn at the excellent schools on the islands. Dive sites are varied from offshore reefs and volcanic caves to drop-offs, impressive arches and flat seabed. Most dives rarely go deeper than 15m and average sea temperatures are 17-22°C. Visibility is very good at 20-25m.
Birdwatching
With close to 400 species sighted in the archipelago, this is a rewarding yet quiet bird watching destination. For many the highlight is spotting the endemic Azores Bullfinch found only in a small part of the main island of Sao Miguel. There's also the large Cory Shearwater and Roseate Tern colonies, Atlantic canary, several subspecies of the Common Chaffinch, the São Miguel Goldcrest and the Azores Woodpigeon. In October, the Azores become the undisputed rarity hotspot of the Western Palearctic with a wealth of America vagrants on offer from shorebirds and wildfowl to wood-warblers and vireos.
Sailing
With pretty marinas and opportunities to sail between islands, the Azores offering wonderful sailing opportunities and allow you to see the islands from a different perspective.
Golf
Golfing in the Azores is a real pleasure. Courses are quiet and spectacular offering views over the ocean and volcanic craters. On São Miguel, Batalha overlooks the sea and is the newest and most challenging course while Furnas (located in the mountains at an altitude of 500m) is sprinkled with lakes and stands of Japanese Cryptomeria and then there's the heavily wooded course on Terceira close the beautiful town of Angra.
Fishing
For many the draw of the Azores is the big game fishing to catch the blue marlin and tuna, but you can also go coastal or deep water fishing with our guides.
Casa das Pedras
The peaceful south-coast village of Caloura is one of our favourite spots on the main island of Sao Miguel – and one our best-loved family cottages is Casa das Pedras.
This traditional lava-stone house sits at the western-end of Caloura, close to the beach at Praia da Baixa da Areia, and has a pleasant walled garden (shared with Casa do Jardim) with a terrace and BBQ. Inside, the decor is entirely modern with a well-equipped open-plan kitchen/diner and lounge, two double bedrooms and two shower rooms all on the ground floor. There’s also an open-plan first floor mezzanine with a third double bedroom, leading to a smaller single bedroom – the casa sleeps seven in total.
Really great company, will be recommending them. We had never visited the Azores before but this company helped us decided which islands to visit.
- Janice
Great little company with friendly staff. Organisation of flights & accommodation very efficient. When problems arise they are helpful and very reasonable in their efforts to resolve them. We would definitely use them again for a return trip.
- Recommended small travel company!
Azores Choice provided a prompt, helpful service. they found us the perfect accommodation for our needs and provided superb, expert advice on how to spend our week walking on San Miguel. I would certainly use them again.
- Joan from Durham
Where are the Azores?
The Azores are 1564km directly west of Lisbon.
When is the best time to visit the Azores?
The Azores’ seasons follow a similar pattern to our own: it’s mild in Spring and Autumn and hotter from around May through to October. July and August are the busiest times to visit so we advise booking early.
How do I get to the Azores?
From the UK you can fly direct from Stansted, or via Lisbon from Heathrow and Manchester. From the USA and Canada, you can fly direct from Boston and Toronto.
What languages do they speak the Azores?
Portuguese, and English is widely spoken.
Is it safe to drive in the Azores?
Very; the quality of the roads is generally excellent and it’s very easy to navigate around the islands.
Do I need an international driver’s license for the Azores?
All you require is a valid UK, US or Canadian driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit the Azores?
We strongly recommend you have travel insurance to cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents, personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi in the Azores?
Most hotels offer WiFi.
Can I use my mobile phone in the Azores?
Yes, there’s good mobile reception across all the islands.
What is the food like in the Azores?
Azorean’s love seasonal food, particularly fresh fish. The restaurants on the larger islands of Sao Miguel and Terceira offer a good mix of Portuguese and more European-style menus, with interesting vegetarian options. On the smaller islands, you’ll tend to find more traditional-Portuguese menus.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in the Azores?
Yes, although some smaller bars and cafes are cash only.
What type of plug adapter do I need in the Azores?
You will need a Type F plug adapter.
Is tap water safe to drink in the Azores?
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink in the Azores.
Do I need to tip in the Azores?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
How do I go about booking my holiday to the Azores with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to the Azores?
Our advice is to start planning around six to nine months before your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to the Azores?
This is certainly possible; however you may need to be flexible on with the dates so that we can find the best airfares, also bear in mind that some hotels may not always be available.
Talk to someone who loves The Azores!
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