Exploring the central islands of the Azores requires careful planning to make the most of every second. This 3- to 5-day itinerary through Pico and São Jorge gives you the flexibility to discover unique volcanic landscapes, at your own pace. Rent a car in Rent a Car Oasisis the right solution to travel scenic roads with comfort and freedom.
When you arrive at Pico Island, spend the first hours in the Landscape of Vineyard Culture, in Criação Velha. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this area impresses with basaltic stone curries that protect the vineyards from the Atlantic breeze.
Follow later to Grotto das Torres, the largest lava tube in Portugal, and ends the day in the village of Madalena, ideal to rest at the end of the afternoon.
On the second day, start with Lagoa do Capitao, where the mountain is reflected in calm waters. A Transverse Roadtakes you to the most rugged interior of the island, between endemic vegetation, silence and open landscapes.
On the south coast, make a stop at Lajes do Picoto visit the Whale Museum. Then, follow to Sao Roque do Pico, where old factories linked to whaling have gained new life as cultural spaces. If you have five full days, you can book an extra day to climb to Pico Mountain, the highest point in Portugal.
The connection between islands is made with the Atlânticoline, between Madalena and the village of Candles. On arrival, it is worth strolling through the historic center and admiring the typical Azorean architecture, marked by basaltic stone.
Then, follow to Sete Fontes Forest Park, a green refuge in the western interior of the island. Further, the Ponta dos Rosais Lighthouseoffers wide views of the Atlantic and the neighboring islands.
The fourth day should be dedicated to the famous fairies, brand image of São Jorge. Three stops are worth highlighting:
Accessible only on foot, it is an ecological sanctuary known for its lagoon and unique atmosphere.
A quiet bay, surrounded by basaltic cliffs and mirrored waters.
Here is the Simão Dias Pond, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful natural pools in the Azores.
On the last day, stop by places like Urzeline Calheta, following the panoramic road of the south coast. Make a stop at Fajã dos Vimes, known for its agricultural soils, local handicrafts and the famous coffee grown in São Jorge. Complete the itinerary at Ponta do Topo, in one of the most beautiful scenery on the island.
The ideal duration of the trip depends on your pace and what you want to see calmly.
With just three days, the pace will be faster. In this case, the ideal is to focus on the essential points:
Five days allow a more complete and quiet experience. With more time, it can include more time-consuming activities, such as:
Regardless of the duration, having a rental car makes all the difference to make the most of the trip.
A Atlânticolineensures maritime connections between Pico and São Jorge. You can start from Madalenaor Sao Roquedestined for Candles. In summer, booking in advance is essential.
The crossing is fast and scenic:
As a Rent a Car Oasis, you can pick up the car at the airport or sea terminal, making arrival more convenient and quick.
There are two main options for organizing mobility between islands:
In most cases, renting different vehicles in Pico and São Jorge is the most comfortable and efficient solution.
At Pico, driving is generally quiet, but requires attention in high areas and in the interior of the island. A Reta do Picoit is the largest grid extension of the Azores, but that does not dispense with prudence.
Take special care with:
São Jorge presents a more rugged terrain, with steep roads and demanding access to the fairways. When descending to areas such as Earpiece, it is important:
A reliable and well-prepared vehicle makes driving much safer and more comfortable. The fleet of Rent a Car Oasisis subjected to rigorous maintenance and frequent inspections, guaranteeing confidence at all stages of the journey.
Para além de alugarmos viaturas, queremos ajudar a planear a sua viagem. Partilhamos rotas, sugestões de miradouros, trilhos, restaurantes e paragens obrigatórias nas ilhas do Pico, Faial e São Jorge, sempre com a perspetiva de quem vive cá.
Place your order in a few minutes and receive confirmation by email. At Pico, São Jorge and Terceira, your vehicle will be ready at the appointed time for you to start exploring without delay.
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