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São Jorge Island is a wild natural haven perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Between hiking and swimming, your adventurous heart will be fully content. But the fun doesn’t stop there. São Jorge is also the perfect destination for those looking to dive deeper into the culture, cuisine, and nature of the Azores. São Jorge holds a special place in my heart since my mom’s side of the family is from there. As someone who has explored the island extensively, I can vouch that it is one of the most underrated islands in the Azores. If you’re seeking authenticity and adventure, experience these best things to do on São Jorge, Azores.
Hike Santo Cristo
Not only is Santo Cristo the most popular hike on São Jorge, but it’s one of the best hikes in all the Azores. Santo Cristo is one of São Jorge’s most famous natural landmarks. Not only will you experience stunning scenery throughout your trek along the trail, but you’ll also come across a waterfall and reach a small village as the ultimate destination. Santo Cristo is the best hike to showcase São Jorge’s untamed, natural beauty.
Swim in Simão Dias
Taking a dip in the ocean is a crucial part of any trip to the Azores. There are plenty of swimming spots, but nothing like Simão Dias. After trekking down a rocky trail to the water’s edge, you’ll reach a partially enclosed swimming cove surrounded by rugged cliffs and beautiful views.
Discover Velas
São Jorge’s capital, the historic town of Velas, welcomes visitors with its narrow, cobbled streets and quaint, aged buildings. The emblematic park featuring a red gazebo marks the heart of the town. Surrounding it, you’ll find plenty of cafes and shops to enjoy.
Tour the Cheese Factory in Beira
If São Jorge is known for one thing, it’s their cheese. Portuguese cheese is one of the foods everyone should try when visiting the Azores! Queijo de São Jorge is arguably the BEST Portuguese cheese, so it’s a must-try during your trip to the island. São Jorge boasts a couple of renowned cheese factories. The factory in Beira offer guided tours for the public to learn about the cheese production and aging process. Of course, the tour wouldn’t be complete without sampling some cheese yourself.
Visit the Coffee Plantation in Fajã dos Vimes
Many people don’t know that the Azores is one of the few places in Europe that produces coffee. You can see this for yourself in Fajã dos Vimes in São Jorge. Head over to Café Nunes where you can see their plantation (AKA the backyard of the Café) and learn about the process. I had the pleasure of meeting the owners and learning how coffee beans are processed and turned into the coffee that the café serves their customers. After seeing the plantation, head into the café to taste some of the delicious, locally-produced coffee freshly brewed.
Explore all the fajãs
São Jorge is famous for its fajãs, plateaus at the foot of the coastal cliffs. With over 40 fajãs in São Jorge, there is plenty to explore, and they all offer something unique to see. Two popular ones are Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã da Ouvidor. Enjoy a stroll along the scenic trails and through the small villages. My favorite part of discovering the fajãs is the views of the island’s coastline and volcanic cliffs. It is the perfect way to connect with the Azores’ wilderness.
Stroll through Parque das Sete Fontes
While the whole island of São Jorge is slow-paced and relaxing, you can always escape to Parque das Sete Fontes for an extra level of tranquility. The park is where seven natural springs converge to create a scenic space of flowing water and towering trees. This park is the definition of a lush landscape and will make you feel like you’re in the middle of a fairytale forest. I know it does for me!
Visit Santa Barbara Church
Every island in the Azores has its fair share of churches, but some stand out more than others. Santa Barbara Church stands out on the island of São Jorge. This cultural and architectural gem represents São Jorge’s devout Catholic faith. Stop by to admire the Baroque-style façade and ornate interior details. Like many places around the island, you’ll even have a scenic view of the coastline from the front of the church.
Visit the Lighthouses in Rosais and Topo
Another part of São Jorge’s history is reflected in the lighthouses that guided sailors and fishermen for generations. Two noteworthy lighthouses worth visiting are in Rosais and Topo. These two lighthouses contrast one another well with Rosais lighthouse being abandoned and rundown while Topo lighthouse remains well-kept.
Conquer Pico da Esperança
For an exciting adventure, trek up to the highest point on São Jorge island, the summit of Pico da Esperança. To reach the top, hikers start at the base of Pico do Pedro and end at Fajã do Ouvidor. The trek to the top will reward you with breathtaking views of São Jorge’s landscapes, the vast Atlantic Ocean, and even the surrounding islands of Pico, Faial, and Graciosa.
Experience Bullfights in the Streets
A controversial yet crucial part of Azorean culture is their famous bullfights. São Jorge is known to have some of the best street bullfights in the Azores. Touradas a Corda, or bull on a rope, can often be seen during festa season and is a real way to get a sense of local life. The whole island still gathers to partake in this beloved, centuries-old tradition. Between the typical bullfights in the streets or the popular bullfight on the pier in Calheta (the most unique but not my favorite), the events invite spectators to cheer on the bullfighters and celebrate the community.
There is something special about São Jorge island (and I’m not just saying that because my family is from there). If you want to get off the beaten path and dive deeper into Azorean life and culture, São Jorge island is a great choice. By using this list, you’ll be able to experience the best things to do in São Jorge. I promise it’ll be an unforgettable journey.