ITINERARY. Accommodation: Hotel do Canal (4 nights) Meals: B, D

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2 ITINERARY An island-hopping journey through the Azores breathtaking volcanic terrain. The islands are a lush green archipelago in the mid-atlantic. The five islands we visit offer stunning mountains, quiet valleys, enchanting lakes in extinct craters, pleasant hill country, fantastic hydrangea hedges and wonderful coasts lined with picturesque villages and historical towns. The pace of life in the Azores is more relaxed, so whilst you explore these islands you have time to savour them too. Our walks are a relaxed exploration, providing ample time for photography, observation of flora and fauna and to appreciate the beauty of the scenery, the history and the culture of the places through which you will be passing. Walks of 2-11 miles (3-17km), with the option to ascend Mount Pico, the highest peak in the Atlantic. Day 2: Ponta Delgada, fly to Faial After breakfast we ll take a leisurely tour of Ponta Delgada through the cobbled streets of the old city, passing the fortress of Sao Bras, the 17th century Baroque Igreja do Colegio, the cathedral of Largo Martires, city gates and marina where you can stop for a coffee (1½ miles (2km) with no ascent). In the afternoon we fly to Faial and transfer to the hotel. Accommodation: Hotel do Canal (4 nights) Day 3: Caldeira and Capelinhos Faial, known as the blue isle, is part of the central group of islands which include Pico, Sao Jorge, Terceira and Graciosa. Today we have a busy day exploring the island by bus and on foot. We start the day with a short drive to the Caldeira in the centre of the island. The crater floor is a protected area, but for those wanting to stretch their legs you can walk from the view point to the highest point on the island, Cabeco Gordo at 1,043m with 400 feet (120m) of ascent. Day 1: Arrival day For those arriving on the HF Holidays flight from the UK to Ponta Delgada, there is a short transfer to your hotel, which is situated on a pedestrian street between a small park and the square of Praca 5 October. Accommodation: Hotel Talisman (1 night) From the Caldeira we head down towards the coast and Capelinhos where the last volcanic eruption in the Azores was in There are options for short walks in the area and a visit to the Capelinhos museum, which tells the story of the eruption. 1 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

3 Day 4: Sail to Pico A short ferry ride today takes us to the nearby island of Pico, and a short morning tour. Pico is the most obviously volcanic of all the nine islands and is dominated by its impressive volcanic cone of Pico Alto (2,351m), the highest point in Portugal. In the afternoon we head up towards Mt Pico to start our walk at Frei Matias, gradually descending back to Madalena along farm trails and paths. Along the way we pass cultivated fields, fertile orchards and a small botanical garden at Quinta das Rosa. Cobbled streets and plane trees line our way in Madalena; we carry on past the church to the harbour and on to the ferry terminal for our return to Faial. Distance: 9 miles (14 ½ km) with 2,150 feet (650m) of descent. Day 5: Monte Guia and Porto Pim Today we have a morning walk to Monte Guia and Porto Pim on the outskirts of Horta. Distance: 2 miles (3km) with 500 feet (150m) of ascent. The afternoon is free, allowing you to explore independently at your own pace or to simply relax around the hotel. An option for you this afternoon could be a whale and dolphin watching trip (payable locally, approx. 50pp). There is an option (at additional cost, payable locally) to ascend Mt Pico, the highest mountain in the Atlantic. This involves a steep ascent and descent of 3,700 feet (1,120m) with some difficult terrain, and stout boots are required. The walk takes about 8 hours. If the mountain is covered by cloud it s recommended to not attempt the ascent; you ll be advised locally if it s possible. Day 6: Sail to São Jorge We take a morning ferry to Velas, São Jorge and transfer to the hotel. For the next 3 nights we are based in Velas, the island s pretty capital. Like most of the smaller islands, this is a sleepy place with a few small hotels, shops, cafés and restaurants. This afternoon we have an optional guided walk from the hotel to the small volcanic cone opposite and chapel of Senhora Livramento. En route we pass a couple of bathing areas where you can swim or snorkel in the warm Atlantic (approx. 22 C). Distance: 2 miles (3km) with 500 feet (150m) of ascent. Accommodation: Hotel São Jorge (3 nights) Day 7: Three fajãs walk This is purported to be the best walk in the Azores. Most of Sao Jorge s population is 2 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

4 concentrated along the numerous island fajas - the small coastal plains created by the erosion of the steep cliff sides. This walk begins at the top of the island and descends to sea level through some of the archipelago s most beautiful scenery. The hydrangea-lined path takes you through forests of tree heather and pastures down to Faja do Santo Cristo where clams are farmed in its sweetwater lagoon. The undulating path continues through two more fajas before ending at the café in Faja dos Cubres. Distance: 6 miles (10km) with 2,200 feet (670m) of descent. Day 8: São Jorge spine walk This high-level walk follows a cinder track along the spine of the island circling between the green crater peaks including the island s highest, Pico da Esperanca at 3,455 feet (1,053m). The walk undulates across the top of the island before descending to the small village of Norte Grande. For those who have walked far enough today, we can arrange for you to be picked up from the café and transferred down to Faja Ouvidor on the north coast (where the walk ends) for a refreshing dip in the sea! The top of the island is often shrouded in cloud which blows in and out during the day but, when clear, there are spectacular views to Terceira and Graciosa on one side and Pico and Faial on the other. Distance:10½ miles (17km) with 900 feet (270m) of ascent and 3,450 feet (1,053m) of descent. Day 9: Fly to Terceira, Angra do Heroísmo A mid-afternoon flight to Terceira, and a 20- minute transfer to the Pousada Sao Sebastao in Angra. Our hotel is situated just above the harbour and is a short walk from the historic city centre. The city was devastated by an earthquake in 1980 and has since been meticulously restored to its former glory. In 1983 Angra was declared a UNESCO Historic World Heritage Site. Accommodation: Hotel Pousada, Sao Sabastaio (2 nights). 3 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

5 Day 10: Island exploration Today we enjoy a full day tour of Terceira with some short walks. We head into the centre of the island, which is a mix of farmland and pristine forests of juniper and areas of dense sphagnum moss. These wild areas give you an idea of what the islands were like before they were colonised by the Portuguese. A real highlight of the day is a visit to Algar do Carvao (Cavern of Coal), with its cathedral-like dome. The name is misleading as this geological feature is actually a volcanic lava tube formed from trapped gases. There is a small visitor centre which explains how the tube was formed and for those wanting to explore the depths of an Azorean volcano you can follow a well-lit tunnel to the small lake at the bottom. From here we head north to the wine growing region of Biscoitos which is known for its Verdelho wines. In the afternoon we return via Praia and visit the small bird reserve near the harbour which is popular with waders. in lush vegetation: Himalayan ginger, blue hydrangea hedges and green dairy meadows. The path contours half the crater rim giving wonderful views down towards the mystical blue and green lakes inside and over the deep blue Atlantic on the other side. The walk then descends, quite steeply, into the village of Sete Cidades on the shores of the two lakes. Distance: 7½ miles (12km) with 1,900 feet (580m) of descent. Day 11: Fly to São Miguel A late morning flight takes us back to Ponta Delgada. Accommodation: Hotel Talisman (4 nights) Day 12: Sete Cidades This morning we drive west to the famous crater lakes known as Sete Cidades (Seven Cities). The lakes are known locally as Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. The crater itself is the largest in the Azores measuring 3 miles (5km) across and 9 miles (15km) in circumference. The rim lies at 2,300 feet (700m) and is covered Day 13: Sightseeing around Furnas Today we drive east to the volcanic basin of Furnas. As the name implies, this area is a volcanic hot spot where the earth s crust is thin enough to allow rains to permeate through to the hot rock below. The water is then forced back to the surface where it is possible to see pools of boiling mud, water and sulphurous steam being forced out of the ground. We 4 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

6 spend part of the morning walking around Furnas lake (approx. 1 hour) before heading down to the Parque Terra Nostra and its thermal pool, in which you can swim. Throughout the day there will be short walks to points of interest. Day 15: Departure day Return flight back to the UK Meals: B The gardens of Parque Terra Nostra were first created in 1770 by Thomas Hickling (the US consul to the islands). Since those early days the gardens have been extended and have matured into one of the finest to be seen anywhere in the world. Distance: 3 miles (5km) with minimal descent. Day 14: Geo Tour Today we enjoy a full day geo-tour, driving from Ponta Delgada. We ll be accompanied by a local geologist who will explain how the island was formed, the changes that have taken place from various eruptions and how this affects the landscape today. We ll concentrate on the centre of the island and head up towards Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lakes). This crater lake forms one of three volcanoes which make up the island of Sao Miguel, the others being Sete Cidades and Furnas. Later in the morning we head north towards Caldeira Velha and the new geo-thermal power station which produces approximately 50% of Sao Miguel s electricity. We usually have lunch in Caldeiras (a small spa village), which you can explore on foot. 5 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

7 ACCOMMODATION We stay in the carefully selected 3 & 4-star hotels chosen for their high standards, good food and accessibility to our sightseeing and walking tours. The art deco 3-star Hotel Talisman in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, has two restaurants, a café terrace and a rooftop pool. It is in the centre of town, just minutes from the seafront. The 4-star Hotel do Canal is situated opposite the marina with views of the marina and Pico beyond. This modern hotel is in keeping with the marine feel of Horta with a decked balcony and nautical photographs. All rooms have air conditioning, TV, mini bar, hairdryer and Wi-Fi. The 3-star Hotel São Jorge is located right on the seafront in Velas, São Jorge, looking out over the sea towards Pico. All the rooms have balconies overlooking the sea and there is a large outdoor pool.

8 On Terceira, we stay in the historic Hotel Sao Sebastiao, one of two Pousadas on the Azores. Situated within a fortress, it has 28 bedrooms. All rooms have an en suite bathroom, heating/air conditioning, mini bar, phone, cable TV, hairdryer, safe and internet access. 7 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

9 BEFORE YOUR HOLIDAY Ahead of your trip, we hope you find this information comprehensive. If you need anything else, please get in touch. All details were correct at the time of writing. Passport and visa requirements are subject to change: please check with your consulate before you travel to ensure you meet all travel and entry requirements. We advise that you check your government s travel advice before travelling. For UK travellers, please check In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as follows: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Tel +44 (0) or +44(0) (from overseas) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +44 (0) Airport parking & accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call and quote HX031 or book online at: Suggested Kit List As you ll be carrying your own luggage at airports and between your transport and hotels we recommend you try to keep your luggage to a minimum. These items are a general suggestion of what to pack for an active outdoor and walking holiday; depending on your destination, you may need more of some things and less or none! of others. We advise being prepared for all weather conditions, but you ll know best what you prefer to wear when out walking or while taking part in other outdoor activities. Walking boots (worn in), with good ankle support and spare bootlaces Walking socks Walking sandals Lightweight fleece, waterproof trousers and jacket Shorts and short-sleeved t-shirts Long trousers and long-sleeved lightcoloured shirts with collars to protect from the sun. Your clothing should ideally be pre-treated with insect repellent and in-built sun protection (available from specialist clothing stores such as Rohan, Cotswold Outdoor). Warm fleece, scarf/buff hat and gloves Torch Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing Sun protection sun hat, sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection Water bottle at least 2-litre capacity Lightweight survival bag Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) and a liner or cover to keep contents dry Insect repellent Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets; hand sanitiser Essential: Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays registration form. 8 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

10 Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit card is probably the most convenient method. Optional: trekking poles; camera; umbrella; binoculars; high energy food bars; swimming costume and towel; walking sandals Please note that your HF Holidays leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety. Baggage allowance 1 piece checked-in luggage (max 20kg) for inter-island flights. Please check details of your airline s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked. Passports & visas Passports must be valid for 3 months beyond the length of stay. Visas are not required for UK, Australian, Canadian & US passport holders. Other countries should consult the embassy for advice. Travel insurance Insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore, if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and advise us of the insurance company and policy number. We have negotiated special holiday insurance and full details of this cover can be found in our brochure or at There is no extra charge for pre-existing illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us, please call us on or holidayservices@hfholidays.co.uk. For more information about healthcare abroad and its costs, please visit: If you are arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. Generally, this should include cover for walking at altitudes over 2,000m, which will cover you for a wide range of our holidays. Health advice This information is subject to change. In all cases, we highly recommend you consult your GP both for up to date details and for more information on what is appropriate to your situation. As a rule, travellers should be up to date with their routine vaccinations and boosters as recommended in the UK - including, for example, the MMR and diptheria, tetanus, polio vaccines. Requirements can change, and we recommend you check in good time ahead of your holiday. Some travellers may require vaccinations for: Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Please note: the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is banned in some countries. If you will be carrying medication, please check with the country s embassy/consulate prior to travel. As an extra precaution, it is recommended to: Keep medication in its original packet Take a copy of your prescription If possible, ask your chemist to write the name of your medication in the language of the country you re visiting 9 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

11 For further information on country specific advice, visit or Dietary requirements Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements; we will do our best to accommodate you. If you require a specific meal on the flight, please let us know as soon as possible, and no later than 96 hours before travel. Lost/damaged luggage If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport on arrival. They will assess the damage; in some cases, the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if an immediate settlement is not possible - in many cases, baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport. HF Holidays with-flight guests On arrival, please proceed to the arrivals hall once you have passed through passport control, customs and baggage reclaim. Your HF Holidays leader or local leader will assemble the group in the arrivals hall - look out for the HF Holidays sign. Independent travellers If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group. If your flight arrives before the group flight and you would like to join the transfer to the first hotel (at additional cost), please contact our Abroad Administration team on (0) to enquire about availability and make arrangements. Safety on your holiday Once you have made your booking, you will receive a pre-holiday questionnaire where we ask for details of next of kin and insurance details. You must complete and return this to us - we need to have this from you at least 10 weeks before travel. Please also inform us of any medical situation which may affect your enjoyment of the holiday. This is important because our leaders must consider both group and individual safety at all times. Whilst out with the group, we respectfully request that you: Please listen to any safety instructions from the leader Keep group members in view, especially if weather or visibility is poor Please stay where you are if you become separated from the group. The leader will retrace their steps to find you. Each leader carries a first aid kit but is not allowed to supply any medication including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines and antiseptic cream. You may wish to bring these items with you in your own kit (see Suggested Kit List). 10 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

12 In the unlikely event that your leader is incapacitated, please use any emergency kit in their rucksack and call emergency services on 112 Please then call our emergency number and let us know there is a problem: Electricity 220V, round European two-pin sockets. Adapters are needed for UK plugs Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm +44(0) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +44 (0) Tipping Tips have been included in your holiday price for key services such as local guides/ driver/restaurants. Any additional tips are at your own discretion. Group size Typical group size is 10 to 18 guests plus a HF leader and local guide(s) Time difference GMT/UTC -1 hour Climate The Azores have a mild climate influenced by the warm Gulf Stream. Expect daytime temperatures to be in the region of 15 C to 20 C with temperatures at night dropping to about 13 C. Ponta Delgada has an annual rainfall of 70cm so it is likely that there will be some rainfall during our visit. However, rain is rarely persistent Local currency & money matters Euro (EUR,). Credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs (Multibanco) are available at larger supermarkets / shopping areas. Traveller s cheques are not advised. Language The main language spoken in the Azores is Portuguese. Suggested reading and maps David Sayers Azores (Bradt Travel Guides) 2016 Although you won t need them, if you d like any maps of the destination, you can obtain some in advance from The Map Shop: 11 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

13 12 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk