Azores days

I just replied to your private message. 😊

Hello, bushrat,

I've just returned from the Azores, having spent 4 nights in Angra do Herismo, on the beautiful island of Terceira, and then 6 nights on Sao Miguel. I don't think I would have wanted to spend less nights on Sao Miguel, as I just barely was able to do most things that I wanted to do there. I did not get to spend the time at Sete Cidades that I wanted to, unfortunately. I was depending on the webcams to tell me whether it was foggy or not, and unfortunately found out too late that the Webcam is high and always in the fog. Had I just gone up and waited for the fog to lift, I would have been able to see the beautiful blue and green lakes. That said, I'm totally happy to have a perfect excuse to return soon, as I found the Azores to be one of the most enchanting places I've ever been.
I stayed in Ponta Delgada all of the six nights that I spent on Sao Miguel, mainly because I hate changing hotels in the middle of a trip. I wished that I had opted to spend at least two of the nights in Furnas, as I could have spent many more hours there just walking through the beautiful and interesting town and gardens! Two things that I do highly recommend while on Sao Miguel; a visit to Chalet de Tia Merces in Furnas (reservation only), and dinner at Boca de Cena in Ponta Delgada. Both of these experiences were so far beyond my expectations that I would recommend them to anyone that visits!

I so much appreciate your suggestion. Will make reservations. These places seems awesome! I will have 2 kids 7&9 yr old with us. So, I will need to find out if Children are allowed to that tea brunch place experience.
Do you have recommendations for couple must see/visit places.

I would absolutely recommend the thermal baths at Caldiera Velha and Poca da Dona Beija. They were wonderful, and each unique in their own way. I saw lots of kids around your children's ages at Caldiera Velha, because I went during the day, but the Poca da Dona Beija was a nighttime visit, so no kids then. I would also recommend a visit to either Cha Gorreana tea plantation, or Porto Formosa tea house. The history of tea in the Azores and learning how it is grown and processed is informative and beautiful.

I would spend no less that 5 days on Sao Miguel. I have been to Sao Miguel 6 times. Best place to stay: Quinta das Acacias - lovely selfcatering cottages set in a beautiful garden setting in the tiny village of Livramento just outside of Ponta Delgada.
Owners of Quinta das Acacias are wonderful at recommending things to do/see.
Things to do: horse back riding & kayaking with Quinta da Terca, soak in hot springs at Ferraria and Dona Beija, have a cozidos meal at Calderias do Volcoes in Furnas, hike to the lighthouse in Nordeste, visit Cha Porto Formosso tea plantation, sample the local liquors at Fabrica de Licores Mulher de Capote, watch pottery being made at Ceramica Viera, shop for fresh fish, veggies & cheese at the farmers market in Ponta Delgada, walk in a lava tube at Gruta Cavao.
If you like to hike, there are dozens of fabulous hiking trails.
Be sure to rent a car and drive the entire island. The views are stunning and the tiny fishing villages are very picturesque. Logoa de Fogo is stunning. Great sea glass on the beach in Moisterios.

Hello, bushrat,

I've written a lengthy trip report on my recent visit to the Azores (Terceira and Sao Miguel). I attached photos, some captioned, that might give you some ideas for your trip. You can find it in the "Tips and Trip Reports" section. Hope you enjoy.

Thank you 🙏 I will check it out