Discover the Untouched Beauty of San Miguel Island: A Guide to Hot Springs, Hikes and Culinary Delights in the Azores

The island goes toe to toe with other highly rated European islands - quirky shopping, beautiful historic churches, stunning ocean views and wonderful restaurants. Here, I’ve listed hot springs and hikes that make the island a unique adventure.

HOT SPRINGS:

The volcanic islands of the Azores are a result of two meeting continents in the heart of the Atlantic. This unique origin blesses the island of San Miguel with numerous hot springs, offering an ideal combo of relaxation and adventure. The island offers a variety of hot springs experiences - make a choice based on what suits your fancy.

Parque Terra Nostr, an 18th century botanical garden, is one of the most popular sites on the island. Here, you'll find iron-rich “furnas”, or geothermal springs, filling the main pool at the center of the garden. And while you're there don’t miss the chance to indulge in a unique dining experience at the hotel restaurant. Reserve a furnas cozido - a delectable meat and vegetable stew cooked in the volcanic soil of the valley.

For an immersive forest experience, visit Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, a natural monument with multiple pools set against the background of the rich vegetation. The park features multiple pools of varied temperatures for a stunning retreat.

Venturing to the most western point of the island, you’ll find one of the most unique types of hot springs— an oceanic hot spring. Visit Ponta da Ferraria Hot Springs during low tide, where a ladder and ropes facilitate access into the spring area from the lava shelf shore.

HIKES:

At the highest point on San Miguel, gaze over the remnants of a once-active volcano. From there, you’ll admire truly stunning views. Looking toward the vast ocean, your eyes will meander along green hillsides. Notice bright blooming hydrangeas lining the road, and land on two beautiful lakes, Sete Cidades. There is a beautiful tale about these two side by side lakes with differing colors. But more than a love story, the Sete Cidades area offers endless hiking options. Take a short jaunt from the car, or spend all day wandering - no matter your choice, the area offers a certain serenity to its unique routes.

Amid the abundance of excellent restaurants, I recommend two items that must not be overlooked when you're browsing menus. I adore these two so much, they were actually served at my wedding when I got married in the Azores!

Yes, you’re on an island, so the seafood will be exceptional! But my advice - get a steak, a Bife á Regional. Beef in the Azores is the most highly rated beef in Europe. The cattle are raised on the islands using traditional methods, in which they’re allowed to freely graze, which gives it its unique flavor. The unique flavor and exceptional quality is also reflected in Azorean cheese. At many restaurants, you must try the queso fresco, or fresh cheese, paired perfectly with a chili spread. If you're looking for these in the city of Ponta Delgada, I recommend trying the most authentic restaurants you can find. Starting with O Galego or Restaurante O Museu.

Don't Forget: When in Portugal, never overlook two things - a fresh pastel de nada and some trendy tinned fish to take home.