Country
Azores
Duration
15 Days/14 Nights
Travel Type
Group Departure
Join this small group from Toronto short stay with excursions and discover the best of the Azores and Madeira.
Inclusions
– Flights from Toronto, in our group allotment
– Airport tax of $560
– 14 nights in 4* hotels
– 17 meals: 14 breakfasts and 3 lunches
– All transfers
– Domestic flights between Terceira and Funchal (Madeira) and Funchal and Ponta Delgada
– 5 Full Day Excursions with professional local English-speaking guides
– All entrance fees to the sites and museums as per itinerary
Exclusions
Travel insurance – Meals not mentioned in the itinerary – Gratuities to guide, hotel staff, and driver – Seat selection (Exotik for group allocation, will send the list of passengers to the airline in order to have the couple seated together) – All other items not mentioned in the present document.
Additional Information
– The package can only be sold with flight from Toronto with our group space.
– This tour has reached the minimum required of 10 passengers and is now confirmed.
– Excursions on the island of Madeira (Full day tour of East Island and Full day tour of West Island) are on shared basis, which means that there will be other English-speaking passengers who are not part of our group.
Booking and Payment conditions:
– Deposit at time of reservation of $1000 per person.
– Final payment due August 27th, 2024
Toronto flights in group space
S4 330 Wednesday 16OCT Toronto 20:45 Terceira 06:40 +1 (17OCT)
SP 401 Saturday 19OCT Terceira 06:50 Ponta Delgada 07:35
S4 360 Saturday 19OCT Ponta Delgada 09:45 Funchal 12:25
S4 163 Thursday 24OCT Funchal 14:35 Ponta Delgada 15:45
S4 323 Thursday 31OCT Ponta Delgada 16:50 Toronto 20:50
1
DAY 1 - OCTOBER 16, 2024 - TORONTO - TERCEIRA
Board your direct Sata Airlines flight from Toronto to Terceira.
2
DAY 2 - OCTOBER 17, 2024 - TERCEIRA
Arrival in Terceira, meet with your local guide and transfer to your hotel. The rest of your day is at leisure.
Terceira is one of the main entry points to the Azores, along with the islands of Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial it forms the central group of islands of the archipelago. Its name implies that it was the third island of the archipelago to be discovered and was originally called the Island of Jesus Cristo. What makes Terceira special is the magnificent contrast between the natural beauty of this volcanic island and the admirable work of man in the historic centre of Angra do Heroísmo (the capital) founded in 1534 and the first place in the Azores to be made a city and to be classified a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Your hotel for the next two nights is the Hotel Azoris Angra Garden, which is located part of the protected heritage of the historic center of Angra do Heroísmo. The splendid municipal garden is adjacent to the hotel and perfect for a nice walk. The hotel was renovated in 2018, and offers an indoor pool, a jacuzzi, terrace, and even a pub on site.
Terceira is one of the main entry points to the Azores, along with the islands of Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial it forms the central group of islands of the archipelago. Its name implies that it was the third island of the archipelago to be discovered and was originally called the Island of Jesus Cristo. What makes Terceira special is the magnificent contrast between the natural beauty of this volcanic island and the admirable work of man in the historic centre of Angra do Heroísmo (the capital) founded in 1534 and the first place in the Azores to be made a city and to be classified a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Your hotel for the next two nights is the Hotel Azoris Angra Garden, which is located part of the protected heritage of the historic center of Angra do Heroísmo. The splendid municipal garden is adjacent to the hotel and perfect for a nice walk. The hotel was renovated in 2018, and offers an indoor pool, a jacuzzi, terrace, and even a pub on site.
Accommodation : Terceira for 2 nights
3
DAY 3 - OCTOBER 18, 2024 - FULL DAY TERCEIRA TOUR
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today, you will spend a full day exploring Terceira. Departure from the hotel to Praia da Vitória, the second city on Terceira Island and hometown of Vitorino Nemésio. Short stop at the Miradouro do Facho for a panoramic view. Continue through the village of São Sebastião to visit the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião, built by the first settlers of the island in 1455, one of the most beautiful and valuable works of art in the archipelago. Outside visit to one of the most beautiful empires in honor of the Divine Holy Spirit. Enjoy a typical meat lunch emblematic of Terceira cuisine – the famous Alcatra (a pot roast-type meal typical of Terceira). Continue to through the interior of the island to Serra do Cume, at an altitude of 545 meters, from where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the “Manta de Retalhos”, the largest plain in the Azores, as well as Praia de Vitória and its bay. It continues through the interior of the Caldeira Guilherme Moniz, to visit the Algar do Carvão*, a Regional National Monument, comprising of a remarkable volcanic chimney, the only one that can be visited in the world. The tour continues towards the parish of Biscoitos, a wine and summer area. Visit the natural pools of black volcanic rock in Calheta. Continue to Angra do Heroísmo and visit the Pico das Cruzinhas Viewpoint on Monte Brasil, surrounded by the imposing walls of the Fortress of São João Baptista and with panoramic views of the city and bay of Angra. Return to the hotel.
*Important note: The Gruta do Carvão in Terceira is about to undergo construction work; however, the date has not yet been set. It is possible that it will take place during the group’s trip and that the visit may not be possible. If this is the case, an alternative will be found.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
4
DAY 4 - OCTOBER 19, 2024 - TERCEIRA - FUNCHAL
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Funchal, on the island of Madeira. Upon arrival in Madeira, transfer to your hotel. The rest of your day is at leisure. (B)
Located right in the middle of the Atlantic, the island of Madeira is a haven of natural beauty. The exotic colors from the flowers stand out against the blue of the sea. Just like the Azores, Madeira is also a volcanic island and is home to a diversity of landscapes.
While on the island of Madeira, your hotel is the PortoBay Suite Hotel Eden Mar, which is part of the Vila Porto Mare resort and benefits from all its facilities. There are 4 restaurants, 3 bars, and 5 pools for you to choose from. There are plenty activities on-site for you to choose from to enjoy during your free time: tennis, squash, mini-golf, viewpoints and lounges, are just a few of them for you to choose from or simply enjoy a walk in their tropical gardens.
Located right in the middle of the Atlantic, the island of Madeira is a haven of natural beauty. The exotic colors from the flowers stand out against the blue of the sea. Just like the Azores, Madeira is also a volcanic island and is home to a diversity of landscapes.
While on the island of Madeira, your hotel is the PortoBay Suite Hotel Eden Mar, which is part of the Vila Porto Mare resort and benefits from all its facilities. There are 4 restaurants, 3 bars, and 5 pools for you to choose from. There are plenty activities on-site for you to choose from to enjoy during your free time: tennis, squash, mini-golf, viewpoints and lounges, are just a few of them for you to choose from or simply enjoy a walk in their tropical gardens.
Meals : Breakfast
Accommodation : Funchal for 5 nights
5
DAY 5 - OCTOBER 20, 2024 - FUNCHAL - FULL DAY EAST ISLAND TOUR (SANTANA)
After breakfast, we will depart for our full day East Island tour. The tour starts with a visit to the parish of Camacha, where football was played for the first time in Portugal. Then we go up to Pico de Areeiro, the 3rd highest peak of the island (1818m), with a splendid view over the central mountainous massif. We then descend towards the Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, where we can visit the trout nurseries and observe some of the endemic species of the Laurissilva forest, such as the laurel tree (Laurus novocanariensis). The journey continues to Santana, in the north of the island, passing through the parish of Faial. In Santana, the only town in the north of the island, the highlight is its famous “thatched houses”. On the return trip, we go down towards the parish of Porto da Cruz, situated by the sea and where we may visit a sugar cane rum factory. We continue to the Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto in Ponta de São Lourenço, at the eastern end of the island, with sweeping views of the cliffs of the north coast. We then return to Funchal, passing before the Pico de Facho viewpoint, with views over the Machico valley.
Meals : Breakfast
6
DAY 6 - OCTOBER 21, 2024 - FUNCHAL - FULL DAY WEST ISLAND TOUR (PORTO MONIZ)
After breakfast, we will set off on a full day of sightseeing of the west side of the island. Today you set off in the direction of Câmara de Lobos, known as the most picturesque fishing village of the island. Next you head to the viewpoint of Cabo Girão (589m), recently classified as a natural monument. Then the journey continues to Ribeira Brava. Here you can visit the small market and the “promenade”. You will continue along the south coast, passing the town of Ponta del Sol and then climb up to the Paúl de Serra plateau (1400m). You will cross the plateau towards Porto Moniz, at the extreme northwest of the island, where the famous natural swimming pools are located. Stop for lunch (lunch is not included). You will then return along the north coast, passing through Seixal, where you will stop to contemplate the “Véu da Noiva” waterfall. We continue towards São Vicente, a green municipality. On the return to the south coast, you will cross areas of native forest until you reach the viewpoint (Miradouro) da Boca da Encumeada, with beautiful views over the valleys of the north and south coasts of the island. Return to Funchal.
Meals : Breakfast
7 - 8
DAYS 7 - 8 - OCTOBER 22 - 23, 2024 - FUNCHAL
Enjoy the next couple of days at leisure in Funchal.
Funchal is the capital of Madeira, it is located in a bay on the south coast of the island. Surrounded by mountains and valleys, it is the perfect balance between nature and urban planning. Take some time to explore the Lavradores Market (Farmers’ market), which was inaugurated during a dictatorship period and is reflected in its architecture, is located only a few steps away from the historical part of town. In the old town, you will find narrow cobbled stone streets and the building façades allow us a glimpse of great historical and heritage value. You will find old houses turned into restaurants, beautiful painted doors painted by artists from Madeira and all over the world. You can also take the cable car up to Monte for a panoramic view of the city. The Cable car connects the old part of the city with the parish of Monte, the ride up takes about 15 minutes. A walk along the seafront promenade will allow you to take in the different sceneries of the coastline. The promenade will take you from the Lido area to Formosa Beach. Or choose to walk on the Avenida Arriaga or Avenida do Mare e das Comunidades Madeirenses, some of Funchal’s main avenues.
Funchal is the capital of Madeira, it is located in a bay on the south coast of the island. Surrounded by mountains and valleys, it is the perfect balance between nature and urban planning. Take some time to explore the Lavradores Market (Farmers’ market), which was inaugurated during a dictatorship period and is reflected in its architecture, is located only a few steps away from the historical part of town. In the old town, you will find narrow cobbled stone streets and the building façades allow us a glimpse of great historical and heritage value. You will find old houses turned into restaurants, beautiful painted doors painted by artists from Madeira and all over the world. You can also take the cable car up to Monte for a panoramic view of the city. The Cable car connects the old part of the city with the parish of Monte, the ride up takes about 15 minutes. A walk along the seafront promenade will allow you to take in the different sceneries of the coastline. The promenade will take you from the Lido area to Formosa Beach. Or choose to walk on the Avenida Arriaga or Avenida do Mare e das Comunidades Madeirenses, some of Funchal’s main avenues.
Meals : Breakfast
9
DAY 9 - OCTOBER 24, 2024 - FUNCHAL - PONTA DELGADA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and board your flight to your next destination. The island of São Miguel will be the last the three islands you visit during this trip. Upon arrival in Ponta Delgada, transfer to your hotel. (B)
The island of São Miguel is the largest in the Azores and is part of the Eastern group of islands of the archipelago along with the island of Santa Maria. São Miguel is nicknamed the “Green Island” – a mountaneous island, comprised of two volcanic massifs seperated by a low-lying ridge. Its highest point is Pico da Vara at 1105m located on the eastern massif.
Your home for the next 7 nights is the Hotel Azoris Royal Garden, a 4* hotel locate in Ponta Delgada, the capital of the island. Different sports activities are available for you to do at the hotel should you wish to do so on your free time, the hotel also offers and indoor and an outdoor swimming pool. There is also an on-site restaurant with a view on the beautiful Japanese garden.
The island of São Miguel is the largest in the Azores and is part of the Eastern group of islands of the archipelago along with the island of Santa Maria. São Miguel is nicknamed the “Green Island” – a mountaneous island, comprised of two volcanic massifs seperated by a low-lying ridge. Its highest point is Pico da Vara at 1105m located on the eastern massif.
Your home for the next 7 nights is the Hotel Azoris Royal Garden, a 4* hotel locate in Ponta Delgada, the capital of the island. Different sports activities are available for you to do at the hotel should you wish to do so on your free time, the hotel also offers and indoor and an outdoor swimming pool. There is also an on-site restaurant with a view on the beautiful Japanese garden.
Meals : Breakfast
Accommodation : Ponta Delgada for 7 nuits
10
DAY 10 - OCTOBER 25, 2024 - PONTA DELGADA - FULL DAY FURNAS TOUR
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Departure from Ponta Delgada towards Ribeira Grande. First stop is at the “Santa Iria” viewpoint where you can admire a beautiful view of the north coast. Further along the road you will visit a tea plantation that is unique in Europe and the tea factory where you will have a tea tasting. This factory is a real museum for specialists in ancient machinery. The next stop of the journey is a the “Pico do Ferro” viewpoint, which offers you a view of the whole valley of Furnas. Upon arrival at Lagoa das Furnas, you will be able to observe the pots of the “cozido” being removed from the soil, where it bakes for 5 to 6 hours, depending on the weather conditions. Return to vale das Furnas for a cozido lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, an unforgettable experience will be the visit of the Terra Nostra botanical park, where you can swim in a natural pool of hot water. The return trip is through the south road, stopping at the village of Vila Franca, the first capital of the island, with beautiful architecture in the buildings of the city hall and of the main church in the town square. Return to the hotel and overnight.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
11
DAY 11 - OCTOBER 26, 2024 - PONTA DELGADA - FULL DAY SETE CIDADES & LAGOA DO FOGO
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure from the hotel for a visit to a pineapple plantation where you can observe the various ways of growth of this fruit and the processes used. You will then continue towards the western part of the island, going through the mountain road and passing by the “Carvão”. A small stop will allow you to admire the view of the narrowest part of the island. This landscape was formed millions of years ago by the eruption of 290 small volcanoes. The journey then goes on to the “Vista do Rei”, the famous viewpoint of the island with a magnificent view of the Sete Cidades valley with the blue and green lakes. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the valley. After lunch, departure towards Ribeira Grande to climb the mountain (900m altitude) to admire the magnificent view over Lagoa do Fogo, the only lagoon on the island where nature is found in a pure state. You will then start the descent to the city of Ribeira Grande, with a stop in Caldeira Velha. The Environmental Center of Caldeira Velha is a structure dedicated to the promotion of the natural heritage of the area classified as a natural monument of Caldeira Velha. Arrival at Ribeira Grande and enjoy a walk through the city down the main street, to the town square and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the town hall building. Return to your hotel.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
12 - 15
DAYS 12 - 14 - OCTOBER 27 - 30, 2024 - PONTA DELGADA
Enjoy the next few days at leisure.
Make the most of the next few days to discover the island even more. The city of Ponta Delgada overlooks a natural bay and has a rich history and architectural heritage. The Portas da Cidade (city gates) are the perfect starting point to explore the city. Walk by the sea to the Marina which will take you to the “Portas do Mar” when in addition to the cruise ship pier you can enjoy an ocean swimming pool as well as bars for refreshments and relaxing. The city is filled with museums and cultural centers, monuments, viewpoints and lighthouses, gardens, squares, and plazas. There really is plenty for you to choose from.
Make the most of the next few days to discover the island even more. The city of Ponta Delgada overlooks a natural bay and has a rich history and architectural heritage. The Portas da Cidade (city gates) are the perfect starting point to explore the city. Walk by the sea to the Marina which will take you to the “Portas do Mar” when in addition to the cruise ship pier you can enjoy an ocean swimming pool as well as bars for refreshments and relaxing. The city is filled with museums and cultural centers, monuments, viewpoints and lighthouses, gardens, squares, and plazas. There really is plenty for you to choose from.
Meals : Breakfast
16
DAY 15 - OCTOBER 31, 2024 - PONTA DELGADA - TORONTO
After breakfast, we transfer to Ponta Delgada Airport for our departure flight home.
Meals : Breakfast
4* HOTELS OR SIMILAR
Terceira: Hotel Azoris Angra Garden
Funchal: PortoBay Suite Hotel Eden Mar
Ponta Delgada: Hotel Azoris Royal Garden
|
Rates in $CA, per person, starting from, in double occupancy |
|
| Tour starts from Toronto, October 16th, 2024 | |
| Bookings made by May 31st, 2024 | |
| With flight from Toronto | 4149 |
| Bookings made as of June 1st, 2024 | |
| With flight from Toronto | 4199 |
| Supplements | |
| Single | +1790 |
Booking and payment conditions:
– Deposit at time of reservation of $1000 per person.
– Final payment due August 27th, 2024
**Prices in this document are for information only; they were issued at press time, for the current year. Please note that due to exchange rates and temporary promotions, they can increase or decrease at any time. Contact your travel agent for the price and promotion of the moment. Prices include the contribution of customers to the Compensation Fund for clients of Quebec travel agents.
The Best of the Azores and Madeira – Detailed itinerary
The Best of the Azores and Madeira – Detailed itinerary
The Best of the Azores and Madeira from Toronto – Promotional flyer
The Best of the Azores and Madeira from Toronto – Promotional flyer
