Compare Cycling in the Douro Valley by Exodus Travels vs Hiking the Azores: A Nature Lover’s Paradise by Road Scholar

Day 1 Start Porto airport; transfer approx. 3 hours to Castelo Rodrigo, not far from the Spanish border

Pick up a shared transfer from Porto airport (included at 14:20) to the easternmost point of your holiday; Castelo Rodrigo. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and scenery that unfolds along the way, entering the fascinating landscape of the Douro River Canyon and its 200 metre high cliffs. The historical village of Castelo Rodrigo deserves an exploratory walk, with its cobbled streets, palace ruins, old walls and ogival arched gates, 16th century pillory and medieval church. Your hotel is located in Castelo Rodrigo with great views over the surrounding plains, mountains and all the way to the border with Spain.

Day 2 Cycle across high plains to Almeida and Escarigo on the Spanish border

The first day of cycling takes you across high plains to the historical village of Almeida, one of the most important strongholds in Portugal's history. Although it had been occupied by humans since the Palaeolithic era, it was only during the Arabic period that the name of the village came about - Al Meda meaning "the table". There is an ancient tale that a sumptuous table embedded with precious stones once stood in this spot. However, Almeida's military importance was yet to come...taken and re-taken many times during battles between the Portuguese and the Castilians, in 1296 a new castle was built by the Portuguese, then in 1640 an enormous star-shaped fortress was built around the town to defend against Spanish and French attacks. Eventually falling to Napoleon's armies it was later used by the Portuguese as a political prison. Also visit the village of Vilar Torpim, with it's chapel and manor house, and Escarigo, right on the Spanish border. Return to Castelo Rodrigo for your overnight.

Day 3 Cycle to Aldeia do Juízo along backroads with beautiful landscapes

At the beginning of the day, cycle around the Serra da Marofa mountain range. Experience stunning views over the Iberian Plateau and from the top you can also see the Douro river system (which, beyond this river, includes Côa and Águeda rivers), to the East. Continue on to Aldeia do Juizo, a rural village with 2 chapels, several wineries and a community oven that is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and almond orchards. On the banks of the river, there are vegetable-gardens, where the locals produce a wide variety of agricultural products. Stay in a delightful village house, part of a rural tourism complex of restored houses, all with private bathroom facilities.

Day 4 Cycle through the historical villages of Marialva, Meda and on to Penedono

On the ride today you cycle through two historical villages, Marialva and Meda before your approach to Penedono, with views of its almost hexagon castle, perched on an outcrop. After the first 10 km you will be able to see the Castle of Marialva. When you reach the village, explore the streets, lined with buildings that have stood the test of time and which lead to the citadel surrounded by ancient walls. The next highlight is Meda - in medieval times this village was essentially a border town and the setting for hard-fought skirmishes between Christians and Muslims. The watchtower was one of the most important strategic defence points in the region and combined with the castles of Marialva and Longroiva. Today the village is quiet and the main activity is farming and wine-making. Continue on to Penedono and its medieval castle, a unique example of military architecture that dominates the surrounding countryside.

Day 5 Ride to the UNESCO World Heritage listed vineyards of the Douro Valley

The Alto Douro winemaking region is most famous for its Port wine, but the region also produces world-famous wines from the Touriga grape. The terraced vineyards are so typical of the region that they are listed a UNESCO World Heritage site and are a delight to behold. The neatly-kept wine estates rise proudly amidst the vineyards, their names clearly visible to everyone who passes. The last stop is at the town of Peso da Regua. The town's name originated from the name of a Roman house that once stood here - the 'Villa Reguela'. Its great development only began however after 1756 with the creation of the Real Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro (Royal Company of Vine-Growers from the Alto Douro Region), which set up the world's first-ever demarcated region for wine production.

Day 6 Peso da Regua Loop cycling along the Douro River

Today you cycle to Lamego, a picturesque town that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty and cultural charm. This enchanting city boasts a rich historical heritage that dates back to Roman times. Its well-preserved historic centre, characterised by narrow cobbled streets and centuries-old churches, offers a glimpse into Portugal's past. The city is graced by the imposing Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, a Baroque masterpiece perched on a hill and accessed by a grand staircase decorated with intricate azulejos (tiles). Lamego is also renowned for its role in the production of Portugal's famous wines, particularly Port. We recommend you have lunch in Lamego before heading back towards Peso da Regua, stopping on the way at Quinta da Pacheca for a wine tasting.

Day 7 Transfer back to the airport, or choose to spend extra time in the cosmopolitan city of Porto

This morning you check out from your hotel and are transferred back to Porto at 10am; here you can choose to spend some time in this cosmopolitan city, or go straight back to the airport for your flight home. Extra nights in Porto can be requested at the time of booking.

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.