Discovering São Miguel: Our Adventure in the Azores

When a group of moms and single ladies hit the road, you know it’s going to be memorable. Our all-girls getaway to the Azores, specifically the island of São Miguel, was just that—an adventure full of breathtaking landscapes, therapeutic relaxation, and unexpected delights around every corner. We set out from mainland Portugal and arrived on this green jewel in the Atlantic, ready to explore its beauty and reconnect with ourselves and each other.

A Gentle Start by the Lake Discovering

After meeting up, our trip began with a casual stroll along the shores of one of São Miguel’s pristine lakes. The setting couldn’t have been more beautiful; lush hillsides framed the water, and a calm breeze carried a sense of peace. It was the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of island life and get acquainted with our new surroundings.

Luxury and Rejuvenation at Terra Nostra Garden Hotel

Nestled in a charming town, Terra Nostra Garden Hotel became our home base—a sanctuary we returned to after each day of hiking and exploring. This place is truly special, with beautifully maintained gardens and natural thermal pools that are famous throughout the Azores. Yes, the pools have a unique brown tint, but the minerals and warmth made for the most relaxing soaks. After a long hike, there was nothing like sinking into the water, gazing up at the stars or soaking in the moonlight. It was magical, rejuvenating, and an experience we’ll never forget. Each evening, massages at the hotel added an extra layer of luxury, melting away any lingering soreness from our adventures.

Biking Through Lush Landscapes and Happy Cows

Over two days, we biked through São Miguel’s rolling countryside, winding our way through fields of vibrant green pastures and endless waves of blue hydrangeas. Everywhere we looked, the island’s beauty was on full display. We rode past the “Happy Cows” for which the island is famous, grazing peacefully in the open fields. The bike trails led us through quaint villages and small towns, each with its own charm and hospitality. And though I’m not typically a coffee drinker, I couldn’t resist the incredible cappuccinos we found along the way. Portugal may have turned me into a coffee connoisseur!

Can you spot the imposter? ( AKA our tour director!)

Tea Fields and Lessons in Oxidation

One of my favorite moments after biking was visiting São Miguel’s sprawling tea plantations. It was fascinating to learn that black, green, and oolong teas all come from the same plant—what differentiates them is simply the level of oxidation. We wandered through acres of tea plants, breathing in the fresh, earthy air, and sampled some of the smoothest, most refreshing tea I’ve ever tasted. Who knew a tea lesson could be such a highlight?

Traveling with family is always fun as we hike through the tea plantation before massages at our resort.

Hiking the Volcanic Landscapes of São Miguel

São Miguel’s volcanic origins are visible in every corner of the island. We hiked along the outer ridge of a dormant volcano, marveling at the panoramic views of the craters and remnants of ancient lava cones. The rugged beauty of the volcanic terrain is something truly unique—otherworldly yet vibrant and full of life.

Santa Bárbara Eco Lodge: Where Ocean Meets Adventure

After our rejuvenating days at Terra Nostra Garden, we spent the second part of the week at Santa Bárbara Eco Lodge. Nestled right along the Atlantic Ocean, this lodge combines comfort with sustainability, offering eco-conscious accommodations that embrace the island’s natural beauty. Just steps from the beach, we fell asleep to the sound of waves and woke up to endless ocean views—a slice of paradise right at our doorstep.

Santa Bárbara Eco Lodge has something for everyone. Guests can surf on nearby beaches, take yoga classes overlooking the ocean, or unwind by the lodge’s outdoor pool. The on-site restaurant serves fresh, local ingredients in a farm-to-table style, letting you experience the flavors of the island with an eco-friendly twist. For those looking to explore further, the lodge organizes guided nature walks, surf lessons, and paddleboarding experiences, giving you a taste of adventure just steps from your room.

Every evening at Santa Bárbara was spent in awe of the stunning sunset views over the Atlantic. This lodge gave us a chance to unwind and connect with nature in a way that was both luxurious and respectful of São Miguel’s pristine environment.

Whale Watching with Backroads: Dancing with Dolphins

Midway through our adventure, we joined the Backroads crew for an exhilarating whale watching tour. Equipped with zodiac boats, we set out early in the morning, ready to face the Atlantic waves. Although we were hoping to spot the majestic giants of the sea, we were greeted by a spectacular display of beautifully colored dolphins dancing alongside our vessel. Their playful antics and vibrant presence more than made up for the absence of whales. The thrill of being so close to these intelligent creatures was unforgettable.

For those eager to see the true giants, we recommend planning your trip between August and September, when whale sightings are more frequent. Regardless of what marine life you encounter, the experience is nothing short of magical. As soon as our zodiac ride concluded, we hopped back on our bikes to explore another enchanting part of the island, ensuring that our days remained packed with adventure and discovery.

Friendship, Food, and Adventure

Each day on São Miguel was a new adventure, whether we were savoring local flavors, exploring hidden trails, or simply sharing stories over a meal. It was more than just a trip; it was a time to bond, laugh, and recharge in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.

This trip to the Azores reminded us all how essential it is to slow down, savor each moment, and surround ourselves with good friends. If you’re ever looking for a destination that combines stunning landscapes, luxurious relaxation, and a touch of adventure, São Miguel should be at the top of your list. We left with unforgettable memories and a shared promise to return—after all, there’s always more of the island waiting to be explored.

Planning an adventure got you stressed? Not to worry, that's what we are hear for. Let us help you create the best active vacation mixed with luxury wellness. Specials when you book with OA TravelStore. Backroads offers expertly curated trips that blend exploration with relaxation, ensuring every traveler finds their perfect balance.