São Jorge Flexible Explorer – Velas to Calheta: A 7-Hour Customizable Journey with Two Fajã Descents
Experience São Jorge Island your way on this fully customizable 7-hour tour, perfect for those who want to decide on the day with the help of an expert driver or choose activities as the tour unfolds. Starting in the charming village of Velas, this flexible route lets you explore the island’s stunning landscapes, cultural landmarks, and iconic fajãs, with descents by car to two fajãs of your choice. Whether you’re drawn to the East Side of the island—featuring the View of Ilhéu do Topo, Cruzal Waterfall, or Fajã São João—or prefer the island’s famous cheese and coffee experiences, the choice is yours. With a lunch stop included within the 7 hours (lunch not included), or a mandatory 15-30 minute driver break if you skip lunch, this tour offers the ultimate freedom to craft your perfect São Jorge adventure—just keep the 7-hour limit in mind!
Included
- Local Driver/Guide: An experienced Driver/Guide to lead the tour.
- Transportation by private vehicle: Comfortable transfers between stops.
- Descent by car to two fajãs (traveler’s choice): Choose two fajãs to visit during the tour, with the descents made by car for accessibility and comfort.
- Optional lunch stop: A stop for lunch can be included within the 7-hour tour (lunch not included; time for lunch will depend on your chosen activities).
Note: If you choose not to stop for lunch, the driver is required to take a 15-30 minute break for a quick lunch during the tour.
Not Included
- Lunch
Note: A lunch stop can be accommodated within the 7-hour tour, but the cost of lunch is not included. - Hiking gear and equipment
- Swimming gear for Simão Dias Pool
- All activities and entrance fees: All experiences, such as the São Jorge Cheese Factory tour and tasting, coffee plantation tour and tasting at Fajã dos Vimes, or other activities, are not included but can be visited and purchased on-site at the locations.
Bookable Extras
- Light snack pack: Available for €10 per person with local treats.
- Extra hour on the tour: Extend your experience by 1 hour for 30€ (5-seat car) or 50€ (Van).
- Pre Paid Lunch – Reservation fee + Lunch At Local Spot – 15€ Person
Itinerary (Customizable)
Start in Velas
Begin in the picturesque village of Velas, the heart of São Jorge, known for its colorful streets and ocean views. From here, work with your driver to decide your route and activities for the day.
Begin in the picturesque village of Velas, the heart of São Jorge, known for its colorful streets and ocean views. From here, work with your driver to decide your route and activities for the day.
Potential Stops (Client’s Choice)
- Sete Fontes Forest Park: A lush retreat in Rosais with ancient trees, natural springs, and stunning viewpoints offering panoramic views of the neighboring islands and São Jorge’s north coast.
- São Jorge Cheese Factory: Option to visit for a guided tour and tasting of their iconic cheese (available Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM; fees apply, payable on-site).
- Fajãs do Norte Viewpoint: Splendid views of São Jorge’s rugged north coast and its notable fajãs, such as Fajã do Ouvidor and Fajã da Ribeira da Areia.
- Descent by Car to Two Fajãs (Traveler’s Choice): Choose two fajãs to visit, with recommendations for:
- Fajã dos Cubres: A UNESCO-recognized site and one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal in the Sea Villages category, featuring a beautiful lagoon and peaceful coastal scenery.
- Fajã dos Vimes: Known for its unique coffee plantation, where you can enjoy a tour of the plantation with a coffee tasting (fees may apply, payable on-site), and visit the coffee shop to purchase coffee or beans.
- Fajã do Ouvidor (Swimming Option): Features the natural Simão Dias Pool, perfect for a refreshing swim amidst stunning ocean views.
- Fajã São João (East Side Option): A charming fajã on the East Side of the island, offering a glimpse of traditional Azorean life.
- East Side of the Island (Optional): Explore the East Side with stops like:
- View of Ilhéu do Topo: A scenic viewpoint showcasing the islet of Topo and the eastern coastline.
- Cruzal Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall on the East Side, perfect for nature lovers.
- Calheta Viewpoint: Breathtaking views of the southern coast of São Jorge, with the town of Calheta below and the neighboring islands in the distance.
- Mandas Viewpoint (Return): On the return to Velas, stop at the Mandas Viewpoint for another stunning perspective of São Jorge’s dramatic landscapes. The return journey takes the scenic road near the sea, passing between the historic Santa Bárbara Church and the old windmills, offering a glimpse of the island’s traditional architecture and coastal beauty.
Note: With a 7-hour limit, you’ll need to choose your activities wisely—time for swimming, a coffee plantation tour, a cheese factory visit, or a lunch stop may mean less time at other stops.
Return to Velas
Conclude your 7-hour adventure back in Velas.
Conclude your 7-hour adventure back in Velas.
This fully customizable 7-hour tour lets you craft your perfect São Jorge adventure, with the freedom to decide on the day with your driver’s help. Explore iconic viewpoints like Sete Fontes Forest Park and Fajãs do Norte, descend by car to two fajãs of your choice, and opt for experiences like a cheese factory tour, a coffee plantation visit, or the East Side of the island with views of Ilhéu do Topo and Cruzal Waterfall. With a lunch stop included (or a mandatory 15-30 minute driver break if you skip lunch), this tour offers the ultimate flexibility to experience the Azores’ natural beauty, culture, and flavors on your terms—just plan wisely within the 7-hour limit! Book now for an unforgettable journey!
Book your
Tour tickets today!
Craft your perfect São Jorge adventure on this fully customizable 7-hour journey from Velas to Calheta Viewpoint, with two fajã descents by car. Explore iconic viewpoints, descend to fajãs like Fajã dos Cubres, Fajã dos Vimes for coffee, or Fajã São João on the East Side, and opt for experiences like a cheese factory tour, a swim at Simão Dias Pool, or views of Ilhéu do Topo and Cruzal Waterfall. With a lunch stop included (or a quick driver break), this is your chance to experience the Azores your way—just plan wisely within the 7-hour limit!
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