The Elsewhere Guide
Azores, Portugal
Volcanic lakes, hot springs, and Atlantic wildness
The Azores, an archipelago of volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, is where untouched nature meets refined luxury. Picture emerald lakes cradled in volcanic craters, steamy hot springs, and verdant landscapes unmatched in their untouched beauty. Here, discerning travelers find solace in the serene elegance of world-class accommodations, savor the island's finest culinary offerings, and indulge in bespoke experiences that reveal the hidden jewels of this Portuguese paradise.
Late spring to early autumn, from May to September, is the best time to visit the Azores. The weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring the abundant natural beauty, while the seas are calm, ideal for diving and whale watching.
Where to Stay
Furnas Boutique Hotel Thermal & Spa
Furnas, São Miguel
Nestled amidst lush greenery, this hotel offers a tranquil escape with its thermal spa and contemporary design. Rooms are modern with a touch of local craftsmanship.
Why we love it: The thermal spa offers a unique opportunity to soak in natural mineral-rich waters.
White Exclusive Suites & Villas
Lagoa, São Miguel
Perched on a cliff, this boutique hotel offers panoramic ocean views and an exquisite blend of modern design with traditional Azorean elements.
Why we love it: Every suite opens to a stunning view of the Atlantic, perfect for sunset cocktails.
Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort
Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
This eco-friendly resort blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, offering luxurious villas and direct access to a pristine beach.
Why we love it: The commitment to sustainability without compromising on luxury is truly impressive.
Seven Days in Azores
Arrival and Oceanic Elegance
Quinta dos Sabores
Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
💡 Try their homemade Azorean yogurts.
Private Whale Watching Tour
Ponta Delgada Marina
💡 Book a private catamaran for a more intimate experience.
Restaurant Anfiteatro
Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
💡 The sea bass is a must-try.
Explore Ponta Delgada's Historic Center
Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
💡 Don't miss the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião.
Dinner at A Tasca
Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
💡 Order the octopus rice for a true taste of the Azores.
A perfect introduction to the Azores, blending ocean adventures with local flavors.
Volcanoes and Verdant Valleys
Hotel Breakfast at Furnas Boutique Hotel
Furnas, São Miguel
Sete Cidades Jeep Tour
Sete Cidades, São Miguel
💡 Visit the Miradouro da Vista do Rei for breathtaking views.
Lagoa Azul Restaurant
Sete Cidades, São Miguel
💡 The local cheese platter is a delightful starter.
Hike around Lagoa do Fogo
São Miguel
💡 Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water.
Dinner at Restaurante da Associação Agrícola
Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
💡 The steak is highly recommended, a local favorite.
A day to immerse oneself in the natural wonders of São Miguel, with a touch of exploration and adventure.
Furnas: Fire and Water
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel Breakfast
Furnas, São Miguel
Visit Terra Nostra Park
Furnas, São Miguel
💡 Enjoy a swim in the geothermal pool, known for its healing properties.
Cozido Lunch at Tony's Restaurant
Furnas, São Miguel
💡 Cozido is a traditional Azorean stew cooked underground.
Relax at Poça da Dona Beija
Furnas, São Miguel
💡 Visit in the afternoon when the pools are less crowded.
Dinner at Caldeiras & Vulcões
Furnas, São Miguel
💡 The grilled fish is exceptionally fresh.
Experience the geothermal wonders of Furnas, a place where the earth's energy is palpable.
The Art of Relaxation
Breakfast at White Exclusive Suites & Villas
Lagoa, São Miguel
Private Yoga Session by the Ocean
Lagoa, São Miguel
💡 Enjoy the sound of waves as your background music.
Lunch at Paladares da Quinta
Lagoa, São Miguel
💡 The herb-crusted tuna is a standout dish.
Cultural Tour of Lagoa
Lagoa, São Miguel
💡 Visit the local pottery workshop and bring home a unique Azorean souvenir.
Dinner at Restaurante O Alambique
Lagoa, São Miguel
💡 The Azorean beef is a must-try.
A day dedicated to unwinding and soaking in the serene beauty of São Miguel's coastline.
Island Gastronomy
Breakfast at Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort
Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
Private Cooking Class with Local Chef
Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
💡 Learn how to make traditional Azorean dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
Lunch at Restaurante O Silva
Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
💡 Try the seafood cataplana for a true taste of the ocean.
Wine Tasting at Quinta da Jardinete
Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
💡 The verdelho wine is a local specialty.
Dinner at À Terra
Furnas, São Miguel
💡 The wood-fired pizzas are a gourmet delight.
A culinary journey through the flavors of the Azores, perfect for food enthusiasts.
Adventures in Nature
Breakfast at Furnas Boutique Hotel
Furnas, São Miguel
Canyoning in Ribeira dos Caldeirões
Nordeste, São Miguel
💡 Ensure you're equipped with waterproof gear.
Lunch at Restaurante O Saca Rolhas
Nordeste, São Miguel
💡 The grilled limpets are a local delicacy.
Explore Nordeste's Scenic Lookouts
Nordeste, São Miguel
💡 The Ponta do Sossego viewpoint offers the best panoramic views.
Dinner at Restaurante Primos
Nordeste, São Miguel
💡 The local seafood stew is a must-try.
A day for thrill-seekers, combining the beauty of Nordeste with exhilarating outdoor activities.
Azorean Elegance and Farewell
Breakfast at White Exclusive Suites & Villas
Lagoa, São Miguel
Private Sailing Charter
Ponta Delgada Marina
💡 Sail to the islet of Vila Franca do Campo for a swim.
Lunch at Restaurante Mariserra
Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
💡 The lobster is a luxurious choice.
Relax at Caloura Beach
Caloura, São Miguel
💡 The natural pools are perfect for a relaxing dip.
Farewell Dinner at 100 Espinhas
Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
💡 End your journey with the tasting menu and a glass of Azorean wine.
A fitting farewell to the Azores, combining the luxury of a private sail with the tranquility of its beaches.
The Table
Restaurants that define the destination.
Restaurant Anfiteatro
A contemporary take on Azorean cuisine with ocean views and an innovative menu.
A Tasca
Beloved for its authentic Azorean dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Restaurante da Associação Agrícola
Known for its exceptional steaks, sourced from local cattle.
À Terra
Offers wood-fired pizzas and locally sourced ingredients in a cozy setting.
Restaurante O Silva
A classic spot for seafood lovers, with dishes as fresh as the Atlantic breeze.
Restaurante Mariserra
Celebrated for its exquisite lobster and oceanfront dining.
100 Espinhas
Offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seafood delicacies.
Make It Extraordinary
Experiences beyond the obvious.
Private Whale Watching Tour
Embark on an exclusive journey to witness the majestic whales and dolphins of the Azores, guided by marine biologists.
Sete Cidades Jeep Tour
Explore the iconic twin lakes and surrounding volcanic landscape in a private 4x4 excursion.
Private Cooking Class with Local Chef
Delve into the culinary traditions of the Azores with a hands-on cooking class showcasing local ingredients.
Canyoning in Ribeira dos Caldeirões
An adrenaline-fueled adventure through waterfalls and lush landscapes, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Private Sailing Charter
Sail the azure waters of the Azores on a luxury yacht, discovering hidden coves and pristine islets.
The Azores offer a rare blend of natural beauty and luxury, where each moment is an invitation to savor life's finest pleasures. It's a destination that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the most discerning traveler. As you depart, the lush landscapes and oceanic horizons linger in memory, calling you back to this Atlantic paradise.
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