About Graciosa

Graciosa is the northernmost island of the Central Group in the Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal in the North Atlantic. With a landscape dominated by clay and whitewashed houses, Graciosa is known locally as ‘the white island’. Offering the perfect scenery for a relaxing getaway, it’s dotted with historic buildings, traditional windmills and picturesque vineyards. It also has the most rural feel of the Azorean islands. As well as being a great location for hiking, diving and fishing, Graciosa boasts natural hot springs in Carapacho to the south, where you can soak in 40°C water renowned for its healing properties. From the town of Praia on the east coast, you can choose from a wide range of sailings to most islands in the Azores, making Graciosa a good departure point for exploring this idyllic archipelago.

About Sao Miguel

Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Portuguese Azores, measures just over seven hundred squared-kilometres in the North Atlantic. Two volcanic ranges, three crater lakes and the largest city of the island group, Sao Miguel offers everything that makes this archipelago so wonderful. And although life moves at a gentle pace, there is plenty to excite. The vibrant capital, Ponta Delgada showcases some of the nation’s finest 17th Century architecture, museums and restaurants, whilst the award-winning Terra Nostra Park boasts some excellent walking trails. The most sumptuous views can be found throughout the Furnas valley towards the east, with its beautiful flower-lined lake, botanical garden and countless hot springs. Sao Miguel is part of the Azorean Eastern Group, with nearly every island providing ferry routes to Ponta Delgada. The journey times can vary considerably from each island, so depending on where you depart, booking some spacious accommodation is advisable.