Climate
Similar to other islands in the archipelago, São Miguel is influenced by ocean currents and winds, and in particular, the cyclonic Gulf Stream. It functions as a moderating force in the islands, keeping temperatures hovering between 10C and 27ºC throughout the year.
Geography
S. Miguel island is composed of two volcanic massifs separated by a low central ridge. The highest point is at Pico da Vara in the eastern massif, which rises to 1080 m. The large craters of Sete Cidades, Fogo and Furnas contain wonderful lakes of crystal-clear water.
Gastronomy
Here's what we recommend : Fish stew,"Cozido das Furnas" (casserole),Seafood,Pineapple,Cheeses, Liqueurs, tea and "Bolo Lêvedo" (yeast cake) among all the others specialities you can find in any of our restaurants.
Festivities
The Holy Spirit ( Espírito Santo ) is a festival celebrated on all the islands although . All the parishes in each island have a chapel, known as an "Império" (empire), with its own brotherhood. These are considered the most typical in the islands'' tradition of religious festivals.Those festivities start in may and goes until september and in particular the 7th suday after Easter.
The biggest festivity of the island and of the archipel is « Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres » .Held on the fifth Sunday after Easter and it has a duration of 3 days. During this days the image of "Senhor Santo Cristo" is worshipped at Esperança Convent in Ponta Delgada as part of tradition that dates back over 400 years. In addition to the religious aspects of the festival, there are also sporting and cultural events.
You are welcome to enter at the following link to know a little bit more about this festivity :http://www.santo-cristo.com/
"Cavalhadas de São Pedro » takes place every year in Ribeira Grande .The "King", or "Head", knights, lancers, stewards and trumpeters dressed in colourful costumes parade through the streets on their shining horses on the morning of St. Peter's day ( 29th June )
Places to Visit
* Lagoa das Sete Cidades ( the twin lakes ) on the east coast of the island where some legends are very known.
* Lagoa do fogo ( The fire lake) located in the center of the island ,sloping down on a carpet of soft fields to a dazzling white sandy beach lies an enormous crater, flanked by the deep blue sea to the north and the brilliant sunlight of the south, and concealing the long oval-shaped .
* Furnas has a lake intersected by gardens and forests reminiscent of childhood fairy tales, filled with flowers, and mineral waters, thermal waters. Furnas has a unique ambiance that we do recommend to visit.
* Nordeste is on the "north-east" is possibly the best-preserved, most colourful and delightful part of the island.
*Vila Franca do campo Islet is a nature reserve near Vila Franca do Campo which extends along approximately 1 km of coast.There are regular ferry trips durimg summer for visitors . Please note that it's not possible to spend the night there.
In this island, as in any other island of Azores , we can turn your trip unforgettable!!
Tell us what your preferences are: Nature, Landscapes, Adventure or why not a Sea Trip .
Let's us help you organise your holidays by contacting us at : azoresliaison@gmail.com
