My husband and I will be traveling to Sao Migueul in early April for 19 nights. We like to see more of less and not feel rushed. We are avid hikers and enjoy spending time at the beach. Also interested in visiting the thermal pools. I have booked 3 nights in Ponta Delgada already and would like to stay in 4 other locations for 4 nights each. At this point, we were thinking of staying near Caloura, Povoação, Ribeira Grande, and Mosteiros. I am also considering staying at Fumas instead of Caloura or spending less time at one of the other towns and adding Fumas to our places to stay. Would love any suggestions from people who are more familiar with the island. Thanks in advance.
Posted by
Freedonia
16952 posts
Above pist by kassadra..... reported.
Posted by
Rhode Island, USA
494 posts
The downfall of staying in Caloura at a hotel or "resort" is not being able to go for evening walks or anywhere else at any time of the day. I also like walking to restaurants for dinner rather than driving. There is nothing in particular at night to enjoy in this village. Mosteiros is nice to visit for the beach, or for a quick drive through the very small village on the way to/from Ponta Delgada. Ponta Delgada is worth a few more nights than what you have planned. Choose two different hotels in Ponta Delgada to have different experiences. Try to stay in at least one with an indoor pool. There are some newer hotels in Ponta Delgada, albeit on the higher price range, that are truly stunning. Your dining options in Ponta Delgada are seemingly endless.
The time frame that you will visit is not generally conducive to beach activities. You might be lucky with summertime like weather, but the odds are not good. The day temps might need a shirt long sleeve shirt or light jacket, and nights are definitely sweater or jacket. The season for beaches or natural ocean pools begins in mid-June. No lifeguards will be working when you are there.
Furnas is a good option, but be aware of the constant sulfur smell that might be a turnoff. Parque Terra Nostra is currently renovating all the thermal pools. The project SHOULD be complete by January 25, 2025. Construction in the Azores always takes longer than expected. The park is still worthwhile to visit for a few hours. So you will only have Poca da Dona Beija in Furnas. I recommend visiting both, if possible, when all the thermal pools are open. Choose either Furnas or Povoacao for a short stay, since they are very close. Both are beautiful to explore during the day and equally at night! There are other spots in Sao Miguel, besides Furnas, to enjoy the thermal waters.
If hiking is your primary enjoyment, begin your research as to where they are and seeing what looks like will fit your wants. Some are short, while others could easily take up an entire day. The ones I have done always take longer than what is described. They are also generally more strenuous than what is written. Expect some rain in April, but don't be dissuaded. Waterfalls are always better with a bit of recent rainfall!
If you have not read the post at the top of this Portugal forum, Azores Islands Travel Advice, I invite you to do so. The webmaster wrote it and included is a link to my Azores Guidebook. You can download a free sample, which contains the first 52 pages of the guide. All the logistical information you will need, plus a section about hiking, are available within those free pages. There is no obligation to purchase the entire guidebook. You will need to install the Kindle app to your electronic device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) to read either the sample or the guidebook.
Nineteen nights on the island of Sao Miguel might seem excessive to someone who will read your post. This is a wonderful decision, in my opinion! You will be thoroughly rewarded by slowing down. With eight other Azores islands to potentially visit on future trips, you can scratch this island off your list and devote time for those.
I am always a private message away for any more help you need.
Enjoy the planning!
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you, Carl, for your thoughtful response. I will be ordering your Azores Guidebook, which is a wonderful suggestion. I look forward to our visit to the island you love so dearly.