Ponta Delgada – Beautiful Volcanic Island

Although Ponta Delgada is in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean; this beautiful volcanic island is worth exploring.

Ponta Delgada

Because my husband is from the Azores; I was excited to visit this island. Though we didn’t visit the island he was from; we did spend 9 days in San Miguel. So, if you are not familiar with this island; it is made up up of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean.

Since this island is relatively quiet; there isn’t a lot of traffic.

Moreover, there are direct flights from Boston. In fact, it isn’t far away. The flight was a little bit over 4 hours flying from Boston. However, it took over 5 hours to return home from the island.

Ponta Delgada – Azores

In the first place, the Azores are made up of 9 islands. The Azores are located over 850 miles from the West which is called the “mainland”. However, if you want to visit the other islands or the mainland; you need to either fly or take a ferry.

My husband grew up in Graciosa. Since there are no direct flights from Boston to Graciosa; we decided not to visit this island during our recent trip. But, we will certainly visit this island at a later date.

Meanwhile, the islands are divided into three separate island groups. In the Eastern group, you will find São Miguel, Ponta Delgada, Santa Maria, and the Formigas Islets. The Central group consists of Faial, Graciosa, Pico, São Jorge, and Terceria. And, the Northwestern part of the island consists of Corvo and Flores.

Ponta Delgada – Where to Stay

So, there are many different hotels, B & B’s, and only two 5-star Hotels on the island. So, we chose the Octant Ponta Delgada. Although this property has a five-star rating; I was surprised by their rating after staying there.

When we arrived, there was no bellboy to greet us. In addition, we spoke to many other guests during our vacation and it was clear to my husband and me; that we all had the same opinion of the hotel.

Unfortunately, the property and the rooms are outdated. The room we stayed in had markings on the wall and the headboard was covered with marks. Also, the rooms have no peephole at the door.

In addition, the swimming pool located on the 7th floor is not heated so even though it is very humid during the Summer months; the water is ice cold.

The bottom line is that their lack of service doesn’t quantify a five-star hotel.

If you are planning to vacation in São Miguel; I recommend the Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico. During our vacation; we visited this property and dined at their restaurants a few times. Additionally, we found this property much nicer.

Ponta Delgada – What to Do

The last time I vacationed in Portugal was on the “mainland”.

So, this time around I was excited to explore this beautiful volcanic island.

Ponta Delgada is known for its greenery and volcanic nature.

During our recent trip; we planned a 1/2 day excursion to Sele Citades.

Sde Citades is located in the center of a massive volcanic crater.

Also, the Twin Lakes are a “must” to see.

Although the beautiful picturesque scenery is worth visiting; I recommend using a good tour service. Unfortunately, the one the Experience Planner at our hotel set us up with was not enjoyable due to the bumpy roads.Ponta Delgada - Beautiful Volcanic Island

In addition, we were within walking distance of downtown and enjoyed the town square. In my opinion, this part of the island was worth seeing. It has a traditional church from the 16th century with a bell tower.

Also, this part of downtown has an old European charm.

Ponta Delgada - Beautiful Volcanic Island

Finally, one of my and my husband’s favorite excursions was spending an afternoon visiting Lagoa do Fogo.

Lagoa Do Fogo is the second biggest lake in São Miguel.

Whether you like to hike, dip into the mud bath, or see the beautiful waterfalls; I highly recommend this excursion.Lagoa do Fogo

Also, this part of downtown had an old European charm.

Finally, during our last night in Ponta Delgada; we participated in a wine and cheese tasting.

How Long Should You Stay

When you arrive in the Azores; you lose time. At the same time, our flight departed from Boston, Massachusetts at 9:30 p.m. and arrived at approximately 6:15 a.m. With the loss of time; it takes about a day before you feel like yourself.

Between losing time and gaining time returning; I recommend staying approximately 5 days. Although my husband is from the Azores; he felt our vacation was too long. However, if you plan to visit the other islands; you may want to stay 12 – 16 days.

Finally, if you are planning a vacation in the future; check out my Luxury Affordable Vacation post for some ideas.

As always, I welcome your comments about Ponta Delgada. Have you visited this Island?