The archipelago of the Azores lies mid-Atlantic, bathed by the warm air and temperate currents of the Gulf Stream. Treasure galleons from the Americas once found shelter here, safe from the ravages of corsairs and pirates. Never far from the sea, our emphasis will be on day-walks, sightseeing and off-beat exploration, with the itinerary left flexible to suit individual interests and the curiosities of the group.

Sao Miguel
Beginning at Ponta Delgada on the island of Sao Miguel, we walk the steep slopes of Sete Cidades crater and view the legendary Blue and Green Lakes, perhaps exploring the picturesque village deep inside the crater. Next we make for the huge hollow of Furnas Valley, where diverse volcanic activity has created hot thermal springs and boiling mud pools.

Terceira & Sao Jorge
A short flight brings us to Terceira, and a full day's walk on the slopes of the island's hills. Then it's on to the strangely elongated island of Sao Jorge, a place of precipitous cliffs, narrow valleys and tiny coves. Here, we may take a coastal walk to Furnas das Pombas - the rocky habitat of numerous seabirds - and perhaps a walk from the ridge of Sao Jorge, down through the beautiful Caldeira de Cima gorge to the coast. We continue along the rocky shoreline from one faja to another.

Pico & Faial
On the nearby island of Pico, weather permitting, we may be able to ascend Pico Alto (2345m), the majestic volcano which dominates the horizon. It may be possible to take a boat trip to go whale-watching (optional) or visit the whaling museum at Lajes, a relic of the island's seafaring past. Finally, we cross to the charming isle of Faial, its hillsides ablaze with flowers and shrubs.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Sao Miguel (Ponta Delgada). 2 to 4 On Sao Miguel; explore Sete Cidades crater lakes (approx 4hrs walk), Caldiero Velho and Furnas Valley (approx 2hrs walk). 5 Fly Terceira (Praia da Vitoria). 6 On Terceira; drive/walk Biscoitos village (approx 3hrs walk). 7 Fly Sao Jorge (Velas); optional walk. 8 & 9 On Sao Jorge; day walk to fajas. 10 Ferry to Pico (Madalena). 11 On Pico; free for optionals. 12 Optional Pico ascent; ferry to Faial. 13 On Faial; optional walks. 14 End Faial.

Accommodation: 13nts hotel; 13 breakfasts & 1 lunch are included.
Transport: Flights as itinerary/Ferry/Local bus/Taxis/On foot.
Comment: Green, peaceful, incredibly beautiful and with an unhurried pace of life, these tiny islands allow us to step out of time and relax. Day-walks are fairly easy and there is plenty of opportunity to do your own thing.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s) and boatmen.
Trip Reference: AZ