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Picture
lakes of breathtaking beauty
All
the hustle and bustle of a large city alongside ample quiet green open
spaces adorned with flowers, Museums, churches and palaces embellished
with treasures of art and history. Golf, walking and cycle paths,
horseback riding or simply some time relaxing in the sun and sand. All
this and more on an island catering for those who love culture and
sports... or who simply delight in the contemplation of Nature.
Ponta
Delgada, a charming city
Set within the confines of a wide inlet, Ponta
Delgada is the tourist heart of São Miguel. Museums and monuments
abound, and historic streets connect hotels, restaurants and shops. A
marina harbours sailboats from Europe and America. And for those who
enjoy entertainment after hours, the night brings with it a touch of
colour and animation.
Ribeira Grande
The other side of the island the mother church in Ribeira Grande
boasts the curious 'Arcano'. Island landmarks include Lagoa, Nordeste,
Povoação, all landing spots of the first settlers. Vila Franca do
Campo, was the island's very first capital.
Lakes
and so much more
São
Miguel´s lakes, the inspiration behind many a poem, are what first
captives the heart. Sete Cidades, where emerald green and sapphire
blue are the dominant colours is the source of the legend of sorrowful
princesses, of lost kingdoms. Fogo lake, a dramatic landscape of lava
and sea. Furnas lake, mirroring its surroundings like a fairy tale
image overlooked by a chapel´s gothic tower.
Vale
das Fumas
A
vivacious garden at the bottom of a vast crater where hot water
springs run free. Within you'll find the romantic Parque Terra Nostra
[Park of Our land), where exotic tropical species blend with varieties
from Nordic countries, The fervent vapour of Caldeiras is reminiscent
of the original volcano of the island.
Finally,
visit the only tea plantation in Europe whose vantage points allow you
to look out across the rolling pastures dotted with lazy Holstein cows,
the dense woodlands and the inevitable hot of flowers.
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Active
holidays to suit all tastes
There
are two flower bedecked golf courses to choose from
bird-watching hides, native greenery and phenomenal
volcanoes. Diving centres to observe fish and submarine
terrain. Golden beaches beckon you to bathe in an ocean
warmed by Gulf currents or to take on the waves on a
surfboard. Tennis, horse riding, sailing and deep sea
fishing are among the other pleasures offered by São
Miguel for an invigorating and action packed holiday.
Shopping
and gastronomic delights
Take in the blue tinged ceramics
from Lagoa or the picturesque clay pottery of Vila
Franca do Campo. The delicate embroidery and the
decorative wicker work are craft which maintain secular
traditions and serve as delightful souvenirs of São
Miguel.
Who
could ever forget the unique taste of the delicious
cuisine of Furnas, prepared on volcanic rocks? Or the
fresh fish and shellfish, the tender meat grilled simply
or prepared according to age old traditional recipes.
The
culinary feast continues with deserts flavoured with
fresh pineapples, traditional sweets, and the celebrated
"passion fruit liqueur". Turning your meal
into an experience you'll never forget.
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