Portugal's Capital and Islands of Discovery

Day 1  Lisbon          
On arrival enjoy a private transfer to your hotel, before venturing out to explore Portugal’s vibrant capital city. The dramatic Monument to the Discoveries is a huge sculpture celebrating Portugal’s adventurous past in the heart of the historic Belem district. While there be sure to check out the Belem tower and visit Pasteis de Belem to sample the iconic custard tarts.          

Day 2  Lisbon          
This morning, your included private walking tour will take you on a fascinating journey through Lisbon’s culture and history with an expert local guide, from the cobblestone streets of Alfama and the lively neighbourhood of Bario Alto, to the ornate Santa Justa Lift. This evening why pay a visit to the Time Out Market and choose from over 50 acclaimed eateries?

Day 3  Lisbon to Funchal, Madeira      
Continue your journey this morning with a flight to Madeira. Transfer to the island capital Funchal, your home for the next three days. This afternoon chose to explore the cobbled streets of the old town, sample the islands most famous export on a cellar tour, or take a cable car to hilltop Monte to explore Monte Palace’s spectacular tropical gardens.          

Days 4-5  Madeira  
Over the next two days discover the delights of the island known as the Pearl of the Atlantic. Take a small group tour to the west of the island, taking in Europe’s highest cliff Cabo Girao, the magical and ancient Fanal forests of the mountain plateau, natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz and the dramatic villages and waterfalls of the north coast. In the east of the island, take a tour to explore the historic A framed houses of Santana, the stunning coastlines and cliffs and the pretty villages and viewpoints along the way.          

Day 6  Madeira to São Miguel, Azores          
After a leisurely morning in Funchal, return to the airport for your onward flight to the Azores. The enchanting and colourful archipelago lies in the centre of the Atlantic and was a key staging post during Portugal’s age of discovery. On arrival in São Miguel, pick up your car and spend the afternoon exploring charming regional capital Ponta Delgada.

Day 7  São Miguel    
The Azores hosts a third of the world’s whale and dolphin species so this morning head to Vila Franca Do Campo for your included Whale Watching and Islet Cruise to discover the wonders of the Atlantic’s largest Marine Protected Area. In the afternoon why not head out to São Miguel’s west to the beautiful Furnas Valley, centre of São Miguel's unique geothermal activity? After a hike around Furnas Lake take a soak or swim in the hot springs of Terra Nostra Park. Be sure to sample Cozido, the iconic stew cooked underground before heading back to Ponta Delgada.          

Day 8  São Miguel    
Today discover why São Miguel is known as the Green Island as you travel to the island’s west through the verdant countryside and tree lined mountains. Meander through the colourful hydrangeas and valley paths to the Vista do Rei on the edge of the Sete Cidades volcanic crater for postcard-perfect views over the dramatic twin blue and green lakes. In the afternoon continue to the black sand beach and thermal pools at Mosteiros for a stunning sunset.  

Day 9  São Miguel to Pico    
Today fly onwards to Pico, known as the Black Island thanks to its unique geology and lava fields. Head to the island capital Madelena to explore the quaint shops and amazing views over to nearby Faial Island. En route perhaps call in to the wine museum and learn about how the unique conditions created a UNESCO recognised wine culture.          

Day 10  São Miguel to Pico          
Today explore the unique volcanic landscapes, lush forests and beautiful coastal paths of this dramatic island. Head down the west coast to discover lava pools and unique lava vineyards, keeping an eye out for the striking red windmill at Moinho do Frade. Alternatively, Lajes do Pico is home to a fascinating museum detailing the history of Pico and its relationship to whales from whaling to whale watching.  

Day 11  Pico to Terceira      
Enjoy a final walk on picturesque Pico before taking a lunchtime flight from Pico to Terceira, nicknamed the Lilac Island due to the colourful buildings and flowers of the historic UNESCO World Heritage listed island capital of Angra do Heroismo. Spend a day exploring the beaches, churches and fortresses of Angra and picturesque Monte Brasil.

Days 12-13  Terceira          
Spend your next days discover the rolling pastures of the inland at the remarkable Serra do Cume viewpoint, dramatic lava tunnels at Algar do Carvão and the dramatic natural black lava pools in northern Biscoitos. With plenty of hiking trails around the islands, there are countless viewpoints and natural magic hiding around every corner.    

Day 14  Terceira          
Return to Terceira airport for your onward flight.