HALF DAY FIRE LAKE, PINEAPPLE & TEA
Half Day Fire Lake, Pineapple & Tea
Starting with a pick-up at your hotel or accommodation on São Miguel Island, this experience invites you to discover a more serene and profound side of the island, where volcanic nature, agricultural traditions and unspoiled landscapes meet.
Our first stop takes us to Pico da Barrosa, at 947 meters above the sea level, where the view of Lagoa do Fogo — elected one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal — is absolutely unmissable. The contrast between the colors of the crater and the turquoise blue of the lagoon is breathtaking. We then cross to the north of the island with magnificent views over the coastal town of Ribeira Grande, the second largest city of the Island.
On the way, we pass by Pico Vermelho, where you can see the geothermal plants, witnessing how the island transforms the heat of the earth into clean energy. We then entered the Caminho da Tondela, a dirt road crossed by streams and sided by dense vegetation, in a calm traverse through the rustic beauty of the Azorean nature.
We will take a break at Termas da Ribeira Grande, where you can have a coffee, rest or, optionally, visit the spa and thermal baths (entrance not included). Afterwards, we will visit the famous Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest industrial tea plantation in Europe still in work, where you can learn about the history of tea in the Azores and enjoy a tasting overlooking the sea.
The return takes us through a serene and lesser-known area: Coroa da Mata, with its emblematic plane trees and a stop to enjoy the impressive landscape of Santa Iria, one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the north coast.
Arriving back in Ribeira Grande, you can make an optional stop to see the local gardens, historic churches, secular architecture or, if you preferred, relax on Santa Bárbara Beach, known as the surfing capital of the island.
We end our journey with a visit to a pineapple plantation (in Fajã de Baixo or Laranjeiras), where you will learn about the traditional cultivation process in greenhouses and be able to taste the authentic flavor of pineapple from the Azores.
Returning to your accommodation marks the end of a half day filled with stunning landscapes, unique flavors and a deep connection with the soul of the island.