Walking in Portugal

• The ultimate off-the-beaten-path European walking vacation
• Dramatic hiking routes through exotic forests and volcanic terrain
• Hawaii-like landscapes combined with European culture
• Hot springs, cinder cones, and crater lakes
• Colorful Saints’ Days festivals and processions
• Europe’s only tea plantation
• 200-year-old botanical park at Hotel Terra Nostra
• Traditional cozido feast cooked in a volcanic steam vent
• Dressage demonstration of dancing Lusitano horses
• The closest point in Europe, just a 4-1/2 hour flight from Boston

Day 1: Morning van transfer from Ponta Delgada Airport to Furnas and the Hotel Terra Nostra, a lovely resort reflecting the architecture and romantic spirit of the 1930s. Relax in the hotel’s thermal pond, explore the botanical park, or take a warm-up walk along hydrangea-lined paths to Furnas Lake. Welcome dinner, followed by a moonlight stroll in the Vale das Furnas. Three-night stay in Furnas.

Day 2: Hike through forests carpeted with ferns, wild ginger, and honeysuckle to Ribeira Quente for an ocean swim and seafood lunch. A longer option traces an ancient villagers’ track over the 1,500’ Pico da Areia before ending back in Furnas. Tonight’s traditional cozido dinner is a feast slow-cooked in a volcanic steam vent at Furnas Lake.

Day 3: Take in spectacular vistas from the Salto do Cavalo (“Horse’s Leap”) ridge en route to Pico de Vara, the highest point on the island (3640’). A beautiful trail descends through high dairy pastures and cedar forests to the coast.

Day 4: A morning walk along the north coast visits Europe’s only tea plantation and a 19th-century tobacco factory museum. After lunch, dramatic views abound on our descent to the crater lake Lagoa do Fogo. Afterward, relax with a rewarding soak under a hot waterfall. Two-night stay at an oceanfront resort in Caloura.

Day 5: An easy walk leads through the vineyards to Caloura harbor and a unique Modernist museum. In the afternoon, ferry to the islet of Vila Franca, where the mouth of an extinct volcano forms a lagoon perfect for swimming.

Day 6: Our grand finale leads to the caldera of Sete Cidades and a walk along its volcanic rim, with views of the twin lakes to one side and the Atlantic to the other. Picnic overlooking the Lagoa Azul, with an optional afternoon hike through the island’s highest concentration of volcanic lakes and cones. Our stylish hotel fronts the new marina in the capital city of Ponta Delgada.

Day 7: Free morning to visit Ponta Delgada’s colorful market, beautiful parks, or outstanding museum of native folk and fine art. Our farewell lunch at the Quinta Pico da Cruz is followed by a dressage demonstration of their purebred Lusitano horses. Late afternoon transfer to Ponta Delgada airport.

“There is a uniquely Portuguese word that best describes how we felt after our trip. 'Saudade' translates to an extreme, intense longing to return.”
– R.M., Massachusetts

“Now that I'm home, it seems that a place like the Azores could not really exist. I was in walker's paradise and photographer's heaven!”
– C.R., Minnesota

“What a hidden treasure in the middle of the Atlantic! The accommodations all were fabulous—a wonderful way to end the day.”
– B.L., Virginia

“Fantastic! São Miguel is full of natural beauty and wonderful hiking trails. The perfect way to learn about a new place, new people, and exercise too! My favorite vacation by far!”
– C.D., New Jersey

• 6 nights accommodations in three- and four-star resorts and hotels (double occupancy, private bath)
• 4 dinners with wine, 2 picnics, farewell luncheon, and all breakfasts
• Detailed maps and background information
• Two experienced, multilingual Portuguese guides
• Support van to carry luggage
• Lusitano dressage demonstration
• Tea plantation tour
• Transfers to and from Ponta Delgada Airport at specified times
• Gratuities for all accommodations and group meals
• Comprehensive tour preparation information and training tips
• Easy Rider T-shirt and water bottle
• Airfare is not included.