The Azores

If you haven't visited these islands off the coast of Portugal, RUN! We had the best time exploring Sao Miguel & can't wait to go back for more! This is the perfect mix of adventure, culture & relaxation!

Portugal, with its sun-kissed shores, rich history and delectable cuisine, is a haven for romance. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through Lisbon's cobbled streets, sipping vinho verde in Porto's riverside cafes, and soaking in geothermal pools overlooking the Atlantic in the Azores. This itinerary curates a 10-day honeymoon in Portugal that's pure bliss, blending luxury and adventure, cityscapes and breathtaking nature.

The Azores are an enchanting must-see volcanic island chain in the Atlantic. With its lush green landscape, distinct topography created by extinct volcanoes and incredibly warm people, the Azores is a family trip to remember. In fact, it is my sons’ new favorite destination and one we’ll return to again. Read on and you’ll see why!

Saint Lucia, Mauritius and the Azores offer distinct and unforgettable travel experiences, each with their own charm. Saint Lucia’s lush landscapes and luxury resorts make it the perfect escape for couples seeking romance and adventure. Mauritius combines stunning beaches with vibrant culture, providing a peaceful yet lively retreat. The Azores, with their dramatic volcanic terrain and serene atmosphere, are a hidden gem for nature lovers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. These destinations are where natural beauty meets luxury, offering something for every type of traveler.

The Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is modern, with well kept, lovely rooms, comfortable beds and nice views. We were on the third floor and it was very relaxing with the door opened to hear the wind in the trees and see all the green outside.

Upon landing on the Ilha de São Miguel, one is immediately surrounded by verdant rolling hills dappled by dairy cows and country roads lined with soft blue and purple hydrangeas. This isn’t your typical island vacation. Being an active volcanic set of islands some 800 miles off the coast of mainland Portugal, the Azores is the perfect destination if you’re looking for countryside respite from the hustle and bustle of the city while still remaining in Europe. It is also a hotspot for whale watching. Expect to pack in some adventure while enjoying your lush, seaside retreat in São Miguel, the Azores.

The Azores Islands are one of the world's best-kept secrets, a haven of untouched natural beauty situated in the middle of the Atlantic. My family’s roots have given me a unique connection to these islands, and I've been fortunate enough to visit frequently over the last decade. I’ve felt more at home and relaxed in the Azores than I have in any other place that I’ve visited before. And I’m not alone in this sentiment - Conde Nast rated it as one of Europe’s best islands in 2023. If the idea of an unspoiled paradise appeals to you, add San Miguel Island to your travel list.

The Azores is an adventurer’s dream and Sao Miguel is its perfect launching point. Just a short flight from Porto or Lisbon, consider adding Sao Miguel to your itinerary if you like hiking, surfing, and cruising for whales and dolphin sightings by day and recounting the memories made over drinks and refined dishes by night. While epically beautiful, keep in mind that Sao Miguel is decidedly more remote and rural compared to the Algarve or Cascais. That means its best for travelers who seek a refuge surrounded by nature with a side of small town. High-end, city slickers need not apply.