São Jorge Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat in São Jorge, Azores. Explore the local culture, customs, safety, and transportation options in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to São Jorge

São Jorge is one of the nine volcanic islands in the Azores located in the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its stunning landscapes, natural wonders, and rich cultural heritage, São Jorge is a must-visit destination in Portugal. The island boasts breathtaking views of the Atlantic, lush green valleys, idyllic pastures, and sheer cliffs overlooking the sea. Whether you are planning a short trip or an extended holiday, São Jorge has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in São Jorge

São Jorge offers plenty of attractions and activities in both cultural and natural settings. Here are some of the top places to visit on the island:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fajãs of São Jorge: Explore the charming clusters of houses and farms located on the coastal plains of São Jorge.
  • Calheta Church: Visit the 16th-century church that houses a magnificent silver altar and an art gallery of religious artworks.
  • São Jorge Museums: Visit the museums housing artifacts of the island’s rich history and culture, including the Whaling Museum and the Ethnographic Museum.
  • São Jorge Island Fringe Geosite: Discover the volcanic rocks formed over 6 million years ago and explore the different caves and crevices in the geosite.

Natural Attractions of São Jorge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fajã de Santo Cristo: Hike to the secluded beach and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and giant waves.
  • Pico da Esperança: Trek to the highest point on the island and take in the stunning panoramic views of São Jorge.
  • Caldeira de Santo Cristo: Take a visit to the beautiful natural lake settled in volcanic crater.
  • Faial da Terra: Admire the breathtaking views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean from this famous viewpoint.

Hiking/Biking Routes of São Jorge

São Jorge is an ideal destination for hikers, bikers and trekking enthusiasts. With over 50 hiking trails, 30 mountain biking trails, and 10 trails for horse-riding, São Jorge is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. The island offers hikes of varying lengths and difficulties, ranging from easy coastal walks to demanding uphill treks. Some popular hiking and biking routes on São Jorge include:

  • Fajã do Ouvidor Trail: A 4.8 km coastal trail that takes you through a series of natural pools, waterfalls, and rocky terrain.
  • Pico da Esperança Trail: A 7.3 km trek to the highest peak of São Jorge Island (1,053 meters) with stunning views of the island and the ocean.
  • Fajã de São João to Caldeira de Santo Cristo: A 13.5 km trail through geological wonders that culminates with the view of the natural lake set in a volcanic crater.
  • Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo Trail: A 5.4 km hike to the stunning beach of Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo that passes through the lush green pastures of São Jorge.

Best Things to Do in São Jorge: Activities and Tours

São Jorge is a place full of unique experiences that range from cultural to adventure activities. Here are some of the best things to do and tours to take in São Jorge:

  • Whale watching: Go on a boat tour and spot the magnificent whales and dolphins in the deep blue Atlantic Ocean.
  • Cheese tasting: The island is well known for its artisanal ‘são jorge’ cheese, aged for several months in cellars. Take a tour of the cheese factory and experience the unique taste of this famous cheese.
  • Marine photography: Take a photography tour with a local guide, capture the stunning marine life and landscapes of São Jorge, and learn helpful tips to enhance your photography skills.
  • Water sports: Enjoy surfing, swimming, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water sports in the clear ocean waters.
  • Folklore shows and festivals: Experience the traditions and customs of the indigenous people of São Jorge and the Azores, with dance and music performances and cultural festivals.

Week-Long Itinerary for São Jorge

If you have a week to spend in São Jorge, you can plan a perfect itinerary that covers the most popular attractions and activities on the island. Here is a suggested seven-day itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival and check into the hotel; explore Velas town, take a guided city tour
Day 2 Hike to Fajã do Ouvidor along the beautiful ocean trail
Day 3 Take a boat tour to spot the whales and other marine life
Day 4 Trek to Pico da Esperança and enjoy the panoramic views of the island
Day 5 Attend a traditional folklore show; explore the island’s history and culture in the museums
Day 6 Take a cheese tasting tour and visit the stunning natural sites of Saõ Jorge Island; visit Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo
Day 7 Departure from São Jorge

Food and Drink Scene of São Jorge

São Jorge is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of locally sourced and freshly prepared traditional Portuguese dishes. The island’s unique cuisine incorporates fresh fish, seafood, beef, pork, dairy products, and exotic fruits.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cozido das Furnas: A savory stew cooked in an underground oven, consisting of beef, pork, chicken, vegetables, and potatoes.
  • Limpets: Tasty mollusks harvested from the rocks along the coast and grilled with garlic, butter, and lemon juice.
  • Alcatra: A slow-cooked beef stew made with red wine, spices, and vegetables.
  • São Jorge Cheese: A semi-hard cheese aged for 3 to 7 months, which has a distinctive strong taste.

Local Beverages

  • Verdelho Essência do Pico: The island’s signature wine is produced in Pico Island, where the vineyards are grown on volcanic slopes.
  • Gin Azores: A gin made with nine botanicals that are exclusively grown on the Azores Islands, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.
  • Fefa: A traditional brandy that has been produced on São Jorge Island for centuries.

Where to Stay in São Jorge

São Jorge offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Here are some popular places to stay in São Jorge:

  • Hotel São Jorge Garden: Located in the center of Velas town, providing stunning views of Pico Island.
  • Fajã dos Cubres Hostel: A rustic hostel nestled on the northern coast of the island, offering beautiful ocean views and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Quinta do Canavial: A charming bed & breakfast that features a delight garden, a swimming pool and a tennis court.
  • Paraíso Vale do Linho Apartment: A renovated holiday home that offers a beautiful garden, fully equipped kitchen, and stunning views to the Atlantic Ocean.

What to Buy in São Jorge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

São Jorge is famous for its local products, including artisanal cheese, regional sweets, pottery, and embroidery. Some popular souvenirs to buy in São Jorge include:

  • São Jorge Cheese: One of the most popular souvenirs from São Jorge Island, this semi-hard cheese can be bought from local shops and factories.
  • Bolo de Mel: A traditional honey cake that is an Azorean specialty, made with molasses, honey, and spices.
  • Embroidery and Lace: São Jorge is known for producing intricate lacework and embroidery designs. These handmade items make for unique and beautiful souvenirs.
  • Pottery: São Jorge Island also has a tradition of pottery making. You can take home beautifully crafted ceramic pieces, including plates, vases, and pots.

Local Culture and Customs of São Jorge

São Jorge is a land of rich cultural heritage and traditions that are still followed today. The traditional festivals and celebrations, handicrafts, and folklore are an important part of the Azorean way of life. Some of the main customs and cultural events on the island include:

  • Holy Ghost Festivals: Celebrated annually throughout the Azores, the Holy Ghost Festival is a religious celebration with colorful parades and processions, with traditional “sopa do Espírito Santo” soup served to the locals.
  • Carnaval: Carnaval is a four-day festival celebrated throughout Portugal, and each town has a unique style. São Jorge offers a communal and lively vibe that comes with plenty of music, costume balls, and street parties.
  • The Cowboys Parade: This annual parade is a celebration of the island’s cowboy culture, where locals dress up as cowboys and ranchers, riding horses and playing music.
  • Folkloric celebration: Folkloric dancing, singing, and music performances are part of many cultural celebrations, especially during times such as Christmas and Easter.

Best Time to Visit São Jorge

São Jorge has a mild climate that makes it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit São Jorge is during the months of May-June and September-October, when the weather is mild and warm and there are fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of São Jorge

To have a safe and pleasant trip to São Jorge, here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Plan ahead and book your accommodations in advance.
  • Explore the small villages and local customs of São Jorge.
  • Try traditional dishes and local beverages.
  • Respect the environment, and follow the rules while on hiking trails.
  • Take a boat tour to spot the marine wildlife but ensure the operator is certified.

Don’t:

  • Litter on hiking trails or the beaches.
  • Damage the natural and cultural heritage sites.
  • Overstay your visa or explore unauthorized areas.
  • Take photos without asking permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in São Jorge

São Jorge is a safe island, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety tips for traveling to São Jorge:

  • Be aware of the sudden weather changes, especially if you are hiking or trekking.
  • Stay on the marked trails and avoid cliff edges.
  • Car rental offices are available if you plan to rent a car, but it is important to follow the traffic rules and avoid speeding.
  • Take care of your belongings and do not leave them unattended in public areas.

Health in São Jorge

São Jorge has an adequate healthcare system, with medical centers and clinics located in the major towns of São Jorge. Visitors should get comprehensive travel insurance before visiting São Jorge.

Getting to São Jorge: Transportation Options and Logistics

São Jorge is accessible by air or sea. Here are the different transportation options to São Jorge:

Airports Near São Jorge

The closest international airport to São Jorge Island is the João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in Ponta Delgada on the island of São Miguel. From here, you can take a connecting flight to São Jorge Airport (SJZ), located four kilometers from Velas town.

Bus Stations Near São Jorge

São Jorge has bus connections to major towns and cities in the Azores, including Pico Island and Horta on Faial Island.

Other Options

Another option to consider is traveling by ferry. The Azores Express offers ferry service to São Jorge Island from Faial Island and Pico Island.

How to Get Around in São Jorge

The most convenient way to get around São Jorge is by renting a car or a scooter. Car rental offices are available near the airport and in the main towns of Velas and Calheta. Alternatively, you can use local buses or taxi services to explore the islands at a slower pace.

Where to Go Next from São Jorge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

São Jorge is part of the Azores Islands, and there is no shortage of nearby destinations to explore. Some popular options for excursions from São Jorge include:

  • Pico Island: Another volcanic island known for its vineyards, wine tasting tours, and unparalleled views from Pico Mountain.
  • Faial Island: Known for the charming town of Horta and its vibrant marina, as well as whale watching tours.
  • Terceira Island: This island is home to Angra do Heroísmo, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful city to explore.
  • São Miguel Island: The largest island in the Azores is home to Furnas, a charming town famous for its geothermal pools, gardens, and thermal springs.

Conclusion

São Jorge is a captivating destination in the Azores, offering a unique blend of natural, cultural, and adventure experiences. From its stunning landscapes, rich history and heritage, hearty cuisine, and outdoor activities, São Jorge has something for every type of traveler. Whether you are seeking a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure, São Jorge Island is the perfect getaway destination for you!