Our most recommended things to do in Povoacao

Furnas: Tea Plantations, Lake and Volcano Guided Tour

1. Furnas: Tea Plantations, Lake and Volcano Guided Tour

Explore São Miguel's Natural Wonders: Tea Plantations, Hot Springs, and More! Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of São Miguel with our guided tour, starting right from your accommodation. Immerse yourself in lush landscapes, stunning vistas, and captivating landmarks throughout your journey. Begin your adventure with a visit to Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe's oldest tea plantation, and enjoy complimentary tea tasting amidst the picturesque plantation. Stroll through the tea fields, taking in the serene surroundings. Next, make your way to Furnas, where you'll explore the enchanting valley and indulge in a soothing dip in the hot springs, a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. After your revitalizing hot spring experience, enjoy a traditional lunch in Furnas and have the famous “Cozido das Furnas” or explore the diverse menu options available. Following lunch, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque lagoon to fully embrace the natural beauty. Continue your journey with a visit to the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz and enjoy a view to the world-renowned islet of Vila Franca, known for its unique charm and allure. Finally, conclude your unforgettable tour in Ponta Delgada with a visit to the captivating pineapple plantations. Book now to embark on an unforgettable adventure through São Miguel's natural wonders!

Ponta Delgada: Full-Day Nordeste & Waterfall Tour with Lunch

2. Ponta Delgada: Full-Day Nordeste & Waterfall Tour with Lunch

Taking the road that travels along the North coast reach Nordeste, usually referred as the 10th island for its remoteness, and the oldest geological part of São Miguel. Mountains, woods, waterfalls, belvederes that rise over the sea, beautiful villages, and a multitude of flowers mark this area. It is possible to find genuine handicrafts and delicious gastronomy here which you can see and taste at your stop in Nordeste village. After lunch continue the tour around the east part of the island until you reach the village of Povoação, the place where the first settlers set foot on the island. Finish the day with a stop at Salto do Cavalo belvedere.

Nordeste Tour from Ponta Delgada

3. Nordeste Tour from Ponta Delgada

Start the tour by leaving Ponta Delgada and traveling towards the north coast. Make the first stop at Ribeira dos Caldeirões in the municipality of Nordeste. See the beautiful waterfall, known as Véu da Noiva, and the surrounding watermills and gardens. Pass through picturesque villages as you travel on towards the wonderful viewpoints of Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada, on the eastern tip of the island. View the beautiful lighthouse from the top of the cliff. Stop for lunch which will be served in the village of Povoação, the oldest settlement on the island. In the afternoon, relax near the sea or explore the historic center of Povoação. Return to Ponta Delgada along the south coast, passing by Furnas Lake and Vila Franca do Campo.

Full-Day 4x4 Nordeste Azores Tour from Ponta Delgada

4. Full-Day 4x4 Nordeste Azores Tour from Ponta Delgada

The Nordeste is one of the lesser-known destinations of Portugal, yet it remains one of the most beautiful areas of São Miguel Island. Spend a day exploring the area in a 4x4, traveling along the coast to Ribeira Grande and Porto Formoso, among others. The the 4x4 will climb to one of the highest peaks on the island: the Pico Bartolomeu. From here, you can see the highest mountain on the island, the Pico da Vara. After marveling at the sight, drive along the famous Tronqueira Mountain Trail to one of the oldest parts of the island, ending in Povoação Village.

Side by Side Tour - Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day)

5. Side by Side Tour - Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day)

Get ready to drive or be a passenger on the brand new Wolverine® RMAX™4 1000(one of the best UTV's available on the market). This activity is ideal for families or couples looking for adventure and fun. This tour will take you to the highest points that surround Sete Cidades Volcano. The itinerary is On and Offroad and If the weather is good, you can count on awesome views to the lakes and the ocean. Our team of expert guides will ensure your safety and provide brief explanations at each stop. Driver`s license is mandatory for drivers and remember that this is a tour to enjoy the landscapes, not a rally competition.

Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste from Ponta Delgada

6. Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste from Ponta Delgada

Faial da Terra is a small village belonging to Povoação, located in the South East of São Miguel Island. Your walking tour will start with a casual stroll down a steep, narrow road that will you lead to Sanguinho. Sanguinho is a village abandoned since the early 70s and is now undergoing a restoration process. You can walk through this place and see the relics of a time gone by, plus the new modern development that is taking place.  Continue your trail through the dense and lush woods, with much short up and downhill stretches between picturesque vegetation. Proceeding along the walk you will finally reach Salto Do Prego waterfall. Amidst the secluded area and near the cascading water you can have a dip before enjoying a delicious picnic lunch. On the way back to your original starting point you will take an alternative route full of picturesque views amongst dense vegetation. Once you have reached your final destination you will have time for a snack in town and can mingle with the locals.  You can combine the adventure of one of the most beautiful hikes in São Miguel Island with a comfortable van tour to Nordeste, all in one experience.

São Miguel: Full Day Tour to Nordeste

7. São Miguel: Full Day Tour to Nordeste

Travel from Ponta Delgada to one of Sao Miguel’s northern coast’s highlights: The Ribeira dos Caldeirões natural park, where waterfalls and windmills nestle amongst the lush vegetation. From here, you’ll continue on to Nordeste village, known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved streets. From here you’ll travel along the North-East side of the island, taking in the views over colorful gardens and the sea from Ponta do Arnel, Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada. Your next stop will be Povoação Village, situated in the most South-Eastern part of the island. Povoação means settlement in Portuguese, and was where the first Portuguese navigators arrived on the island. A picnic for lunch will be served, before traveling, to Salto do Cavalo to the Graminhais plateau for views of both Furnas and Povoação villages. From here you’ll return to Ponta Delgada along the North coast of the island.

Other Sightseeing Options in Povoacao

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What people are saying about Povoacao

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 86 reviews

Jose was fantastic, very knowledgable without hesitation, not as much walking as we expected but was brilliant regardless. Jose stopped wherever we wanted and wherever he wanted, to show us some hidden gems, he went above and beyond to make our experience as amazing as possible. The lunch was lovely and the local beer and liquor was even better! Thank you Jose, we would highly recommend.

Our tour to Nordeste and the waterfalls of the eastern areas of Sao Miguel Island was absolutely wonderful !! Our guide, Hugo M, was great. Friendly and fun, full of information. Makes sure his travelers are taken good care of! The scenery everywhere was spectacular and the lunch of fresh, local foods was delicious! Totally recommend…you will not be disappointed.

It was an amaaaazing ride with Jose! He is incredibly knowledgable and it was a pleasure to get to know so much about Sao Miguel and Azores in general. Highly recommended! Will definitely join another tour with this firm next time again. Oh and by the way, the lunch was excellent!

A fun filled adventure with Hugo . He was very informative and helpful with the tour Love the hike to the Crater lake and the waterfall A must when you come to the Azores the best.

Joao was the best tour guide we have had so far! This tour was beautiful with amazing views and great culture. Also the food was delicious :). Highly recommend!