Current as of: April 19, 2024 - 09:52
Azores Cycling Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
- Destination: Portugal
- Programmes: Cycling
-
Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Leisurely / Moderate
- 7 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 12+
- Trip Code: C06AZ
Trip Overview
In Terceira Island, explore the stunning coastline and the luxurious green pastures.
Enjoy landscapes of dramatic lava coastline and natural pools, visit a volcano pit, a UNESCO World Heritage Town, and ride along lush green sceneries. Enjoy whale and dolphin watching.
Relax in one of the numerous natural bathing sites with warm water baths in tidal pools or the ocean and enjoy captivating pastel sunsets.
Admire the magnificent colourful contrasts of this volcanic island between ocean deep blue, lush green landscapes and black lava rocks.
At a Glance
- E-bike hire available on request (supplement applies)
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
Highlights
- Discover Terceira Island - its stunning coastline and lush green forest
- Discover colourful buildings and picturesque plazas in the historic capital
- Explore dramatic volcanic scenery: lava cave, natural pools and volcano pit
Is This Trip for You?
Cycling Conditions
Classification: Self–Guided
Activity Level: 2 (Leisurely/moderate)
Average daily distance: 38km (23.5miles)
No. of days cycling: 5
Terrain and route: The suggested cycle routes follow a mixture of dedicated cycle paths, which are either beside the road or separate from the road and some tracks.
Vehicle Support: This is a self-guided trip for those who prefer to cycle independently, but with our assistance to take out the stress of the logistics and planning. We arrange your accommodation, provide you with the Headwater Navigation App so that you can cycle at your own pace, while your bags are transported from one hotel to the next.
Group
As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. Your luggage is transferred and your routes are shown on the Headwater Navigation App. A 24-hour emergency assistance telephone number is provided. In an emergency, the hotels are normally able to dispatch a taxi or pick you up themselves. They may wish to charge for this service.
Adult min age: 12
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Angra Do Heroismo
- End City: Angra Do Heroismo
Flight Inclusive
- Start City: London
- End City: London
Land Only Itinerary
Arrival in Terceira Island at Angra do Heroismo
Transfer from the airport to your hotel. Explore the oldest city in Azores, listed by UNESCO. The historic centre of Angra do Heroismo is a testimony to the kings and noblemen who passed by here, leaving behind some beautiful architecture in its network of streets and alleyways, and its churches, palaces, mansions, monuments, squares and gardens, which have been preserved until the present day.
At Angra do Heroismo
Cycle through the natural park to the Christmas cave, a lava tube created by flowing lava originated by the surrounding volcanoes, centuries ago. This cave is a wonder for its extensive, straight, long passages. The walls, ground and ceiling have different colours and shapes, transforming the cave into a mystic place.
Angra do Heroismo - Serreta
Ride longing the beautiful coastline passing via quaint villages such as Sao Mateus, a fishing village and Santa Barbara, overlooked by the mountain, that offers the best views over Terceira island.
Serreta - Praia da Vitoria
Cycle along the coast via Biscoitos, famous for its natural pools. Enjoy a swim within black lava rocks. Later, enjoy the visit at the Biscoitos Wine Museum which is in a winery that produces verdelho wine, characteristic of the Azores. Explore wine process and taste a sample of local produced wines that grow from the rich porous lava rock.
At Praia da Vitoria
Day devoted to the visit of the Volcano pit including the cave Algar do Carvao, an old volcano and lava tube located in the centre of the island. This site offers a volcanic chimney that dazzles by its immensity space. From its arched roof hang remarkable silica stalactites. Then continue to Lagoa das Patas lake a perfect picnic spot surrounded by azaleas.
Praia da Vitoria - Angra do Heroismo
Follow the coast, to visit Porto Martins and Porto Judeu both offering beautiful natural pools. Along your way, observe the uninhabited Cabras Islet. Half a nautical mile from the south coast of Terceira Island, this islet is an excellent place for snorkelling. The Cave of the Sheep Islet, or the Cave of Stingrays, is located on the north slope of the islet, and it takes its name from the stingrays that can be observed swimming inside.
Leave Angra do Heroismo
Transfer from your hotel to the airport.
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Azores Cycling
Your accommodation reflects the best of the Azores hospitality, ranging from boutique style hotels and a traditional villa.
All prices are based on 2 persons sharing, so if there is an odd number of people travelling in your party or you are travelling alone, there will be a compulsory supplement for a single room for the tour duration.
For a solo traveller there is an additional charge to cover transfer costs.
Single supplement from £ 274
Food & Drink
In Azores, food lovers will appreciate delicious fish straight from the sea. Grilled or in soups, fish is cooked in a variety of ways. Make sure you taste tuna which, in these waters, has a pink hue and a soft flavour and texture, is slightly salty and is still caught by hook and line. The Azores have seafood that is not found anywhere else, such as limpets, barnacles and locust lobsters, a kind of tender and tasty lobster.
Weather & Seasonality
Weather and seasonality
Azores enjoys a privileged climate with its temperate softened by the gentle influence of the Gulf Stream. Temperatures do not vary by much and the average is 13 degC in winter and 23degC in summer. Water temperature varies a little oscillating between 17degC and 24degC. Whilst light clothing is recommended for summertime, it is better to dress for cooler and damper weather for Spring and Autumn. Winters are mild yet it often rains meaning waterproofs and warm jackets are essential if travelling between November to February.
What To Take
If you prefer the familiarity of your own bike, you may, of course, bring it along. Please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the holiday, as specified above. You will be responsible for any extra baggage charges, please speak to your sales representative for individual airline fees. Please note, this does not apply to trips within the UK, for which local bike hire is not included.
You will also be responsible for assembling and disassembling your bike as well as bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. It is also your responsibility to ensure your bike is roadworthy and suitable for the type of cycling undertaken. If in doubt, the model of local bike hire available should act as a guide and details of terrain, ascent and descent are available both in the itinerary and in the ‘Is this trip for you?’ sections. Our cycling team only carry the relevant spares for the hire fleet. Any clients bringing their own bike should ensure they have adequate cover for loss, damage or theft under their travel, home contents or a specialist insurance policy. If Exodus is confident we have taken all reasonable care to ensure the safety of your bike, in the rare event of loss, damage or theft, you will need to claim under your own insurance policy.
Recommended Cycling Clothing
Padded cycling shorts (with loose ‘over-shorts’ where recommended), breathable clothing, and a lightweight waterproof/windproof top. Shoes with relatively stiff soles are better for biking, but are not essential unless you are cycling long distances. Most people want to carry certain items with them during the day while cycling, for this we recommend a large bum bag (fanny pack) or small close-fitting daysack.
E-Bikes Available
Electric bikes offer all the thrills and healthy exercise of a regular bike, but with one crucial difference – power! A tiny electric motor (capped at 20-25mph/32-40kph) assists your pedalling, allowing you to make molehills out of mountains. Cycle further, see more, have more fun. They are perfect if you want a trip with companions of differing fitness level – or a trip at a slightly harder grade – and want to know there’s a bit of motor power available if you need it.
Practical Information
Visa
Portugal
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Portugal. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/portugal
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html
Vaccinations and Health
Portugal
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Portugal's time zone: Europe/Lisbon (UTC +01:00)
Azores's time zone: Atlantic/Azores (UTC +00:00)
Electricity
Portugal's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Portugal's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
There are cashpoints in both Ponta Helgada and Horta, whilst the hotels also accept major credit cards.
At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.
Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.