Activity Blogs at Golden Mermaid Villa
Lost (and Found) on the Pico do Praia Hike: A South Shore Adventure PRC44 SMI
They say if you don't like the weather in the Azores, just wait fifteen minutes. Today, I decided to chase the sun on the south side of São Miguel, embarking on the PRC44 SMI (Pico do Praia) circular trail.
Coastal Magic & Ancient Mills: Hiking the Ribeira Funda Trail (PRC 35 SMI)
If you’re looking for a hike that offers maximum reward for minimum effort, the PRC 35 SMI – Ribeira Funda circular route is a must.
Unexpected Magic: From a Pig Roast to a Bombeiros Parade
Sometimes on São Miguel, the best plans are the ones that fall through. I recently spotted a flyer for a community pig roast hosted by...
Hidden Treasures of Ribeira Grande: From Sacred Art to Pirate Capes
Ribeira Grande is home to four distinct museums, and my quest to see them all is nearly complete! After visiting the Emigration and Franciscan museums,...
Exploring the Edge of the Island: The Fajã do Calhau Trail (PRC 13 SMI)
If you are looking to truly escape the beaten path, a journey to Agua Retorta is a must. Located on the southeastern tip of São...
TM05: The Less-Traveled Path to Gorreana’s Hidden Mill
Most visitors to the Gorreana Tea Plantation head straight for the popular PRC28 SMI trail, which circles the expansive tea fields (and which we covered...
Sete Cidades Unveiled: Two Spectacular Hikes for Every Adventurer (PR 04 SMI)
Sete Cidades isn’t just the most photographed spot on São Miguel—it’s a vast volcanic landscape begging to be explored on foot. While most tourists simply...
Hike of the Week: Discover the Secrets of Rota da Água (PRC 37 SMI)
For guests staying at Golden Mermaid Villa who are looking to explore the hidden natural beauty near Lagoa, the Rota da Água (Water Route) trail...
Hiking the Rocha da Relva Trail (PR 20 SMI)
Thinking of staying at Golden Mermaid Villa? One of the most breathtaking experiences is on the over side of Ponta Delgado is the hike down....
Madeira Trip: A Dose of Hormesis and Happiness
Travel, especially as we get older, isn’t just a treat—it’s a necessary boost for the mind and body. It jolts us out of routine, activating...
The Quest for Violet Tea: My Furnas Elixir of Life
Ahoy, Mateys! I confess: I’m a pirate at heart, always on the hunt for the ultimate treasure—the Fountain of Youth. My latest, most baffling quest...
Lake of Fire: Hiking to São Miguel’s Spectacular Lagoa do Fogo
If you’re staying here at Golden Mermaid Villa, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the raw, untamed beauty of São Miguel. And nothing captures that spirit...
A Day of Discovery: Unlocking the Mystical Shores of Lagoa das Furnas (PRC 06 SMI)
I’m often asked about the best places in the Azores, and while the village of Furnas has always held a special spot in my heart—it’s...