Explore the beautiful islands of Sao Miguel, Flores and Faial
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Explore the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of the Azores
Kayak inside the Azores’ largest volcanic crater at Sete Cidades
Take a moonlit swim in the geothermal pools at Furnas
Walk beneath the cascading waterfalls on the stunning west coast of Flores
You’ll begin your holiday on the main island of Sao Miguel in Ponta Delgada: capital of the Azores and one of Europe’s friendliest cities. You’ll head to sea on a whale and dolphin watching trip, before exploring one the island’s iconic landscapes with our resident guide: the great crater at Sete Cidades.
Leaving the main island, your island hopping begins with a flight to Flores – home to the Azores’ most magnificent landscapes. You’ll be staying the secluded west coast village of Fajã Grande, between the green cliffs and crystal-clear waterfalls of the Ribeira do Ferreiro and the wild Atlantic Ocean. You’ll also have a chance to explore the island’s crater lakes on a jeep tour with our resident guide.
It’s a short flight from Flores to the island of Faial – to the charming harbour town of Horta. One of the Azores’ most arresting landscapes is here: the volcanic Capelinhos peninsula, and you’ll have a chance to explore the whole island with our resident guide.
A short hop from Faial brings you back to Sao Miguel. You’ll end your holiday in semi-tropical Furnas – famous for it’s volcanically-heated swimming pools and beautiful botanical gardens.
You’ll begin your holiday by flying to the Azores – direct or via Lisbon. Our driver will transfer you to your accommodation in the capital Ponta Delgada..
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
We’ll leave your first day free, so you can relax and explore Ponta Delgada; capital of the Azores. It’s a great place to shop for local produce and souvenirs, with an excellent selection of friendly restaurants and cafe bars, attractive mosaic pavements and traditional Portugeuse architecture. Ponta Delgada has some of the best restaurants in the Azores – we have a handy online guide to help you choose a venue in the evenings.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
You’ll head west with our resident guide to Sete Cidades, the largest caldera on the island with it’s famous miradouro at Vista do Rei, and the beautiful twin lakes: Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
You’ll head east today – to the town of Vila Franca for a three-hour whale and dolphin watching trip.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
You’ll return your hire car to the airport before flying to the island of Flores. You’ll be collected by our driver for your transfer to your new accommodation in the west coast village of Faja Grande.
Accommodation on this day: Argonauta
You’ll tour the island today with our resident guide – visiting to the Ponta de Albarbaz lighthouse, the island’s capital Santa Cruz and Flores’ crater lakes: Lagoas Branca, Seca, Negra and Comprida.
Accommodation on this day: Argonauta
You’ll have a free day to walk the Lagoa dos Patas trail, to the secluded lagoon at Poco da Alagoinha and the Ribeira do Ferreiro waterfalls.
Accommodation on this day: Argonauta
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Faial. You’ll be collected by our driver for your transfer to your new accommodation in the harbour town of Horta.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
You’ll spend today exploring Faial with our resident guide, vwith visits to the Cabeço Gordo caldera, and volcanic peninsula at Capelinhos.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
You might like to take the morning ferry to the neighbouring island of Pico, for a guided tour of the island’s UNESCO-protected vineyards, or an ascent of Mount Pico – Portugal’s highest peak at 2,351m.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
For your final day on Faial, you might like to add a second whale watching trip or a guided walk along the Dez Vulcoes trail.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Sao Miguel, where you’ll be transferred to your new accommodation in Furnas.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Terra Nostra
Today’s free so you can explore Furnas on foot. There are over thirty geysers and springs dotted around the village – the remains of the original Furnas volcano which super-heats water deep underground. Your hotel’s 200-year-old botanical gardens are home to the town’s famous geothermal swimming pool.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Terra Nostra
For your final full day on the island, you might like to visit the Gorreana tea planation and the rustic infinity pools Poca Dona Beija.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Terra Nostra
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Our holidays have a nice balance of activities and free time. Everything’s flexible and you can personalise your trip.
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 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 is fast growing in popularity and the Azores have excellent routes on Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge and Flores.
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!
Get off-road with our friendly knowledgeable guides along the dirt tracks of the Azores.
Kayak and paddleboard on the breathtaking crater lakes or along the rugged coastline of Sao Miguel and Terceira.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Flores is arguably the most beautiful island in the Azores, and Faja Grande, the village on the west coast where Argonauta is nestled, is a paradise on the island surrounded by cascading waterfalls and perfect tranquillity. It’s just a short walk to some good local restaurants (including Sri Lankan/Italian fusion!), the port and swimming area and some great rock pools for snorkelling. The village is also on the spectacular west coast footpath so is ideal for walkers.
Stefano, the owner of this delightful house is a resident Italian who is a photographer and island enthusiast. He’s filled the house with photos from his travels to India and created a bohemian and homely feel with original floral frescos from the 1930’s on the walls and woodwork from a vessel shipwrecked off Flores’ western reefs.
There are 5 en-suite double rooms available (bathrooms are quite small), including 2 large suites in the eaves of the house. There is also a guest lounge on the first floor with TV, CD player, library and internet access.
An award winning boutique hotel, the Art Deco style Hotel Terra Nostra lies within the volcanic basin of Furnas with its beautiful crater lake and hot springs. What makes it unique however are its grounds which are the internationally acclaimed Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens, a well established garden dating from 1775 with an area of 12.5 hectares. And then of course, there’s the wonderfully relaxing outdoor geothermal swimming pool within them which makes for a perfect end to the day after exploring the island.
Guests of the hotel have free entry to the botanical gardens which are open to the public during the day and can also enjoy the indoor heated pool and spa offering a full range of treatments and therapies. Many of the rooms at the Hotel Terra Nostra look directly out over the garden with its thousands of species of plant and tree displayed in the lush valley surroundings.
The hotel has 86 ensuite rooms including 7 suites all with telephone, TV, minibar and hairdryer.
A welcome alternative to the hotels in Horta, Estrela do Atlantico with its ‘Moorish’ style decor is just 15-20 minutes walk from the marina and offers a comfortable retreat from the hustle and bustle of Horta.
It’s located on the slopes of a residential area of Horta overlooking Pico island and combines a tasteful mix of bohemian interior and Azorean architecture. This is all down to the meticulous eye and imagination of Ruth who will look after you during your stay and she’s an excellent host and source of information on the island.
There are 5 en-suite rooms, 2 of which are suites both of which have a kitchenette and one has a balcony.
Originally constructed as a grand townhouse in the early 19th Century, much of the original basalt stone architectural features have been retained – the décor feels minimal but comfortable with a nice balance between city hotel and ‘traditional Azorean’.
There are fifty-seven-suite rooms with bathtub/showers, TV, hairdryer and air conditioning, and an excellent restaurant. There’s free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and an outdoor pool set in the original quadrangle at the centre of the building.
Dear Ian, Steve, Jake & Team,
Just wanted to drop a line to say a heartfelt thank you for arranging the trip of a lifetime.
After a global pandemic, two years of waiting to travel and three cancellations it seemed at times that our honeymoon was never going to happen. We have so appreciated your support in rebooking/reorganising and keeping in touch with us all the way through.
As fairly independent minded travellers we were a little unsure about booking through an agency but so grateful we did.
The island choices, the daily schedules and walk recommendations were just perfect for us. We were blown away by the wildness & waterfalls in Flores; the coastal paths, lakes and thermal baths in Sao Miguel and the stunning views of Pico from Horta.
As you can tell we are smitten with the Azores and already thinking about our next trip back. We will be sure to contact you again once that starts to come together.
Thanks again for doing a brilliant job.
Great feedback for Archipelago Choice from Jo and Family who recently visited the Azores with us (unabridged version!).
Booking Process: Excellent – Felt that our thoughts for an active family holiday were really listened to – very straightforward booking
Helpfulness of Team: Very helpful especially regarding accommodation changes and ultimate postponement & re-booking of our trip.
Information in Brochure: OK – though we preferred researching in more depth on the internet
Information on website: Great – we also found a few more sites too e.g. visit azores
Q. How would we rate our holiday overall: Excellent
Q. Would we travel with you again: Very possibly and would recommend (10 out of 10) as everything from booking, travel, hire car was very smooth
Q. How did we find you: Google search on the internet
Q. Why did we decide to book with you: Because of your friendly approach on initial contact back in August 2020. We were seeking support and reassurance during the uncertainty around travel during the Covid 19 pandemic.
Q. What were the highlights:
Sao Miguel:
Q. Other good things:
Pico:
Q. Other good things:
Accommodation:
Casa Do Ouvidor: Really lovely spacious accommodation in Casa do Mar. Assen, the manager, was very friendly and helpful and kept everything, including the pool & jacuzzi very clean. We didn’t think to call ahead re our arrival but we soon met up with him. It might be worth adding this in your itinerary, so everyone knows when they will be arriving/when to be expected. Easy to spot accommodation from the road. Lovely view of sunrises & Pico Mountain. The first day complimentary breakfast was fantastic and much appreciated.
As we arrived on a Sunday, it was very tricky to find somewhere to eat for supper as a lot of restaurants were either closed or fully booked. We had to wait 2 hours for a burger van supper… which was very nice once it arrived. Again, top tip would be to book ahead if arriving on a Sunday.
Q. Would thoroughly recommend.
Casa Do Monte Pombal: Traditional building in lovely situation. Friendly owners. Basic provisions in fridge welcome for first breakfast on wonderful, covered terrace and lovely bottle of wine 😊 Lovely views for sunrises. If we are honest there was quite a musty smell in the kitchen cupboards & double bedroom, and the entrance to the farm is on a sneaky bend – you need to be brave!
Activities: See highlights above! The top tip is to book ahead either online or by phone to avoid disappointment.
Car Hire: Very easy with Autatlantis – no issues and would recommend on both islands.
Taxi Transfer: Very good suggestion after a long day travelling, thank you. Had a lift to a 4 Platanos and had a super first night supper.
Travel: Flights and transfer all very well organised and everything went like clockwork 😊
Paper: Always happy to receive details online to save paper.
Kind regards
Dear Jake.
This is a long email, so you might want to go grab yourself a cuppa before you start reading.
We just wanted to send you an email to say thank you so much for everything.
Our island hopping holiday to the Azores was absolutely amazing, it was far beyond our dreams and expectations, and that is certainly because of you and all your plans in putting this together for us. We just loved every second (apart from me and canyoning, we do not get along, but the boys absolutely loved it!) we just can’t believe all the things that we have seen, and done, and learned about! What an incredible place!
We have certainly been bitten by the Azorean bug and we can’t wait to get back there to explore the other islands. They’re very special places, each of them for their own right.
We felt as though we were treated like royalty from the minute we arrived in Sao Miguel, even the weather was kind to us (largely) we seemed to miss the adverse weather, either arriving somewhere that had had storms the day before, or leaving just before they arrived. We did have one morning of heavy rain when we went to the tropical gardens at Furnas, but we did manage to see some of the gardens before we gave up and went back to Caloura, where there was glorious sunshine, so we spent the afternoon at the pool and made the most of the Especial and fresh lemonade from the snack bar.
Every single person that we met, we were struck by how hard they work, and how happy they all are. Many of them never leaving the island they were born on, because, why would they want to?!
We love the Azorean people and their love and pride for their islands. Their sustainable way of living also struck deep with us. It’s the way we try very hard to live ourselves. Dave’s business is retrofit insulation, preparing old housing stock to a better more eco friendly way of conserving energy, so the way they live and respect their land, was of great interest to us.
For us all, Flores is a very special place. We went to the restaurant maresia while we were there and met the owner and his son. Although the restaurant itself is eclectic to say the least, after chatting to Vincent, we understood his dads way of living and the food was outstanding! We can’t wait to visit again.
All of our guides were amazing! Their knowledge and passion is admirable.
We just loved every second and can’t thank you enough for making our trip so smooth and completely stress free.
I will spend today writing reviews online for all the companies and guides that helped us on our trip.
A million thanks to you all Jake.
Really great company, will be recommending them. We had never visited the Azores before but this company helped us decided which islands to visit.
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.
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.
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.
Explore the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of the Azores
Kayak inside the Azores’ largest volcanic crater at Sete Cidades
Take a moonlit swim in the geothermal pools at Furnas
Walk beneath the cascading waterfalls on the stunning west coast of Flores
You’ll begin your holiday on the main island of Sao Miguel in Ponta Delgada: capital of the Azores and one of Europe’s friendliest cities. You’ll head to sea on a whale and dolphin watching trip, before exploring one the island’s iconic landscapes with our resident guide: the great crater at Sete Cidades.
Leaving the main island, your island hopping begins with a flight to Flores – home to the Azores’ most magnificent landscapes. You’ll be staying the secluded west coast village of Fajã Grande, between the green cliffs and crystal-clear waterfalls of the Ribeira do Ferreiro and the wild Atlantic Ocean. You’ll also have a chance to explore the island’s crater lakes on a jeep tour with our resident guide.
It’s a short flight from Flores to the island of Faial – to the charming harbour town of Horta. One of the Azores’ most arresting landscapes is here: the volcanic Capelinhos peninsula, and you’ll have a chance to explore the whole island with our resident guide.
A short hop from Faial brings you back to Sao Miguel. You’ll end your holiday in semi-tropical Furnas – famous for it’s volcanically-heated swimming pools and beautiful botanical gardens.
You’ll begin your holiday by flying to the Azores – direct or via Lisbon. Our driver will transfer you to your accommodation in the capital Ponta Delgada..
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
We’ll leave your first day free, so you can relax and explore Ponta Delgada; capital of the Azores. It’s a great place to shop for local produce and souvenirs, with an excellent selection of friendly restaurants and cafe bars, attractive mosaic pavements and traditional Portugeuse architecture. Ponta Delgada has some of the best restaurants in the Azores – we have a handy online guide to help you choose a venue in the evenings.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
You’ll head west with our resident guide to Sete Cidades, the largest caldera on the island with it’s famous miradouro at Vista do Rei, and the beautiful twin lakes: Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
You’ll head east today – to the town of Vila Franca for a three-hour whale and dolphin watching trip.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel do Colegio
You’ll return your hire car to the airport before flying to the island of Flores. You’ll be collected by our driver for your transfer to your new accommodation in the west coast village of Faja Grande.
Accommodation on this day: Argonauta
You’ll tour the island today with our resident guide – visiting to the Ponta de Albarbaz lighthouse, the island’s capital Santa Cruz and Flores’ crater lakes: Lagoas Branca, Seca, Negra and Comprida.
Accommodation on this day: Argonauta
You’ll have a free day to walk the Lagoa dos Patas trail, to the secluded lagoon at Poco da Alagoinha and the Ribeira do Ferreiro waterfalls.
Accommodation on this day: Argonauta
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Faial. You’ll be collected by our driver for your transfer to your new accommodation in the harbour town of Horta.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
You’ll spend today exploring Faial with our resident guide, vwith visits to the Cabeço Gordo caldera, and volcanic peninsula at Capelinhos.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
You might like to take the morning ferry to the neighbouring island of Pico, for a guided tour of the island’s UNESCO-protected vineyards, or an ascent of Mount Pico – Portugal’s highest peak at 2,351m.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
For your final day on Faial, you might like to add a second whale watching trip or a guided walk along the Dez Vulcoes trail.
Accommodation on this day: Estrela do Atlantico
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Sao Miguel, where you’ll be transferred to your new accommodation in Furnas.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Terra Nostra
Today’s free so you can explore Furnas on foot. There are over thirty geysers and springs dotted around the village – the remains of the original Furnas volcano which super-heats water deep underground. Your hotel’s 200-year-old botanical gardens are home to the town’s famous geothermal swimming pool.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Terra Nostra
For your final full day on the island, you might like to visit the Gorreana tea planation and the rustic infinity pools Poca Dona Beija.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Terra Nostra
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Our holidays have a nice balance of activities and free time. Everything’s flexible and you can personalise your trip.
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 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 is fast growing in popularity and the Azores have excellent routes on Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge and Flores.
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!
Get off-road with our friendly knowledgeable guides along the dirt tracks of the Azores.
Kayak and paddleboard on the breathtaking crater lakes or along the rugged coastline of Sao Miguel and Terceira.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Flores is arguably the most beautiful island in the Azores, and Faja Grande, the village on the west coast where Argonauta is nestled, is a paradise on the island surrounded by cascading waterfalls and perfect tranquillity. It’s just a short walk to some good local restaurants (including Sri Lankan/Italian fusion!), the port and swimming area and some great rock pools for snorkelling. The village is also on the spectacular west coast footpath so is ideal for walkers.
Stefano, the owner of this delightful house is a resident Italian who is a photographer and island enthusiast. He’s filled the house with photos from his travels to India and created a bohemian and homely feel with original floral frescos from the 1930’s on the walls and woodwork from a vessel shipwrecked off Flores’ western reefs.
There are 5 en-suite double rooms available (bathrooms are quite small), including 2 large suites in the eaves of the house. There is also a guest lounge on the first floor with TV, CD player, library and internet access.
An award winning boutique hotel, the Art Deco style Hotel Terra Nostra lies within the volcanic basin of Furnas with its beautiful crater lake and hot springs. What makes it unique however are its grounds which are the internationally acclaimed Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens, a well established garden dating from 1775 with an area of 12.5 hectares. And then of course, there’s the wonderfully relaxing outdoor geothermal swimming pool within them which makes for a perfect end to the day after exploring the island.
Guests of the hotel have free entry to the botanical gardens which are open to the public during the day and can also enjoy the indoor heated pool and spa offering a full range of treatments and therapies. Many of the rooms at the Hotel Terra Nostra look directly out over the garden with its thousands of species of plant and tree displayed in the lush valley surroundings.
The hotel has 86 ensuite rooms including 7 suites all with telephone, TV, minibar and hairdryer.
A welcome alternative to the hotels in Horta, Estrela do Atlantico with its ‘Moorish’ style decor is just 15-20 minutes walk from the marina and offers a comfortable retreat from the hustle and bustle of Horta.
It’s located on the slopes of a residential area of Horta overlooking Pico island and combines a tasteful mix of bohemian interior and Azorean architecture. This is all down to the meticulous eye and imagination of Ruth who will look after you during your stay and she’s an excellent host and source of information on the island.
There are 5 en-suite rooms, 2 of which are suites both of which have a kitchenette and one has a balcony.
Originally constructed as a grand townhouse in the early 19th Century, much of the original basalt stone architectural features have been retained – the décor feels minimal but comfortable with a nice balance between city hotel and ‘traditional Azorean’.
There are fifty-seven-suite rooms with bathtub/showers, TV, hairdryer and air conditioning, and an excellent restaurant. There’s free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and an outdoor pool set in the original quadrangle at the centre of the building.
Dear Ian, Steve, Jake & Team,
Just wanted to drop a line to say a heartfelt thank you for arranging the trip of a lifetime.
After a global pandemic, two years of waiting to travel and three cancellations it seemed at times that our honeymoon was never going to happen. We have so appreciated your support in rebooking/reorganising and keeping in touch with us all the way through.
As fairly independent minded travellers we were a little unsure about booking through an agency but so grateful we did.
The island choices, the daily schedules and walk recommendations were just perfect for us. We were blown away by the wildness & waterfalls in Flores; the coastal paths, lakes and thermal baths in Sao Miguel and the stunning views of Pico from Horta.
As you can tell we are smitten with the Azores and already thinking about our next trip back. We will be sure to contact you again once that starts to come together.
Thanks again for doing a brilliant job.
Great feedback for Archipelago Choice from Jo and Family who recently visited the Azores with us (unabridged version!).
Booking Process: Excellent – Felt that our thoughts for an active family holiday were really listened to – very straightforward booking
Helpfulness of Team: Very helpful especially regarding accommodation changes and ultimate postponement & re-booking of our trip.
Information in Brochure: OK – though we preferred researching in more depth on the internet
Information on website: Great – we also found a few more sites too e.g. visit azores
Q. How would we rate our holiday overall: Excellent
Q. Would we travel with you again: Very possibly and would recommend (10 out of 10) as everything from booking, travel, hire car was very smooth
Q. How did we find you: Google search on the internet
Q. Why did we decide to book with you: Because of your friendly approach on initial contact back in August 2020. We were seeking support and reassurance during the uncertainty around travel during the Covid 19 pandemic.
Q. What were the highlights:
Sao Miguel:
Q. Other good things:
Pico:
Q. Other good things:
Accommodation:
Casa Do Ouvidor: Really lovely spacious accommodation in Casa do Mar. Assen, the manager, was very friendly and helpful and kept everything, including the pool & jacuzzi very clean. We didn’t think to call ahead re our arrival but we soon met up with him. It might be worth adding this in your itinerary, so everyone knows when they will be arriving/when to be expected. Easy to spot accommodation from the road. Lovely view of sunrises & Pico Mountain. The first day complimentary breakfast was fantastic and much appreciated.
As we arrived on a Sunday, it was very tricky to find somewhere to eat for supper as a lot of restaurants were either closed or fully booked. We had to wait 2 hours for a burger van supper… which was very nice once it arrived. Again, top tip would be to book ahead if arriving on a Sunday.
Q. Would thoroughly recommend.
Casa Do Monte Pombal: Traditional building in lovely situation. Friendly owners. Basic provisions in fridge welcome for first breakfast on wonderful, covered terrace and lovely bottle of wine 😊 Lovely views for sunrises. If we are honest there was quite a musty smell in the kitchen cupboards & double bedroom, and the entrance to the farm is on a sneaky bend – you need to be brave!
Activities: See highlights above! The top tip is to book ahead either online or by phone to avoid disappointment.
Car Hire: Very easy with Autatlantis – no issues and would recommend on both islands.
Taxi Transfer: Very good suggestion after a long day travelling, thank you. Had a lift to a 4 Platanos and had a super first night supper.
Travel: Flights and transfer all very well organised and everything went like clockwork 😊
Paper: Always happy to receive details online to save paper.
Kind regards
Dear Jake.
This is a long email, so you might want to go grab yourself a cuppa before you start reading.
We just wanted to send you an email to say thank you so much for everything.
Our island hopping holiday to the Azores was absolutely amazing, it was far beyond our dreams and expectations, and that is certainly because of you and all your plans in putting this together for us. We just loved every second (apart from me and canyoning, we do not get along, but the boys absolutely loved it!) we just can’t believe all the things that we have seen, and done, and learned about! What an incredible place!
We have certainly been bitten by the Azorean bug and we can’t wait to get back there to explore the other islands. They’re very special places, each of them for their own right.
We felt as though we were treated like royalty from the minute we arrived in Sao Miguel, even the weather was kind to us (largely) we seemed to miss the adverse weather, either arriving somewhere that had had storms the day before, or leaving just before they arrived. We did have one morning of heavy rain when we went to the tropical gardens at Furnas, but we did manage to see some of the gardens before we gave up and went back to Caloura, where there was glorious sunshine, so we spent the afternoon at the pool and made the most of the Especial and fresh lemonade from the snack bar.
Every single person that we met, we were struck by how hard they work, and how happy they all are. Many of them never leaving the island they were born on, because, why would they want to?!
We love the Azorean people and their love and pride for their islands. Their sustainable way of living also struck deep with us. It’s the way we try very hard to live ourselves. Dave’s business is retrofit insulation, preparing old housing stock to a better more eco friendly way of conserving energy, so the way they live and respect their land, was of great interest to us.
For us all, Flores is a very special place. We went to the restaurant maresia while we were there and met the owner and his son. Although the restaurant itself is eclectic to say the least, after chatting to Vincent, we understood his dads way of living and the food was outstanding! We can’t wait to visit again.
All of our guides were amazing! Their knowledge and passion is admirable.
We just loved every second and can’t thank you enough for making our trip so smooth and completely stress free.
I will spend today writing reviews online for all the companies and guides that helped us on our trip.
A million thanks to you all Jake.
Really great company, will be recommending them. We had never visited the Azores before but this company helped us decided which islands to visit.
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.
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.
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.