Travel Log: One Day in the Azores

Our cruise across the Atlantic continues. Thankfully we were able to make port in the charming town of Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel island in the Azores. It was a lovely day to get off the ship, explore the town with friends from the ship, and learn a bit about this beautiful Portuguese island. Unfortunately the timing didn’t work out for Dragon as she was on day call and required to stay aboard the ship. Dragon had to be content with a relaxing view of Ponta Delgada from deck 10. Fulfilling his role as HOB, Dog went adventuring with several others from the ship for one day in the Azores.

Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is the cruise port access to Sao Miguel island, the largest of the nine islands that make up the Azores archipelago. The city has a distinct building style with white walls framed by dark volcanic basalt. It is a very walkable city with artful cobblestone sidewalks and roads throughout the old city. We walked through the Portas da Cidade. Built in the 18th century, walking through the city gates is said to ensure your return to the Azores.

Happy to be off the ship for a spell we had some lunch at 3 Sentidos Pizzeria which offered more than just pizza. With outdoor seating right across from the port you can try local cheese sandwiches, grilled octopus, or the Azores take on francesinha.

Always on the lookout for cool things to photograph we encountered several captivating historical churches including St. Sebastian’s Mother Church, the Church of São Pedro, the Church of São José, and the Sanctuary of the Lord Santo Cristo dos Milagres. We also took in the impressive walls, cannons, and Monument to the Dead at São Brás Fort, a 16th century fortification built to protect Ponta Delgada.

After exploring Ponta Delgada there was only one thing left to do. Just adjacent to the cruise port was a busy local swimming hole. Dog and Senior Doctor grabbed their swimwear and took a chilly plunge into the Atlantic before returning to the Oosterdam.

Sao Miguel Island

Sao Miguel Island is known as the green island, having a lush, vibrant volcanic landscape. Legend has it that the Portuguese first left cows on the islands to make sure they were inhabitable. When they returned they found the cows thriving, ensuring the islands were safe. The Azores cows are called “happy cows” by the locals. There are more cows than people on the Azores and they are known for unique cheeses and dairy production. Tasting the local cheeses is a must.

Because of time constraints the shore party for the day was unable to venture outside of town. You however, will want to explore more of what the island has to offer on your one day in the Azores. Sao Miguel is known for its stunning natural beauty. Among the many interesting attractions are:

• Sete Cidades – In the center of the dormant volcano are two lakes separated by a thin stretch of land. Different algae growing in each lake means the water is blue in one and green in the other. Enjoy the view from on high at the King’s View overlook where you’ll also find an abandoned hotel that is rumored to be haunted.
• Boca do Inferno – The Mouth of Hell in English, this circular volcanic lake can be seen from the viewpoint after a short hike. Said to be one of the most famous views in the Azores, you’ll find it on Google maps as Miradouro da Boca do Inferno.
• Terra Nostra Park – Visit a botanical garden dating back to 1780. Enjoy this garden paradise and soak in the brown thermal pool. A dark swimming suit is advised as the sulfurous water is known to stain lighter colors.
• Caldeira Velha – A natural reserve featuring hot springs and a warm waterfall.
• Cozido das Furnas – Visit the town of Furnas and enjoy one of the most unique meals you’ll find anywhere. Cozido das Furnas is a stew cooked in the ground by the geothermal heat of the volcano.
• Sea Life – Dolphins, sea turtles, and whales are among the sea life often seen around Sao Miguel. Take a guided trip from Ponta Delgada with a marine biologist providing education.

Delightful Atlantic Port

Spending the day wandering around Ponta Delgada and swimming in the chilly waters of the Atlantic was an enjoyable break after six days at sea. One day in the Azores was clearly not enough though. With so much to do and see just on Sao Miguel island we hope to return one day for a little more exploration and adventure. For now we journey on to several stops in Spain.