Five day loop ride bike tour route in the Azores Island of São Miguel, follows rugged cliffs along the coast as well as protected forest hills, providing challenging and very rewarding cycling.

Located between Lisbon and New York, the Azores Islands stand out as exotic flower gardens and Japanese cedars, hot springs and lakes within volcano craters. 

Feel a sense of freedom as you descend into the azores. It's the perfect place for a bike tour. You'll find you'll be able to take in the beauty of the islands on a bike tour that is suitable for moderate to strong riders. Ebikes are available to rent too!

You'll also be able to take in the unparalleled scenery along the way. The bike tour on são Miguel is an amazing way to get around the island, as well as makes for a great active holiday.

You will explore a lush valley filled with fumaroles and natural mineral springs, tranquil beaches and picturesque fishing villages along the coast.

Average Daily Distance: 27 miles / 43 km

Average Daily Elevation Gain: 3339 ft / 1018 m

Terrain: 92% paved roads / 8% unpaved

Recommended Bike Type: Gravel / MTB / E-Bike / Touring 

Route Type: Point to Point (start and finish at different locations)

Best Months: April / May / June / September / October

Highlights

• One of the most amazing cycling routes in Europe
  
• Challenging rides on exotic terrain (e-bikes available)
  
• Volcanic landscape: fumaroles, boilers, hot springs
  
• Visit to the only tea plantation in Europe
  
• The closest destination in Europe from USA

Itinerary

DAY 1 - Ponta Delgada to Furnas | 46km

After a ride along the coast, the day can continue with a swim in an ocean lagoon formed by an extinct volcano (Ilheu island). Follow the coast in a spectacular climb up to Pizões pass and down to Furnas.

DAY 2 - Furnas loop | 74 KM

Enjoy panoramic views along a secluded forest track of native vegetation, as we traverse from the rugged interior to the northeast. On the way through the mountain you will take a nice gravel road framed by dense plants, trees and rocks covered with moss from start to finish.

DAY 3 - Furnas to Ribeira Grande | 31 KM

Ride to the North Coast, passing fishing villages, beaches and windmills. The orange trees you see around were introduced on the island in the 16th century, and became the main export until a plague wiped out the production in the 1800's. Take a look at one of the island’s “new” trades, riding north to Europe’s only tea plantation that continues to produce organic tea as it always has.

DAY 4 - Ribeira Grande to Fogo Lake (Loop) | 30 KM

Free day to relax by the sea and get to know the historic center of Ribeira Grande, or a challenging loop ride that takes you up to the breathtaking Lagoa do Fogo.

DAY 5 - Ribeira Grande to Ponta Delgada | 71 KM

The route follows the coast along the hydrangea-laden roads to Sete Cidades Lagoon and goes around the crater rim with views of the sea and the famous lagoons.

DAY 6 - Rocha da Relva (HIKE) | 5 KM

On the last day, and maybe after you visit the colorful market of Ponta Delgada, you can get in a taxi (15 min drive) and set off for a walk to Rocha da Relva, a hidden gem on the island accessible only by foot.

Please note that daily distances will vary based on your choice of accommodation and site visits or detours.

Route Map