Discovering the Flavors of Ribeira Grande

Nestled in the heart of the Azores, Ribeira Grande offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and culinary wonders, perfect for a family getaway. As you step into this charming town, the aroma of fresh seafood and local delicacies fills the air, inviting you to explore its vibrant culinary scene. With the weather on May 24th being pleasantly warm and partly cloudy, it’s an ideal day to embark on a gastronomic adventure.

Start your day with a visit to the local markets, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal products. The bustling stalls offer a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked bread, perfect for a family picnic by the beach. As you wander through the market, don’t miss the chance to try the famous Azorean pineapple, known for its sweet and tangy flavor.

For lunch, head to one of the family-friendly restaurants in town, where you can savor traditional dishes like “Cozido das Furnas,” a hearty stew cooked underground using volcanic heat. The kids will love the interactive experience of watching the stew being unearthed, and the rich flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders

On May 25th, the weather takes a cooler turn with overcast skies, making it a perfect day for a scenic tour of São Miguel’s breathtaking landscapes. Join the Pineapple & Volcano Tour, which starts at 9:00 AM and runs until 5:00 PM, offering a full day of exploration and adventure.

This tour takes you to some of the island’s most iconic sites, including the stunning Lagoa do Fogo and the picturesque Sete Cidades. As you stand at the Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa, you’ll be captivated by the panoramic views of the volcanic crater and the lush greenery surrounding it. The tour also includes a visit to the historic pineapple plantations, where you can taste the island’s signature fruit in the form of liqueur and jam.

A recent review from May 8th, 2025, highlights the tour’s excellence:

A fantastic way to explore the Island - I would 100% recommend this company. We did two full day tours. Both were excellent. We did the sete cidades with Nuno, and the Furnas tour with Diogo. Both tour guides were absolutely brilliant. Both were a credit to the company. The tours were informative, but at the same time relaxed. Both tours came with an excellent lunch. A perfectly lovely way to explore the beautiful island.

Relaxing in Furnas’ Thermal Pools

For a more laid-back experience, consider the Furnas Jeep Tour, available on May 24th from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the geothermal wonders of Furnas, a town renowned for its hot springs and volcanic activity.

The tour includes a visit to the Caldeira das Furnas, where you can witness the fascinating process of cooking a traditional Portuguese stew using the natural heat of the earth. After a delicious lunch, unwind in the soothing thermal pools of Parque Terra Nostra, surrounded by lush gardens and exotic plants.

A review from February 1st, 2025, praises the tour’s guide:

Beyond any expectations— ask for Telmo - First time to Sao Miguel and this was also our first tour there. The island is incredible obviously and this gives you so much to explore and quite honestly we were awed. Even more impressive was our experience with Telmo our guide. He was five star; extremely good natured, accommodating, informative and intelligent. Truly a delightful man we were both very impressed with him and had a great day hanging with him, even with the tour being just the two of us.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Ribeira Grande offers a perfect blend of activities for families to enjoy. With its stunning landscapes, rich culinary heritage, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a destination that promises unforgettable memories for travelers of all ages.