Experiences
The Azores: crater lakes, hot springs and whale watching in the Atlantic
Green craters, thermal pools and whales just off the coast. How to experience the Azores, and where to stay on São Miguel.
You stand on the rim of a crater, and at the bottom lie two lakes side by side, one blue and one green. Around them are fields, stone walls and cows. A couple of hours later you are lying in a warm, iron-rich pool under tall trees.
The Azores are nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, and São Miguel is the largest. There are crater lakes, hot springs, tea plantations and whales. Here is the best of it, and the hotels that make it easy.
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The best things to do on São Miguel
Book the experience: See whale watching and tours in the Azores
Sete Cidades
The crater in the west of the island holds two lakes of different colours. Walk along the crater rim, or drive down to the village by the water.
Furnas and the hot springs
In Furnas, hot springs bubble up out of the ground. This is where cozido is made, a stew cooked in the hot earth. Terra Nostra Park has a large thermal pool with warm, brown water.
Whale watching
The waters around the Azores are one of the best places in Europe to see whales and dolphins. Boats leave from Ponta Delgada, and sightings are good through much of the season.
Lagoa do Fogo
The Lake of Fire sits in a crater in the middle of the island, surrounded by green mountains. See it from the roadside viewpoint, or walk down to the water.
Where to stay on São Miguel
Ponta Delgada is practical for boats and restaurants. Furnas is perfect for the hot springs.
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Next to the park in Furnas.
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is in Furnas, next to Terra Nostra Park and its thermal pool. Ideal if you want to swim in warm water in the morning before the day visitors arrive.
Book your stay: See rooms at Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Octant Furnas
In the Furnas valley.
Octant Furnas
Octant Furnas is in the Furnas valley, with its own thermal pools. Modern and peaceful.
Book your stay: See rooms at Octant Furnas
White Exclusive Suites & Villas
White sits on the cliffs above the sea in the south of the island, with white suites and ocean views. Calm and stylish.
Book your stay: See rooms at White Exclusive Suites & Villas
Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico
On the harbour in Ponta Delgada.
Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico
The Açores Atlântico is on the harbour front in Ponta Delgada, with an indoor pool and a short walk to the whale-watching boats.
Book your stay: See rooms at Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico
When is the best time to visit the Azores?
May to September: the mildest and driest months, and the best time for whale watching.
Early summer: hydrangeas start to bloom along the roads.
Winter: mild, but more rain and wind. The hot springs are good all year.
The Azores FAQ
Which island should I visit?
São Miguel is the largest and easiest to reach, with the most to do.
Can I bathe in hot springs?
Yes, Furnas has several thermal pools, including the one in Terra Nostra Park.
When is whale-watching season?
Boats run for much of the year. Summer often brings calmer seas.
Where should I stay?
Ponta Delgada for convenience, Furnas for the hot springs.
How long should I stay?
A week gives time for São Miguel and perhaps a trip to one of the other islands.