Compare Hiking the Azores: A Nature Lover’s Paradise by Road Scholar vs Country Roads of Portugal - Classic Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 Arrive Terceira, Check-in, Orientation, Angra do Heroismo Angra do Heroismo

Meet the Road Scholar Group Leader after proceeding through customs. Getting on/off a bus; driving about 13 miles, approximately 3/4 hour, to Angra do Heroísmo. Walking up to 2 miles; about 1.5 hours; mostly level terrain, some inclindes, urban streets, cobblestone sidewalks, steps up/down. Hotel check-in from 8:00 a.m.

Early check-in available. Take time to freshen up, unpack, and relax. Those who would like to take a walk around the area are welcome to do so before our Orientation session at 2:00 p.m.

Orientation: 2:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. On each of the islands, we will be joined by expert hikers with specialties in relevant areas of interest. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we’ll set out on a walking field trip with our Group Leader and a local historian to become familiar with the neighborhood of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. From the UNESCO inscription: “Situated on the mid-Atlantic island of Terceira within the Portuguese Autonomous Region of the Azores (RAA), Angra do Heroísmo was an obligatory port of call for the fleets of equatorial Africa and of the East and West Indies routes during their voyages to and from Europe from the 15th century until the advent of steamships in the 19th century.” We will also note place of interest such as banks and ATMs, phamarcies, etc., along the route.

At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

At the hotel for those who arrive in time (until 10:00 a.m.).

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

At the hotel.

Day 3 Baías da Agualva Hike, Algar do Carvão Angra do Heroismo

Getting on/off a bus; driving about 35 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Hiking about 2.5 miles (4km), approximately 2.5 hours; some steep ascents/descents, concrete paths, loose rocks, rocky terrain, grass pastures. At Algar do Carvão, 338 stone steps descending 330 feet (100 meters). For detailed trail information, visit http://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/terceira/baias-da-agualva.

We will board a bus and ride to the northern part of the island where we will begin an expert-led hike on the Baías da Agualva (Agualva Bays) trail. This is one of the most beautiful trails in the area with panoramic views of its bays down below, the cliffs portraying in the landscape the result of volcanic activity on the island. As we hike along the edge of basaltic cliffs, we will view not only the coastal contour, but also the resident flora and fauna, especially bird life. This is a popular trail with bird enthusiasts throughout the year, especially during the migrating season when it is possible to spot the variety of endemic as well as migrating birds coming to breed at the Bay of Pigeons.

Reboarding the bus, we will take a short drive to the Algar do Carvão, a volcanic vent in the central part of the island. Our local expert will explain the importance of this cave and take us inside where you will have a set time to explore on our own. One of the most amazing features is the lava tube cave with more than 300 steps built inside down to the heart of the ancient volcanic magma chamber. At the bottom of the cave, there is a serene lake. There are stopping places along the way. NOTE: Everyone is welcome to proceed at their own pace before returning to the top at the announced time. For those who wish to make it all the way to the lake at the bottom, remember that what goes down must come up. On time! We will return to the hotel after our field trip.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

At the hotel.

Day 4 Monte Brasil Trail Hike, Free Time, Lecture Angra do Heroismo

Getting on/off a bus or taxis; driving about 2 miles, approximately 1/4 hour. Hiking up to 3.5 miles (5.5 km) approximately 2.5 hours; natural forest trails, approximately 640 feet (195 meters) above sea level, some ascents/descents, urban streets, cobblestone sidewalks. For detailed trail information, visit http://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/terceira/monte-brasil.

Our next hiking field trip will be along the Monte Brasil trail. We will hop aboard the bus and drive past the Fortress of Sao Joao Batista to the highest point of the mountain. At the Pico do Facho viewpoint, we will begin the trail. During the hike, we will learn about the historical importance of the island while enjoying panoramic views of Angra do Heroísmo, We’ll also have a privileged view of the Atlantic Ocean from an old whaling look-out point and former World War II station. Descending to the town below, we will walk along the sea front before stopping for lunch.

We will have some time for independent exploration in Angra do Heroísmo before regrouping at the end of the afternoon. We will meet our Group Leader at a designated time and place and make our way to a local museum for a presentation on thermal resources of the Azores.

Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening is at leisure. Prepare for check-out and our flight to Ponta Delgada tomorrow.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

On your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 5 Biscoitos Thermal Pools, Fly to Ponta Delgada Ponta Delgada

Getting on/off a bus; driving about 35 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Getting on/off aircraft; flight time approximately 3/4 hour. Walking about 3 miles, approximately 1.5 hours; mostly level terrain.

After checking out of the hotel, we will board the bus and ride to the starting point of the cultural trail of Biscoitos via the village of the same name, known for its long wine-growing tradition and unique thermal sea pools resulting from underground volcanic springs. We will walk along and through the coastal vineyards. At the public thermal pools, we will have an opportunity to take a dip before returning to the hotel.

We will ride to the Terceira airport and check-in for our flight to Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island. Upon arrival, we will ride to the hotel and check in.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

At the hotel.

Day 6 Lomba da Maia, Praia da Viola Hike, Ponta Delgada Ponta Delgada

Getting on/off a bus; driving about 50 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Hiking about 3 miles (5 km), approximately 2.5 hours; steep ascents/descents, concrete roads; dirt paths, loose rocks, sandy beach, stone steps. City walk approximately 2 miles (3.5 km), approximately 1.5 hours; mostly level terrain, cobbled stone sidewalks. For detailed trail information, visit http://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/sao-miguel/praia-da-viola.

We will ride to the village of Lomba da Maia where we will be dropped off. Starting the hike at an altitude of approximately 820 feet (250 meters), we will begin our descent down the village road towards the Praia da Viola beach below. As we walk through the local community, we will pass by the Senhora da Afliçao Baroque-style church and farming fields with lush vegetation. We’ll learn about the local flora and how and why some of the more exotic species came to the island. Our hike will take us along streams that lead to the ocean. We’ll survey the ruins of old water mills that were once used to grind cereals and corn to make bread for local communities. As we contemplate impressive views of the ocean, we’ll slowly make our way up from Viola Beach to the town of Maia where we will end before lunch.

We will board the bus to return to Ponta Delgada for an expert-led walk around the town. As we go, we’ll learn about the city’s most important landmarks including the local Municipal Market, the Portas da Cidade (City Gates), and the sanctuary of Senhor Santo Cristo that houses the most important religious icon on the island. Our walk will end at the Fortress of Sao Bras, home of the Military Museum. The remainder of the afternoon is free.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

At a local restaurant.

Day 7 Miradouro Vista Do Rei, Sete Cidades Hike, Twin Lakes Ponta Delgada

Getting on/off a bus; driving about 42 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Hiking about 4 miles (6.5 km), approximately 3 hours; mostly level, dirt path, earth and gravel terrain, minor inclines, steps. For detailed trail information, visit http://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/sao-miguel/vista-do-rei-sete-cidades.

We will board the bus and ride to Miradouro da Grota do Inferno for panoramic views over the four lagoons inside the crater of Sete Cidades. A massive volcanic crater measuring more than three miles wide, it contains four large lakes and is home to one of the island’s most iconic viewpoints, the Vista do Rei (King’s View). Some of São Miguel’s most beautiful scenery is located within the crater, including the Twin Lakes and the Grota do Inferno. Reboarding the bus, we will drive down to the village for lunch.

Back aboard the bus, we will take a short drive to the start of the next trail. We’ll hike up and around the rim of the impressive Sete Cidades crater with the village on one side and the ocean on the other, learning as we go about the local flora before ending the trail at the Miradouro da Vista do Rei and look out on to the Twin Lakes below. We will ride back to the hotel after our field trip with some time to freshen up and relax. Then we’ll gather for a presentation and tasting of local cheeses and wines.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

On your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions, during a wine and cheeses tasting, as well reviewing instructions for tomorrow’s departure.

Day 8 Furnas Research Center & Hot Springs, Terra Nostra Garden Furnas -Sao Miguel

Getting on/off a bus; driving about 1.5 hours, approximately 30 miles. Hiking about 3 miles (5 km), approximately 2.5 hours; mostly level terrain, forest trails, dirt paths, small steps. For detailed trail information, visit http://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/sao-miguel/furnas.

We will check out of the hotel and set out by bus to the town of Furnas. Reaching the shores of Furnas Lake, we will pass by the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitorias and the Mata José do Canto Garden on our way to the renowned Furnas Monitoring and Research Center (CMIF). The center was founded in 2011 to promote the actions of ecological preservation work undertaken in the area. We will learn from one of their experts about the work being done and watch a video presentation. Next, we will set out on the hiking trails around Furnas Lake, ending at the fumaroles. There, we’ll watch the retrieval of our lunch, the famous Azorean delicacy, known as cozido. This varied selection of meats or fish with vegetables is layered in a big pot and lowered into underground holes for up to six hours where volcanic steams will cook the food. Back aboard the bus, we’ll ride a short distance to Caldeiras das Furnas. We will walk around the area, learning, observing, and exploring the different types of thermal springs. We will also have an opportunity to sample some of the 32 varieties of the local spring water. We’ll then ride on to the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel.

Next, we will gather in the hotel lobby for a walk with a local botanical expert through the Hotel Terra Nostra private gardens and thermal pools. We’ll then check in to our rooms. The remainder of the afternoon is free. You might like to enjoy the hotel spa facilities, take a dip in one of the thermal pools, or stroll around the Terra Nostra Park that is closed to the public in the evening and reserved for hotel guests.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At the hotel restaurant, we will have the traditional cozido meal we saw being retrieved earlier. The meat and vegetables cook together for hours. The gravy comes from the natural juices of the ingredients.

At the hotel.

Day 9 Sanguinho Hike, Terra Nostra Garden Thermal Pools Furnas -Sao Miguel

Getting on/off a bus; driving about 30 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Hiking about 4 miles (5 km), approximately 3 hours; forest trails, dirt paths, loose rocks, wooden foot bridges, narrow paths, uneven ground, cobblestone paths, steep ascents/descents; elevation 164/820 feet (50m/250 meters). For detailed trail information, visit http://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/sao-miguel/sanguinho.

We will ride the bus to the village of Faial da Terra and set out hiking along the Sanguinho Trail. Following the stream through the entrance to the forest, we will begin our ascent with hiking instructors. We will traverse a short, narrow, cliff-edge path and observe the abundant flora including Cryptomeria Japonica and Pittosporum Undulatum as we cross wooden bridges over small creeks that feed the main stream. Weather permitting, we will make our way to the impressive waterfall known as Salto do Prego for some rest and to cool off. We’ll then continue our ascent to the local farming fields and orchards in the old lost village of Sanguinho. From there, we’ll slowly make our way down the cobbled stone path back to the bus.

We will ride back to the hotel in Furnas with some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.

The remainder of the evening is at leisure. You might like to gather in the hotel bar with the Group Leader and fellow Road Scholars for a farewell drink while sharing memories of this and other Road Scholar programs. The Group Leader will also give instructions for tomorrow’s departure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

At the hotel.

At a picturesque stop on the trail, we will have packed lunches.

At the hotel restaurant. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

Day 10 Gorreana Tea Factory, Ribeira Grande, Program Concludes In Flight

Getting on/off a bus; driving about 30 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Walking in tea fields, onm paved sidewalks; some steps. Getting on/off a plane.

We will check out of our rooms, board the bus, and take a short drive to the famous Gorreana Tea Factory & Plantation, the only one of its kind in Europe, for an expert-led exploration. We’ll learn about the different types of tea and how they’re made. We’ll then ride to Sao Miguel’s second largest town, Ribeira Grande, for a walk through the town.

Next, we will transfer to Ponta Delgada airport. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

At the hotel.

At a restaurant in Ribeira Grande.

Day 1: Welcome to Lisbon

On arrival at Lisbon International Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your hotel at 09:30, 12:30 and 15:30. Settle in and relax before joining your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers during a pleasant evening of good food and wine.

Altis Grand Hotel, Lisbon.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: Lisbon and the Age of the Great Discoveries

Your guided sightseeing with a Local Expert takes you along the spacious avenues of the Lower Town and across the tree-shaded squares. Pass beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paço. See the ancient Belem Tower and marvel at the Monument to the Discoveries. Explore Lisbon with Insight Choice. Choose to discover more of Belém Quarter as you enjoy a taste of Pastéis de Belém from the patisserie that has been using the same secret recipe for almost 200 years, and visit Jerónimos Monastery. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that actively supports the integration of refugees and immigrants into the local society. Explore the intricate staircases and hidden alleyways of the Mouraria quarter alongside a recent migrant, your Local Expert. With free time in the afternoon, perhaps join an Optional Experience to the Royal Portuguese Riviera to explore the glamorous resort of Cascais, the wealthy playground of Estoril and visit one of the Royal summer palaces?

Altis Grand Hotel, Lisbon.

Breakfast

Day 3: The Algarve

Cross the River Tagus and head for the sun-drenched southern coast to reach Lagos, a fishing port nestled in the bay of Meia Praia. After free time to explore, continue to your resort hotel set within a magnificent 360-acre estate. Simplicity is in the soul of Algarve cuisine, along with seafood so fresh it still tastes of the sea. A short walk away specialised Portuguese seafood restaurants hug the coastline, overlooking the Atlantic.

Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve.

Breakfast

Day 4: Everlasting Évora Relaxed Start

Journey to the medieval walled city of Évora where cathedrals, churches, aqueducts and ancient castle walls all serve to create the feeling that this beautiful city is a living, breathing museum to Portugal's rich past. Join your Local Expert to explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Roman Temple and visit the Capela dos Ossos, an extraordinary 17th century chapel comprising the skulls and bones of 5,000 bones. Visit the cathedral with its attractive mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. With the rest of the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to continue to stroll through Évora’s unique historical centre, or the serene city park, following the aqueduct inside the city walls?

M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora.

Breakfast

Day 5: Monsaraz and Évora Relaxed Start

Travel to the striking white village of Monsaraz, situated on an imposing hilltop, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. From the castle ruins, admire the spectacular views across to the dry Spanish plains, contrasting with the blue of Europe's largest artificial lake. Join a local boat captain for a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life. Sit down to a delicious Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Enjoy a wide range of tasty tapas dishes showcasing the local cuisine, and soak up the vibrant; cheerful atmosphere. Return to Évora where the evening is at your leisure to explore this beautifully preserved regional capital.

M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora.

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine

Day 6: Fatima and on to Tomar

Continue to Fátima, Portugal’s most renowned place of pilgrimage. See the basilica or perhaps visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, which commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917. Journey to Tomar and visit one of Portugal’s historical jewels, the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your Local Expert, explore the octagonal Templars' Rotunda in the cloister and glimpse the day-to-day life of a warrior monk in the domestic areas. Outside on the battlements, the Manueline Window is a national masterpiece. You also visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, housing a small Jewish museum.

Hotel dos Templários, Tomar.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 7: Coimbra, the Douro and Pinhão Relaxed Start

In Coimbra, your Local Expert will show you the highlights of the Old Town, including the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit its impressive baroque university library, one of the finest in the world. Your journey continues past verdant hills and lush vineyards, along the tranquil waters of the Douro river. Enjoy a wonderful Farm-to-Table Dinner, freshly prepared from locally sourced ingredients at Quinta da Roêda, renowned as the “Jewel of the Douro”. Home to one of the most distinguished port houses, taste a variety of wines produced by the Croft family.

Vintage House Hotel, Pinhão.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 8: Guimarães and Porto Relaxed Start

Journey to Guimarães to admire the views from the ruined castle and explore the cobbled streets and cosy squares. Next, continue on to Porto, Portugal’s second city, a World Heritage town and where Portugal originates. Explore Porto with Insight Choice. Choose to join your Local Expert and visit the São Bento Railway Station, with a walk along the architecturally impressive Dom Luis I Bridge. Alternatively, explore the Clerigos Tower, Liberdade Square and the nearby Atlantic beaches, also led by a Local Expert. In the evening you are at leisure to enjoy your boutique, five-star hotel, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, in the heart of Porto’s historic district. The decor is a mix of classic and contemporary and each room is individually decorated with original artwork. Alternatively, why not join an Optional Experience to see the pastel-painted houses in Porto's Ribeira district before cruising on a traditional Rabelo boat and finishing off the evening with a Portuguese dinner in the comfort of your riverside restaurant?

Pousado do Porto Rua Das Flores.

Breakfast

Day 9: Porto, Grande Dame on the Douro Relaxed Start

With a full day free to enjoy at your own pace, why not take a stroll to admire the multi-coloured houses and churches covered in beautiful glazed tiles. Perhaps choose to visit medieval Braga? In the evening, bid adeus to your Travel Director and fellow travellers with a mouth-watering Celebration Dinner with wine, at an authentic Porto restaurant.

Pousado do Porto Rua Das Flores.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 10: Óbidos and onto Lisbon

Pass cork oak forests and orchards as you journey to the fortified town of Óbidos. Walk inside its walls to explore the craft shops, art galleries and flower-laden houses that line the narrow, medieval streets. This afternoon your travels continue to the Portuguese capital, Lisbon.

Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon.

Breakfast

Day 11: Depart Lisbon

After breakfast, your departure transfer arrives at Lisbon International Airport at 07:00 or 09:30.

Breakfast