Green Azores Island Rambler Azores Portugal Welcome to the Azores, a collection of nine green and volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic with a wonderful climate that creates a paradise for orchid lovers (especially on the island of Flores).  The Azores are also one of the best places in the world to see whales and dolphins and among the most sighted species are the sperm whale, the fin whale, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin and Atlantic spotted dolphin. Your horseback adventure with Hidden Trails will be a discovery of the Isle of São Miguel, which has an extensive network of secluded tracks that are perfect for exploring by horseback. These paths have been built throughout the centuries throughout the countryside and most are still used by rural farmers going about their daily routines. Your base for this wonderful riding holiday is at a rural Quinta (farm) on the south of the island not far from the main town of Ponta Delgada, home to some beautiful examples of Portuguese architecture dating back to the 17th Century. There are five lovely guest rooms, each with en suite facilities as well as a comfortable dining room and lounge. The riding week offers a collection of half and full day rides combined with interesting sightseeing trips into towns, craters and hot springs. Experience a different experience and new scenery each and every day. On some days horses and riders are transported to different trail heads, providing for riders the most variety of trails possible, different landscapes and riding paces. These unique variations can make it seem almost as if someone has taken small parts from the five continents, blended them all together and tossed it into the ocean to create exotic Sao Miguel. Some people even say this island of the Azores is the sunken Atlantis.   Family Vacation Center-based ride Meeting: Ponta Delgda, Azores Airport: Ponta Delgda (PDL) - Joao Paulo II, Azores Transfer: Ponta Delgda Riders: Min 1 riders Max 9 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

 

Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Ponta Delgada airport (PDL). Transfer times are available anytime on any day of the week.
Check-out on the last day is at 12:00pm (noon).

Sample Itinerary: Green Azores Rambler - subject to changes

Please note this is just a suggested itinerary and is subject to changes ...  some of the order of rides may vary.

Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from the airport to the lodge and riding center.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 2: Introductory Ride & Visit of Ponta Delgada
After breakfast we enjoy a one hour riding lesson in the Picadeiro to get used to our new mounts. We enjoy lunch before heading off for our half day ride on the south side of Lagoa do Fogo. We ride on small roads and over pastures. A large part of the ride is on fields with milking cows. From the green pastures we have nice views over the middle parts of Sao Miguel. After lunch we all go an visit Ponta Delgada, the main city of Sao Miguel.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 3: Livramento to Calhetas
After breakfast we get ready for a full day ride across Sao Miguel island. We start in Livramento and end on the north coast in the village of Calhetas. During the day we will enjoy everything from lush green valleys, admire splendid sea views look at green pastures and ride through villages. Our lunch picnic is out in nature.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 4: Pico do Fogo Ride & Gorreana tea plantation visit
The half-day ride goes through the village and takes us up to Pico do Fogo, a mountain surrounded with what almost seems to be a tropical forest. We enjoy lunch. Afterwards, we do a half day excursion by car to Gorreana tea plantation. In the fantastic crater of Furnas, we will have a swim in a warm natural pool with water temperatures between 32 - 37 degrees.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 5: Relva to Varzea
Today we have an early breakfast to get ready for another full day ride along the south coast to the village of Varzea. We will admire spectacular nature and beautiful views across the ocean. Lunch is served at a restaurant in the village of Feteiras.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 6: Half-Day Ride
After breakfast, we will have a half day of leisure (maybe shopping, going to the beach, or visit the whale and dolphin safari for 55 Euro per person). We have lunch and then head for a half day ride leading up and down on winding roads with several nice opportunities for a canter. We ride to the top of a field with a magnificent view of the north as well as the south coast. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 7: Sete Cidades Ride
Today will be an unforgettable day, this is like riding in a fairytale. The full day ride takes us along the volcano crater rim overlooking the twin lakes on one side and the ocean on the other. The tranquility of the waters and the scent of the Hydrangeas, which border the crater rim, contrast the steep sides of the crater, creating a fascinating sight. Continuing down into the crater to the small and picturesque village of Sete Cidades and the Green and Blue lakes. Picnic on the grass shore of the Green lake.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 8: Departure
Departure after breakfast and transfer to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast


Sample Itinerary for 2022: Green Azores Rambler - subject to changes

Due to extreme rainfall, the following changes have been implemented for this year.

Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from the airport to the lodge and riding center.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 2: Introductory Ride & Visit of Ponta Delgada
After breakfast we enjoy a one hour riding lesson in the Picadeiro to get used to our new mounts. We enjoy lunch before heading off for our half day ride on the south side of Lagoa do Fogo. We ride on small roads and over pastures. A large part of the ride is on fields with milking cows. From the green pastures we have nice views over the middle parts of Sao Miguel. After lunch we all go an visit Ponta Delgada, the main city of Sao Miguel.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 3: Livramento to Calhetas
After breakfast we get ready for a full day ride across Sao Miguel island. We start in Livramento and end on the north coast in the village of Calhetas. During the day we will enjoy everything from lush green valleys, admire splendid sea views look at green pastures and ride through villages. Our lunch picnic is out in nature.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 4: Pico do Fogo Ride & Gorreana tea plantation visit
The half-day ride goes through the village and takes us up to Pico do Fogo, a mountain surrounded with what almost seems to be a tropical forest. We enjoy lunch. Afterwards, we do a half day excursion by car to Gorreana tea plantation. In the fantastic crater of Furnas, we will have a swim in a warm natural pool with water temperatures between 32 - 37 degrees.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 5: Remedios & Cabuco Ride
We ride on small roads and over pastures. A large part of the ride is on fields with milking cows. From the green pastures we have nice views over the middle parts of S. Miguel.
Later on, our itineraryleads up and down winding roads with several nice opportunities for canter.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 6: Half-Day Ride
After breakfast, we will have a half day of leisure (maybe shopping, going to the beach, or visit the whale and dolphin safari for 55 Euro per person). We have lunch and then head for a half day ride leading up and down on winding roads with several nice opportunities for a canter. We ride to the top of a field with a magnificent view of the north as well as the south coast. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 7: Sete Cidades Ride
Today will be an unforgettable day, this is like riding in a fairytale. The full day ride takes us along the volcano crater rim overlooking the twin lakes on one side and the ocean on the other. The tranquility of the waters and the scent of the Hydrangeas, which border the crater rim, contrast the steep sides of the crater, creating a fascinating sight. Continuing down into the crater to the small and picturesque village of Sete Cidades and the Green and Blue lakes. Picnic on the grass shore of the Green lake.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 8: Departure
Departure after breakfast and transfer to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast



Sample Itinerary: The Micaelense Ride - subject to changes 
 
This program is suited for novice riders. However, please note that the program includes long trots and some canters.

Please note this is just a suggested itinerary and is subject to changes ...  some of the order of rides may vary.

Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from the airport to the lodge and riding center. Enjoy a delicious dinner and solid night's rest
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 2: Livramento Ride
After breakfast we get to meet our horses and get to know one another during a 1-hour riding lesson to get to know our horses and then break for lunch. The ride this afternoon takes us through the village and along fantastic stone walls, which are easily looked over from horseback. Passing pastures with milking cows up to what almost seems to be a rainforest "jungle".
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 3: Lagoa do Fogo Ride
Today we take a half day ride on the south side of Lagoa do Fogo. We ride on small roads and over pastures. A large part of the ride is on fields with milking cows. From the green pastures we have nice views over the middle parts of Sao Miguel. Afternoon at leisure (or maybe a whale & dolphin safari extra cost 55 euro/person)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 4: Pico do Refúgio Ride
Half day ride exploring the beautiful north cost. Valleys covered with exuberant vegetation, charming villages and panoramic sea views. After lunch, half day excursion by car to the fantastic crater of Furnas we will have a swim in a warm natural pool with water temperatures between 34 - 37 degrees. Drink sparkling mineral water directly from the spring and more.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 5: Pico da Multa Ride & Ponta Delgada Visit
Today a ride that offers a bit of everything including fun canters. We start the ride close to the ocean, then up and over the hill Pico da Multa, continuing through the village of Gramas and we finish close to Ribeira Grande. After lunch, we visit to Ponta Delgada to do some shopping. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 6: Sightseeing & Half-Day Ride
We leave by car to visit one of the most spectacular places on the island. Lagoa do Fogo (Firelake) and Caldeira Velha, a warm natural swimming pool with a beautiful waterfall. At the top of the mountain we look down in the crater of an extinct volcano to see the enormous lake. Next stop is Caldeira Velha where the warm water river joins into a waterfall, forming a pool in a steaming geyser under the leafy forest of tree ferns. Time for a nice bath. After lunch, we spend a charming half day ride leading up and down on winding roads with several nice opportunities for a canter. We ride to the top of a field with magnificent view of the north as well as the south coast.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 7: Sete Cidades Ride
An unforgettable day, it is like riding in a fairytale landscape. The ride in Sete Cidades (twin lakes) takes us along the volcano crater rim overlooking the twin lakes on one side and the ocean on the other. The tranquility of the waters and the scent of the Hydrangeas, which border the crater rim, contrast the steep sides of the crater, creating a fascinating sight. Continuing down into the crater to the small and picturesque village of Sete Cidades and the Green and the Blue lakes. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 8: Departure
Departure after breakfast and transfer to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast


Sample Itinerary for 2022: The Micaelense Ride - subject to changes

Due to extreme rainfall, the following changes have been implemented for this year.

Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from the airport to the lodge and riding center. Enjoy a delicious dinner and solid night's rest
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 2: Livramento Ride
After breakfast we get to meet our horses and get to know one another during a 1-hour riding lesson to get to know our horses and then break for lunch. The ride this afternoon takes us through the village and along fantastic stone walls, which are easily looked over from horseback. Passing pastures with milking cows up to what almost seems to be a rainforest "jungle".
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 3: Lagoa do Fogo Ride
Today we take a half day ride on the south side of Lagoa do Fogo. We ride on small roads and over pastures. A large part of the ride is on fields with milking cows. From the green pastures we have nice views over the middle parts of Sao Miguel. Afternoon at leisure (or maybe a whale & dolphin safari extra cost 55 euro/person)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 4: Pico do Refúgio Ride
Half day ride exploring the beautiful north cost. Valleys covered with exuberant vegetation, charming villages and panoramic sea views. After lunch, half day excursion by car to the fantastic crater of Furnas we will have a swim in a warm natural pool with water temperatures between 34 - 37 degrees. Drink sparkling mineral water directly from the spring and more.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 5: Pico da Multa Ride & Ponta Delgada Visit
Today a ride that offers a bit of everything including fun canters. We start the ride close to the ocean, then up and over the hill Pico da Multa, continuing through the village of Gramas and we finish close to Ribeira Grande. After lunch, we visit to Ponta Delgada to do some shopping. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 6: Sightseeing & Half-Day Ride
We leave by car to visit one of the most spectacular places on the island: Lagoa do Fogo (Firelake) and Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande, thermal bath dating back to 1811.
After lunch, we spend a charming half day ride leading up and down on winding roads with several nice opportunities for a canter. We ride to the top of a field with magnificent view of the north as well as the south coast.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 7: Sete Cidades Ride
An unforgettable day, it is like riding in a fairytale landscape. The ride in Sete Cidades (twin lakes) takes us along the volcano crater rim overlooking the twin lakes on one side and the ocean on the other. The tranquility of the waters and the scent of the Hydrangeas, which border the crater rim, contrast the steep sides of the crater, creating a fascinating sight. Continuing down into the crater to the small and picturesque village of Sete Cidades and the Green and the Blue lakes. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Quinta

Day 8: Departure
Departure after breakfast and transfer to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast


Non Riders
Non-riding companions are welcome to join this trip. It is best to have a car in order to do some sightseeing while the rest of the group explores on horseback.

                                           Ponta Delgada area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	62	62	62	63	66	70	75	77	75	71	66	64
Average Low Temperature (°F)	54	53	54	54	57	61	64	66	65	62	58	55
Average High Temperature (°C)	17	16	17	17	19	21	24	25	24	22	19	18
Average Low Temperature (°C)	12	12	12	12	14	16	18	19	18	16	14	13
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	12	10	12	9	7	4	3	4	8	9	11	14

Source: NOAA


Seasons
Located in the temperate area of the Northern Hemisphere, the Azores are characterized by their mild climate throughout the year. Clouds and rain are a possibility any time of the year, although the summer months – between June and September/October – have longer periods of sunshine and higher temperatures. The average air temperature ranges between 13.6°C (minimum) and 22°C (maximum) throughout the whole year - normally quite comfortable for riding

However, be aware that the weather can change quickly and it is not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day! Pack and dress in layers to be prepared for all types of weather!

During the ride informal attire prevails.
Either English or Western riding gear is acceptable. For those of you who wish to ride in jeans we highly recommend the use of chaps or leggings underneath.
And even though it is not required, we do recommend a riding helmet; best to bring your own but we can lend one to you if you need one.
Casual sportswear is appropriate for the evenings. Do bring a sweater, jacket and rain-proof riding gear to be prepared for any cooler evenings and some rain showers.
We do recommend that you obtain a belt pack to carry small items during the ride.
Regular film can be obtained locally but special sizes may not be available, so bring plenty of your own.
Do not forget swimsuit and beach towel. Make sure you bring proof of insurance with you ... just in case you need it.

This list is only a guideline for you

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR

Cotton shirts with long sleeves (protection against the sun!)

Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!)

Riding boots + Minichaps

Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)

Riding gloves

Hat (with chin strap) for sun protection

Rain coat

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Jacket or sweater for cool evenings

Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts

Jeans

Shorts

Underwear and socks

Jogging suit / Pyjama

Light summer jacket

Comfortable shoes/sneakers

Swimsuit and towel

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for an emergency)

Sewing kit

Handkerchiefs

Adapter for electric appliances

Camera and enough extra films

Small bag to buckle on (for small items needed during the ride)

Spur straps (to tie sweater or parka onto the saddle)

Sun glasses with strap

Sun tan lotion and lip balm

Flash light

Average ratings from 20 tour feedbacks (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date kathleen waldvogel 10/11/2023 lig quigley 7/5/2022 debra a. liggett 7/5/2022 sharon strong 9/10/2018 ann hennigar 5/19/2017 madonna cook 10/12/2016 monica wier 10/4/2016 karen attardo 6/29/2016 allyson ruzicka 3/14/2016 peter kingsman 7/30/2014 judy brittain 5/27/2014 elizabeth williams 10/28/2013 hanna jantunen 6/28/2013 karen sieverkropp 6/24/2013 alison long 5/31/2013 claire campbell 12/6/2012 sabina björklöf 9/12/2012 vladimir das gupta 2/22/2012 nancy zeigler 10/29/2011 vicki rice 10/8/2011

Accommodation
This is a stationary ride where all nights are spent at the same location.

Description
The historic house of the Quinta (farm) is one of the oldest homes on the island and dates from the 17th Century. There are 5 lovely guest rooms, each with en-suite facilities as well as a comfortable dining room and lounge.
Each guest room has been individually furnished and decorated to give our guests a feeling of being at home - all with private bathrooms (with hair dryer), accessories and cable TV. Each bed has 2 single duvets- so you do not have to fight over the duvet at night.
Wi-Fi is available at the Quinta.



If you want to stay in a fancy hotel room which could be in any hotel anywhere in the world, this is not the place for you. It is a special place, where Claude and Christina will make your stay personalized and unforgettable.



Meals
All meals are included in your trip.

The food is a real highlight of the holiday. Christina's home cooked food is delicious! As much as possible local ingredients are used. We try to serve Azorean-style food whenever possible.
An array of seasonal fruit and vegetables will appear in all the wonderful breakfasts, lunches and dinners consisting of local produce, allowing you to experience the different flavors from the Azores.

The breakfast is a delight every morning and there is a big selection of fresh fruit, usually pineapple and a minimum of 3 varieties of melon, kiwi, pomegranate etc. There is also a selection of breads and jams and meat and cheese, every taste catered for and all fresh. 
Each evening meal includes 3 different courses. Christina will take into account guest preferences and dietary requirements. Soup to start, different every night, followed by, for example, fresh tuna or chicken in a creamy herby sauce, concluded with the best chocolate mousse.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to all dietary restrictions with prior notice.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		English
Horses:		Lusitano, Lusitano/Arab cross
Pace:		At all paced according to riding level. 3 to 6 hrs per riding day
Level:		(2.5 to 4 out of 5)    Intermediate
Age:		Min 11
Weight:		Max 200 lbs / 90 kg
Riders:		Min 1 riders	Max 9 riders

For private groups the riding level can be adjusted. Riding lessons are available on request.

Riding Experience
You should be a competent rider in control of your horse at walk, trot and canter across sometimes rugged and/or steep terrain. There are areas where you may have to dismount and lead your horse.
Please, note that riding on the beaches is not allowed in the Azores. 

Horses
The riding center has some 49 much loved horses. They are all well-schooled and a pleasure to ride, whether in the arena or out on the trail.

Non-Riding Activities
Golf, Tennis , Water sports (Windsurfing, Sailing, Snorkeling, Diving, Deep Sea Fishing), Whale and Dolphin watching, Jeep Safaris& Walking Tours.

Passports

Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:

1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.

Passport Note

(a) Sufficient funds are required for all except EU nationals. (b) Portugal is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.



Visas

Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for touristic stays of up to 90 days.

Visa Note

Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy/consulate to check visa requirements 

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	1
Visa Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	No
Return Ticket Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	No

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.