São Miguel

Nicknamed the Green Island, its landscape is made up of extensive fields and patches of trees that were forced into the valleys of streams.

Known as “The Green Island”, this is the largest in the archipelago. Dazzling lakes, sandy beaches and dramatic mountains provide a stunning backdrop whilst tea plantations and pineapple groves make full use of the hillsides. Visit fascinating villages like Furnas, built inside a volcanic crater, and geological wonders such as Sete Cidades, twin crater lakes linked by a narrow passage. It is also an excellent base from which to explore the wide variety of outdoor activities that make the Azores a top destination amongst discerning holiday-makers. Ponta Delgada, the major city of the island, is a 10 minute drive from the airport and has a fascinating history. The cobbled streets of the old town are lined with restaurants and bars and the new marina development is very lively on the weekend.

Area: 744,7 km2
Population: 137.856 inhabitants

Highlights: Sete Cidades Lake; Ponta da Ferraria; Furnas Valley; Terra Nostra Park; Caldeira Velha; Lagoa do Fogo Lake; Nordeste; Ponta Delgada old town; Vila Franca do Campo; Tea and Pineapple plantations;