Exploring the Azores | HNHO - Explora | Highlight

Crystal clear waters of one of the natural rock pools for swimming

WHERE TO NEXT?

Dear Traveler,

I am on day five of our scouting trip in the Azores and I've been captivated by the unspoiled beauty, charming Pico homes made of lava rock, vineyards lined with lava stone walls to protect the growing grape vines from the sea mist, natural rock swimming pools and warmth of the people.

The Azores are a pristine, nine island archipelago in the North Atlantic. We are exploring four of the islands (Faial, Pico, São Miguel and Terceira) and learning highlights of the others. Although they share many commonalities, they have different vibes, experiences, culture and logistics.

The islands are a paradise for nature enthusiasts, active travelers and adventure seekers - from hiking the towering volcanic peaks (*TIP – go at sunrise or sunset for a very special experience) to mountain biking the rolling green hills to dipping in the azure blue lakes.

What else do you do in the Azores?

On/under the water - paddle boarding, kayaking, soaking in hot springs, swimming in natural coastal rock pools, surfing, rock climbing, canyoning, go scuba diving with manta rays and sharks, snorkeling, windsurfing and whale and dolphin spotting.

On land - hiking, e-biking, horseback riding, golfing, deep sea fishing, paragliding, sailing, rock climbing and canyoning.

Go wine tasting and learn about the history of how they cultivate grapes under extreme weather conditions.

Learn about geology through visiting lava tube caves and volcanoes (see a photo below from the depths of the lgar do Carvão, a 300 foot deep volcanic chimney we visited).

Learn about local Azorean cooking with a class by a private chef.

Watch the local men practice “fighting” bulls in a ring to select the bull for an upcoming show (the men jump in front of the bull and try to stay as long as possible to impress the ladies before jumping out over the wall of the arena).

What is a perfect day for me in the Azores?

I can think of so many!

Here are a few…

Go for a three hour morning hike on the volcano then spend a completely free afternoon at one of the salt water rock pools on the ocean. Bring a book, towel and sunscreen. If traveling with kids bring snorkeling gear. Plan ahead for an expertly packed picnic basket with a bottle of local wine. Relax and enjoy feeling like you are in the middle of nowhere with no place to be.
Wake early for breakfast before heading out on a RIB boat whale and dolphin spotting. Enjoy being on the water gazing at the beautiful coastline. When you finish up, head back to your hotel for a dip and order lunch poolside. Read your favorite novel, take a nap. Later this afternoon head out for a guided hike up the volcano. You'll learn all about the history of the Azores and the instrumental role these islands played in the sea trade of the ships heading out on long journeys around the southern tip of Africa all the way to India. You’ll reach the peak before the sun goes down – just enough time for your guide to set up your private picnic to watch the sunset.
Sleep in. Then take a yoga class. After breakfast go for a walk on the lava rocks along the craggy coastline – watching the birds ride the winds and the waves crash against the boulders. Soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Then arrive at a vineyard for lunch and wine tasting. I suggest the Terrantez do Pico. Head back to the hotel for a nap on your terrace overlooking the ocean. Wake around 6pm. Shower and get ready for dinner - tasting the local beef and fresh caught fish.
Meet your sailboat captain at the marina for a full day sail. Destination? Santa Maria, stopping along the way for a dip in a secluded cove. Enjoy lunch – dining on shashimi tuna and seared grouper. Jump ashore and take a hike around the perimeter of the island. Work up your appetite so you’ll be hungry enough to eat dinner on your return sail. Time it perfectly to finish your day as the sun sets over the North Atlantic.

What are the two best ways to visit the Azores?

It’s a destination worthy of 7 to 9 nights on its own (staying at 2-3 islands) or
As a 4 night stopover on your way home from mainland Portugal or another European vacation.

There are direct flights to the Azores from:

Lisbon, Porto, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Barcelona, Madrid, Bilbao, Madeira Island, Zurich (Mondays) Manchester UK, Oakland CA (some are seasonal).

Once your stay is over, take an easy non-stop flight back to the US – with only a 4 hour time change to the East Coast.

See a few pictures below and follow Truvay Travel on instagram for daily updates on our experiences and the hotels we visit.

The Azorean culture is rich and vibrant, rooted in centuries of seafaring traditions and influenced by the many civilizations that have landed on these shores. If you have been many places in Europe and are looking for a more off the beaten path destination, the Azores are the perfect spot!

The Inspiration + Information section below includes articles on how to pull off a surprise family vacation (so fun!), how to take the perfect family selfie, mindful and enriching experiences topping affluent travelers’ wish lists and a great article by National Geographic about the golden gap year - why the 50-plus generation are setting off to see the world.

Also how to speed through security lines and eat on vacation without feeling terrible. Lots of very useful tips!

The last few days in the Azores are going to be full of a few surprises and more active adventures. I look forward to sharing more next week!

Enjoy the sunshine and summer weather!

Warmly,

Although this was a cloudy morning, I loved the setting of this pool overlooking the ocean

Heading out whale and dolphin spotting

A gorgeous afternoon in Terceira with my colleagues and partners

The view up after we'd descended part way down into the Algar do Carvão, a 300 foot deep volcanic chimney. It was formed about 3,200 years ago from volcanic eruptions.

Below:

This week's highlight - Cella Bar in Pico, the Azores
Hot New Hotel Opening - Explora Journeys
Inspiration + Information

CELLA BAR

📷 Cella Bar

As you read above, there are many ways to spend a perfect Azorean day. Two of my favorites include swimming in a natural coastal rock pool and leisurely lunching.

At Cella Bar you can do both.

Stop by the coastal rock pool just in front of Cella Bar in the early afternoon to swim, relax and read by the sea. You’ll be joined by other couples and families and experience a very authentic Azorean afternoon. A few hours later change your clothes and if you’ve had enough sun, dine indoors, but if you are up for more rays, get a table on the rooftop terrace.

Cella bar is undeniably eye catching. Comprised of two distinct buildings - one a remodeled barn with volcanic stone walls and the other a bulging timber addition conceived as a cross between a whale and a wine barrel. Its shape is deserving of architectural awards, of which it has won several.

Sample a cheese board, beet hummus or sauteed prawns. Enjoy local beef and grilled tuna straight from the sea.

Get your greens with an arugula, walnut, goji and parmesan salad.

Pair the above with local wines – they have many types of whites and reds from Pico and the Azores as well as gin from the Azores and Alentejo on the mainland.

The sun stays out until 9pm in summer so there is no rush back to your hotel. On the weekends stay for the live musical performance.

Your driver will get you when you wish and tonight I’ll suggest skipping dinner and climbing into bed early.

This is Europe as it is meant to be – joyful in its slow pace with shining sun, casually fun moments with your family and delectable cuisine.

📷 Cella Bar

🌟 Do you love...

Hotel brands like the Four Seasons, Rosewood, Belmond and One and Only?
Having an outdoor terrace to enjoy the sunset or sunrise?
Michelin star cuisine and world class wines?
A gym with reformer pilates or spin bikes overlooking the sea?
Visiting favorite spots in Europe like Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Iceland, Ireland or the UK? Or exploring new destinations like Alaska, the Middle East, Southeast Asia or India?

Then you are going to love this new ultra luxury resort!

And it happens to be floating on the water.

Explora Journeys is the first-of-its-kind cruise line. Built for people who don't normally go on cruises. Which includes me and most of you.

The accommodations range from junior suites to the owner’s residence – all with outdoor terraces. This luxury resort on the water welcomes families with connecting rooms and the Nautilus Club with activities for kids 6-18.

What do you do at night?

You do what you might do in the evening at a Four Seasons. Enjoy dinner with your family or friends.
If interested, meet other like-minded travelers in one of the 12 bars and lounges.
Play blackjack in the small, exclusive casino.

What do you do while sailing?

Take a dip in one of the four pools.
Work out in the state-of-the-art gym.
Play pickleball.
Luxuriate in the sauna, steam room, ice fall, steam shower and Himalayan salt cave in the wellness center.

What you aren’t doing:

Paying $50 for a glass of Chardonnay or Aperol Spritz because it’s all included.
Packing and unpacking multiple times in various destinations.

Other insights:

They take all-inclusive to a new level! It includes all dining, premium spirits and fine wines in your suite, bars and restaurants, access to the spa thermal area, ALL gratuities and unlimited Wi-Fi.

The only additions?

Spa treatments
2 special dining experiences
Anthology- The celebrated chef experience venue will feature Michelin Star chefs on a rotating basis. Each chef will create a tasting menu with wine pairings.
The Chef's Kitchen- An immersive experience for up to 12 where guests will interact with the chef.

Of course it comes with the usual perks and VIP treatment when booking your stay through Truvay Travel.

If you've never considered taking a cruise before, Explora Journeys is a good one. They haven't started sailing yet, and as with hotels, it's good to give it some time to get things ironed out. But with cruises, it's best to book ahead because room categories and full ships sell out well in advance. Think about it for late 2024 and beyond.