7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Ponta Delgada

As a digital nomad living in Ponta Delgada, the largest city on São Miguel Island in the Azores, you're perfectly positioned to explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences Portugal has to offer. While the city itself is a hub of activity and charm, the weekends are an opportunity to venture out and discover the surrounding areas. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven weekend getaways that promise to enrich your nomadic lifestyle with adventure and relaxation.

Furnas

Furnas, located in the eastern part of São Miguel Island, is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Known for its geothermal hot springs, lush botanical gardens, and the Terra Nostra Park, Furnas offers a therapeutic escape with its warm, mineral-rich waters. The town is also famous for its cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground by the heat of the volcanic earth. Walking around the lake and visiting the geysers are other popular activities that make Furnas a delightful weekend retreat.

How to Get There: Furnas is about a 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area at your own pace.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to try the cozido das Furnas, a unique local dish that encapsulates the volcanic essence of the region.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, known for its Art Deco style and access to thermal pools set within a botanical garden.

Where to Eat: Visit the Terra Nostra Garden Restaurant to taste the local cozido and other Azorean specialties in a picturesque setting.

Sete Cidades

The twin lakes of Sete Cidades, situated in a massive volcanic crater, are one of São Miguel's most iconic landscapes. The contrast between the blue and green waters, according to legend, represents the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love. Hiking, cycling, and kayaking are popular ways to enjoy the stunning scenery. The area also offers quaint villages and viewpoints like Vista do Rei, where you can capture the perfect panoramic photo of the lakes.

How to Get There: Sete Cidades is approximately a 30-minute drive from Ponta Delgada. The journey itself offers scenic views and pleasant stops along the way.

Travel Tip: For a unique perspective, hike to the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel, which offers an incredible vantage point of the crater lakes.

Where to Stay: The Sete Cidades Lake Lodge offers cozy accommodations with stunning views of the lakes.

Where to Eat: Lagoa Azul restaurant provides a great dining experience with views of the blue lake and serves traditional Azorean dishes.

Nordeste

Nordeste is often hailed as the most picturesque part of São Miguel, with its rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and lush greenery. It's a paradise for nature lovers and those looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path destination. The area's hiking trails lead to some of the island's most beautiful waterfalls, like Ribeira dos Caldeirões, and the viewpoints such as Ponta do Sossego offer breathtaking coastal vistas.

How to Get There: Nordeste is about a 1.5-hour drive from Ponta Delgada. The journey takes you through some of the island's most beautiful landscapes.

Travel Tip: Visit the village's lighthouse, Farol do Arnel, for a picturesque scene straight out of a postcard.

Where to Stay: The Estalagem dos Clérigos offers comfortable rooms with sea views and is a great base for exploring the region.

Where to Eat: The Restaurante O Cardoso, located in the town of Nordeste, serves delicious seafood and local cuisine.

Vila Franca do Campo

Vila Franca do Campo, once the capital of São Miguel, is a charming town with a rich history and a stunning offshore islet. The islet, a nature reserve, is a popular spot for snorkeling and bird watching. Back on the mainland, you can explore the town's historic center, visit the marina, or indulge in the famous "Queijadas da Vila," a local sweet pastry.

How to Get There: Vila Franca do Campo is a short 25-minute drive from Ponta Delgada, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway.

Travel Tip: Take a boat trip to the islet of Vila Franca do Campo for a unique swimming experience in the crater of an ancient submerged volcano.

Where to Stay: The Pestana Bahia Praia Nature & Beach Resort offers luxury accommodations with beachfront access and stunning views of the islet.

Where to Eat: The O Jaime restaurant is a local favorite, known for its fresh fish and seafood dishes.

Ribeira Grande

Ribeira Grande, the second-largest city on São Miguel, is known for its historic architecture, surf beaches, and the only tea plantations in Europe. The city's center, with its 17th-century baroque architecture, offers a glimpse into the island's past. The nearby beaches, such as Santa Bárbara, are a haven for surfers and beachgoers alike. Don't forget to visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, where you can learn about tea production and sample the local brew.

How to Get There: Ribeira Grande is a quick 20-minute drive north from Ponta Delgada, with well-marked roads leading to the city.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to catch a surf competition at Santa Bárbara beach, where you can watch some of the best surfers in the world compete.

Where to Stay: Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort offers modern and sustainable accommodations right on the beachfront.

Where to Eat: Tuká Tulá Bar is a trendy spot with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal or a cocktail after a day at the beach.

Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo, or "Lake of Fire," is a stunning crater lake nestled within the Água de Pau Massif stratovolcano. This nature reserve is one of the most pristine and protected areas on São Miguel, offering hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding hills. The area is less frequented by tourists, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat into nature.

How to Get There: The drive to Lagoa do Fogo from Ponta Delgada takes about 30 minutes. The route is well-signed and offers several spots to stop and enjoy the view.

Travel Tip: For the best views, hike to the Miradouro da Serra da Barrosa lookout point, especially enchanting at sunrise or sunset.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations directly at Lagoa do Fogo, but nearby Ribeira Grande offers various options like the aforementioned Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort.

Where to Eat: For a meal with a view, visit Restaurante Alabote in Ribeira Grande, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.

Ilhéu de Vila Franca

The Ilhéu de Vila Franca, just off the coast of Vila Franca do Campo, is a small, circular island that's a protected nature reserve. The islet is the result of a collapsed volcanic crater and now hosts a natural swimming pool in its center. Accessible by a short boat ride, it's a paradise for snorkelers, divers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the mainland for a day.

How to Get There: Boat trips to Ilhéu de Vila Franca depart regularly from Vila Franca do Campo marina during the summer months.

Travel Tip: Be sure to book your boat ticket in advance, especially during peak season, as the number of daily visitors to the islet is limited to protect the environment.

Where to Stay: While there's no accommodation on the islet, nearby Vila Franca do Campo offers various options like the luxurious Pestana Bahia Praia.

Where to Eat: Back on the mainland, enjoy a meal at Restaurante São Pedro, which offers a terrace with panoramic views of the islet and serves excellent seafood.

These weekend getaways offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, perfect for digital nomads looking to balance work and exploration in the stunning Azores.