2025 Volendam, Ponta Delgada, Açores...

Ponta Delgada, Açores, Portugal... I woke up at 3 am and could not get back to sleep so taking photos as we sailed into the Azores passed the time…After 5 days at sea we arrived at our first port of call, Ponta Delgada. Rain was predicted today; however, we were met with bright sunshine. Our Guide Rui was waiting for us in the cruise terminal when we’re got off the ship. This was the third time we toured with Rui, so off we went on our adventure to the Northeast of the island. The landscapes of São Miguel Island are famously breathtaking. If you’re looking for lush and rocky volcanic scenery, history, architecture, crashing waves, wild coastal views, geothermal springs, and an epic road trip experience…Sao Miguel’s got you covered. We departed from Ponta Delgada and our first stop was at Santa Iria Viewpoint overlooking the North Coast and the highest point on the island. Continuing on the northern route, we visited the Gorreana Tea Factory and Tea Plantation, with sweeping views across the sea of green tea fields toward the ocean. Entering the Nordeste region of the island we stopped at the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park…It’s a small natural park filled with flowing waterfalls, flowers, greenery, and beautiful views. Next, we stopped at the quaint village of Nordeste, visiting the town square and St. George’s Catholic church…we are always charmed by the narrow decorative cobblestone streets and stark black-and white churches that trace their origins back to the 15th century. Just outside of Nordeste we stopped at the 150-year-old Farel do Arnel Lighthouse. Next, we stopped at the Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint with its spectacular view of cliffs and black sand beaches on the Sao Miguel’s northeast coast. Leaving the northeast, we headed south to Povoação where we stopped at Pico Longo a viewpoint overlooking the caldera. Descending into the caldera, we stopped at the town of Povoação where the first inhabitants of the island settled. São Miguel is noted for its outstanding natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation. On our drive back to Ponta Delgada through the Furnas Valley the rain blew in…we certainly dodged that bullet. Rui returned us back to ship early. Our tour today was a great start to our Mediterranean adventure, the weather was perfect, an excellent Guide and a beautiful island… To top it off, I did venture out for a few photos as we sailed away from beautiful São Miguel.