Sunvil azores malvern world travel brochure by Malvern World Travel

real

Azores 2014

find the real country

Welcome to the real Azores Sunvil discovered the Azores in 1990 and since then we have been one of the leading promoters of responsible tourism to this, one of the last paradises on earth. We invite you to step into the past and discover the beauty and tranquillity of these fascinating islands.

Geography The Azores form an enchanting archipelago of nine emerald green islands set in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal (1,500km) and North America (3,900km). At one time thought to be part of the legendary lost continent of Atlantis, the islands were discovered in the 15th century by Portuguese navigators en route to the New World and became the link between Europe and the Americas. In fact, they belong to Portugal and are part of Europe. The islands of the archipelago separate conveniently into three groups: the Eastern group of São Miguel and Santa Maria; the Central group of Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial; and the Western group of Flores and Corvo. Because of their remote location, the traditional lifestyle of the Azores, outside of the main towns, has remained virtually unchanged. There is hardly any industry apart from agriculture and ﬁshing, and pollution is unknown. The pace of life is slow and tourism is in its infancy.

Geology The volcanic formation of the islands has endowed them with a spectacular natural beauty. Vast craters nurturing glistening blue lakes, sheer black cliffs falling in to the ocean, lush rolling valleys, rugged mountains and hot mineral springs and geysers combine to form a truly diverse scenery found nowhere else in the world. The climate is temperate, which ensures an abundance of ﬂowers strewn across hedgerows and ﬁelds throughout the summer season, and the deep greens of the lush grasslands contrast markedly with dark volcanic stone walls and neat whitewashed houses.

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São Miguel

Azores | Contents

Contents Introduction

2-7

São Miguel Accommodation Activities

8-23 10-20 21-23

Santa Maria Accommodation Activities

24-27 26 27

Terceira Accommodation Activities

28-33 30-32 33

Graciosa Accommodation Activities

34-37 36 37

São Jorge Accommodation Activities

38-43 40-41 43

Pico Accommodation Activities

44-49 46-48 49

Faial Accommodation Activities

50-55 52-54 55

Flores & Corvo Accommodation Activities

56-61 58-60 61

Azores Three Island Tours 62-63 Azores Four Island Tour 64 Azores Grand Tour 65 Whale & Dolphin Watching Holiday 66-67 Walking Holiday 68 Family Holiday 69 Geological Tour Itinerary 70 Active Holiday 71 Tailor-made & Multi-Centre Holidays 72 Flights Accommodation at a Glance Sunvil & Responsible Tourism Car Hire

73 73 74 75

PRICES

76-77

General Information Travel Insurance Booking Form Sunvil: The Real Selection Booking Conditions

78-79 80 81 82 83

Accommodation and land only arrangements are protected by ABTA, a Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) approved body. The air holidays in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 808.

Photography We would like to thank: Jon Banﬁeld, Barro Acores, Charles Hawes, Carla Coutinho and the Azores Tourist Board for the use of their photographs.

real Azores | 3

Interesting Facts 33 Blue Flag beaches & natural swimming pools Imagine stretches of silky black sand in stark contrast to the white foam and deep blue of the sea. Although not a traditional beach destination, the beaches of the Azores provide the ideal place from which to sit back, relax and watch the world go by. There are some nice sandy beaches and coves on the north coast of São Miguel near Ribeira Grande (near the Quinta de Santana – page 19) and on the south coast at Água de Alto. The shingle beach of Porto Pim on Faial is easily accessible, c. 5-minutes’ walk from the centre of Horta (pages 52-54), and even some gold sand beaches can be found on Santa Maria (page 26) and Terceira (pages 30-32). In addition, all of the islands have natural rock pools - ﬁlled with ocean water and heated by the sun – meaning many unexpected private swimming opportunities.

Fabulous, unfussy food Portuguese cuisine that’s tasty and wholesome: delicious soups, superb ﬁsh and seafood, locally sourced beef, spicy sausages, good bread and an abundance of fruit.

Modest holiday money The cost of living in the Azores is extremely reasonable. A coffee is about 60p; a draft beer just 90p; a main course for dinner including drinks c.£22. And island-hopping – between the central group of Faial, Pico and São Jorge - is no big deal ﬁnancially when a boat ticket from Faial to Pico, for example, costs about £5 each way.

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Azores | Introduction Corvo •

Vila Nova do Corvo

Flores

• Santa Cruz das Flores

WESTERN ISLANDS

Graciosa Santa Cruz da Graciosa •

CENTRAL ISLANDS Faial

Velas •

Horta

A T L A N T I C

Terceira

O C E A N

São Jorge • Angra do Heroísmo

• • Madalena

Pico

São Miguel

• Ponta Delgada

EASTERN ISLANDS

Santa Maria Vila do Porto •

When to go to the Azores The Azores are accessible and rewarding all year round due to their favourable climate.

Spring

and a number of regattas (August). Whaler’s Week (August) on Pico pays homage to those who worked within the whaling industry and includes musical performances and celebrations. Other festivals include the musical ‘Festival of the Sea’ on Santa Maria (3rd week of August), and the festival of Praia Vitória on Terceira (August).

April is a peaceful time on all islands and the month for Azaleas, especially in Furnas (São Miguel). The area around Furnas Lake is wonderful at this time of year. May sees the second largest religious festival in Portugal take place in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). The ‘Festas de Santo Cristo dos Milagres’ (Christ of Miracles) takes place on the 5th Sunday after Easter (25May) and includes many cultural events, celebrations and a street procession through the capital city.

July-September can also be a lovely time to visit the Azorean beaches (weather dependent). The Azores is not a traditional beach destination with most beaches made of volcanic black sand and shingle. In addition to the small beaches and coves, all of the nine Azorean islands have a host of natural rock pools, ﬁlled with ocean water and heated by the sun. Swimming in these pools whatever the weather is a delight.

Summer

Autumn

A profusion of hydrangeas can be seen throughout the archipelago during early summer (Jun-Jul) creating colourful natural hedges along roadsides and small pastures. Flores, literally named the island of ﬂowers, is a perfect example and best seen in July when the hydrangeas are in full bloom.

One of the best ways to explore this midAtlantic paradise is on foot, and each island offers a variety of marked trails to suit all abilities and interests. Walking can be enjoyed all year round due to the mild temperatures of the archipelago but, we love walking during the autumn months when the landscape is ever-changing in colour and the trees turning from lush greens to reds, oranges and yellows.

August is the month of festivals across the nine Azorean islands. Two of the main festivities take place on the central islands of Pico and Faial. Sea Week on Faial brings the island to life with musical performances

We operate our own guided walking holidays on São Miguel (page 68). We also offer individual guided walks on Santa

Maria (page 27) and Pico (page 49). We feel that these walks are the most scenic routes that the islands have to offer. Our walks can also be incorporated into a tailor-made holiday, designed to meet individual requirements. The autumn months of September and October play host to a variety of festivals including the Holy Ghost festivities (AprilSeptember). October is also the peak of the bird watching season on the island of Corvo, when North American vagrants pass by.

Winter During the winter months, with average temperatures of 14°C – much warmer if you’re sitting in the sun, unsettled weather means that the islands do not attract a large number of tourists. This is the time to see the real Azores, meet local residents and truly experience their way of life.

Maximum average air temperature °F

Christmas is a relatively low key and traditional affair. This is a religious community and nativity scenes are prevalent in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and many towns and villages throughout the islands. On New Year’s Eve in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), there is a popular ﬁrework display in the main square with brass bands, sometimes rock bands, and free food and drink dispersed amongst the crowds. Similar celebrations, on a lesser scale, can be enjoyed in Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira), Horta (Faial) and many smaller towns and villages across the archipelago. Carnival (28Feb-04Mar) is celebrated throughout the islands. In Ponta Delgada, grand balls are held and a matinee masquerade ball takes place on the 4th March (Sunvil Discovery can pre-book tickets for clients wishing to attend these events); and on the last day of the festival an entertaining water battle takes places at the marina.

Rainfall

°C

70 20

120

60 15

50 10

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr

May Jun

Jul

Aug Sep Oct

Nov Dec

real Azores | 5

Azores | Introduction

EASTERN ISLANDS

CENTRAL ISLANDS

São Miguel

Santa Maria

Terceira

Graciosa

The Green Island

The Island of the Sun

The Lilac Island

The White Island

Santa Maria

•

São Miguel

Vila do Porto

•

Ponta Delgada

Area: 747 sq. km Length: 65 km (41 miles) Width: 15 km (10 miles) Population: 132,000 inhabitants Capital: Ponta Delgada

Terceira

•

Santa Cruz da Graciosa • Graciosa

Angra do Heroísmo

Area: 97 sq. km Length: 17 km (11 miles) Width: 9.5 km (6 miles) Population: 5,500 inhabitants Capital: Vila do Porto

Area: 382 sq. km Length: 29 km (18 miles) Width: 18 km (11 miles) Population: 56,000 inhabitants Capital: Angra do Heroísmo

Area: 62 sq. km Length: 12.5 km (8 miles) Width: 7 km (4 miles) Population: 4,800 inhabitants Capital: Santa Cruz

Highlights

■ Blue Flag beaches 12 beaches and marinas on São Miguel have achieved Blue Flag status.

■ Sweet Tooth Traditional home-made biscuits and cakes can be found in local bakeries. You must try the Pastel de Nata – a deliciously creamy custard tart! There is a good bakery near Santo Espirito.

■ Algar do Carvão Formed by several caves, and about 100m depth, this underground lava tube has plenty of stalactites and stalagmites. A visit is included when booking an island tour. Open Apr-Sep only!

■ Furna do Enxofre The best time to visit this volcanic phenomenon is between 11am and 2pm when sunlight penetrates the narrow funnel by which the cave is entered.

■ Cozido a Caldeiras It is a tradition, still observed by the locals, to slowly cook food by underground vapours at the Furnas hotsprings. The meal, consisting of a variety of meats and vegetables, is served daily at the Hotel Terra Nostra Garden – pre-booking recommended. ■ Pineapples Visit the pineapple plantation in Fajã de Baixo and taste the delicious pineapple liquer and boiled sweets. Or, simply order fresh pineapple for dessert – highly recommended!

Activities (pages 21-23) ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Birdwatching Boat trip (glass bottom boat) Canoeing – see page 16 Canyoning – see page 16 Cycling Geological history tour Golf Horse riding – see page 16 Island tours Jeep tours Natural rock swimming pools Scuba diving Surﬁng (Santa Bárbara, Ribeira Grande and Rabo de Peixe beaches) ■ Swimming with dolphins ■ Walking (guided) – see page 68 ■ Whale & dolphin watching

■ Pico Alto The highest point on the island at 587m offers magniﬁcent views over the whole island. ■ Anjos Chapel The chapel at Anjos is one of the oldest in the Azores. Christopher Columbus attended mass here on his way back from America. ■ Handicrafts Traditional handicrafts include weaved table cloths and clothing. ■ Colourful houses The window frames and borders of traditional houses on Santa Maria adopt a colour associated with their speciﬁc village. Blues, yellows, greens and reds are used.

Activities

(page 27)

■ Boat trips ■ Fishing (Big game) ■ Island tours ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Scuba diving ■ Walking (guided)

■ Verdelho wine Taste the locally made Verdelho – a sweet aperitif wine. You can also visit the wine museum at Biscoitos where the production of Verdelho is housed. ■ Viewpoints Climb the heights of the botanical garden in Angra do Heroísmo, to the Miradouro of Memory, for a wonderful view over the capital and Monte Brasil. The woods of Mata da Serreta, Serra do Cume and Pico Alto also offer excellent panoramas of the island.

■ Ilheu da Baleia This dramic rocky outcrop, located near Santa Cruz, is shaped like a whale hence the name islet of whales. ■ Shopping Graciosa produces its own wine, cheese and traditional cakes – the ‘Queijadas da Graciosa’ are a sweet, treacle-like pastry made in Praia. Fresh ﬁsh and shellﬁsh are also available in abundance.

■ Handicrafts Clay and wicker works, embroidered linen and colourful weaved bedspreads are traditionally made on Terceira.

■ Viewpoint On a clear day you can enjoy the panoramic view towards the islands of Terceira, Sao Jorge, Pico and Faial. The best vantage point is on the main road between Luz and Ribeirinha on Graciosa’s southern coast.

Activities

(page 33) ■ Golf ■ Island tours ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Scuba diving

(page 37) ■ Island tours ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Scuba diving ■ Walking (non guided)

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Azores | Introduction

WESTERN ISLANDS

São Jorge

Pico

Faial

Flores & Corvo

The Brown Island

The Grey Island

The Blue Island

The Atlantic’s Garden & The Black Island

Corvo

• Velas

•

Madalena

Pico

São Jorge

Vila Nova do Corvo

Faial

•

Horta

• Santa Cruz das Flores Flores Area: 245 sq. km Length: 55 km (34 miles) Width: 8 km (5 miles) Population: 11,000 inhabitants Capital: Velas

Area: 447 sq. km Length: 42 km (26 miles) Width: 15 km (9 miles) Population: 15,000 inhabitants Capital: Madalena do Pico

Area: 173 sq. km Length: 21 km (13 miles) Width: 14 km (9 miles) Population: 15,000 inhabitants Capital: Horta

Highlights

■ Cheese Try the delicious São Jorge cheese – you won’t be disappointed.

■ Pico wine Pick up a bottle of the local Verdelho (aperitif wine) or the equally famous Angelica and Pico brandies.

■ Cheers! All visitors to Faial must try the famed Gin & Tonic at Peter’s Café. This colourful bar attracts locals, international sailors and tourists alike – a veritable hive of activity.

■ Pico da Esperanca From here, the highest peak (1,053m) on the island, you can admire the central islands of Terceira, Graciosa, Faial and Pico. Other fine views can be enjoyed from the Miradouro points overlooking the Fajã do Ouvidor and the Fajã dos Cubres, and from the summit of Pico da Velha. ■ Birdlife The Fajãs of Santo Cristo and of Cubres are the best birding spots on the island, mainly for seabirds, waders, herons and egrets. ■ Handicrafts In Ribeira do Nabo you will find a small co-operative making and selling lace work and weaved products. ■ Fact The lagoon of Fajã do Santo Cristo is the only place in the Azores where clams can be fished.

Activities

(page 43)

■ Jeep tours ■ Island tours ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Walking (non guided)

■ Museu dos Baleeiros Visit the fascinating whaling museum in Lajes do Pico offering a fascinating insight into the islands’ long history of open-boat whale hunting (banned in 1987). ■ Gruta das Torres Take a tour (c.45-minutes) of a lava cave located just south of Madalena. A short ﬁlm shows the history of volcanic caves in the archipelago followed by a walk along one of the longest caves (4,480m) found in the Azores. ■ Day excursions A 30-minute ferry links Madalena to Horta (Faial) at least ﬁve times a day. A 90-minute catamaran links São Roque to Velas (São Jorge) twice a day. These connections make Pico an ideal base for multi-island exploration.

Activities

(page 49) ■ Horse riding ■ Island tours ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Scuba diving ■ Walking (guided) ■ Whale & dolphin watching

■ Volcanic origins Visit the fabulous Capelinhos museum (Interpretation Centre) and learn all about the volcanic formation of the Azores including the last eruption that took place on Faial in 1957. Not to be missed! ■ Picture perfect Take a stroll along Horta’s marina and admire the colourful artwork left by international sailors passing through. ■ Porto Pim The Blug Flag beach of Porto Pim is located within a 5-minute walk of the centre of Horta. ■ Whale and dolphin watching Faial is an important base for whale and dolphin watching excursions.

Activities

(page 55) ■ Horse riding ■ Island tours ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Scuba diving ■ Swimming with dolphins ■ Walking (non guided) ■ Whale & dolphin watching

Flores Area: Length: Width: Pop: Capital:

Corvo

143 sq. km 17 sq. km 17 km (11 miles) 6.5 km (4 miles) 11.5 km (7 miles) 4 km (2.5 miles) 4,000 400 Santa Cruz Vila Nova das Flores do Corvo

Highlights ■ Rocha dos Bordões (Flores) Of particular interest is the ‘organ pipes’ – a geological phenomenon formed by the solidification of basalt in high vertical channels which dominates the landscape above the village of Mosteiro on the west coast. ■ Birdlife (Corvo) Corvo is an ideal island to observe birds migrating from Canada and the US to Africa from mid October until the 1st week in November. ■ Traditional dishes (Corvo) The local gastronomy reflects the abundance of sea food – tuna, anchovy, turbot, sword fish, sea bream, grouper, moray and conger. ‘Tortas de ervas do calhau’ (vegetable pie), ‘couves da barca’, ‘couves fritas’ (fried cabbage) and liver sauce are all local specialties. Try the island cheese served with corn bread which has a unique tasty flavour.

Activities

(page 61)

Flores ■ Island tours ■ Guided hikes – see page 58 ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Scuba diving ■ Walking (non guided) ■ Boat trips Corvo ■ Natural rock swimming pools ■ Scuba diving ■ Walking (non guided)

real Azores | 7

Azores | S達o Miguel

Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake)

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Azores | São Miguel

São Miguel The Green Island

Mosteiros • Ponta da Ferraria • Santa Bárbara • • Lagoa das Nordeste Ginetes • Ribeira • Sete Cidades • Capelas Grande Gorreana • Rabo • • de Peixe • Batalha • Furnas Lagoa do Fogo Lagoa das • • Fajã de Baixo Furnas • • Povoação • Ponta Delgada Água de Alto • • Vila Franca • do Campo Caloura

São Miguel, located on the eastern side of the archipelago, is by far the largest of the nine islands. It is made up of six volcanic complexes and municipalities.

To the west, Ponta Delgada, the main town and port has preserved its historical beauty. It is a delight to explore the narrow cobbled streets bordered by very well preserved period houses. Ponta Delgada is the hub for all public transportation and tours, and as such is an ideal base from which to explore the island whilst having all local amenities in reach. Within the municipality of Ponta Delgada are the Sete Cidades, an extinct volcano crater of 40 sq. km, within which are two magniﬁcent lakes, one deep blue colour and the other emerald green. The best view over the lakes can be enjoyed from Vista do Rei. For the more active, a 13km walk, descending from the top of the crater to the village of Sete Cidades, offers wonderful panoramas of the lakes, countryside and ocean. To the north lies the agricultural town of Ribeira Grande, surrounded by fertile lands yielding crops which include potatoes, tobacco, sugar beet, passion fruit and tea (one of the few places in Europe where it is grown). The black shingle beach of Ribeira Grande is a haven for surfers and has Blue Flag status. Here, too, is the dramatic lake of ﬁre “Lagoa do

Fogo” and delightful beaches nestling under high cliffs. The north-east coast is a relatively undiscovered region with spectacular high cliffs plunging from high, flower covered plateaux, fields and wooded mountains into the sea. This is the home of the rare Azorean Bullfinch (Priôlo) and the highest peak on the island, Pico do Vara. The municipality of Povoação is in the south-east. Here are the most beautiful gardens in the Azores. The spa town of Furnas, one of the largest thermal water sources in the world, with its beautiful azalea bordered lake, is home to a 30 acre botanical garden of great international importance. Everywhere, from April to early summer, hedgerows of azaleas and hydrangeas abound. To the south, the municipalities of Vila Franca do Campo (the town was the island’s first capital) and Lagoa are mountainous and agricultural farming areas with black cliffs disappearing into the ocean. Here pineapples, bananas, oranges and vines are cultivated. Off the coast of Vila Franca is the Ilheu da Vila, a nature reserve and a popular spot for swimming (Blue Flag status).

real Azores | 9

Azores | São Miguel | Ponta Delgada

A D A VI TÓ R IA

Hotel Do Colégio

RA EI NJ RA LA S DA A

O EG

U RUA DO PER

MERCADO RU A DO

RUA

OA DA B

N O VA

• Market

LARGO MÁTIRES DA PATRIA

TA VA R ES R

V IL A

Hotel Marina Atlântico

A AV INF

Marina

NOV

L IS

ÃO SA O JO R. DE

RUA

Antillia Hotel Apartments

RUA

Hotel Royal Garden RUA

• Museum RUA

SO JF

JARDIM ANTERO DE QUENTAL A OT M M

DE US M ÃE DE RU A DA

Hotel São Miguel Park

Parque António Borges

ÃR

NTA

UE DE Q

PA SS AL RU A DO

ERO

NT AD R. DO CO

NT AV A

CÓ RDI DA MIS ERI RUA NO VA

Parque José do Canto

Hotel Talisman

BOA

EN É B

RÉG

JOS

O O D

RUA

JOÃ

PRAÇA 5 DE OUTUBRO

Hotel Vila Nova

SAU DE

E A T

FIL

LU R.

ÍS

• Forte São Brás

Hotel Map of Ponta Delgada Ponta Delgada

Hotel Vila Nova, Ponta Delgada

Hotel São Miguel Park, Ponta Delgada

Airport: 3km Ponta Delgada

■ 3-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pools ■ Air-conditioning

The Hotel Vila Nova is located near the 16th century Fort of São Brás and the Praça (Square) de 5 Outubro in the city centre of Ponta Delgada, 200 metres from the town’s cobbled shopping streets and 500 metres from the 18th century city gates. It offers clean, well-maintained guest accommodation and is a convenient base from which to explore the capital of São Miguel.

The Hotel São Miguel Park is located 200 metres from the city park and botanical gardens of Ponta Delgada. The building, originally used as a seminary, was completely remodelled and restored with few features remaining of the original academy. This comfortable, modern, city hotel offers a host of facilities and, due to its central location, is only 5 minutes walk to the commercial centre.

The Praça de 5 Outubro is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike, especially in the summer months when the square hosts local festivals and musical performances. During the Santo Cristo festival in May, the square is illuminated by colourful lanterns and is the heart of the celebrations and processional events.

Accommodation 102 air-conditioned rooms including single rooms, standard rooms, triple rooms, junior suites and a deluxe suite ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, safe deposit box, complimentary WIFI internet connection and views over the swimming pool or side street ■ Many rooms have a balcony ■ 8 rooms interconnect ■ Standard rooms with king

size bed on request ■ Junior suites have a king size bed, living room area with double sofa bed for two children and minibar (no balcony) ■ The deluxe suite has a separate bedroom (king size bed), living area with minibar and a balcony. The suite can accommodate two extra beds for children.

Amenities/Leisure Breakfast room (buffet) overlooking the pool ■ Restaurant (buffet service) please reserve your table locally before 18:00 ■ Bar/Lounge ■ Business centre with complimentary internet access ■ Vending machine on each ﬂoor (drinks/snacks) ■ Games room (snooker, chess, cards, draughts and table football) ■ Outdoor heated swimming pool (6 x 12m) open all year - pool towels provided ■ Pool bar in summer ■ Lift ■ Parking (payable locally c.2 Euros per day) ■ 25minutes walk from the marina.

Accommodation 163 air-conditioned rooms including single rooms, classic rooms and a suite ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, WIFI internet connection (payable locally c.1.50 Euros per hour and c.10 Euros per day), safe deposit box and minibar ■ Most rooms have a balcony (48 without) ■ Some rooms can accommodate 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children ■ The suite has a double bedroom (king size bed), bathroom (bath & shower), separate living room which can accommodate 2 extra beds for children and a balcony with ocean view.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Panoramic restaurant (buffet service) ■ Bar with live entertainment Mon-Sat (usually piano player) ■ Gift shop ■ Games room (snooker – local charge c.7 Euros per hour, card tables and checkers) ■ Vending machines (soft drinks) on most ﬂoors ■ Health club with gym, 2 saunas, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi and indoor heated swimming pool (6.30 x 12m) ■ Outdoor swimming pool (7 x 14.40m) open all year - pool towels provided ■ Business centre with complimentary internet access ■ Hairdresser ■ 2 Lifts ■ 5-minutes walk to the town’s cobbled shopping streets ■ Free parking ■ 25-minutes walk to the marina.

Special Offer Special Offer ■ Stay 7 nights pay 6 nights between 01Nov13-23May14 and 31May-24Oct14.

■ Early booking discount applicable for reservations made 60 days or more prior to departure between 01Nov13-14Jun14 and 01-31Oct14.

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Azores | São Miguel | Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada

Hotel Talisman, Ponta Delgada

Hotel do Colégio, Ponta Delgada

Airport: 3km Ponta Delgada

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning

This elegantly styled hotel is conveniently located on a main shopping street in the historical centre of Ponta Delgada. The building is divided into two, the original wing where the rooms are carpeted and have dark wood furnishings and the new wing, decorated in a modern minimalist style. There are two seating areas on the ﬁrst ﬂoor, a winter garden, café bar, an excellent restaurant specialising in seafood and regional dishes and a rooftop plunge pool – unique for a city hotel. This well situated hotel provides a good base from which to explore the delights of the capital.

The Hotel do Colégio enjoys a privileged location within the historical centre of Ponta Delgada. This 19th century building, once home to the Regional School of Music and rich in historical and cultural interest, has been remodelled to create a classically designed, four-star hotel. Many of the building’s original features are still in evidence including stone ﬂooring in the reception, TV lounge and bar.

Accommodation 57 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms and suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, satellite TV, telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection, safe deposit box (c.1 Euro per day), tea/coffee making facilities and fridge (drinks can be provided on request – payable locally) ■ Some standard rooms can accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ Seven rooms have a French balcony facing the main shopping street ■ Six standard rooms interconnect ■ The suites, located on the second ﬂoor, have either a

Standard room

separate living room or a designated living area within one large open-plan room and can accommodate two extra beds for adults or children.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant serving regional dishes (specialising in fish and seafood) and international cuisine ■ ‘Sports One’ bar often with live music ■ ‘Palm Terrace’ café opening up on to a paved esplanade ■ Lounges ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection in public areas ■ Business centre with WIFI and internet connection – payable locally c.3 Euros for 30 minutes and c.5 Euros per hour ■ Rooftop heated swimming pool (3.5 x 7m) and sundeck open all year – pool towels provided. The pool is accessed by a flight of stairs from the 3rd floor ■ Mini gym ■ Lift to 3rd floor only ■ A 10minute walk to the marina.

Accommodation 55 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms (classic wing or à la plus prestige), a junior suite (à la plus prestige) and a suite (à la plus prestige) ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, minibar and safe deposit box ■ The à la prestige rooms are located in the original building, whereas the others are located in the new classic wing ■ Many standard rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult ■ Junior suites will take two extra beds for children ■ Some standard rooms and the suite have a pool view ■ The suite and two standard rooms have a king size bed ■ Six standard rooms interconnect.

Closed: 26Nov-03Dec13.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Café bar ■ Gastronomic à la carte restaurant (closed lunchtimes) ■ TV lounge/Bar ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection in the public areas ■ Health club with free use of a sauna and Turkish bath ■ Swimming pool (6 x 10.50m) open all year – pool towels provided ■ Secure underground parking (free of charge) ■ Lift ■ Café ‘A Colmeia’ located opposite the harbour promenade ■ Restaurant ‘La Cantina’ located opposite the marina and serving Italian cuisine.

Standard room (classic wing)

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

real Azores | 11

Azores | São Miguel | Ponta Delgada

Hotel Royal Garden pool

Hotel Marina Atlântico facing Ponta Delgada marina

Hotel Royal Garden, Ponta Delgada

Hotel Marina Atlântico, Ponta Delgada

Airport: 3km Ponta Delgada

Airport: 5km Ponta Delgada

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pools ■ Air-conditioning ■ Spa

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning

Located in Ponta Delgada, 250 metres from the town’s cobbled shopping streets, the hotel provides a tranquil environment in which guests can relax and unwind after a day’s exploration. Set around a beautiful Japanese garden, with water features and seating areas, the hotel has managed to encapsulate a feeling of the orient. Within the hotel the oriental theme contrasts with Aztec and South African statues to provide a warm, comfortable and stylish atmosphere.

Built on the harbour front of Ponta Delgada this property has an enviable location affording panoramic views over the ocean and city marina. The glass fronted common areas on the ground and mezzanine ﬂoors are light and airy and designed to take full advantage of the location of the property. A private bridge over the coastal road connects the hotel to the open-air public swimming pool (open Jun-Sep c.2.50 Euros entry fee).

ﬂoor (6th), have a dedicated quiet working area and private access.

Accommodation

Amenities/Leisure

Accommodation

Amenities/Leisure

193 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, executive rooms, junior suites and suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, minibar and WIFI internet connection (c.5 Euros per day payable locally) ■ Most rooms have a private covered balcony ■ The rooms have views either over the town to the ocean in the distance (front facing), of the Japanese garden (inner courtyard) or over the garden and swimming pool (rear facing – double rooms with no balcony) ■ Standard rooms will accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ Executive rooms have a distant ocean view, are slightly larger than the standard rooms and can accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ 6 junior suites have two bathrooms (one with walk-in shower only), three proper beds (but can also accommodate an extra bed for a child) and have a garden view ■ 12 executive rooms interconnect ■ The suites can accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children and have a separate living room with a double sofa bed, a trouser press, two bathrooms (one with shower only) and a balcony with distant ocean view.

Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant serving international and regional dishes (buffet and à la carte) ■ Bar ■ Various seating areas ■ Hairdressers (Mon-Sat) ■ Outdoor swimming pool (8 x 18m) open all year pool towels on request (free of charge). Pool heated Nov-Mar ■ Children’s outdoor pool (2.20 x 2.20m) ■ Coffee shop, located near the outdoor swimming pool, open daily Apr–Oct ■ 1 tennis court (c.20 Euros per hour including equipment) ■ Spa including indoor heated pool (6 x 12m), sauna, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and mini gym ■ Snooker room (payable locally c.7.50 Euros per hour) ■ ATM machine for cash withdrawals (Visa/Maestro/ Mastercard) located in reception ■ Business centre with internet access payable locally ■ 4 Lifts ■ Free parking ■ 15-minutes walk from the centre and 25minutes walk from the marina.

184 air-conditioned rooms including single rooms with balcony and ocean view, classic rooms with rear town view and no balcony, classic rooms with balcony and ocean view (six have no balcony), executive rooms with balcony and ocean view and suites with balcony and ocean view, separate lounge with sofa and bathroom (hydro-massage bath) ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, minibar, safe deposit box, cable TV, telephone and WIFI internet connection (payable locally c.1.50 Euros per hour and c.10 Euros per day) ■ 18 ocean view rooms interconnect ■ Most rooms are twin bedded ■ Rooms with rear view can accommodate an extra bed for an adult ■ Executive rooms, located on the executive

Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant ■ Bar ■ Sophisticated ﬁtness centre with treatment rooms and hairdresser (payable locally), Turkish bath and sauna (free of charge), large gym with the latest exercise machines, jacuzzi and indoor swimming pool (14 x 7m) - pool towels provided ■ Business centre with complimentary internet connection ■ 2 Lifts ■ Private parking (payable locally c.7.50 Euros per day).

Special Offer ■ Early booking discount applicable for reservations made 60 days or more prior to departure between 01Nov13-14Jun14 and 01-31Oct14.

Standard room

12 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | São Miguel | Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada

Santo Cristo do Milagres Festival in Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada

Antillia Hotel Apartments, Ponta Delgada Airport: 3km Ponta Delgada ■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast (BB) ■ Self Catering (SC) ■ Swimming pools ■ Air-conditioning ■ Spa

This modern styled hotel is well situated in the historical centre of Ponta Delgada with easy access to shops, restaurants and the marina. Offering a range of guest accommodation, the Antillia is suitable for both couples and families - as many apartments are large enough to accommodate a party of six people. In addition to ample seating areas, an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace, guests also have complimentary access to the neighbouring health spa - indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath and treatment rooms. A good city based property offering self-catering facilities.

Accommodation 47 air-conditioned apartments and 6 rooms. Main hotel (sleep 2) – BB The hotel has 6 double rooms. All the rooms have a bathroom (bath and/or shower and hairdryer), private balcony, telephone, cable TV, complimentary internet connection and safe deposit box (c.1.50 Euros per day). Six studio apartments (sleep 2+1) – SC Open-plan studio with a twin bedroom, bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), single sofa bed suitable for a child, corner kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave/grill, kettle, coffee making machine, fridge and small freezer), telephone, cable TV, complimentary internet connection, iron/ironing board and safe deposit box.

Thirty-Eight 1-bedroom apartments (sleep 2+2) – SC Twin/double bedroom, bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), separate living room with two sofa beds (accommodate two adults/children), corner kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave/grill, kettle, coffee making machine, fridge and small freezer), private balcony, telephone, cable TV, complimentary internet connection, iron/ironing board and safe deposit box. Three 2-bedroom duplex apartments (sleep 4+3) – SC Two twin/double bedrooms, two bathrooms (bath, shower and hairdryer), separate living room with corner kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave/grill, kettle, coffee making machine, fridge and small freezer), private balcony, telephone, cable TV, complimentary internet connection, iron/ironing board and safe deposit box. One apartment has three sofa beds in the living room that will accommodate three adults or children one apartment has two sofa beds and the third has one sofa bed.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Amenities/Leisure Breakfast (delivered to the apartments on request and payable locally or pre-bookable prior to departure) ■ Restaurant serving regional and international cuisine ■ Bar ■ TV lounge with games room (pool table and card tables) ■ Complimentary WIFI connection in the lobby ■ Children’s playroom (unsupervised) ■ Gardens ■ Outdoor swimming pool (6 x 12m) with sunloungers and decking area and open all year – pool towels provided ■ Health Club with free use of an indoor heated swimming pool (5.5 x 11m) – swimming cap required, sauna, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath, solarium and gym (closed Sundays) ■ 150m from the marina and whale and dolphin watching base ■ Free secure parking (difﬁcult to park between 18:00-20:00 due to locals using the health club facilities).

Special Offer ■ Stay 7 nights pay 6 nights between 01Nov13-15Jun14 and 16Sep-31Oct14.

real Azores | 13

Azores | São Miguel | Caloura

Quinta do Mar, Caloura

Hotel Caloura, Caloura

Quinta do Mar, Caloura

Hotel Caloura, Caloura

Airport: 21km Ponta Delgada

■ 4-star equivalent ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

Nick Heathcote, for 17 years a BBC television executive producer, is one of a handful of British who live in the Azores. Captivated by the islands following a whistle-stop taxi tour from the QE2 which docked in São Miguel for half a day in 1997, he decided to settle in Caloura and bought a small, 160 year old “Adega” set within 7,500 square meters of hillside land and only a short stroll from the tiny ﬁshing harbour of Caloura. Using local craftsmen and stonemasons, the property, including the original wine press, has been fully restored and enhanced to an extremely high standard. The Quinta do Mar is one of our most well praised properties – highly recommended!

Accommodation Contemporary guest wing with 4 large airconditioned twin/double designer bedrooms each with dark wood ﬂoors and tastefully furnished ■ All rooms have a contemporary marbled bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, cable TV, internet access, telephone, DVD/CD player and large balcony with ocean view.

Amenities/Leisure Comfortable lounge and dining room in the original building ■ Persian carpets and antique Chinese furniture much in evidence ■ Inﬁnity pool (12 x 4.50m) open all year (heated Apr–Oct) with toilets and changing rooms – pool towels provided ■ Pool side breakfast pavilion – cooked breakfasts – and honesty bar with good views to the ocean and harbour ■ Complimentary tea/coffee all day ■ Shaded terraces with sun loungers and wonderful ocean views ■ Small citrus orchard ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection on roof terrace ■ Nature trail close-by ■ Free parking ■ Chris Noble, a trained chef and former Pizza Express restaurant owner prepares evening meals, on varying nights throughout the week, by mutual agreement with guests and payable locally ■ Popular café bar ‘Bar Caloura’ serving hot and cold snacks is a 5-minute walk ■ The village of Água de Pau has two restaurants with full menus (open all year – one is closed on Mondays) – within a 20-minute walk. The village also has several cafes serving simple meals ■ 8km from Vila Franca do Campo. Notes ■ No children under 14 permitted ■ The property is not suitable for those with walking difﬁculties due to the number of steps.

This owner-managed modern hotel is located at the edge of the picturesque fishing harbour of Caloura and a 15minutes uphill walk to the village of Água de Pau – less on the way back! The hotel has a magnificent setting on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea and is set against a background of small fields and vineyards. There is a small sandy beach ‘Baixa d’Areira’ 5-minutes walk from the hotel (also accessible by car) and natural pools on the headland to which the hotel has access. Panoramic views of the coastline can be enjoyed from the hotel bar, lounge and restaurant, which features local cuisine.

Accommodation 80 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, triple rooms (ground ﬂoor), a junior suite and a suite ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, WIFI internet connection (payable locally), safe deposit box (c.1.25 Euros per day), minibar and balcony with ocean view ■ Standard rooms can accommodate two extra beds for children ■ Some standard rooms have a king size bed ■ Triple rooms have direct access to the gardens ■ The junior suite, on the 2nd ﬂoor, has a king size bed, living area with a sofa bed for a child and balcony with pool and ocean view ■ The suite has a double bedroom (king size bed), single bedroom, bathroom (bath & shower), separate living room and large terrace with panoramic ocean view.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Panoramic restaurant with ocean views serving international cuisine (buffet and à la carte menu) ■ Panoramic bar serving snacks with musical entertainment ■ Lounges ■ Business centre with WIFI internet connection (payable locally c.3 Euros for 1-hour and c.12 Euros per day) ■ Outdoor swimming pool (10 x 30m) open all year – pool towels provided ■ Pool bar (Apr-Oct) ■ Mini gym ■ Sauna (local charge) ■ Lift ■ Free parking ■ 1 tennis court (guests can hire rackets/balls from the hotel) ■ A path starting from the hotel leads to a natural rock swimming pool ■ 8km from Vila Franca do Campo ■ 5-minutes’ walk to the beach ■ The village of Água de Pau has two restaurants with full menus (open all year – one is closed on Mondays) – within a 20-minute walk. The village also has several cafes serving simple meals.

14 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | São Miguel | Água de Alto & Furnas

Hotel Terra Nostra Garden indoor pool

Furnas botanical gardens

Hotel Terra Nostra Garden, Furnas Airport: 45km Ponta Delgada ■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Car hire recommended

The Hotel Terra Nostra Garden has succeeded in revitalising this popular and charming property after extensive renovations. Well positioned next to the Terra Nostra botanical park, the hotel is made up of two adjoining buildings: the Art Deco Wing, built in the 1930’s which has maintained its architectural history; and the Garden Wing, added much later in the 1990’s. Many of the bedrooms, along with the restaurant and indoor swimming pool, enjoy fabulous views over the world famous, extensive botanical gardens owned by the hotel. This is a very attractive, peaceful spa town, surrounded by hills and in an ideal location for those looking for peace and quiet. Guests dining at the hotel are treated to local Azorean products, with a focus on the Cozido, a sustainable meal fully cooked underground using the natural heat of the volcanic hot springs - a must for any visitor to the islands.

Accommodation 86 rooms including cosy art deco rooms, garden view rooms, garden terrace rooms

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

and suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower – 2 rooms have shower only), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV and minibar ■ The cosy art deco rooms face the road or parking area (surrounded by heavily wooded hills in the background) ■ Some garden terrace rooms interconnect ■ 2 of the suites are housed in a separate building ‘Casa do Parque’ located by the botanical park’s thermal outdoor pool.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant (mostly à la carte) with view over the park and serving regional cuisine including the traditional Azorean dish of Cozido ■ Bar ■ Reading lounges/large sitting areas ■ WIFI internet connection in the public areas ■ Business centre with complimentary internet connection ■ Shop selling local handicrafts and souvenirs ■ Indoor heated swimming pool (10 x 14m) ■ Sports bar with snooker table (payable locally c.5 Euros per hour) ■ 3 Lifts ■ 1 tennis court (c. 3 Euros per hour. Equipment available to hire c.2.50 Euros) ■ Free access to the 12-hectare botanical gardens and its outdoor thermal pool fed by natural springs ■ Free parking ■ 5 restaurants within a 5-minute walk ■ 5minutes walk to the centre of Furnas ■ Mountain bikes for adults available for hire (local charge c.16 Euros per day or c.3.75 per hour) ■ Irregular bus service (3 services to Vila Franca do Campo and Ponta Delgada and 1 to Ribeira Grande per day – early morning departure/late return) ■ 20km to Vila Franca do Campo – local taxi costs c.20 Euros each way; 9km to Ribeira Quente and 35km to Nordeste ■ 30 minutes drive to Ponta Delgada from Furnas – local taxi costs c.40 Euros each way.

Standard ‘garden wing’ room

Special Offer ■ Early booking discount applicable for reservations made 60 days or more prior to departure between 01Nov13-14Jun14 and 01-31Oct14.

real Azores | 15

Azores | São Miguel | Furnas

Hot springs in Furnas

Furnas botanical gardens

Thermal pool, Furnas

Furnas Lake Apartments, Furnas Airport: 42km Ponta Delgada ■ 4-star equivalent ■ Self Catering ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

In a lush green valley surrounded by heavily vegetated volcanic hillsides are these eight wooden clad units set in a shallow water basin and created to blend with the environment. The Furnas Lake Apartments have long been the dream of Manuel and Helena Gago de Câmara. Each air-conditioned unit has fresh, contemporary, Scandinavian style furnishings using light woods and green, grey and white colours that provide accommodation with all the homely comforts. Only a short walk from the beautiful lake at Furnas (within 10minutes) this is an ideal location for walkers and nature lovers with endless possibilities.

Accommodation All apartments have a hairdryer, iron and ironing board ■ Welcome pack included (local wine, bread, butter, cheese, local tea, biscuits, jam or honey, milk and juice) ■ Cleaning and towel change every other day ■ Linen changed every 4 days ■ Complimentary internet connection (cable on request from reception). Eight 1-bedroom apartments (sleep 2+2) Each unit consists of a twin bedroom with French windows (young children need to be supervised), bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, living/dining room with TV, telephone, ﬁreplace and kitchenette (fridge, coffee maker, microwave, toaster, kettle and two electric hobs) which opens onto a covered deck terrace. Four 1bedroom apartments have a foldaway double bed (suitable for 2 adults or children). One 2-bedroom apartments (sleep 4+2) The 2-bedroom unit is a traditional house (not wooden clad) has 2 twin bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (one with bath & shower, the other with shower), a fully equipped kitchenette (full electric oven, 4 electric hobs, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, microwave, coffee maker, kettle and toaster). The unit will take an extra bed for 2 adults or children. Minimum stay: 2 nights

Special Offer ■ Stay 7 nights pay 6 nights between 01Nov-24Dec13, 02Jan-28Feb14, 10Mar11Apr14, 27Apr-31May14 and 01-31Oct14.

Amenities/Leisure

Activities

Breakfast can be provided on request (payable locally at 12 Euros per person) ■ Circular swimming pool – pool towels provided and open Apr-Oct ■ Safe deposit box at reception ■ Free parking ■ 3km to Furnas village ■ 20km to Vila Franca do Campo – local taxi costs c.18 Euros each way, 9km to Ribeira Quente and 35km to Nordeste ■ 40 minutes drive to Ponta Delgada from Furnas – local taxi costs c.40 Euros each way ■ A 1-hour walk through the surrounding hills to the ﬁshing village of Ribeira Quente ■ Reception is not manned 24-hours but contact telephone numbers are provided.

The owners run their own activity company. Guests of the Furnas Lake Apartments can pre-book or arrange locally the following activities: ■ Canoeing (c.10 Euros per canoe – half day payable locally) ■ Canyoning (c.70 Euros per person – full day payable locally) ■ Horse riding (c.48 Euros per person – half day payable locally) ■ Mountain bike hire (c.10 Euros – half day payable locally) ■ Swimming with dolphins (see page 23) ■ Whale & dolphin watching (see page 23)

16 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | São Miguel | Furnas

Furnas botanical gardens

Cozido cooked in natural underground ovens, Furnas

Quinta da Mó, Furnas Airport: 45km Ponta Delgada ■ Detached houses ■ Self Catering ■ Car hire recommended

Located in the centre of Furnas, the Quinta da Mó is well situated close to restaurants, shops, the botanical gardens and Furnas Lake whilst providing a peaceful natural setting for a relaxed stay. The owners, Luisa and Valerio, have spent a great deal of time restoring and remodeling the grounds and buildings of this former watermill and, in turn, have created an oasis of quiet and calm surrounded by exotic plants.

windows overlooking the garden and have a private wooden decking area furnished with tables, chairs and a parasol. These two units, located opposite one another, have a double bedroom, bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), open-plan living room with kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, fridge and kettle), double sofa bed suitable for an adult or two children, satellite TV and complimentary WIFI internet connection.

Accommodation

ENGENHO One 1-bedroom (air-conditioned) house (sleep 2) Surrounded by trees, the Engenho has one double bedroom with sloping roof on the first floor and, on the ground floor, bathroom (bath, shower & hairdryer), open-plan living room with kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, fridge and kettle), satellite TV, complimentary WIFI internet connection and double sofa bed suitable for an adult or two children. There is a private wooden decking area furnished with tables, chairs and a parasol.

Four units including three 1-bedroom cottages and one 3-bedroom house ■ Linen change every four days ■ Cleaning every day ■ Welcome pack included (milk, butter, cheese, ham, yoghurt, fruit, jam, biscuits, sugar, cornﬂakes, tea, coffee and bread) ■ Guests are required to carry their luggage from the car park, along a gravel path through the gardens, to their house. CASA DO GRANEL & CASA DO CAFUAO Two 1-bedroom house (sleep 2+2) Built on stone pillars and overlaid with wood, these chalet type cottages have large

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Engenho, Quinta da Mó

CASA DO MÓ One 3-bedroom house (sleep 6) This restored watermill dating from 1880, on three ﬂoors, has 2 double bedrooms with en suite bathroom (one with bath & shower, the second with shower and hairdryer only), 1 twin bedroom with en suite bathroom (bath, shower & hairdryer), large lounge with cable TV, complimentary WIFI internet connection, telephone, woodburning stove, old ﬂour mill and carpentry tools adorning the walls. The fully equipped kitchen has an electric oven and 5 gas hobs, microwave, fridge-freezer, dish washer, kettle, toaster, coffee machine and a functioning wood burning, stone oven. Terrace area overlooking the brook.

Amenities/Leisure Gardens (1-hectare) with a brook, citrus (lemon and orange) trees, chestnut and apple trees, tea and papaya plants, hydrangeas, two bridges, Jacuzzi (for up to 6 people), pagoda with massage table (a treatment can be arranged and paid for locally) and barbecue area ■ Cockerels and chickens roam freely within the grounds ■ Free private parking (security gate) ■ 2-minutes walk to the natural spa and 10-minutes to the lake ■ 3-minutes walk to the supermarket ■ A 20-minute drive to the nearest beach at Ribeira Quente. Minimum stay: 2 nights

real Azores | 17

Azores | São Miguel | Vila Franca do Campo

View over Vila Franca do Campo

Quinta dos Curubás cottages

Quinta dos Curubás, Vila Franca do Campo Airport: 25km Ponta Delgada ■ Country cottages ■ Self Catering ■ Car hire recommended This charming property, owner managed by Rui and his wife Catarina, offers a high standard of accommodation in ﬁve selfcontained cottages, perched on the hillside overlooking the town and bay of Vila Franca do Campo. The cottages, built out of natural pinewood, are all named after fruits grown in the property’s beautifully maintained gardens – Cherimoya (Anona), Banana, Maracuja (Passion fruit), Goiaba (Guava) and Laranja (Orange).

Five 1-bedroom cottages (sleep 2+2) 4 units have a double bed and 1 unit has a twin bed, all have bathroom (bath & shower), separate open-plan living room, kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, kettle, toaster, coffee machine, fridge and small freezer), double sofa bed – suitable for an adult or two children, cable TV, complimentary WIFI internet connection and a private terrace with sea view and outdoor table/chairs.

The property, set on 10,000 square metres of land, has a small chapel, fruit orchards and is surrounded by verdant countryside where cows can often be seen grazing. It is also home to three dogs, ducks, a peacock, a cockerel and chickens – a veritable menagerie that children and adults alike will appreciate. The natural bay of Vila Franca do Campo is ideal for swimming and regular whale watching, diving and boat excursions (Mar-Dec) depart from its harbour. Highly recommended.

Amenities/Leisure

Accommodation 5 cottages including two (Anona and Banana) that interconnect, each equipped with cleaning products and a welcome pack ﬁlled with seasonal fruit, cheese, bread, butter and local tea ■ Linen change every week, towels changed daily on request and cleaning provided at end of stay.

Mobile phone and hairdryer provided on request ■ Reception ■ Beautifully maintained gardens overlooking the town and bay of Vila Franca do Campo ■ Selfservice laundry room with washer and dryer – washing powder not included. Clothes lines are located behind each cottage ■ Barbecue on request ■ Free use of three bicycles ■ Access to the owners’ kitchen garden with vegetables and herbs that clients are welcome to use ■ The property is perched on the hillside above the main road. Some road noise is audible ■ 2km to the centre of Vila Franca do Campo – restaurants, café-bars, shops, markets, PADI diving centre and whale watching base. During the summer months an hourly boat service links the marina of Vila Franca do Campo to the nature reserve of Ilheu da Vila ■ Free parking. Minimum stay: 7 nights between 01Nov13-30Apr14.

Special Offer ■ Stay 7 nights between 01May-30Jun14 and 01Sep-31Oct14 and receive a complimentary whale and dolphin watching excursion for 2 people. Transfers not included.

18 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | São Miguel | Ribeira Grande

Ribeira Grande

Quinta de Santana

Quinta de Santana, Ribeira Grande Airport: 20km Ponta Delgada ■ Traditional Farm (Turismo Rural) ■ Self Catering ■ Swimming pool ■ Car hire recommended

The Quinta de Santana enjoys a peaceful setting on the north coast of São Miguel, surrounded by 2 hectares of beautiful well-maintained gardens. The landscape is calm and relaxing with a large lawn, outdoor swimming pool and colourful borders of tropical ﬂowers: hydrangeas, hibiscus, citrus fruit, passion ﬂowers, bananas and strawberries. Ownermanaged by Emanuela Galvao, the Quinta de Santana has recently expanded the range of accommodation offered and today has 25 self catering apartments. The apartments are decorated in either a traditional style or using modern décor and furnishings, and each is equipped with modern conveniences and a shared terrace.

Accommodation 25 apartments with cable TV, telephone and terrace ■ Traditionally decorated apartments have air-conditioning. The modern apartments have been built in a style that refracts the heat and therefore air-conditioning is not required. Six 1-Bedroom duplex apartments (sleep 2+2) Ground Floor: Small living room with kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, fridge-freezer, toaster, kettle or coffee maker) and bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer). 1st Floor: Wooden staircase leads up to a double bedroom ■ Terrace with table and chairs ■ Some apartments will accommodate an extra bed for an adult or two children ■ Some apartments have the bathroom on the 1st ﬂoor ■ All 1bedroom duplex units are air-conditioned and traditionally decorated.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Twelve 1-Bedroom apartments (sleep 2+2) – Ground or first floor: Double/Twin bedroom with bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), living room with kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, fridge-freezer, toaster, kettle or coffee maker) and terrace with table and chairs ■ Some apartments will accommodate an extra bed for an adult or two children ■ Four 1-bedroom apartments are air-conditioned. Seven 2-Bedroom apartments (sleep 4+1) – Ground floor: 1 twin and 1 double bedroom, living room with kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, fridge-freezer, toaster, kettle or coffee maker), bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer) and terrace with table and chairs ■ Some apartments will accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ One 2bedroom apartment is air-conditioned.

Amenities/Leisure Restaurant serving continental and buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner (c.17 Euros per person) ■ Honesty bar and complimentary WIFI internet connection in the reception ■ Games room (pool table) ■ Function room, which can be used by guests when not in use for special events, opens up on to the garden ■ Outdoor swimming pool (5.50 x 11m) open May-Sep – pool towels provided ■ Children’s play area (swings, slide and sea-saw) ■ Barbecue area ■ 2-hectares of cultivated gardens growing a variety of fruits including bananas, passion fruit, strawberries and ﬁgs and seasonal vegetables ■ The farm produces its own jam and liqueurs which can be purchased locally ■ Secure free parking ■ 5km to the

supermarket at Ribeira Grande ■ 5-minutes walk to a good beef restaurant and 10minutes to a ﬁsh restaurant ■ Two sandy beaches within easy reach (2km to the beach at Ribeira Grande and 10-minutes walk to Santana beach) ■ 10-minutes (12km) drive to the Batalha golf course (27 hole) and 41km to the Furnas golf course ■ Welcome pack included (local wine, water, bread, butter, cheese, coffee/tea, biscuits, sugar, 6 eggs, milk and juice).

Special Offers ■ Stay 7 nights pay 5 nights between 01Nov13-30Apr14. ■ Stay 14 nights pay 10 nights between 01Nov13-30Apr14. ■ Stay 14 nights between 01Jul-31Aug14 and receive a complimentary evening meal for 2 people (drinks excluded). ■ No single room supplement in a 1-bedroom apartment when staying a minimum of 3 nights between 01Jan31Mar14 and 01-31Oct14.

real Azores | 19

Azores | São Miguel | Nordeste

Lombo Gordo beach, Nordeste

Casas Do Pinheiro Alto (Bilha & Forno)

Casas do Frade, Nordeste Airport: 57km Ponta Delgada ■ Rural cottages (Turismo Rural) ■ Self Catering ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

These traditionally restored stone cottages are located at the foot of the Tronqueira mountain range, and are split into 4 complexes situated along the same road in the quaint village of Lomba da Fazenda. The cottages have all been lovingly renovated by the owner Mr Antonio Melo and offer modern conveniences in a rural setting. For those wishing to experience a peaceful stay in rural surroundings, you could not wish for more. Highly recommended!

Accommodation Each cottage is individually decorated using traditional furniture and local handicrafts ■ All cottages have an iron and ironing board, cleaning equipment, utensils, cutlery, crockery and a heating/air-conditioning unit ■ Linen provided (changed at end of stay or on request locally if staying for a long duration) ■ Cleaning at end of stay.

Special Offers ■ Stay 6 nights pay 5 nights between 01Nov13-31May14. ■ Stay 12 nights pay 10 nights between 01Nov13-31May14.

REFUGIO DO CONVENTO Two 2-bedroom cottages (sleep 4) One double bedroom and one twin bedroom, bathroom (shower), living room with TV, radio, DVD player, dining table and kitchen (washing machine, microwave, fridge, freezer, 4 gas hobs, gas oven, kettle and toaster). These cottages open onto a shared garden (each house has its own private area) with distant ocean view, washing lines and barbecues. Private parking. CASA DO FIGUEIRA One 2-bedroom cottage (sleep 4) One double bedroom with garden view and one twin bedroom with garden and ocean view, bathroom (shower), separate toilet, living room with TV, radio, DVD and cassette player, dining table and kitchen (original stone bread maker, washing machine, microwave, fridge, freezer, 4 gas hobs, gas oven, kettle, coffee machine and toaster). The detached Casa do Figueira enjoys a private garden with a beautiful view over the village of Nordeste to the ocean, washing line and barbecue. Private parking.

CASAS DO PINHEIRO ALTO One 2-bedroom cottage (sleep 4) Ground floor: Twin bedroom with private access. First floor: Double bedroom, bathroom (shower), living room with TV, radio, CD player, dining table and kitchen (washing machine, microwave, fridgefreezer, 4 gas hobs, gas oven, kettle, coffee machine and toaster). There is also a barbecue. One 1-bedroom cottage (sleep 2) Ground floor: Living room with TV, radio, CD and cassette player, dining table and wood burning oven. Mezzanine level: Wooden steps lead to a mezzanine level with double bedroom with view over the countryside and ocean. Lower floor: Bathroom (shower) and kitchen (washing machine, microwave, fridge, freezer, 4 gas hobs, gas oven, kettle, coffee machine and toaster). The kitchen has an independent entrance. These two units share a private garden to the rear with barbecue and beautiful views over the surrounding countryside to the ocean. The houses are accessed by a number of steps and are not suitable for those with walking difficulties. Private parking 50 metres from the property. CASAS DO FRADE Three 1-bedroom cottages (sleep 2) Double bedroom with view over the gardens to the ocean, bathroom (shower), small living room with TV, radio, CD and cassette player, dining table and kitchenette (microwave, fridge, freezer, 4 gas hobs, gas oven, kettle, coffee machine, toaster and washing machine. Please note that one unit has a kitchen with a low beam (5.1” height). These houses are

Casas Do Pinheiro Alto (Bilha)

smaller in size than the other houses and so we would recommend them for a shorter stay or as a summer retreat when the large shared garden with ocean views, washing lines and barbecues can be used.

Amenities/Leisure Welcome pack included (water, milk, tea, bread, seasonal fruits and cheese) ■ 200 metres to the closest café/supermarket in Lomba da Fazenda ■ 3km to a minimarket, restaurants and bank in Vila do Nordeste ■ 3km from the natural swimming pool at Boca da Ribeira ■ 7km to Lombo Gordo beach (black sand) ■ 8km from Tronqueira mountain range ■ 35km from Furnas and 40km from Vila Franca do Campo ■ Free private parking. Minimum stay: 3 nights (01Nov1331May14) or 4 nights (01-30Jun14 and 01-30Sep14) or 6 nights (01Jul-31Aug14). Note: Nordeste is 45 minutes drive from Ponta Delgada. For this reason we recommend clients spend their last night in the capital.

Casas Do Pinheiro Alto (Forno)

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Azores | São Miguel

Mosteiros •

PONTA DO ESCALVADO PONTA DA FERRARIA

• Sete Cidades CARVAO LAGOAS EMPADADAS

• Porto das Feteiras

Ponta do BAIA DE Cintrao • SANTA IRIA

Ribeira Grande •

Ribeira dos Nordeste •Caldeiros • SALTO DO

SERRA DA

TRONQUEIRA CAVALO Pico do Ferro Furnas LAGOA DAS • FURNAS • Lagoa do • Castelo Branco • • Fogo Ponta Delgada Lagoa • • Vila Franca Caloura do Campo

Batalha

CADEIRA VELHA

Map: Jeep Tour routes and Golf Courses Jeep Tour

Activities São Miguel Island Tours

Jeep Tours

Sunvil is able to pre-book the following guided minibus tours on São Miguel. ■ Lagoa ■ Caloura viewpoint ■ Vila Franca ■Furnas ■ Santa Iria viewpoint Price is £61 per adult and £31 per child (4-10yrs)

Enjoy an unforgettable drive along the islands’ best trails. Driving through trees and pastures often overlooking the Atlantic ocean you will discover places and landscapes of rare beauty not often encountered by the average tourist. During the trip there will be several stops with time to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Nordeste (Wednesday - Full day)

■ Furnas (Monday full day)

Furnas (Monday - Full day)

■ Santa Iria viewpoint ■ Ribeira dos Caldeirões ■ Nordeste ■ Forest Park of Cinzeiro - Interpretation Centre of the Azorean Bullﬁnch ■ Ponta da Madrugada viewpoint ■ Povoação ■ Furnas Price is £66 per adult and £33 per child (4-10yrs)

Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo (Friday - Full day) ■ Fajã de Baixo pineapple plantations ■ Vista do Rei viewpoint ■ Sete Cidades Lake ■ Carvão Lake ■ Ribeira Grande ■ Caldeira Velha ■ Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint Price is £61 per adult and £31 per child (4-10yrs) Notes: ■ Prices are based on a minimum of 6 people ■ Depart from Ponta Delgada – hotel departures at 08:50 (Hotel Vila Nova), 09:00 (Hotel Marina Atlântico) and 09:10 (Hotel São Miguel Park). Return at 17:00 ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are included ■ Pick up/drop off from hotels outside of Ponta Delgada at a supplement – please telephone us for a quotation ■ Itineraries are subject to change.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

See the mystic Furnas valley and surrounding area with its amazing volcanic formations. ■ Caloura ■ Vila Franca do Campo ■ Castelo Branco ■ Furnas Lake ■ Pico do Ferro ■ Ribeira Grande ■ Ponta Delgada Price is £59 per person

■ Lagoa do Fogo (Tuesday half day) Visit the central area of the island and the vast volcanic complex of Lagoa do Fogo. ■ Baleeiros viewpoint ■ Caldeira Vehla ■ Lagoa do Fogo ■ Lagoa village ■ Ponta Delgada Price is £32 per person

Golf ■ Nordeste (Wednesday full day) Take a tour to Nordeste on the eastern coast of São Miguel, known as the greenest part of the island. ■ Ponta do Cintrao ■ Santa Iria viewpoint ■ Ribeira dos Caldeiroes ■ Serra da Tronqueira ■ Salto do Cavalo Price is £63 per person

■ Sete Cidades (Friday full day) Visit the unique sights on São Miguel’s west coast. ■ Carvao viewpoint ■ Lakes of Empadadas ■ Sete Cidades Lake ■ Vista do Rei viewpoint ■ Mosteiros ■ Escalvado viewpoint ■ Ferraria ■ Porto das Feteiras ■ Ponta Delgada Price is £59 per person Notes ■ Departures from Ponta Delgada ■ No child reductions ■ No minimum number required ■ Escorted by an English speaking driver/guide ■ Full day tours (c.8 hours) include lunch ■ Half day tours (c.4 hours) ■ Pick-up from/to hotels outside of Ponta Delgada on request. An extra charge may be applicable ■ Itineraries are subject to change.

Tee-off on one of two golf courses on São Miguel - Furnas, 4km from the Hotel Terra Nostra Garden, Furnas Lake Apartments and Quinta da Mó (pages 16-17) or Batalha, a 20-minute drive (12km) from Ponta Delgada (pages 10-13) and the Quinta de Santana (page 19). Price is £36 per person for green fees (9 holes) all year and £61 per person (18 holes). Furnas ‘Cedars’ Golf (pictured) is located in the mountains (500m above sea level) with beautiful lakes, fairways surrounded by large trees and undulating greenways. Furnas ‘Cedars’ Golf course was named the 7th best golf course in Portugal by Today’s Golfer (2011) ■ 46 hectare golf course ■ Course length is 6232m maximum ■ 18 holes ■ Par 72 ■ Required handicap: 28 Men / 36 Women ■ Clubhouse with bar, restaurant, small pro-shop and TV/video room ■ Two putting greens, a practice tee and chipping and pitching area ■ Obligatory to wear soft spike shoes on both courses. Batalha ‘Azalea’ Golf is a beautifully landscaped course with challenging fairways and greens overlooking the ocean. ■ 100 hectare golf course ■ Course length is 6435m maximum ■ 27 holes ■ Par 72 ■ Required handicap: 28 Men / 36 Women ■ Clubhouse with bar, restaurant (golfers only), pro-shop, TV/video room and WIFI internet access ■ Driving range, a putting green and chipping and pitching green ■ Obligatory to wear soft spike shoes on both courses.

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Azores | São Miguel

Azores Experience

Santiago Lake overlooking Sete Cidades Lakes

Priôlo

Activities São Miguel Azorean Experience

Geological History Tour

This full-day experience centres on a traditional Azorean family-run farm in the village of Ginetes, and provides an insight to the history, culture and lifestyles of rural farming communities on São Miguel.

Experience the fabulous Geological History Tour of São Miguel, expertly escorted by an enthusiastic Englishspeaking geologist. A unique insight into these stunning green islands which will give you a new and clear perspective of just how these diverse landscapes were formed. See, touch and learn the secrets of this volcanic archipelago in a fun and entertaining day trip around the island.

Take a scenic ride on a horse and trap through Ginetes to the viewpoint of Escalvado, from where there is a splendid panorama over the western coast and the parish of Mosteiros; to the Sabrina Islet viewpoint and to the Ferraria lighthouse, the largest in the Azores. Back at the farm, a guided tour is offered and you can even try your hand at milking a cow and/or making cornbread or wheat bread. Afterwards local produce including delicious home-made sweetbread, cheese, marmalade, pate, tea and traditional biscuits are offered as an appetiser before a three-course lunch (soup, main course and dessert) is served. The Azorean Experience will highlight aspects of the Azores that are not to be missed. Price is £96 per adult* and £36 per child* (3-11yrs) when travelling with 2 adults. * Based on a minimum of 2 people ■ Friday departures from Ponta Delgada at 09:30 and return 16:30. ■ Minimum 2 and maximum 12 people. ■ Suitable for all age groups . ■ Included: Taxi or minibus transfer from Ponta Delgada hotels to Ginetes, horseand-trap ride and lunch.

Price is £63 per adult and £49 per child (8-10yrs) ■ Friday departures from a central meeting point in Ponta Delgada 09:30 and return 17:00. ■ Minimum 2 and maximum 12 people. ■ Suitable for all age groups – recommended from 8yrs and over. ■ Optional extra: Caving – not suitable for those with walking difﬁculties. ■ Included: 10-seater Jeep Defender or 9/12-seater minibus, picnic lunch, safety equipment (caving option) and pick-up from/to all hotels outside Ponta Delgada (excluding Nordeste).

Birdwatching This tour will appeal to beginners and long-time bird enthusiasts alike. Escorted by an ornithologist, you will observe birds and learn about their behaviour and diet all within a magniﬁcent landscape. Spot chafﬁnches, blackbirds, blackcaps, grey wagtails, shearwaters and canaries along the route. Price is £63 per adult and £49 per child (8-10yrs) ■ Sunday departures (Mar-Oct) from central meeting point in Ponta Delgada at 09:30 and return 17:00. ■ Minimum 2 and maximum 8 people. ■ Suitable for all – recommended for children aged 8yrs and over. ■ Included: 10-seater Jeep Defender or 9/12-seater minibus, English speaking guide, picnic lunch, bird checklist and pick-up from/to all hotels outside Ponta Delgada (excluding Nordeste). ■ Best time to observe resident and migrating birds is between Mar-Apr and Sep-Oct. Note ■ The birdwatching tour does not include a trip to Nordeste to see the Priôlo.

The Azores Bullfinch (Priôlo) The Azores bullﬁnch, also known as Pyrrhula murina ‘Priôlo’, is only found in a few square kilometres of wood in Serra da Tronqueira in the eastern region of São Miguel (8km from Nordeste). One of Europe’s most endangered species – shot almost to extinction by fruit farmers who viewed them as agricultural pests, the bullﬁnch was rarely seen after the 1920’s. Changes to the native vegetation of the Azores have destroyed the species' natural habitat and led to the population plummeting to around 400 birds. Sightings are most common in breeding season from mid-June to late August. There is a plan underway aiming to manage the habitats of the area of Pico da Vara / Ribeira do Guilherme in a manner compatible with a sustainable future, guaranteeing the conservation of the Priôlo. This means, in practice, to save and enlarge the areas with native vegetation. The ‘Association to protect the Priôlo’ on São Miguel runs a number of one day volunteer programmes throughout the year. Should you wish to join one of these programmes please contact us for further information. The programmes include: 1. Evaluation of the distribution of the bird population: Dec-Mar. 2. Registration of the Priôlo: Apr-Oct. 3. Help to catch and classify the birds: Nov. 4. Plantation of the endemic plants that they eat: Oct-Mar. 5. Removing exotic plants: May-Aug.

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Azores | São Miguel

Zodiac boat – Whale and dolphin watching trip

Swimming With Dolphins

Whale & Dolphin Diving Enjoy an unforgettable adventure ﬁlled Watching Trip with caves, volcanic drop-offs,

Swim with dolphins in the blue Atlantic waters around São Miguel Island. The four species of dolphin that are regularly sighted here are Common, Bottlenose, Risso and Atlantic Spotted.

A mere glimpse of a dorsal ﬁn can have you beaming for hours. So why not hop on a Zodiac in search of cetacean activity – 24 of the planet’s 80 species of whales and dolphins have been sighted off the coast of the Azores.

From Ponta Delgada Price is £68 per adult and £50 per child (5-11yr) – all year. From Vila Franca do Campo Price is £72 per person (01Jun-30Sep14) ■ 3-hour trip (in the water for c.10-minutes) at 09:30 or 13:30 (Ponta Delgada) or 08:30 (Vila Franca do Campo). ■ Briefing by the skipper (c.15-minutes). ■ Two people allowed in the water at a time (only free diving permitted). Contact with the dolphins is not permitted. ■ Minimum 2 crew members on board at all times. The final decision to dive rests with the skipper on the day. ■ Maximum of 8 people per boat (including crew members) from Ponta Delgada, and 10 people per boat (including crew members) from Vila Franca do Campo). ■ Minimum child age is 5 years (accompanied by a parent or guardian). ■ Location is c.10 miles from shore. ■ Wetsuits and snorkelling life vest (without fins or tube) are provided. ■ Private excursions can be arranged at a supplement. ■ Pre-booking in July and August is recommended. ■ For experienced, confident swimmers only. Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

From Ponta Delgada Price is £48 per adult and £35 per child (5-11yr) – all year. From Vila Franca do Campo Price is £51 per adult and £36 per child (5-11yr) – all year excluding 13Dec1328Feb14. Recommended if staying in Água de Alto, Caloura, Vila Franca do Campo and Furnas. ■ 3-hour excursion departs at 08:30 or 13:00. ■ Brieﬁng by a marine biologist (c.10minutes). ■ Minimum child age is 5 years (accompanied by a parent or guardian). ■ Zodiac boats (small, rigid hull inﬂatables carrying up to 24 people) are used. ■ We cannot guarantee that you will see a cetacean but it is unlikely that you should be so unlucky. ■ Pre-booking in July and August is recommended. Important: Children aged 4yrs or under, pregnant women or any person suffering from severe back problems are not allowed on the Zodiac boats.

underwater arches and an abundance of both Atlantic and Tropical fish life – parrot fish, groupers, sting and eagle rays, moray and conger eels, barracudas, amberjacks, turtles and dolphins. A fully equipped PADI dive centre is based in Vila Franca do Campo ‘Espírito Azul Diving Centre’. ■ Open daily all year round. ■ Suitable for all - from complete beginner to the most experienced, with shore and boat dives. ■ Dives include a 12 litre steel tank (200 BAR), weight belt and weight, dive master guidance and boat transportation to/from the dive sites within a 6-mile radius. ■ Minimum age of 16yrs applies to all PADI programmes except for the Junior open water diver scuba course which is 10yrs. ■ Medical certificates confirming fitness to dive is required for the Discover Scuba Diving, Licence Scuba Diver and Licence Open Water Diver courses – prices on request. ■ Sunvil’s insurance covers dives up to a depth of 40m only (excluding solo diving). ■ There are also PADI dive shops in Ponta Delgada and Vila Franca do Campo. ■ Price from £41 per person (1 dive own equipment) or £63 per person (1 dive with supplied equipment).

Glass Bottomed Boat Is there a better way to explore the seabed and marine life than in a glass bottomed boat? The new ‘E.T’ boat offers just that. Composed of a covered upper deck where guests can enjoy the coastal scenery and a lower, unique deck with a glass bottom for viewing marine life, the E.T. offers daily departures from Ponta Delgada. The excursions will cover either the east or the west side which will be determined by the skipper on the day. Price is £29 per adult and £15 per child (4-10yrs) between 01Apr-30Sep14. ■ Daily departures (Mon-Sun) at 10:30 and 14:30. ■ Departures from Ponta Delgada marina. ■ Duration: 3-hours. ■ Minimum 6 and maximum 20 people. ■ Accompanied by two crew members, a skipper and English speaking guide or biologist. ■ Marine life often seen is small coastal ﬁsh, sea urchins and starﬁsh. ■ Minimum child age is 4 years (accompanied by a parent or guardian). ■ Onboard toilet. ■ Pre-booking in July and August is recommended. ■ See photo on page 69 – São Miguel Family Holiday itinerary.

real Azores | 23

Azores | Santa Maria

Baia de Sรฃo Lourenรงo

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Azores | Santa Maria

Santa Maria The Island of the Sun

• Anjos

São Pedro •

• Vila do Porto

Pico Alto

Praia Formosa

Baia de São Lourenço • Santa Bárbara • Santo Espirito

Santa Maria is the oldest island of the archipelago. It was here that Christopher Columbus sought refuge in 1493 on his return from his voyage to America.

Maia •

Santa Maria is different from the other islands in that it is ﬂatter and therefore dryer, warmer and with a lower humidity. The west, being the ﬂatter area of the island, has higher temperatures and low growing vegetation. The central mountainous area and the rest of the island are more heavily wooded (with many endemic plants) with high cliffs and hillsides plunging into the ocean. To the south is Praia Formosa, one of the best beaches of the Azores (Blue Flag status) – and one of the few white sand beaches in the archipelago - and the Baia da Praia nature reserve. There are wonderful exploratory itineraries around the island. Anjos, where Columbus landed, the quaint town of São Pedro, the white Algarve style houses of

picturesque Santa Bárbara in the forested north and Pico Alto (587m) from where one can see the whole of the island. The 15th century town of Vila do Porto is the oldest in the Azores and has long streets leading to the 16th century cliff top fort of São Brás with the port below. At the tiny village of Maia, the steep hillsides leading down to the ocean have been terraced with black volcanic rocks over many generations to hold the fertile soil in place in order to grow vines, wheat and corn. Maia also boasts a natural swimming pool that has achieved Blue Flag status. There are also the Baia de São Lourenço, Ilheus das Formigas and Baia da Maia nature reserves – all wonderful places to explore.

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Azores | Santa Maria | Vila do Porto

Baia de São Lourenço

Hotel Colombo, Vila do Porto Airport: 1km Santa Maria ■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

The Hotel Colombo, located on the south coast of Santa Maria facing the ocean, is the only 4-star property on the island and offers comfortable lodgings in modern surroundings. The bedrooms and apartments are located in the right wing whereas all the social areas are in the left, thus minimising the noise level when guests are at rest. The hotel is suitable for business clients as well as family holidays.

Accommodation 87 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, suites and one-bedroom apartments ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath or shower), hairdryer, telephone, satellite TV, minibar, safe deposit box and balcony with south facing ocean view. 64 Standard rooms (sleep 2+1) The standard rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ Some standard rooms have a king size bed. 5 Suites (sleep 2) The suites have a double bedroom (king size bed), bathroom (Jacuzzi, bath and shower) and separate living room. 18 one-bedroom apartments (sleep 2+2) The apartments have a twin bedroom, bathroom (bath & shower), separate living room with two single sofa beds which can accommodate two adults or children and a

kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave/grill, kettle, coffee making machine, fridge and small freezer).

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Panoramic restaurant serving regional cuisine (buffet and à la carte menu) ■ Bar with live performances in summer ■ Café bar with terrace and pool table (6 Euros per hour) ■ Cable TV lounge ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection at reception ■ Lift ■ Outdoor swimming pool (19 x 17m) open all year – pool towels provided ■ Well maintained gardens with lawn areas ■ Health club with Turkish bath, Jacuzzi (free of charge), gym and treatment rooms (payable locally) ■ Iron/ironing board on request at reception ■ DVD player on request from reception (c.20 Euros per day) ■ Free parking ■ 10-minutes drive from the centre of Vila do Porto ■ 15-minutes drive or 1 hour walk from the town beach (sand) at Praia Formosa.

Special Offer ■ Stay 4 nights pay 3 nights between 01Nov13-14Dec13, 07Jan-31May14 and 01Sept-31Oct14.

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Azores | Santa Maria

Activities Santa Maria A great way to see the islands is on foot. We can pre-book a range of guided walking excursions and island tours – see below for details.

Guided Walks Entre Serra e Mar (Half day) This 9.5km (c. 2hrs 30mins) walk starts and ends at the parish church of Santa Bárbara and passes typical houses and through rural landscapes. As you travel around the island you will notice the distinctive house chimneys, unique to Santa Maria and the varying number of colours used – the colours relate to the parish in which they are located. Following well used tracks, this walk offers excellent views of the bay of São Lourenço. Grade 2 Pico Alto - São Pedro (Half day) This 14km (c. 4hrs) walk starts on the Pico Alto forest road (587m), the highest point on Santa Maria, with views over the whole island – São Miguel Island can also be seen on a clear day. You will pass through the Barreiro da Faneca, a unique ecosystem made up of reddish clay soil known as the ‘Red Desert of the Azores’, and a forest of Japanese red cedar trees. Throughout the walk travellers are treated to views of Anjos, Ponta da Baleia, the Baía da Cré and the Lagoinhas Islet. Grade 2

Santo Espírito - Maia (Half day) This 6.8km (c. 3hrs) walk begins in the parish of Santo Espírito passing through Maia and ending at the Whaling Factory in Ponta do Castelo. The route runs through the village and passes by the splendid waterfall of the Ribeira do Aveiro, the Gonçalo Velho Lighthouse and through terraced vineyards. Grade 2 Price is £54 per person for each walk. Notes ■ Daily departures based on a minimum of 2 participants ■ Each walk is led by an experienced English speaking guide ■ No child reductions ■ Pick-up included from the Hotel Colombo. Recommended: Why not combine walks on Santa Maria with São Miguel (see page 68). Please telephone us for a quotation. Grading of Walks 1 for Easy 2 for Medium

Non Guided Walks Santo Espirito is a 11km (c. 3hrs 45mins) walk starting at the picturesque village of Santo Espirito, surrounded by lush green countryside, before descending through meadows and terraced vineyards to the white sand beach and natural rock pools at Praia Formosa. Grade 2 Pico Alto, the highest point on Santa Maria at 587m, is a 13km walk (c. 4hrs) that will enable you to appreciate the fabulous views over the small island of Santa Maria. From Pico Alto, you will see the dramatic coastlines to the east, where high cliffs fall into the ocean, pastures to the west of the island and the mountainous central region. The walk ends at the small village of São Pedro. Grade 1 Note ■ These walks are bookable and payable locally.

Island Tour Sunvil is able to pre-book the following private taxi tour on Santa Maria. Tours can also be tailor-made to suit the individual requirements of our clients, please telephone us for a quotation.

Full day Depart from Vila do Porto to the small seaside resort of Anjos and its small chapel where Christopher Colombus attended mass on his return from America. From Anjos, on a clear day, it is possible to see the island of São Miguel on the horizon. Continue to the pretty village of Santo Espírito, surrounded by green pastures and hills, where you will visit the beautifully restored 17th century baroque church. Return to Vila do Porto via Maia and the viewpoint overlooking the bay of São Lourenço. From Vila do Porto Price is £108 per person (based on 2 people) Notes ■ Prices are based on a minimum of 2 people ■ Maximum of 3 people per taxi ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included ■ Itinerary is subject to change.

Swimming Praia do Formosa, located in a wide bay at the foot of steep cliffs, has a white sand beach that is very popular in summer (Jul-Sep). There is also a designated surﬁng area.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Maia in the southeast and São Lourenço in the northeast have natural sea swimming pools and, the latter, has several small, white sand beaches between the rocks.

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Azores | Terceira

Angra do HeroĂsmo

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Azores | Terceira

Terceira The Lilac Island

• Biscoitos • Lajes Furnas do Enxofre•

Algar do Carvão

Praia da • Vitória Serra do Cume

Doze Ribeiras •

São Mateus •

Silveira • • Angra do Heroísmo

Angra do Heroísmo, with its origins in the late 15th century, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a picture book town of imposing townhouses and cobbled streets seemingly untouched by time. The best views of this once prosperous trading centre are from the 1,205m high Monte Brasil across the harbour. The west coast harbours a host of villages and the wilder, centre of the island is ideal for walks. Praia da Vitória, to the east, with its sandy beach is a charming small town and, inland, the views from the 500m high point of the Serra do Cume, over the

Elliptic in shape, Terceira covers an area of 382 sq.km, is 29km at its longest and 17.5km at its widest. The island is a plateau, with the Serra do Cume to the east, the Serra do Labaçal in the centre (rising to 808m), and the Serra da Santa Bárbara (rising to 1,021m) to the west.

gigantic quilt made up of green pastures separated by black volcanic stone walls, quite breathtaking. Terceira caters for all interests from golf, to exploring volcanoes, walking, swimming in natural rock pools and to visiting the sixty eight 19th century ‘Imperias’, (small chapels to the Holy Spirit), which are scattered throughout the island. Then there are the colourful festivals and street bullﬁghts (they pad the bulls’ horns and bulls are never killed) where the only casualty is young men’s wounded pride.

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Azores | Terceira | Angra do Heroísmo

Serra do Cume

Hotel Angra Garden, Angra do Heroísmo

Hotel do Caracol, Angra do Heroísmo

Airport: 24km Lajes

■ 3-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pools ■ Air-conditioning ■ Spa

The Hotel Angra Garden is centrally located in the historic town of Angra do Heroísmo. This modern city hotel was in fact the ﬁrst hotel (in 1968) to offer accommodation to visitors on Terceira. The hotel is ideally located opposite the main square of ‘Praça Vehla’ and adjacent and overlooking the botanical gardens, from which there is a path that leads uphill (well worth the effort) to the ‘Miradouro of Memory’ with excellent views over the town of Angra.

The Hotel do Caracol is well situated on the western side of Angra do Heroísmo (15minutes walk) and enjoys excellent views across the bay towards Monte Brasil (1,205m high). This stylish hotel, which has adopted an almost nautical theme in its choice of colours and design, is perfectly suited for both couples and families alike. A wide choice of leisure facilities and sporting activities make it the ideal choice for an extended stay on the island. The hotel offers the services of a true 4-star property and will make any stay well worth the visit – recommended.

Accommodation 120 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, triple rooms, executive rooms, one-bedroom junior suites and a two bedroom duplex suite ■ All rooms with bathroom (bath and/or shower), hairdryer, telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection, cable TV and minibar. Standard rooms (sleep 2) Twin or double bed, bathroom (bath & shower, 4 with shower only) and view of the botanical gardens, square or side street. Triple rooms (sleep 3) Three beds, bathroom (bath & shower) writing desk and view of the inner courtyard. Executive rooms (sleep 2) Larger in size than the standard rooms, Executive rooms have a queen-size bed, bathroom (bath & shower) and view of the street. 1-bedroom junior suites (sleep 2+2) Ground floor: Living room with double sofa bed (for adults) & bathroom (shower). First floor: Double bedroom and bathroom (bath & shower). View of the square. 2-bedroom duplex suite (sleep 4+2) Ground floor: Double bedroom (king size

Accommodation

bed), living room with double sofa bed suitable for an adult or two children and French balcony (view of square) and bathroom (bath & shower). First ﬂoor: Double bedroom and bathroom (shower).

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant serving international cuisine (à la carte menu – evening only) facing the botanical garden ■ Banqueting room ■ Bar/TV lounge serving snacks ■ Terrace with bar (service from May to Sep) and panoramic views over Angra do Heroísmo to the ocean and Monte Brasil ■ Internet connection at reception (c.3 Euros for 15 minutes) ■ Safe at reception (free of charge) ■ Lift ■ Health suite with indoor heated swimming pool (5 x 10m) – pool towels provided and gym, Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath (free of charge) ■ Free access to the botanical garden (gates close at 23:00 in summer/ 18:00 in winter) ■ Street parking (metred).

100 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, junior suites, standard suites and senior suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath and/or shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, complimentary WIFI internet connection, minibar, safe deposit box and balcony with view of the ocean or gardens ■ 10 standard rooms interconnect ■ All junior suites and suites are duplex units ■ The junior suites have a bedroom, bathroom (bath & shower) and a living room with garden view ■ The standard suites have a bedroom, two bathrooms (bath & shower, one with shower only) and living room

with balcony and ocean view ■ The senior suites have two bedrooms, two bathrooms (bath & shower, one with shower only) and a living room with balcony and ocean view.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Panoramic restaurant with ocean view serving Portuguese and International cuisine (à la carte) ■ Several lounges ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection in the public areas ■ First ﬂoor bar (serving snacks and à la carte menu) and terrace with ocean and garden views ■ Shop selling local handicrafts, clothing and souvenirs ■ Outdoor swimming pool in the shape of a semi-circle (12 x 20m) open all year ■ Pool bar in summer ■ 2 Lifts ■ Wellness centre with indoor heated swimming pool (6 x 9m) – swimming cap required, fully equipped gym (with instructor), Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath (free of charge) and massage room ■ Free parking ■ PADI 5-star dive centre (bookable locally).

Standard room

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Azores | Terceira | Angra do Heroísmo

View from Hotel Angra Marina

Angra do Heroísmo

Hotel Angra Marina, Angra do Heroísmo

Pousada São Sebastião, Angra do Heroísmo

Airport: 24km Terceira

Airport: 24km Lajes

■ 5-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Spa

■ Historic Design Pousada ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pools ■ Air-conditioning

The Angra Marina, located on the ocean front in the historic capital of Angra do Heroísmo, is the ﬁrst ever 5-star hotel to open in the Azores. Recently opened, this ultra modern property offers light and airy guestrooms overlooking the Atlantic and luxurious modern furnishings in rich shades of turquoise, chalk and chocolate. Guests have an array of facilities on offer including a swimming pool, a wonderful spa offering hydrotherapy treatments and a sophisticated restaurant and piano bar.

Originally constructed in 1555 on the demand of El-Rei D. Sebastião, the Pousada has retained many original features including the fortress walls, prison cells, governor’s house and the cannon room. Whilst the addition of a new guest wing, modern and minimalist in design, offers relaxing public areas and accommodation of a high standard. There is an outdoor swimming pool, lawn area and terraces - many of which enjoy spectacular views towards Angra do Heroísmo, the imposing Mount Brasil and Atlantic Ocean.

Explore the archipelago’s mesmerising volcanic caves, majestic craters and idyllic pastoral life. You will be captivated by the proud traditional festivals, local gastronomy and architectural beauty of the capital. The streets are lined with Renaissance-era churches, palaces and brightly-coloured chapels (impérios), while the central location of the hotel offers a wide selection of quaint shops, restaurants and a small beach within walking distance.

Accommodation 130 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, junior suites and deluxe suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (Jacuzzi bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, satellite and Pay TV, minibar, complimentary internet connection (cable) and balcony with sea view ■ Some rooms interconnect (standard with standard and junior suite with suites) ■ Some standard rooms have a king size bed ■ All rooms have a sofa bed which can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ The deluxe suites have a king size bed and a Jacuzzi with sea view.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Standard room

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Panoramic restaurant ‘Monte Brasil’ serving Portuguese and international cuisine ■ Piano bar which opens up on to an outdoor terrace ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection in the public areas ■ Games room (billiards and darts) – local charge ■ Indoor swimming pool (8 x 20m) – heated in winter (Nov-Apr) ■ Pool bar serving light snacks ■ 4 Lifts ■ Complimentary shuttle bus to an 18-hole golf course (c.15-minutes drive) ■ Kid’s Club (4-12 years) – open in summer (May-Sep) and payable locally ■ Spa: Sauna, Turkish bath, geothermic and Vichy showers and Hamman (treatments and Vichy shower payable locally) ■ Gym ■ Free underground parking and car valet service.

Special Offers ■ Book before 25Nov13 and receive a 10% discount on the room rates. ■ Stay 4 nights pay 3 nights between 01Nov13-20Dec13 and 02Jan-28Feb14.

Accommodation 29 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, superior rooms and a suite ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, minibar, complimentary WIFI internet connection (cable) and safe deposit box ■ Rooms are divided between the new guest wing and the original governor’s house: 22 rooms are located in the new guest wing including superior rooms with ocean view and French balcony (first floor), standard rooms with partial ocean view and shared terrace (ground floor) ■ 6 superior rooms (one with king size bed) are located in the original governor’s house plus 1 suite ■ The suite is open-plan with a double bed, lounge area with single sofa bed and view over the ocean and Monte Brasil ■ Most rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ Two superior rooms interconnect.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ ‘Castelinho’ restaurant serves traditional Portuguese cuisine (à la carte) and has an open terrace with ocean view ■ ‘Porto de Pipas’ bar is on two levels and has a TV lounge, complimentary WIFI internet connection and terrace with ocean view ■ Outdoor swimming pool (9 x 7m) – pool towels provided ■ Small children’s pool (3.50 x 4.50m) ■ Lift ■ Free parking ■ 20-minute walk to the centre of Angra do Heroísmo or c.4.00 Euros for a taxi each way.

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Azores | Terceira | São Mateus & Praia da Vitória

View from Hotel Praia Marina

Quinta das Mercês, São Mateus

Hotel Praia Marina, Praia da Vitória

Airport: 22km Lajes

Airport: 5km Lajes

■ Manor House (4-star equivalent) ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Air-conditioning

Positioned in the protected area of Monte Brasil and only a short distance from São Mateus ﬁshing village (1km), this beautifully restored 18th century Manor House is the perfect base for a peaceful stay on the island. Set within a 35,000 square metre estate, the Quinta das Mercês has been lovingly restored to its original splendour by the owners Mr & Mrs Raiano. Offering in our opinion the highest standard of accommodation on Terceira, the property has been tastefully decorated throughout in a style that reﬂects the elegance of the property and the warmth of hospitality received by guests. Although boasting the facilities expected of a 4-star hotel, the Quinta das Mercês offers much more – a home from home. Highly recommended!

Accommodation 12 air-conditioned (ceiling fans) rooms and a suite ■ All the rooms are traditionally furnished with bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection and cable TV ■ 3 rooms have a private garden ■ 3 rooms face the inner courtyard ■ 2 rooms have a garden view ■ 2 rooms have a side ocean view and will accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ The suite (sleep 2) has sliding doors between the double bedroom and living room and access to a private garden.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast room – during summer breakfast may be taken outside in the courtyard ■ Honesty bar ■ Various TV lounges and reading rooms ■ Library ■ 24hour self service tea facilities ■ Safe deposit box at reception ■ Enclosed gardens with stone seating areas and 35,000 square metres of forest with walking trails ■ Inﬁnity saltwater swimming pool (14 x 9m) open all year – pool towels provided ■ Astroturf tennis court (c.8 Euros per hour if equipment required) ■ Chapel ■ Gym ■ Jacuzzi and Turkish bath (c.5 Euros per person) ■ Games room (snooker, billiards, table tennis, table football – free of charge) ■ Putting green ■ Bicycle hire (c.7.50 Euros for 3 hours) ■ Fishing equipment (c.7.50 Euros for 3 hours) ■ Kayaks (c.25 Euros for 3 hours – max. 2 people) ■ 30-minutes walk to Angra do Heroísmo (3km) ■ Closest restaurants in São Mateus (1km) ■ The coastal road runs between the grounds of the Quinta das Mercês and the sea ■ Free parking.

Special Offers ■ Stay 4 nights pay 3 nights between 01Apr-31May14 and 01-31Oct14. ■ Stay 7 nights pay 5 nights between 01Apr-31May14 and 01-31Oct14. ■ Honeymoon couples staying a minimum of 2 nights receive complimentary fruit and flowers in their room on arrival. ■ Honeymoon couples staying a minimum of 3 nights receive fruit, flowers and sparkling wine in their room on arrival. ■ Honeymoon couples staying a minimum of 5 nights receive a complimentary evening meal (drinks excluded) and an upgrade to a suite (subject to availability).

The town of Praia da Vitória, on the northwest coast of Terceira, is a delightful little community with a good choice of shops and restaurants including an excellent fish restaurant ‘Pescador’, considered one of the finest on the island. This 4-star property occupies a prime position within the town of Praia da Vitória, opposite a sandy, blue flag beach just 50 metres from the main square, and offers guests the luxury of a hotel with the amenities of a self-catering apartment. The public areas and bedrooms are of a high standard with modern furnishings. The studios, apartments and suites enjoy the addition of a fully equipped kitchenette. The property will suit both couples and families alike – recommended.

Accommodation All the units are air-conditioned ■ Daily linen change and cleaning. Six Standard rooms (sleep 2) All with bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), cable TV, telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection, safe deposit box and town view. Fourteen Studios (sleep 2+2) Open-plan studios with bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), living room with double sofa bed, cable TV, telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection, safe deposit box, dining table, kitchenette (fridge-freezer, microwave and 2 electric hobs) and balcony with ocean view.

Studio

Nine 1-bedroom apartments (sleep 2+4) One-bedroom apartments have a separate bedroom and living room with two double sofa beds, cable TV, telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection, kitchenette (fridge-freezer, microwave and 2 electric hobs), bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer) and a balcony with town view. Three Suites (sleep 2+4) Located on the top ﬂoor, all the suites have a double bedroom, bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), living room with two sofa beds (suitable for adults), cable TV, telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection, safe deposit box, dining table and corner kitchenette (fridge freezer, microwave and 2 electric hobs) and a large covered balcony with ocean view ■ One suite can accommodate two extra beds.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast room ■ Bar ■ Lounge with ocean view ■ Lift ■ Communal terrace with chairs, parasols and ocean view ■ TV room with internet connection ■ Complimentary WIFI connection at reception ■ Coffee shop ■ Four free car parking spaces outside the property or free parking at the marina (100 metres).

Quinta das Merces

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Azores | Terceira

Algar do Carvão

Diving

Imperias chapel

Activities Terceira Terceira is an island of contrasts. There are picturesque villages, interesting museums, wild countryside, volcanic caverns and the beautiful UNESCO town of Angra do Heroísmo. Sunvil are able to pre-book a range of excursions, which will enable you to derive maximum beneﬁt from your visit.

Island Tours

Tourada à Corda

Golf

Diving

Sunvil is able to pre-book the following private taxi tours on Terceira. Tours can also be tailor-made to suit the individual requirements of our clients, please telephone us for a quotation.

Experience the thrill of the bull running through the streets of towns and villages. The bulls have their horns padded and are not killed in the Azores. This colourful festival runs from 1st May to 15th October throughout the island. Should you wish to see one of the oldest pastimes of the archipelago – the ﬁrst recorded event took place in Angra do Heroísmo in 1622, then the local hotels and Tourist ofﬁce can provide the latest details of the location and times of the bull running during your stay. Note: The bull running usually takes place between 20th to 25th of each month.

The golf course is located between the towns of Praia da Vitoria and Angra do Heroísmo. Affording rural views over the beautiful pastures of Serra do Cume, a number of small lakes and fairways ﬂanked by trees this course has much to offer golfers of any ability.

Take a dip in to the deep waters off Terceira at the fully equipped PADI dive centre based at the Hotel do Caracol, Angra do Heroísmo (see page 30).

Full day Depart from Angra do Heroísmo by the south coast to Praia da Vitória, passing en route the villages of Porto Judeu and Porto Martins. In the afternoon continue to Serra do Cume from where you can enjoy a panoramic view over the green ﬁelds enclosed by stone walls and hydrangeas to the town of Praia da Vitória. Return to Angra do Heroísmo, visiting Algar do Carvão (JunSep only) and via Biscoitos with its wine museum and natural swimming pools. From Angra do Heroísmo Price is £133 per taxi From Praia da Vitoria Price is £154 per taxi

Half day Depart from Angra do Heroísmo to Monte Brasil for a view over the town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue to Biscoitos for a visit of the wine museum and the natural swimming pools. Return to Angra do Heroísmo via the villages of Doze Ribeiras and São Mateus. From Angra do Heroísmo Price is £79 per taxi From Praia da Vitória Price is £100 per taxi Notes ■ Prices are based on a maximum of 3 people per taxi ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included ■ Itineraries are subject to change.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Praia da Vitoria ■ 18 holes ■ Par 72 ■ Required handicap: 28 Men / 36 Women ■ Clubhouse with bar, restaurant and proshop ■ Driving range, a putting green, chipping and pitching green, golf simulator and golf clinic ■ Soft spike shoes on the courses are obligatory. Prices: Green time at Terceira Island Golf Club can be arranged by our agent locally Daily green fees are between 27-45 Euros per person. Note ■ SATA International and TAP Portugal allow one golf bag per person, free of charge, in excess to the standard luggage allowance ■ Closed on Mondays and national holidays.

■ Open daily all year. ■ Suitable for all – from complete beginner to the most experienced, with shore and boat dives. ■ Minimum age of 16yrs applies to all PADI programmes except for the Discover scuba course which is 8yrs. ■ Minimum age of 16yrs applies to all PADI programmes except for the Discover scuba course which is 8yrs. ■ Medical certificates confirming fitness to dive is required for certain courses – details on request. ■ Dives are limited to 40 metres and a maximum group size of 6. ■ Sunvil’s insurance covers dives up to a depth of 40m only (excluding solo diving). ■ This activity is bookable locally through the Hotel do Caracol.

Algar do Carvão Formed by several caves, and about 100m depth, this underground lava tube has plenty of stalactites and stalagmites. Open Apr-Sep only.

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Azores | Graciosa

Graciosa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; view from the Caldeira trail

34 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | Graciosa

Graciosa The White Island

• Santa Cruz da Graciosa

Praia • Furna do • Enxofre

• Carapacho

With an area of 61 sq. km, Graciosa lies 1½ hours by ferry north of São Jorge and 20 minutes by air northwest of Terceira. It is the second smallest island in the archipelago, only 12.5km long and 7km wide and has a gentle, low-lying landscape that is relatively untouched by time.

The 39km coastline of Graciosa offers a sand beach at Praia and natural rock pools at Carapacho, as well as many picturesque bays and offshore islets that provide a sanctuary for an abundance of sea birds, including the grebe and red-billed tern. On the north east coast is Santa Cruz, the capital of Graciosa; an attractive town with many 18th and 19th century manor houses and a cobbled central square. From the Monte de Nossa Senhora da Ajuda an excellent view of the town and the vineyards which cover the north of the island can be observed. Another ﬁne view - of the central islands of Faial, Pico, São Jorge and Terceira – can be enjoyed from Pico on

a clear day. Classiﬁed as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO this peak is the highest on the island measuring 398m. A must for any visitor to Graciosa is an exploration of the Furna do Enxofre, an impressive lava cave which stretches 194m in length and 40m in height. Accessed by a narrow funnel and 184 steps, this volcanic phenomenon is part of a much larger caldeira whose fertile lands can be explored by a 9km circular trail. For those wishing to unwind and step back in time, look no further. Graciosa is an island where tranquility reigns and where age-old traditions remain.

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Azores | Graciosa | Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz

Hotel Graciosa Resort

Residencial Ilha Graciosa, Santa Cruz Hotel Graciosa Resort, Santa Cruz Airport: 2km Graciosa

Airport: 4km Graciosa

■ 2-star equivalent hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning

The hotel has been restructured from a complex of old buildings and carefully adapted to provide comfortable accommodation for guests. The rooms are simply but adequately furnished throughout. The centre of Santa Cruz, which uniquely amongst the Azorean islands has a proper town square, is within a 5-minute walk. Please note that the service at the hotel, as with the pace of life on Graciosa, can be slow and occasionally erratic.

This modern building is the ﬁrst 4-star hotel of its kind built on the island. Set within lawned gardens and small vineyards, the hotel is well situated in a quiet coastal area facing the ocean 1km from the centre of Santa Cruz. Fine dining can be enjoyed from the panoramic restaurant followed by a leisurely walk into town or along the waters edge.

Accommodation 15 spacious rooms (ground and 1st ﬂoor) including standard rooms and a triple room (ground ﬂoor) ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower, one room has a hydro-massage shower only), telephone and cable TV ■ Rooms have a view of the street or gardens ■ Most standard rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child.

Amenities/Leisure Small breakfast room (continental buffet) with barrel shaped stools and an original wine press. During the summer months breakfast can be taken outside ■ Bar serving snacks ■ Spacious TV lounge with complimentary internet connection ■ Hairdryer and iron on request at reception ■ Free parking ■ Two restaurants near the main square c. 5 minutes walk.

Accommodation 52 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, senior suites and detached villas ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, minibar, complimentary internet connection, balcony and ocean or land view. Hotel rooms (2+1) - BB All rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ The senior suites have a double bedroom with terrace, bathroom (bath & shower) and a separate living room with terrace and ocean view. On the ﬁrst ﬂoor there is a large living room with dining area, kitchenette (electric oven and hobs, microwave and fridge) and balcony with ocean view and a second bathroom (shower).

Villas (4+1) - BB The detached villas have one double and one twin bedroom, bathroom (bath & shower), living room with single sofa bed (suitable for an adult or child), kitchenette (electric oven and hobs, microwave and fridge) and a roof terrace.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant serving Portuguese and International cuisine ■ Bar with complimentary WIFI internet connection and lounge ■ Safe deposit box at reception ■ Gym ■ Sauna ■ Lift ■ Outdoor swimming pool ■ 10km from Furna do Enxofre ■ 1km from the centre of Santa Cruz ■ Thermal Spa located 16km from the hotel (special rates apply for guests) ■ Free parking.

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Azores | Graciosa

Furna do Enxofre (lava tube)

Nossa Senhora da Ajuda Chapel

Activities Graciosa The pace of life on Graciosa is extremely relaxed and therefore ideal for those wishing to recharge their batteries and visit an island almost untouched by time. As with all Azorean islands, Graciosa is the perfect choice for walkers and, although we do not offer a set walking holiday, our local agent will be happy to recommend some walking routes. Alternatively, Sunvil can pre-book a taxi tour of the island.

Island Tour

Diving

Swimming

Sunvil is able to pre-book the following private taxi tour on Graciosa. Tours can also be tailor-made to suit the individual requirements of our clients, please telephone us for a quotation.

The Azores are increasingly becoming known for their excellent diving possibilities. Graciosa is a perfect base, with its abundance of ﬁsh, fascinating wrecks and 20-30m visibility. This activity is bookable locally.

Take a dip in the clear waters of the natural rock pools located in Carapacho, Calheta or Barro Vermelho. If you prefer beaches, then try the one in Praia – Graciosa’s only black sand beach.

Half day Depart from Santa Cruz da Graciosa towards the caldeira where you will visit the Furna do Enxofre or sulphur cavern located at the base of the crater. The view from the caldeira, overlooking small meadows and forests, is spectacular. Continue to the ﬁshing village of Praia, Fenais and on to Carapacho to visit the thermal baths. Return to Santa Cruz da Graciosa via the west coast, stopping at Monte da Ajuda to enjoy the view over the capital.

Viewpoint Of all the walking trails, the highlight is the road around the Caldeira, which may also be experienced by bicycle, mountain bike, on horseback or by car. Whichever means of transport one uses, there is a stunning panoramic view over rocky cliffs and white houses amongst green pastures.

From Santa Cruz da Graciosa Price is £96 per taxi Notes ■ Prices are based on a maximum of 3 people per taxi ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included ■ Itinerary is subject to change.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

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Azores | S達o Jorge

Faj達, S達o Jorge

38 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | São Jorge

São Jorge The Brown Island

Pico das Caldeirinhas • • Velas

Fajã do Ouvidor •

Fajã dos Cubres •

• Pico da Esperanca

SER

Calheta

Fajã do • Santo Cristo

TOP

• • Loural Fajã dos vimes • Fajã de São João

The craggy coastline plunges almost vertically (400m in parts) into the ocean with unique, frequent, small fertile ﬂat areas (fajãs) at the base of the cliffs. The central platform runs at an average height of 700m, rising to 1053m at the highest point. 80% of the island is high pasture which supports 20,000 dairy cattle producing high quality milk from which comes the famous São Jorge cheese, still manufactured using traditional techniques and the original recipe.

• Topo

São Jorge is a long (55km) and narrow (8km wide) island with a total area of 246 sq.km, which was formed by a series of successive volcanic eruptions.

This is an island for walking, for exploring the little settlements on the fajãs along the coast by car, for admiring the stunning scenery and visiting the two small port towns of Velas and Calheta. 16km across the water is Pico (accessible in one hour by boat) where a 2,351m volcano dominates the skyline and seems but a stone’s throw away.

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Azores | São Jorge | Velas

Hotel São Jorge Garden, Velas

Casa do António, Velas

Hotel São Jorge Garden, Velas

Casa do António, Velas

Airport: 8km São Jorge ■ Harbour: 1km Velas

Airport: 8km São Jorge ■ Harbour: 200m Velas

■ 3-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning

■ 3-star equivalent pension ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Air-conditioning

This modern hotel is well located on the oceanfront of Velas. Wonderful views of Mount Pico, across the water, can be enjoyed from all the hotel bedrooms, as well as from the panoramic breakfast room. Although the hotel has no restaurant, the town centre, which has a good choice of restaurants, is easily reached within a 5-minute walk.

Casa do António, located by the port, is 100 metres from the centre of the charming coastal town of Velas. The hotel, offering eight spacious guest rooms, has been completely renovated and ﬁnely decorated by the owner António Pedroso. António, a local artist (some of his work is on display at the hotel), and collector/restorer of antiques, is always at hand to help clients make the most of their visit to the island. We consider this to be the best accommodation on the island and would thoroughly recommend it.

Accommodation 58 air-conditioned standard rooms ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, TV, telephone, and balcony with ocean view ■ Most rooms have a minibar ■ All rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child.

Amenities/Leisure Continental buffet breakfast ■ Bar ■ Safe deposit box at reception ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection at reception ■ Comfortable sitting room ■ Outdoor swimming pool (8 x 15m) and sun terrace open May-Oct – pool towels provided ■ Children’s outdoor pool ■ Lift ■ Lawned gardens with Palm trees ■ Free parking ■ 1km to the natural swimming pool in Velas.

Accommodation 8 air-conditioned twin bedrooms including standard rooms, a triple room (ground ﬂoor) and a tower room (double bed) ■ All rooms have a bathroom (shower), hairdryer, cable TV, telephone, internet connection (cable), safe deposit box and ocean view ■ The tower room is a spacious double room (king size bed), bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, cable TV, telephone, internet access, safe deposit box and private terrace with ocean and Mount Pico view.

Amenities/Leisure Continental breakfast with local cheeses and homemade traditional biscuits and cakes ■ Self-service tea/coffee facilities ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection at reception or on the terrace ■ 150 metres from a natural swimming pool ■ The owner has a dog. Closed: 01Nov13-31Mar14.

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Azores | São Jorge | Queimada

Urzelina

Velas

Cantinho das Buganvilias, Queimada Airport: 1.5km Velas ■ 3-star equivalent ■ Self Catering ■ Swimming pools ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

The Cantinho das Buganvilias affords wonderful views along the coastline towards the capital, Velas and across the ocean to the neighbouring islands of Pico and Faial. The swimming pool, terrace and many of the self-catering apartments enjoy this stunning panorama. This owner-managed property, consists of nineteen spacious apartments each decorated in a simple, Scandinavian design. Light wood furnishings and bright fabrics are used throughout. Large floor to ceiling windows allow nature and natural light to flood through the interiors. The property is in an ideal setting to enjoy the magnificent sunsets over São Jorge and is perfect for guests looking for the independence and flexibility associated with self-catering.

Accommodation All apartments have air-conditioning ■ Daily cleaning and linen change every two days ■ Welcome pack included (biscuits, milk and tea).

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Three Studio apartments (sleep 2+2) Each unit consists of bathroom (shower and hairdryer), an open-plan room with double bed, designated living area with two single sofa beds, satellite TV, safe deposit box and kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, fridge, toaster and coffee maker) and a small terrace ■ The studio apartments are in single story detached buildings and have views over the grounds towards the two-bedroom units ■ The furthest apartment is located 50m from the reception, breakfast room, bar and lobby.

Sixteen two-bedroom apartments (sleep 4+1) Each unit consists of bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), one twin bedroom and one double bedroom, living room with a single sofa bed, satellite TV, safe deposit box and kitchenette (2 electric hobs, microwave, fridge, toaster and coffee maker) and a terrace ■ The two bedroom apartments are located in two-storey buildings (apartments on the ground and top floor) ■ Apartments on the ground floor have a garden view, some also with partial sea view ■ Apartments located on the top floor are called ‘Superior apartments’ and have a larger balcony with ocean view and a hydro-massage bath ■ Limited chairs on the terrace and in the dining room. When the apartment is at full occupancy clients are required to use the chairs from the terrace in the dining area and vice versa.

Amenities/Leisure Breakfast room with panoramic terrace overlooking the ocean towards Pico (buffet breakfast available at a supplement – payable in advance or locally) ■ Bar ■ Lobby with complimentary internet connection ■ Outdoor swimming pool (5m x 15m) with direct ocean views towards Velas – pool towels payable locally ■ Indoor heated pool (4 x 9.5m) and gym ■ This property is not suitable for clients with walking difﬁculties ■ 1km from a minimarket and 5km from a supermarket (Velas) ■ 1.5km from the airport – three ﬂights a day ■ 500m from a bus stop which runs once a day into Velas ■ Located 5km from Velas – a taxi to Velas costs c. 8 Euros each way ■ Free parking.

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Azores | São Jorge

South coast

Velas

Activities São Jorge The steep black cliffs of São Jorge fall dramatically into the ocean, and its rolling hills are carpeted with dense clusters of ferns and luxuriant grasslands. Inland lie spectacular valleys and peaks created by ancient volcanic eruptions. To make the most of your stay on the island we have included a variety of excursions, shown below, that can be pre-booked by Sunvil or arranged locally by our agent.

Non Guided Walks The islands of the Azores, with their mild climate (day time temperature ranging from 14-22 degrees), are the most wonderful islands for walking. All walks are bookable and payable locally. Serra do Topo walk (4hr 30mins / 10km) is from the mountain range of Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Cubres, on the north coast of São Jorge. The walk will take you

along a magnificent path descending to Fajã do Santo Cristo, one of the most isolated spots in the Azores, with a handful of resident families and a few summer houses for those visiting in the summer months. Spend time exploring the protected nature reserve of Fajã do Santo Cristo, with its underground cave and lake, before continuing towards Fajã dos Cubres. The island of Graciosa can be seen from here. Grade 2. Loural is a 4hr 30mins (10km) walk. Starting at Loural you will walk along the steep slopes of São Jorge’s southern coastline through farming pastures before descending to Fajã de São Joao and its village. Along this walk you will be able to enjoy a magnificent view across the ocean to Pico Island, with its towering volcano. Grade 2. Pico das Caldeiras is a 5hr 30mins (16km) walk. Passing along the central part of the island from Pico das Caldeiras to Fajã do Ouvidor via Pico da Esperança which, at 1,053 metres, is the highest point on the island. As you descend towards the Fajã do Ouvidor, stop at the viewpoint and admire the magnificent view along the coastline and over the agricultural pasture. Grade 2.

Island Tours

Jeep Tours

Sunvil is able to pre-book the following private taxi tour on São Jorge. Tours can also be tailor-made to suit the individual requirements of our clients, please telephone us for a quotation.

Explore the delights of São Jorge island in a 4x4 wheel drive avoiding the main roads as much as possible and using the old tracks or dirt/gravel roads. Pass through scenic green pastures divided by hydrangeas in bloom, crossing streams with natural barriers of lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls.

Half day Depart from Velas towards Beira where you will visit a traditional cheese factory. Continue to Calheta and Manadas, stopping at several breathtaking viewpoints en route. In Manadas you will visit the beautiful baroque parish church dedicated to Santa Bárbara. Continue to Urzelina before returning to Velas. From Velas Price is £115 per taxi Notes ■ Prices are based on a maximum of 3 people per taxi ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included ■ Itinerary is subject to change.

The full day tour goes from the West Point (Lighthouse Rosais) to the eastern tip (Topo Lighthouse), visiting all the major sights en route. The half day tour travels through a varied landscape from the highest point on the island, past waterfalls down to the sea coves. From Velas or Queimada Full Day: Price is £95 per adult and £48 per child (2-10yrs) Half Day: Price is £54 per adult and £27 per child (2-10yrs) Notes ■ Daily departures – subject to availability ■ Pick-up included from/to properties in Velas and Queimada ■ Minimum 2 and maximum 14 people ■ Escorted by an English speaking driver/guide ■ Full day tours (c.8 hours) include lunch in Calheta village ■ Half day tours (c.4 hours) ■ Itineraries are subject to change.

Grading of Walks 1 for Easy 2 for Medium

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

real Azores | 43

Azores | Pico

Madalena, Pico

44 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | Pico

Pico

The Grey Island 42km long and 15km wide, Madalena with an area of 447 sq. km, • Bandeiras • • Gruta das Torres Criação Velha • • São Roque Pico is dominated by its do Pico Mount Pico • Prainha volcano (snow capped in • Santo Amaro • Silveira winter) at 2351m the highest • Lajes do Pico point in Portugal. The views to and from the volcano are spectacular and its presence seemingly binds together the central islands of Faial, São Jorge and Pico itself. One cannot mistake that this island is volcanic. Baia do Cachorro

• Misterio de S.Jopp

Between Madalena and Lajes the black stones and rocks have been painstakingly gathered to make the labyrinthine walled enclosures which protect the famous Pico verdelho grape (fortiﬁed Verdelho wine) which, it is said, was imported in the 16th century from Cyprus. The houses and churches, too, are black – their features outlined in white. An area of 987 hectares of vineyards and its surrounding landscape, has been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Pico and nearby Faial (30 minutes by boat from Madalena) were the centres for traditional, open-boat whale hunting, an important industry for the islands until its ban in 1987. These two islands are now the centre for the growing interest in whale watching and

the conservation of these magniﬁcent mammals. Hire a car or a taxi for an island tour to visit the lakes and marvel at the magniﬁcent views and changing facets of the mountain and its relationship with the sea. A particular favourite of the Sunvil team is a drive along the north coast of Pico where wonderful views to neighbouring São Jorge can be found. Visit the fascinating whaler’s museum at Lajes. Walks are plentiful and, for the experienced walker (you must take a guide), the ascent to the summit of the volcano is a must. A new ferry terminal is presently being built in Madalena. Completion date is expected at the end of May 2014.

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Azores | Pico | Madalena

Baia da Barca, Madalena

Hotel Caravelas pool

Baia da Barca, Madalena

Hotel Caravelas, Madalena

Airport: 8km Pico ■ Harbour: 700m Madalena

Airport: 8km Pico ■ Harbour: 100m Madalena

■ 4-star apart-hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Car hire recommended

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

This modern property affords wonderful ocean views as well as views of Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest mountain and is a good base from which to enjoy the island of Pico. There are a few walking trails in the area, or for the more adventurous, a guided hike to the summit of Mount Pico is a must.

Hotel Caravelas occupies a prime location in the heart of Madalena, just 100 meters from the port. With views towards the island of Faial, the hotel provides an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful island of Pico and its neighbouring island. Faial is just 30 minutes by ferry and, during the summer months, the island of São Jorge can be reached within a 2 hour ferry ride from Madalena or 1 hour from Cais do Pico.

Set in a quiet bay, the Baia da Barca is ideal for anyone wishing to escape the stresses of city life yet without being totally isolated. The village of Madalena is within easy reach (c. 5-minutes’ walk) as is the port which runs a regular half-hour ferry crossing to Horta, Faial. The Baia da Barca offers the highest standard of accommodation on Pico - Recommended.

Accommodation 10 air-conditioned apartments including 1bedroom units, panoramic 1-bedroom units and 2-bedroom duplex units divided between three, two-floor buildings ■ All the units have a bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), satellite TV, DVD player (island promotional films available from reception), telephone, radio, minibar, kitchenette (4 electric hobs, fridge-freezer, microwave, toaster and kettle), complimentary WIFI internet connection and can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ All apartments have a private entrance ■ Air-conditioning available in the bedrooms ■ Iron and ironing board available on request. Four 1-bedroom apartments (sleep 2+1): 1-bedroom units are located on the ground floor and have a shared terrace (no view).

Four panoramic 1-bedroom apartments (sleep 2+1): Panoramic 1-bedroom apartments are located on the first floor and have a private balcony ■ The units have a side ocean or side mountain view from the bedroom and from the balcony or terrace. 2-bedroom duplex apartments (sleep 4+2): The 2-bedroom duplex apartments have a dishwasher, separate WC (on the ground floor) and can accommodate 2 extra beds in the living room ■ One 2-bedroom apartment has a side ocean view and the other has a side mountain view.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Terrace, bar and lounge with TV and DVD player. The terrace affords views to Faial ■ Computer with internet connection at reception ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection in the public areas ■ Salt water swimming pool ■ Jacuzzi and sauna (free of charge) ■ Free parking ■ Natural rock pool and bar c. 15minutes’ walk ■ Taxi to the port of Madalena costs c. 5 Euros each way ■ Wine museum is c.10-minutes’ walk.

Recently renovated and enlarged, this modest hotel features an outdoor swimming pool with views towards Faial, where guests can relax after a day of sight seeing. There is a good selection of restaurants and bars within a short walk of the hotel.

Accommodation 137 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms and suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, satellite TV, telephone, minibar, complimentary cable internet connection and balcony ■ Some rooms offer a sea view and others a mountain view ■ 9 rooms, on the ground ﬂoor, have direct access to the swimming pool ■ All rooms can accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ Some rooms have a pool view ■ The suites have a separate living room with double sofa bed which accommodates 2 children and a large corner balcony with sea view.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast room with views over the swimming pool towards Faial ■ Bright lobby with seating area ■ TV/Piano bar ■ Hairdresser ■ Massage room ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection and safe deposit box available at reception ■ Outdoor swimming pool (7 x 15m) with panoramic views towards Faial ■ Games room (card table and pool table c.6 Euros per hour) ■ 2 Lifts ■ Free parking ■ 100m from Madalena harbour ■ Music/karaoke bars in Madalena are open until 2am in high season and some noise may be heard from the hotel. Note: A new ferry terminal is presently being built within 15m of the hotel. The construction is planned to ﬁnish in May 2014.

Closed: 01Nov13-02Mar14.

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Azores | Pico | São Roque & Bandeiras

Casa do Ouvidor pool

View of Pico from A Cancela do Porco

Casa do Ouvidor, São Roque

A Cancela do Porco, Bandeiras

Airport: 17km Pico ■ Harbour: 2km São Roque

Airport: 2km Pico ■ Harbour: 7km Madalena

■ Rural Houses (Turismo Rural) ■ Self Catering ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-Conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

■ Rural apartments ■ Self Catering ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

Perched on the hillside above the town of São Roque, on Pico’s north coast, is Casa do Ouvidor. This rural property is well positioned in a quiet and scenic location with magniﬁcent views across the Atlantic Ocean towards São Jorge.

This delightful property, recently built using local lava stones, is set in a quiet and tranquil location with stunning views towards Mount Pico. The property blends well with the rural landscape and the traditional architecture of the island. The apartment interiors are modern and well equipped and the location provides the perfect spot for some fantastic sunsets. There is a large outdoor swimming pool and heated Jacuzzi and communal TV and billiards room. Guests are warmly received by the owner, Pedro Saraiva, who also runs a good restaurant ‘O Ancoradouro’ in the nearby village – one of the best in the area.

The property consists of three spacious houses each individually decorated: Casa do Mar is inspired by the Atlantic and has a blue theme; Casa da Terra is decorated in earthy tones of green and brown; whilst Casa do Fogo is decorated in reds and pinks offering a more romantic setting.

Accommodation Each house is air-conditioned and has complimentary WIFI internet connection in the living room ■ Linen and towels provided ■ Cot available on request (free of charge) ■ Welcome pack included (bottle of water, milk, fruit and biscuits). Casa do Mar (sleep 4+2) Ground Floor: Living room with double sofa bed (suitable for two children), cable TV, ﬁreplace and iron with ironing board, dining room, kitchen (electric oven, 4 electric hobs, microwave, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and washing machine) and patio with table and chairs. First Floor: Two bedrooms (1 double and 1 twin) and bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer) and cable TV. Casa da Terra (sleep 4+2) Ground Floor: Living room with double sofa bed (suitable for two children), cable TV, ﬁreplace and iron with ironing board, kitchen (electric oven, 4 electric hobs, microwave, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and washing machine) and patio with

table and chairs. First Floor: Two bedrooms (1 double and 1 twin) and bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer) and cable TV. Casa do Fogo (sleep 4+2) Ground Floor: Two bedrooms (1 double and 1 twin) and two bathrooms (bath, shower and hairdryer) and cable TV. First Floor: Living room with double sofa bed (suitable for two children), kitchenette (electric oven, 4 electric hobs, microwave, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and washing machine), cable TV, iron with ironing board and balcony.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast can be pre-booked or arranged locally at an additional charge ■ Outdoor swimming pool (66sqm) open all year – pool towels provided ■ Jacuzzi ■ Sun deck with chairs, tables, sun loungers and umbrellas ■ Shared barbecue area ■ Extensive gardens (7,560sqm) with several orchards ■ Nearby woods with walking trails ■ Free private parking ■ 2.5km to the nearest restaurant, shop, and beach ■ Bus and taxi service nearby ■ c.5-minute drive to São Roque harbour for the ferry to São Jorge ■ c.25-minutes’ drive to Madalena harbour for the ferry to Faial.

Accommodation Linen and towels changed every three days ■ Cleaning provided every three days ■ Welcome pack included (local wine, bread, cheese, milk, fruit juice, biscuits, 6 eggs, bread and butter). Three 1-bedroom apartments (sleep 2+2) All units have a double bedroom, bathroom (bath, shower and hairdryer), living room with double sofa bed (which

will accommodate one adult or two children), cable TV, kitchenette (refrigerator, microwave, toaster and coffee machine) and an outdoor area.

Amenities/Leisure Reception with complimentary WIFI internet connection and billiards table (free of charge) ■ Large outdoor swimming pool and heated Jacuzzi with superb views towards Mount Pico – open all year ■ Mini-golf – free of charge ■ Free parking ■ The Gruta das Torres (lava caves) is located close-by (c.11km) ■ 7km to the restaurants and supermarkets in Madalena ■ 3.5km from a natural rock pool at Cais do Mourato ■ 700m to closest cafe/snack bar and minimarket. Minimum stay: 2 nights

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Azores | Pico

Activities Pico This rugged, mountainous island has a web-like network of black stone walls enclosing tiny ﬁelds, picturesque villages and the highest mountains in Portugal. To make the most of your stay on the island we have included a variety of excursions, shown below, that can be pre-booked by Sunvil.

Guided Walks Vinhas da Criação Velha (Half day) This 8km walk (c.2hr) starts at Porto do Calhau, passing through vineyards towards a solitary windmill, from where there is a panoramic view over the vineyards, protected from the wind by lava rock walls, and inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. From here, the walk continues through pasture meadows following the coastline, offering some spectacular coastal and mountain views before ending at Areia Larca. Grade 1 Price is £29 per person. Lava (Half day) This 6km walk (c. 3hr) passes through a fascinating landscape of lava ﬁelds in which the famous ‘currais’ (semi-circled, stone walls in which vines are cultivated) are found. These unusual vineyards, on Pico’s southern coast, produce an excellent Verdelho wine and are inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Grade 2 Price is £46 per person.

Caminho das Voltas (Half day) On the north coast of Pico is the small village of Santo Amaro, where the main ship building yard in the Azores can be found. This 6.3km walk (c.2-3 hr) twists and turns along the coastline of Pico and affords magniﬁcent views over the ocean to São Jorge and of vineyards, rural scenes and Mount Pico. During the walk, you will have the opportunity to visit the maritime museum, an agricultural museum and the shipwright school in Santo Amaro (entrance fees payable locally). Grade 2 Price is £46 per person. Notes ■ Daily departures based on a minimum of 2 participants ■ Each walk is led by an experienced English speaking guide ■ No child reductions ■ Full day walks include a picnic lunch ■ Pick-up included from/to all hotels on Pico. Grading of Walks 1 for Easy 2 for Medium

Pico Mountain Hike For the more adventurous traveller a climb to the summit of Mount Pico can present the opportunity of a life time especially if you are blessed with clear skies. The peak, at 2,351 metres, offers spectacular views over the central islands of the archipelago. The ascent generally takes between 3½ and 4½ hours depending on how fit you are and weather conditions. The climb should only be attempted by strong walkers. The walk is not technically difficult but would involve some steep slopes along uneven paths and in places slippery vegetation and loose stones. The climb starts from 1200 metres. To climb the mountain you must be accompanied by a qualified guide. From Madalena Price is £108 per person (based on 2 passengers) From Prainha Price is £122 per person (based on 2 passengers) From São Roque Price is £118 per person (based on 2 passengers) Notes ■ Accompanied by an experienced English speaking guide ■ Lunch is not included ■ For smaller/larger groups please telephone us for a quotation.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Island Tours Sunvil is able to pre-book the following private taxi tours on Pico. Tours can also be tailor-made to suit the individual requirements of our clients, please telephone us for a quotation.

Pico Island – Full day Depart from Madalena to the village of São Roque on the north coast of Pico, visiting the black rocks of Cachorro en route. Take the mountain road (altitude 900m) towards the village of Lajes do Pico, which for many years was the centre of the whaling industry in the Azores. Continue on to the Whaler’s Museum (entrance fee not included) and home to a fascinating exhibition about the industry. Return to Madalena stopping at ‘Verdelho’ wine cellar en route. From Madalena, Prainha and São Roque Price is £170 per taxi

Faial Island – Full day Depart from Madalena harbour to Faial Island (30 minutes by boat). Take the mountain road towards Caldeira, the highest point on Faial at 1,043 metres. Continue north to Capelinhos, the site of the last volcanic eruption in the Azores in 1957 and visit the museum, which details the evolution of the eruption. Return to Pico by boat. From Madalena harbour Price is £197 per taxi Notes ■ Prices are based on a maximum of 3 people per taxi ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included ■ Boat crossing between Madalena and Horta is included ■ Itineraries are subject to change.

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Azores | Faial

Horta

50 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | Faial

Faial

The Blue Island 21km long and 14km wide with an area of 173 sq. km, this ﬁve sided island has • Vulção dos Capelinhos become the resting place of • • Caldeira Capelos transatlantic sailors. Horta, the main Flamengos • port, has a cosmopolitan and exciting • Horta feel and, at bars and restaurants, one hears snippets of sailing stories from around the world. The atmosphere at the legendary Peter’s Café, on the harbour-front, encapsulates the very essence of nautical adventure.

The island is dominated by the 1,043m cone of its vast Caldeira (volcanic crater) which is accessed through a tunnel in the cone’s side. For keen walkers or botanists it is possible to book a private walk in the Caldeira with a forest guide. From mid-June to August the island is a riot of blue as the hedges of hydrangeas, originally imported from China and Japan, burst into bloom.

Horta is an excellent base from which to visit the islands of Pico and São Jorge (summer months only), explore the green Caldeira (now a nature reserve) and Capelinhos, the rather eerie site of the 1957 volcanic eruption, which transformed the geography of the island. From Horta there are wonderful and ever changing views of the volcano on Pico, 8km across the water.

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Azores | Faial | Horta

Hotel Faial, Horta

Porto Pim (blue ﬂag) beach, Horta

Hotel Faial, Horta

Hotel do Canal, Horta

Airport: 10km Horta

■ 4-star hotel ■ Swimming pools ■ Air-conditioning

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Air-conditioning

This Hotel Faial is situated in a private park just 5-minutes walk from the marina front of Horta. The accommodation is divided between the main building, side annexe and ﬁve traditionally styled buildings located around a central lawn area. Panoramic views across the sea to the island of Pico and its spectacular volcano can be enjoyed from the hotel restaurant and swimming pool.

Accommodation 133 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, executive rooms, superior executive rooms and junior suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, minibar and cable TV ■ Standard rooms can accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ Executive rooms can accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ Junior suites can accommodate two extra beds for children. Main Building 20 executive rooms with balcony and ocean view, 2 corner superior executive rooms and 4 junior suites ■ The corner executive rooms are open-plan with a designated living room, balcony and ocean view ■ The junior suites consist of a double bedroom,

separate living room, balcony and ocean view. Annexe 57 executive rooms with mountain view (no balcony) or garden view (with balcony). Five detached Houses (each with 10 recently renovated standard rooms) Villas Corvo, Flores & Graciosa have garden or mountain view. Villas Sao Jorge & Pico have garden or ocean view.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant with buffet service in summer ■ Bar and TV lounge ■ Safe deposit box at reception (free) ■ Lift (main building only) ■ Sun terrace ■ Outdoor swimming pool (15 x 30m) open May-Oct – pool towels provided ■ Snack bar by pool (summer only) ■ Two tennis courts and a volleyball court (c.10 Euros per hour plus c.10 Euros for equipment hire) ■ Health club with heated indoor swimming pool (6 x 10m), mini gym & Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath ■ Beauty salon (manicure and hairdresser) ■ Free parking.

The Hotel do Canal enjoys a prime location in the heart of Horta, opposite the marina and within easy walking distance of the popular ‘Peter’s Café’. This four-star property provides an ideal base for those wishing to explore the town’s narrow streets, enjoy a day-trip to Pico and São Jorge or participate in a whalewatching excursion (Apr-Oct).

Accommodation 103 air-conditioned rooms including single rooms, standard rooms, executive rooms and suites ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, cable TV, telephone, WIFI internet connection (payable locally c.1.50 Euros per hour and c.10 Euros per day), safe deposit box and minibar ■ Standard rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ Executive rooms and suites can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children ■ Some rooms have a French balcony and ocean view.

Standard room

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant serving international cuisine (buffet and à la carte) ■ Snack bar ■ Winter garden ■ Small games room (card tables, snooker, chess and backgammon) ■ Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and sauna ■ Hairdresser and beautician ■ 2 Lifts ■ Free private parking ■ 100m from Porto Pim beach ■ 3km from Horta harbour.

Special Offer ■ Early booking discount applicable for reservations made 60 days or more prior to departure between 01Nov13-14Jun14 and 01-31Oct14.

Note: Some rooms in the main building are looking tired and are in need of restoration.

Standard room

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Azores | Faial | Horta

Horta marina

Pousada Santa Cruz, Horta Airport: 10km Horta ■ Charm Pousada (4-star equivalent) ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning

This elegant Pousada enjoys an enviable position in the centre of Horta’s bustling harbour front. The property has been stylishly decorated and offers accommodation of a high standard. The Pousada is housed within the walls of an historic 16th century fort, captured by the English ﬂeet lead by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1597. The spectacular views of the marina, ocean and Mount Pico from the upper ﬂoors of the hotel are the best on the island. Recommended.

Special Offers ■ Early booking discount applicable for reservations made before 25Mar14 for departures between 01Apr-31Oct14. ■ A Golden Age reduction is applicable to people aged 55 years or older. Please advise date of birth at the time of quotation if this is applicable to you.

Accommodation

Amenities/Leisure

28 air-conditioned rooms, all with bathroom (bath or shower), hairdryer, minibar, telephone, cable TV and complimentary (30-minutes) WIFI internet connection ■ Ground Floor: 4 superior rooms, all with covered balcony and garden view. First Floor: 8 standard rooms at the rear (no balcony or particular view), 12 superior rooms to the front with covered balcony and ocean view and 1 corner suite with twin bedroom and separate living room with double sofa bed and ocean view (no balcony). Top Floor: 2 superior rooms, both with balcony and ocean view and 1 suite with twin bedroom, separate living room with double sofa bed and balcony with ocean view ■ Superior rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child ■ The suites can accommodate extra beds for an adult or 2 children.

Buffet breakfast ■ Restaurant (à la carte) and bar open out on to the terrace facing the pool ■ 2 small meeting rooms/Games room ■ Lift ■ Outdoor swimming pool (5.50 x 12m) with children’s area open all year – pool towels provided ■ Small chapel (not renovated) ■ A stone staircase in the garden leads down to Horta Marina (500m) – also used by the general public when dining at the hotel ■ Limited free parking ■ 2km from Horta harbour. Closed: 15Dec13-15Feb14.

Standard room with balcony and ocean view

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

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Azores | Faial | Flamengos

Capelinhos

South coast, Faial

Quinta do Vale, Flamengos

Quinta do Canto, Flamengos

Airport: 14km Horta

■ Traditional Manor house (Turismo Rural) ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

■ Traditional Manor house (Turismo Rural) ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Car hire recommended

Situated on the outskirts of Horta (3km), the Quinta do Vale is a delightful familyrun, country Manor House. The property has been beautifully restored to offer a high standard of accommodation of exceptional quality. Decorated throughout in traditional Portuguese style with dark wood furnishings, ﬁne embroidered lampshades, curtains and tablecloths, this property is ideal for those wishing to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. Recommended!

This traditional 20th century farmstead is located in the small village of Flamengos. Owner-managed by Dacia Costa, the property is well located close to the botanical gardens and the Caldeira nature reserve.

Accommodation 8 air-conditioned rooms including junior rooms and senior rooms ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, telephone, cable TV and complimentary WIFI internet connection ■ The senior rooms are larger and can accommodate an extra bed for a child ■ The rooms, located on the ground and ﬁrst ﬂoor, have views over the street, parking area or towards Mount Pico.

Senior room

Amenities/Leisure Continental breakfast (home-made products) ■ Bar ■ Snacks and meals available on request ■ Swimming pool (7 x 14m) open May-Oct – pool towels provided ■ Children’s paddling pool ■ Pool bar ■ Barbecue in the garden ■ Games room (snooker table, card/roulette table, sofa and bar) ■ Sauna ■ Steam room ■ Gym ■ Closest restaurants and shops are in the village of Flamengos c.15 minutes walk ■ 1km from the botanical gardens ■ Secured free parking.

Special Offer ■ Stay 3 nights pay 2 nights between 01Nov13-30Apr14.

The Quinta is made up of three houses. In the main house, breakfast is served in a traditionally furnished dining room and, in a second house, there is a laundry room. The seven bedrooms are split between the houses and offer comfortable and homily lodgings. Located on 6 hectares of land, the property has citrus trees, recreation areas and a profusion of ﬂowers including camellias and hibiscus. This is a good choice for those looking for a more rural and tranquil setting and yet only 5-minutes drive from the main town of Horta.

Accommodation 7 air-conditioned rooms, all with a bathroom (bath and/or shower), telephone, cable TV and complimentary WIFI internet connection.

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Dining room ■ Lounge ■ Laundry facilities (Washing machine, dryer, iron and ironing board) ■ Bicycles for hire (payable locally c.15 Euros per day) ■ Garden with outdoor furniture, barbecue and terrace ■ Free parking ■ Some road noise can be heard from the garden but this should not affect guests as it is not a busy route ■ The property has animals (donkeys, goats and chickens) in a nearby enclosure ■ 5-minutes drive from Horta ■ Close to the botanical gardens in Flamengos and near the Caldeira nature reserve where you can take a scenic walk.

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Azores | Faial

Scrimshaw Museum, Horta

Activities Faial The port of Horta has played host to transatlantic yachtsmen for many years, and the harbour is covered in their gaily painted messages. Inland, the huge volcanic crater of Caldeira offers breathtaking views. To derive maximum beneﬁt from your visit we have included a variety of excursions, shown below, that can be pre-booked by Sunvil.

Swimming with Dolphins

Island Tours Whale & Dolphin Jeep Tour Why not experience the natural beauty of Sunvil is able to pre-book the following Watching Trip the blue island of Faial in a 4x4 wheel private taxi tours on Faial. Tours can also

Swim with dolphins in the blue Atlantic waters around Faial and Pico. The four species of dolphin that are regularly sighted here are the Common, Bottlenose, Risso and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins. Striped Dolphins are also sighted and people are permitted to snorkel with them, but due to their normal behaviour, fast and elusive, they are not considered as a good choice.

Take a trip of a lifetime on board a Zodiac in search of cetacean activity – 24 of the planet’s 80 species of whales and dolphins have been sighted off the coast of the Azores.

From Horta Price is £65 per adult (Mar-Oct) and £43 per child (5-12yrs) ■ 3-hour trip (in the water for c.10minutes) departs 08:30 and 14:30. ■ Briefing by the skipper (c.25-minutes). ■ Two people allowed in the water at a time (only free diving permitted). Contact with the dolphins is not permitted. ■ Minimum 2 crew members on board at all times. The final decision to dive rests with the skipper on the day. ■ Maximum of 8 people per boat (excluding crew members). ■ Minimum child age is 5 years (accompanied by a parent or guardian). ■ Location is around Faial and Pico, wherever the "lookout" spots the pods of dolphins. ■ Wetsuits, dive mask and snorkel are provided; fins are also available, but optional (should only be worn by skilled divers/snorklers). ■ Private excursions can be arranged at a supplement. ■ Pre-booking in July and August is recommended. ■ For experienced, confident swimmers only.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Departures from Horta Price is £56 per adult (Mar-Oct) and £37 per child (5-12 years) Notes applicable to Whale watching ■ Daily 3-hour excursions depart at 08:30 and 14:30. ■ Transfers to/from the whaling base are not included. ■ Minimum child age is 5 years (accompanied by a parent or guardian). ■ Apr to Sep is the best period to see whales off Faial ■ Brieﬁng by a marine biologist (c.20minute talk) ■ Zodiac boats (small, rigid hull inﬂatables carrying up to 12 people) are used. ■ We cannot guarantee that you will see a cetacean but it is unlikely that you should be so unlucky. ■ Pre-booking in July and August is recommended.

drive. Enjoy an unforgettable journey through the islands’ best trails. Driving through trees and pastures overlooking the Atlantic Ocean you will discover places and landscapes of rare beauty not often encountered by the average tourist. From Horta Price is £34 per person (Half day) and £76 per person (Full day). ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Departs Tues-Thurs and Sat from Horta. 4-hour excursion. No transfers included from/to hotels. Minimum 2 and maximum 6 people. Escorted by an English speaking driver/guide.

Zodiac boat

Important: Children aged 4yrs or under, pregnant women or any person suffering from severe back problems are not allowed on the Zodiac boats.

be tailor-made to suit the individual requirements of our clients, please telephone us for a quotation.

Faial Island (Full day) Depart from Horta via the mountain road towards Caldeira, the highest point on the island at 1,043 metres. Continue north to Capelinhos, the site of the last volcanic eruption in the Azores in 1957 and visit the museum, which details the evolution of the eruption. From Horta Price is £197 per taxi

Pico Island (Full day) Depart from Horta harbour to Pico Island (30 minutes by boat). Depart from Madalena to the village of São Roque on the north coast of Pico, visiting the black rocks of Cachorro en route. Take the mountain road (altitude 900m) towards the Lajes do Pico, for many years, the centre of the whaling industry in the Azores. Continue on to the Whaler’s Museum (entrance fee not included) and home to a fascinating exhibition about the industry. Return to Madalena stopping at ‘Verdelho’ wine cellar en route. Return to Faial by boat. From Horta harbour Price is £181 per taxi Notes ■ Prices are based on a maximum of 3 people per taxi ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included ■ Pick up/drop off from hotels outside of Horta at a supplement – please telephone us for a quotation ■ Itineraries are subject to change.

Note ■ The Scrimshaw museum is located above Peter’s Café Sport in Horta – open daily.

Whale and dolphin base, Horta

real Azores | 55

Azores | Flores & Corvo

Flores

56 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | Flores & Corvo

Flores & Corvo The Atlantic’s Garden & The Black Island Caldeirão CORVO

25 k

• Vila Nova do Corvo

Fajã • Lagoas Grande •Mosteiro

Flores and Corvo, the westernmost islands of the Azores archipelago, will mesmerise any visitor who travels to their shores.

Santa Cruz das Flores •

Cuada • FLORES

Lagoas

Lajes das Flores

Flores

Away from the beaten path, 321 miles (517km) from São Miguel – 1½ hours flight, the island of flowers is a land of spectacular natural beauty and a real find for nature enthusiasts. Towering cliffs, a multitude of lakes, waterfalls, small pastures bordered by mile after mile of hydrangea hedges and spectacular views await at every turn. Santa Cruz, located on the east coast of Flores, is a small village of narrow streets, local snack bars and natural rock pools. The capital is an ideal base from which to explore the island. Situated on the seashore of a coastal plain, Fajã Grande is enclosed by a high cliff with about 20 waterfalls. The village is also home to a small pebble beach and is a noted area for Nearctic land birds. This peaceful settlement of some 200 inhabitants

attracts walkers from all over the world. Two marked trails, 8.5km and 11km respectively, ﬁnish in the village and the combination of the two equates to walking the length of the continents westernmost coastline. A unique opportunity! Corvo

Approaching from the sea (available from Flores during the summer months) or by air, you reach the village of Vila Nova do Corvo, the only settlement on the island and home to 488 people. With lush, fertile ﬁelds as its backdrop, this picturesque village is a maze of cobbled streets and traditional stone houses – each pathway depicting the history and development of Corvo and its people. A vast caldera measuring 3.5km wide and 300m deep dominates the central landscape and from its summit wonderful countryside and ocean views abound.

real Azores | 57

Azores | Flores | Fajã Grande

Santa Cruz

Argonauta, Fajã Grande Airport: 22km Flores ■ Guesthouse (3-star equivalent) ■ Bed & Breakfast (BB) ■ Self Catering (SC) ■ Car hire recommended

Situated on a coastal plain (Fajã) and enclosed by high cliffs with many cascading waterfalls, the sleepy, whitewashed village of Fajã Grande is Europe’s most western point. Located in the heart of Fajã Grande’s historical centre, close to the church, the Argonauta first opened its doors to guests in 1991. Pierluigi Bragaglia, the Italian owner of this delightful guesthouse, fell in love with the enchanting island of Flores whilst researching his book ‘Portugal – Azores’ the first guidebook on the Azores in Italy. The main building, dating back to the 1700’s, was renovated in 2000 with careful consideration in preserving the buildings original features. There are many floral oil frescoes drawn in the early 1930’s and wood furnishings and timbers salvaged from the shipwreck of the Norwegian Lugger ‘Brilliant’ in 1899.

Accommodation Main Building – BB There is one bedroom (rock room) located on the ground floor, two bedrooms (Courelas and Patio) on the first floor and two suites (Northwest and Southwest suites) on the second floor. Rock room (sleep 2+1) – BB Double room with mini-fridge, writing desk and bathroom (shower and hairdryer). This room may be darker than the other rooms and has an asymmetrical window and can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child. Courelas (sleep 2) – BB Double room with mini-cooler, writing desk and bathroom (shower and hairdryer). Patio (sleeps 2+1) – BB Double room with a mini-fridge, designated lounge area with a sofa bed for an adult or child, bathroom (shower and hairdryer) and direct access to a communal patio.

Suite Northwest and Suite Southwest (sleeps 2+3) – BB Large, open-plan double room with two large skylights, bathroom (shower and hairdryer – suite Southwest also has a hip bath) designated living area with double sofa bed, CD player, mini-fridge and an electric kettle with tea/coffee making facilities and telescope for star-gazing. The suites can accommodate extra beds for adults or children. Casa Via d’Agua – A detached 2bedroom house (sleeps 4+2) - SC Two large double bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom (bath and shower), hairdryer, CD player, sofa bed and separate independent entrances to the garden. One bedroom connects to a large, fully ﬁtted kitchen (4 gas hobs and oven, fridge-freezer, toaster and wood-burning stove). The second bedroom connects to a lounge with two sofas, CD player, DVD player with a selection of ﬁlms, satellite TV, games (cards, backgammon, chess and draughts) which opens up on to a small patio area with access to the kitchen. Welcome pack included (herbs from the kitchen garden), homemade jams (orange and strawberry-guava), cooking oil, vinegar, local butter, milk, local tea and coffee). Three minutes walk uphill to the main house of Argonauta, three minimarkets and four restaurants (one serving Italian cuisine).

Casa Via d’Agua

Patio (Main Building)

Amenities/Leisure Buffet breakfast ■ Communal patio with barbecue area and tables and chairs ■ Packed lunches can be provided locally on request ■ Sitting room with comfortable seating area, CD player, TV, books, games (cards, backgammon and chess) and internet connection (free of charge) ■ Fajã Grande has three restaurants, one snackbar, three mini-markets, a handful of cafes and a black pebble beach with natural rock pools ■ One restaurant is located in the neighbouring town Fajãzinha ■ Free parking 40 metres away ■ Guided hiking can be arranged locally. Minimum stay: 3 nights

Casa Via d’Agua

58 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | Flores | Santa Cruz & Cuada

Aldeia da Cuada, Cuada

Hotel das Flores, Santa Cruz

Aldeia da Cuada, Cuada

Airport: 500m Flores

Airport: 20km Flores

■ 4-star hotel ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Swimming pool ■ Air-conditioning ■ Car hire recommended

■ Rustic cottages (Turismo Rural) ■ Self Catering ■ Car hire recommended

The Hotel das Flores is built on a headland on the outskirts of Santa Cruz (1.5km) and affords uninterrupted ocean views across to Corvo, the smallest island of the archipelago. Many of the hotel’s bedrooms as well as the restaurant and pool enjoy this wonderful panorama. The hotel, fashioned in a contemporary style, also has a beautiful display of black and white prints adorning the walls. Guests can relax in the hotel’s garden with its poolside terrace and barbeque area overlooking the Atlantic or walk (20minutes) to the natural swimming pool and village of Santa Cruz. Alternatively there are some pretty hiking trails 30-minutes drive away.

Accommodation 26 air-conditioned rooms including standard rooms, superior rooms and a suite ■ All rooms have a bathroom (bath & shower), hairdryer, satellite TV,

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

telephone, complimentary WIFI internet connection and minibar ■ The Superior rooms and suites have a balcony and ocean view ■ All rooms can accommodate an extra bed for a child.

Amenities/Leisure Continental breakfast ■ Panoramic restaurant serving international dishes and local specialties ■ Safe deposit box at reception ■ Complimentary WIFI internet connection in the public areas ■ Mini gym ■ Games room (pool table) ■ Swimming pool (8 x 13m) open Jun-Sep ■ Opposite the hotel is a good local restaurant and cake shop ■ 20-minutes walk to Santa Cruz centre (two restaurants) and its harbour ■ Free parking. Note: Sunvil recommends the Superior rooms with ocean view. Closed: 01Nov13-31Jan14.

The village of Cuada is located on a small plateau 2km from the coastal resort of Fajã Grande, a popular base for walkers owing to the beautiful scenery and impressive waterfalls. In the 1960s the village was virtually abandoned by the weaving community emigrating to the New World. After 15 years of devoted and painstaking work, the new owners, Carlos and Teotonia Silva, have successfully renovated and modernised the houses in keeping with the rural features of the original stone buildings. The cottages and gardens are linked together by cobbled paths and, as a result, are unsuitable for clients with walking difﬁculties. A unique tranquil paradise for those who enjoy walking or simply wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Recommended.

Accommodation 13 cottages including seven 1-bedroom (sleep 2+1) and six 2-bedroom units (sleep 4+1) simply and traditionally furnished ■ All units have a bathroom (shower), stereo, telephone, kitchen (2 gas hobs and fridge), electric heaters and a small terrace with barbecue, tables and chairs ■ 10 cottages have a ﬁreplace ■ Cleaning at end of stay ■ Welcome pack included (local wine, water, bread, butter, cheese, coffee/tea, biscuits, sugar, 6 eggs, milk and juice).

Amenities/Leisure Breakfast is available on request at a supplement ■ Bed linen and towels changed weekly ■ Reception and lounge decorated with antiques and with a coffee machine and fridge ﬁlled with cold drinks ■ Free parking ■ 2km (20-minutes downhill walk) to Fajã Grande (closest restaurants/shops). Fajã Grande has two restaurants, three mini markets, a handful of cafés and offers a good area for swimming ■ 9-hole rustic golf course ■ Two resident pets ‘Florentina’ the donkey and ‘Bambi’ the sheep.

real Azores | 59

Azores | Corvo | Vila Nova do Corvo

Vila Nova do Corvo

Comodoro, Vila Nova do Corvo Airport: 400m Corvo ■ Guesthouse (2 star equivalent hotel) ■ Bed & Breakfast ■ Air-conditioning

The Comodoro is centrally located in Vila Nova do Corvo, a few minutes drive from the airport or port. The property, ownermanaged by a charming Azorean couple, was converted from a modest family home in to a modern and comfortable guesthouse and offers a warm and personal service to visitors venturing out to the picturesque western most island of Europe. Approximately 400 inhabitants live on the tiny island of Corvo and all are concentrated in the town of Vila Nova do Corvo. This south facing, coastal town is composed of a short airport runway which has three flights a week during low season and daily flights during the summer months (18 or 61-seater planes), three restaurants and narrow streets called ‘canadas’. The most prominent structure in the town is the church of Nossa Senhora dos Milagres (the island’s patron saint) built during the 16th century and influenced by contemporary Flemish design.

60 | Sunvil Discovery

Accommodation 8 air-conditioned standard rooms, located on the ﬁrst ﬂoor (no lift), all with bathroom (shower), hairdryer, satellite TV and complimentary internet connection ■ Three rooms can accommodate an extra bed for an adult or a child.

Amenities/Leisure Lounge where a buffet breakfast is served and where guests are free to use the kitchen facilities (fridge, microwave, grill, dishwasher, toaster, tea/coffee making facilities) to prepare light snacks. The TV lounge has a bar, complimentary internet connection, various guide books on the island and an open-air terrace with views towards the ocean ■ Small garden facing the ocean ■ Three restaurants within easy walking distance ■ 15 nautical miles from Flores ■ Doctor/pharmacy on the island. Minimum stay: 7 nights in October. Closed: 16Dec13-03Jan14.

Natural rock pools

Azores | Corvo

Corvo

Activities Flores & Corvo A variety of activities can be booked locally including walks and boat trips as shown below. Sunvil is able to pre-book the island tour on Flores.

Non Guided Walks Flores Island Tour

Corvo Boat Trips

Flores

Half day

Ponta do Albarnaz is c. 3 hours (12km) walk on Flores’ west coast. The route is bordered by hydrangeas and descends and crosses several rivulets before reaching your ﬁrst view point. Here you can enjoy spectacular views over Maria Vaz islet, Ponta do Albarnaz lighthouse and, on a clear day, the tiny island of Corvo. Continuing on an unmade track you will then descend towards Ponta da Fajã and the quaint village of Fajã Grande, where the walk comes to an end. Grade 2

Depart from Santa Cruz towards the west coast of the island on the interior road. En route you will stop at the Ribeira da Cruz belvedere and visit the lakes of Lomba, Funda and Rasa. Continue to Fajãzinha and Ponta da Fajã Grande. Return to Santa Cruz stopping at the Caveira belvedere to admire the view over Santa Cruz, the principal town of the island and the west coast.

A boat tour around the island of Flores can be arranged locally. During the summer months (May-Sep), when the weather is settled, it is also possible to visit the neighbouring island of Corvo.

Miradouro das Lagoas is a 3 hour (7km) walk offering spectacular views along the west coast of Flores and descending to the pretty village of Ribeira das Casas with its gurgling stream. The walk ends at the pool and waterfall of Poça do Bacalhau in Fajã Grande – offering the perfect opportunity for a refreshing swim. Grade 2

Trip to Corvo (45 minutes by Zodiac) Price is c.33.33 Euros per person (minimum of 6 people). Boat trip around the island (half day) Price is c.47.22 Euros per person (minimum of 6 people).

From Santa Cruz Price is £127 per taxi Notes ■ Prices are based on a maximum of 3 people per taxi ■ Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included ■ Pick up/drop off from hotels outside of Santa Cruz at a supplement – please telephone us for a quotation ■ Itinerary subject to change.

Corvo Cova Vermelha is a 1 hour (3.5km) walk along pretty country lanes lined with old stone dykes to Vila Nova do Corvo – the only inhabited town on the island. The fabulous views along the way are complemented by the interesting geological formations, a striking rock carving of an Indian head and the profuse covering of junipers on the island. Grade 2

Grading of Walks 1 for Easy 2 for Medium Rocha dos Bordôes, Flores

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

View of Corvo from Flores

real Azores | 61

Azores | Three Island Tour

Faial Horta

Madalena • •

Pico

São Miguel • Ponta Delgada

A T L A N T I C

O C E A N São Miguel

Azores Three Island Tour São Miguel ■ Faial ■ Pico Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday – SÃO MIGUEL Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport and transfer to your hotel.

Sunday Free time on São Miguel. Opportunity to explore the town of Ponta Delgada, indulge in some shopping and/or participate in whale watching or swimming with dolphins excursion (prebookable through Sunvil or through our local representatives), or just relax.

Monday Depart from Ponta Delgada to Vila Franca do Campo, the ﬁrst capital of São Miguel. After a short visit of the town, continue to the village of Furnas, where you will have time to explore the beautiful botanical gardens and hot springs owned by the Hotel Terra Nostra Garden. A traditional Cozido lunch will be taken at a local

restaurant before returning to Ponta Delgada by the north coast, visiting a tea plantation and Santa Iria view point en route.

Tuesday – FAIAL Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for ﬂight to Faial (1-hour). Transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, depart from Horta for a tour of the island. The route will include traveling by the mountain road towards Caldeira, the highest point on the island at 1,043 metres. Continue north to Capelinhos, the site of the last volcanic eruption in the Azores in 1957 and visit the museum, which details the evolution of the eruption. Return to Horta.

Wednesday – PICO (Day trip) Depart from Horta harbour, to Pico Island (30-minutes by boat). Depart from Madalena by the mountain road (altitude 1.100m) to the village of Lajes do Pico. Lajes do Pico was, for many years, the centre of the whaling industry in the Azores. Today you can visit the Whaler’s museum (included in the tour) located on the harbour front, home to a fascinating exhibition about the industry, which includes examples of the equipment used as well as many original photographs. Continue on to the village of São Roque with a brief stop (lunch not included). Return to Madalena port, visiting the black rocks of Cachorro en route. Return to Faial by boat.

Horta, Faial

Friday Depart from Ponta Delgada for Fajã de Baixo to visit a pineapple plantation. Visitors to the pineapple plantations are able to visit the greenhouses, as well as having the opportunity to taste the fruit and pineapple liqueur. Then continue towards Sete Cidades lakes by the mountain road. Stop at the ‘Vista do Rei’ belvedere to enjoy the magniﬁcent view over the two lakes (one blue, the other green) and the surrounding area with a stop for lunch (included). Return to Ponta Delgada with stops en route at Ribeira Grande, Caldeira Velha and Lagoa do Fogo (Fire lake).

Saturday Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for the return ﬂight home.

Price from £1,408 per person based on 2-sharing. Please telephone us for a quotation.

Price includes ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7-nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. ■ All inter-island ﬂights, transfers, boat tickets, entrance tickets (botanical garden and museums) and Cozido lunch as stated. ■ Guided excursions (minibus and guide or taxi/jeep with English speaking driver). ■ Prices based on a minimum of 2 persons. ■ Itinerary subject to change. Important note: We cannot guarantee that you will be on a tour with other people. The tour will run with a minimum of one person.

Thursday – SÃO MIGUEL

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Transfer to Horta airport for ﬂight to São Miguel (1-hour). Transfer to your hotel.

Hotel Vila Nova

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

Hotel do Canal

Horta, Faial (see page 52)

Hotel Talisman

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 11)

62 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | Three Island Tour

Terceira São Jorge • Velas

• Angra do Heroísmo

São Miguel • Ponta Delgada

A T L A N T I C

O C E A N

Azores Three Island Tour São Miguel ■ Terceira ■ São Jorge Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday – SÃO MIGUEL Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport and transfer to your hotel.

Sunday - TERCEIRA Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for ﬂight to Terceira (40-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Monday Depart from Angra do Heroísmo taking the coastal road in the direction of Praia da Vitória. Pass by Porto Judeu with a brief stop at São Sebastião and on to Porto Martins. Lunch stop at Praia da Vitória (not included). From Praia, taking the interior mountain road, you will travel to Biscoitos, on the north coast, visiting

the Serra do Cume viewpoint en route. In Biscoitos you will visit the natural black volcanic pools and wine museum. Return to Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, passing by the villages of Doze Ribeiras, Cinco Ribeiras – stop for some cheese tasting, then on to São Mateus and ﬁnally Angra do Heroísmo.

Tuesday – SÃO JORGE Transfer to Terceira airport for ﬂight to São Jorge (30-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Wednesday Depart from Velas along the south coast stopping at several breathtaking viewpoints en route. See the fabulous Fajãs of Ouvidor, Cubres and Caldeira Santo Cristo. Visit a traditional shop and co-operative where they make beautiful woven goods and decorative garments. Then drive to Calheta and Manadas where you will visit an impressive baroque 18th century parish church dedicated to Santa Bárbara. Continue to Urzelina to see the only ancient church tower that remains standing after the destructive 1808 volcanic eruption. Visit the park of Sete Fontes before returning to Velas.

Thursday – SÃO MIGUEL Transfer to São Jorge airport for ﬂight to São Miguel (1-hour). Transfer to your hotel.

Friday Depart from Furnas heading north to visit the Gorreana tea factory. Continue along the coastal road towards Ribeira Grande

and a short stop at Caldeira Vehla and Lagoa do Fogo (Fire lake). Continue to Fajã de Baixo to visit the pineapple plantations. Visitors to the pineapple plantations are able to visit the greenhouses, as well as having the opportunity to taste the fruit and pineapple liqueur. Then continue towards Sete Cidades lakes by the mountain road. Stop at the ‘Vista do Rei’ belvedere to enjoy the magniﬁcent view over the two lakes (one blue, the other green) and the surrounding area. Return to Furnas.

Saturday Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for the return ﬂight home. Price from £1,475 per person based on 2-sharing. Please telephone us for a quotation.

Price includes ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7-nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. ■ All inter-island ﬂights, transfers, entrance tickets (botanical garden, caves and museums) as stated. ■ Guided excursions (minibus and guide or taxi/jeep with English speaking driver). ■ Prices based on a minimum of 2 persons. ■ Itinerary subject to change. Important note: We cannot guarantee that you will be on a tour with other people. The tour will run with a minimum of one person.

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Hotel São Miguel Park

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

Hotel do Caracol

Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira (see page 30)

Hotel São Jorge Garden

Velas, São Jorge (see page 40)

Hotel Terra Nostra Garden

Furnas, São Miguel (see page 15)

Misericordia Church, Angra do Heroísmo

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

real Azores | 63

Azores | Four Island Tour

To Lisbon

Terceira

Faial Horta

• Angra do Heroísmo

Madalena • •

Pico

São Miguel • Ponta Delgada

A T L A N T I C

O C E A N Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira

Azores Four Island Tour São Miguel ■ Terceira ■ Faial ■ Pico Departure: Any day of the week (01Nov13-31Oct14) Duration: 11 days / 10 nights

Saturday – SÃO MIGUEL Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport. Transfer to your hotel.

Sunday Depart from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades lakes by the mountain road. Stop at the ‘Vista do Rei’ belvedere which, on a clear day, affords one of the ﬁnest views in the Azores. Return to Ponta Delgada, stopping at a pineapple plantation en route. Free afternoon.

Monday Depart from Ponta Delgada to the village of Furnas, visiting the town of Vila Franca do Campo en route. Furnas is famed for its botanical garden, hot springs and Caldeiras - 1m deep holes dug into the hot earth in which the traditional Cozido is cooked (lunch included). Return to Ponta Delgada by the north coast visiting a tea plantation and the town of Ribeira Grande.

Tuesday Free time on São Miguel. Opportunity to explore the town of Ponta Delgada, indulge in some last minute shopping and/or participate in whale watching or swimming with dolphins excursion (prebookable through Sunvil or through our local representatives), or just relax.

Wednesday – TERCEIRA Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for ﬂight to Terceira (40-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Thursday Free morning. Afternoon departure from Angra do Heroísmo to visit the ‘Algar do Carvao’ grotto (summer months only) and then continue on to Biscoitos on the north coast. In Biscoitos you will visit the wine museum and the natural black volcanic pools. Return to Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, passing by the villages of Doze Ribeiras and São Mateus.

Friday – FAIAL Transfer to Terceira airport for ﬂight to Horta (40-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Saturday – PICO (Day trip) From Madalena harbour you will drive along the north coast in the direction of Cachorro and Lajido. Continue on to São Roque to visit the whale factory and the natural swimming pools. From here you will take the mountain road towards Lake Capitão (900m) and then to Lajes do Pico. At Lajes do Pico you will visit the whaler’s museum with its’ fascinating exhibition illustrating whaling in the Azores which,

until its’ ban in 1987, was the main industry on the islands. There will be a short stop for lunch (not included). Continue along the south coast to Mistérios de São Joao where there will be a short stop and then on to São Mateus to visit the church. From here you will visit Criação Velha with its vineyards (awarded UNESCO World status) bordered by black volcanic rock and Mount Pico towering above. Return to Madalena for boat trip to Faial.

Sunday – FAIAL Depart from Horta to Caldeira, the highest point on the island from where you can enjoy wonderful views across the ocean to the neighbouring islands of Pico and São Jorge. On a clear day you can also see the island of Graciosa in the distance. From Caldeira the tour will continue north to Capelinhos, the eerie site of the last volcano eruption in the Azores (1957), before returning to Horta. Free afternoon.

Monday Free time in Horta. Opportunity to explore the island’s capital and visit the famous Peter’s Café (also known as Café Sport). A walk along the harbour front to admire the painted yacht emblems and numerous messages is also highly recommended.

Tuesday Transfer to Horta airport for the return ﬂight home.

Holy Ghost Chapel, Terceira

Prices from £1,695 per person based on 2-sharing. Please telephone us for a quotation.

Price includes ■ Scheduled ﬂights with TAP Portugal from London Heathrow, via Lisbon, to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and returning from Faial, via Lisbon, to London Heathrow. ■ 10-nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. ■ All inter-island ﬂights, transfers, boat tickets, entrance tickets (botanical garden and museums). ■ Guided excursions (minibus and guide or taxi/jeep with English speaking driver). ■ Itinerary subject to change. Important note: We cannot guarantee that you will be on a tour with other people. The tour will run with a minimum of one person.

10 Nights Accommodation

Location

Hotel Vila Nova

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

Hotel do Caracol

Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira (see page 30)

Hotel Faial

Horta, Faial (see page 52)

Furnas, São Miguel

64 | Sunvil Discovery

Note: A Saturday departure is shown above however the itinerary can be taken on any day of the week – order of excursions may change.

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | Grand Tour

A T L A N T I C Flores

O C E A N

• Santa Cruz das Flores

Terceira

Faial

Velas •

São Jorge

Madalena Horta• •

• Angra do Heroísmo

Pico

São Miguel • Ponta Delgada

Azores Grand Tour São Miguel ■ Flores ■ Faial ■ Pico ■ São Jorge ■ Terceira Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 15 days / 14 nights

Saturday – SÃO MIGUEL Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport. Transfer to your hotel.

Sunday Departure from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades lakes by the mountain road. According to local myth, the two lakes at Sete Cidades were formed after a love affair between a princess and a shepherd boy was abruptly ended on the orders of her father, the king. The myth states that the two lakes, one blue in colour the other green were formed from the tears of the pair as they separated. After visiting the lakes, you will stop at the ‘Vista do Rei’ belvedere from which there is a panoramic view over the lakes and the surrounding area. Return to Ponta Delgada, stopping en route at a pineapple plantation. Free afternoon.

Monday – FLORES Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for ﬂight to Flores (90-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Tuesday Departure from Fajã Grande towards the East Coast of the island and the most western point of Europe. En route you will stop at the Ribeira da Cruz belvedere and visit several of the island’s picturesque crater lakes. This excursion includes many of the highlights of Flores (the island of Flowers) including the lush green pastures bordered with hydrangeas (June to August), the impressive waterfalls and the unique ‘organ pipe’ rock formation of Rocha dos Bordões. Free afternoon.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Wednesday

Monday

Transfer to Flores airport for ﬂight to Faial (50-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Depart from Velas towards Beira where you will visit a cheese factory. Continue to Calheta and Manadas, stopping at several breathtaking viewpoints en route. In Manadas you will visit the beautiful baroque parish church dedicated to Santa Bárbara. Continue to Urzelina before returning to Velas. Free afternoon.

Thursday – FAIAL Depart from Horta via the mountain road in the direction of Espalamaca. You will visit the vast Caldeira, which dominates the island’s landscape before continuing to Capelinhos. Capelinhos is the site of the last volcanic eruption in the Azores (1957) and even today very little vegetation has regrown. The museum in the nearby village of Capelo (visited on the tour) retells the drama. Free afternoon.

Friday – PICO (Day trip) Depart from Horta harbour, for a 30minute boat trip to Pico Island. From Madalena harbour you will take the mountain road across the island towards the village of Lajes do Pico. This journey will include the beautiful south coast of the island, with its vineyards bordered by black volcanic rock and Mount Pico towering above. At Lajes do Pico you will visit the whaler’s museum with its fascinating exhibition illustrating whaling in the Azores which, until its ban in 1987, was the main industry on the islands. Continue to São Roque with a brief stop (lunch not included) before returning to Madalena port, visiting the black rocks of Cachorro en route. Return to Faial by boat.

Saturday Free time in Horta. Opportunity to explore the island’s capital or enjoy a 3-hour whale and dolphin watching excursion.

Sunday – SÃO JORGE Transfer to Horta harbour for boat crossing to the island of São Jorge (90 minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Tuesday – TERCEIRA Transfer to São Jorge airport for ﬂight to Terceira (35-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Wednesday Free morning. Afternoon departure from Angra do Heroísmo to Monte Brasil, from where you can enjoy fabulous views over the historical city. From Monte Brasil you will travel on the interior road to Biscoitos on the north coast visiting the Serra do Cume viewpoint en route. In Biscoitos you will visit the wine museum and the natural black volcanic pools. Return to Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, passing by the villages of Doze Ribeiras and São Mateus.

Thursday – SÃO MIGUEL Transfer to Terceira airport for ﬂight to São Miguel (40-minutes). Transfer to your hotel.

Friday Depart from Ponta Delgada to the village of Furnas by the south road, stopping at the

town of Vila Franca do Campo en route. In Furnas you will have time to visit the beautiful 30-acre botanical gardens and the hot springs before stopping for lunch (cozido meal included). Then continue on to the town of Ribeira Grande, visiting a tea plantation en route. Return to Ponta Delgada.

Saturday Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for return ﬂight home. Price from £2,242 per person based on 2-sharing. Please telephone us for a quotation.

Price includes ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 14-nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. ■ All inter-island ﬂights, transfers, boat tickets, entrance tickets (botanical garden and museums) and Cozido lunch as stated. ■ Guided excursions (minibus and guide or taxi/jeep with English speaking driver). ■ Prices based on a minimum of 2 persons. ■ Itinerary subject to change. Important note: We cannot guarantee that you will be on a tour with other people. The tour will run with a minimum of two persons.

14 Nights Accommodation

Location

Hotel Vila Nova

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

Hotel das Flores

Santa Cruz, Flores (see page 59)

Hotel do Canal

Horta, Faial (see page 52)

Hotel São Jorge Garden

Velas, São Jorge (see page 40)

Hotel Angra Garden

Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira (see page 30)

Hotel Royal Garden

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 12)

real Azores | 65

Azores | Whale & Dolphin Watching Holiday | São Miguel

Zodiac boat

São Miguel Whale & Dolphin Watching Holiday Experience the natural world up close on one of our 7-night whale and dolphin watching holidays on São Miguel. Top of the list for most visitors to the Azores is whale and dolphin watching. Twenty-four of the planet’s 80 species of whales and dolphins have been sighted off the coast of the Azores making this one of the best places in the world to whale watch. The most frequently spotted cetaceans are Sperm whale, Short-ﬁnned pilot whale, Common dolphin, Bottlenose dolphin, Atlantic spotted dolphin and Risso’s dolphin. Our whale and dolphin watching suppliers on São Miguel are partners on a research project called Monicet. The project aims to build a longterm database of cetacean sightings. For further information on Monicet and to view sighting statistics and maps, please visit www.monicet.net. The whale and dolphin watching season runs all year, with the main season being between Apr-Oct. Although dolphins can be seen all year round, whales are seen less frequently during the winter months. Each excursion starts with a 10-minute brieﬁng by a marine biologist, introducing the cetaceans of the Azores and discussing their habitat, communication and behavioural patterns. Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday On arrival transfer to the Hotel Marina Atlântico in Ponta Delgada or alternatively, collect your hire car and drive to the Quinta dos Curubás in Vila Franca do Campo.

Sunday Depart at 08:30 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours). Free afternoon to explore the cobbled streets of Ponta Delgada. Notable landmarks include the Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabbral (the original gates to the city) and Forte de São Brás, built to defend the city against pirates, but now acts an army headquarters and military museum.

Monday Depart at 08:30 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours). Free afternoon to participate in a swimming with dolphin’s excursion (3-hours), pre-bookable through Sunvil Discovery or bookable locally with our ground agent.

Tuesday Free time on São Miguel - why not visit the dramatic natural wonder of Sete Cidades. Take an escorted island tour or your self-drive vehicle to the extinct volcanic crater which has two lakes - one blue and the other green. The best place to enjoy the majesty of the lakes is from the view point ‘Vista do Rei’ which offers spectacular panoramic views.

Wednesday Depart at 08:30 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours). Free afternoon – time for a round of golf at the Batalha or Furnas golf course. Both courses (27 holes) are beautifully landscaped and offer challenging fairways in stunning surroundings.

Thursday Free morning – why not use this opportunity to catch up on some

shopping. In the afternoon depart at 13:00 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours).

Friday Free day - an opportunity to experience the fascinating Geological History Tour. Expertly escorted by an English-speaking geologist, this tour offers a unique insight into how the diverse landscape of the islands was formed. See, touch and learn the secrets of this volcanic archipelago in a fun and entertaining day trip around the island.

Saturday Return to Ponta Delgada Airport for your return ﬂight home. Price from: ■ £933 per person based on 2-sharing at the Hotel Marina Atlântico. ■ £907 per person based on 2-sharing at the Quinta dos Curubás.

Prices include ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7-nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation at the Hotel Marina Atlântico (Ponta Delgada) or self catering accommodation at the Quinta dos Curubás (Vila Franca do Campo). ■ Transfers on arrival/departure with the Hotel Marina Atlântico or car hire ‘Group B’ with the Quinta dos Curubás.

■ Four 3-hour whale and dolphin watching excursions. ■ Brieﬁng (c.10-minutes) by a marine biologist. ■ Life vest provided locally. We recommend clients take their own raincoat, sun-cream, ﬂat shoes/trainers and a camera. ■ Prices based on 2-sharing. Prices for single rooms or larger groups on request.

Notes ■ Zodiac boats (small, rigid hull inﬂatables carrying up to 24 people) are used. ■ Excursions depart at 08:30 or 13:00 – schedules to be advised locally depending on weather conditions. ■ Transfers to/from the whaling base are not included. ■ We cannot guarantee that you will see a cetacean but it is unlikely that you should be so unlucky. ■ Extra excursions can be pre-booked – see details on pages 21-23. ■ Alternative accommodation can be booked, please telephone us for a quotation. ■ Itinerary subject to change. Important: Children aged 4yrs or under, pregnant women or any person suffering from back problems, are not allowed on the Zodiac whale watching boats.

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Hotel Marina Atlântico

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 12)

OR 7

Quinta dos Curubás

Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel (see page 18)

66 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | Whale & Dolphin Watching Holiday | Faial

Scrimshaw

Faial Whale & Dolphin Watching Holiday Our whale and dolphin watching holiday on Faial is based in Horta. A bustling, cosmopolitan yachting harbour, Horta is home to one of the few scrimshaw museums in the Azores. Scrimshaw, the art of engraving on whales’ teeth, was primarily born out of the boredom endured on board whaling vessels by the ships’ crew in the 19th century. The whale watching season on Faial runs from April to October, with the height of the season being July and August. Each excursion starts with a 25-minute brieﬁng by a marine biologist, introducing the cetaceans of the Azores and discussing their habitat, communication and behavioural patterns. The most frequently spotted cetaceans are Sperm whale, Short-ﬁnned pilot whale, Common dolphin, Bottlenose dolphin, Atlantic spotted dolphin and Risso’s dolphin. And, if you’re really lucky, you may even get a glimpse of the False killer whale, Fin whale, Sei whale, Gervais’ beaked whale, Sowerby’s beaked whale, Blue whale, Curvier’s beaked whale or Northern bottlenose whale, which are occasionally seen in these waters.

Monday Depart Horta Harbour at 08:30 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours). Free afternoon to explore the town of Horta – the yacht harbour is world famous with transatlantic sailors, as is the popular drinking bar ‘Café Sport’ (also known as Peter’s Cafe) where you can try the local speciality ‘Gin & Tonic’ and visit the scrimshaw museum housed above the bar.

Tuesday – Pico Full Day Excursion In the morning, depart from Horta Harbour to Pico Island (30-minutes by passenger ferry). Depart from Madalena to the village of São Roque on the north coast of Pico, visiting the black rocks of Cachorro en route. Take the mountain road (altitude 900m) towards Lajes do Pico, for many years, the centre of the whaling industry in the Azores. Continue on to the Whaler’s Museum (entrance fee not included) and home to a fascinating exhibition about the industry. Return to Madalena stopping at ‘Verdelho’ wine cellar en route. Return to Faial by boat. Lunch and entrance fees to museums and parks are not included.

Wednesday

a Jeep Tour of Faial which takes you on an unforgettable journey through the island’s best trails. Driving through trees and pastures overlooking the Atlantic Ocean you will discover places and landscapes of rare beauty not often encountered by the average tourist. In the afternoon depart Horta Harbour at 14:30 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours).

Friday Transfer to Horta airport for your ﬂight to São Miguel (1-hour). Transfer to the Hotel São Miguel Park.

Saturday Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for the return ﬂight home. Price from £1,239 per person based on 2-sharing. Please telephone us for a quotation.

Prices include ■ Saturday scheduled flights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7-nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. ■ Inter-island flights between São Miguel and Faial. ■ Transfers to/from Ponta Delgada airport and Horta airport. ■ Briefing (c.25-minutes) by a marine biologist. ■ Three 3-hour whale and dolphin watching excursions on Faial.

■ Life vests provided locally. We recommend clients take their own raincoat, sun-cream, ﬂat shoes/trainers and a camera. ■ One excursion - Pico Island full day tour. Lunch and entrance fee to museums and parks are not included.

Notes ■ Zodiac boats (small, rigid hull inﬂatables carrying up to 24 people) are used. ■ Excursions depart at 08:30 or 14:30 – schedules to be advised locally depending on weather conditions. ■ Transfers to/from the whaling bases are not included. ■ We cannot guarantee that you will see a cetacean but it is unlikely that you should be so unlucky. ■ Extra excursions on Faial can be prebooked through Sunvil or locally through our agents – see details on page 55. ■ Alternative accommodation on Faial and São Miguel can be booked, please telephone us for a quotation. ■ August festival ‘Semana do Mar’ (Sea Week): The festival includes musical performances and several sporting events along Horta’s bay, in the channel between Faial and Pico.

Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport and transfer to the Hotel São Miguel Park.

Depart Horta Harbour at 08:30 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours). The afternoon is free, opportunity to pre-book a private taxi tour of Faial Island visiting Caldeira, the highest point on the island at 1,043 metres, and Capelinhos, the site of the last volcanic eruption in the Azores in 1957.

Sunday

Thursday

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Free morning – why not experience the natural beauty of the blue island of Faial in a 4x4 wheel drive? Sunvil are able to pre-book

Hotel São Miguel Park

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

Hotel do Canal

Horta, Faial (see page 52)

Hotel São Miguel Park

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday

Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for your ﬂight to Horta, Faial (c.1-hour). On arrival transfer to the Hotel do Canal.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Important: Children aged 4yrs or under, pregnant women or any person suffering from back problems, are not allowed on the Zodiac whale watching boats.

real Azores | 67

Azores | São Miguel | Walking Holiday

São Miguel Walking Holiday The islands of the Azores, with their mild climate (day time temperature ranging from 14-22 degrees), are the most wonderful islands for walking. Our suggested itinerary on São Miguel incorporates some of the best scenic walks on the island. Each walk can be booked independently as part of a tailor-made holiday and the accommodation chosen can be changed to suit individual requirements. Other islands that offer guided walks include Santa Maria (see page 27) and Pico (see page 49). These islands can be combined with São Miguel as a two or three centre holiday. Please telephone us for a quotation.

Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport and transfer to the Hotel Vila Nova or the Hotel Caloura.

Sunday Today’s walk is Faial da Terra. This 4.7km (1.5-hour) walk takes place in the southeast of the island, in Faial da Terra. The trail is lined by exotic and luxurious vegetation. During the walk you will stop by the beautiful waterfall of Salto do Prego where it is possible to take a swim. Depart Ponta Delgada at 09:00 and return at 10:30. Grade 2.

Monday Free day. Opportunity to play a round of golf at the Batalha or Furnas golf course or hire a car for the day and explore the island at leisure.

Tuesday Today’s walk is Monte Escuro. This 14km (4-5-hour) walk starts by the Monte Escuro volcano at a height of 890m. As the trail continues the scene changes, allowing you to appreciate long distance views over the island and the magniﬁcent Lagoa do Fogo. The walk ends by the church of Nossa Senhora da Paz, a pilgrimage site that offers beautiful views over the village of Vila Franca do Campo and the islet of Vila Franca. Depart Ponta Delgada at 09:00 and return at 17:30. Grade 2.

Wednesday Today’s walk is Lagoa do Fogo. This 12km (4-5-hour) walk takes place in the south central area of São Miguel and includes a route along a levada. The high point is the arrival at Lagoa do Fogo, located at 575m which is one of the most beautiful lakes of the Azores. Depart Ponta Delgada at 09:30 and return at 17:00. Grade 2.

Thursday Opportunity to explore the town of Ponta Delgada, indulge in some last minute shopping and/or participate in Whale and dolphin watching or Swimming with dolphins excursion.

Friday Today’s walk is Cumeeiras. This 12km (45-hour) walk takes place in the west of São Miguel. On the walk you will see some exotic and native species of Azorean ﬂora. Part of the trail follows the water line of the caldeira of Sete Cidades, around the twin lakes known as Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul. Enjoy amazing panoramic views of the North and West coast of the island. Depart Ponta Delgada at 09:30 and return at 17:30. Grade 1.

Price from: ■ £828 per person based on 2-sharing at the Hotel Vila Nova. ■ £1,002 per person based on 2sharing at the Hotel Caloura.

Prices include ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7-nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation at the Hotel Vila Nova or the Hotel Caloura. ■ Transfers on arrival/departure and to/from all walks. ■ Four full-day guided walks with English speaking guide and picnic lunches included: Faial da Terra, Monte Escuro, Lagoa do Fogo and Cumeeiras. ■ Prices based on 2-sharing (Minimum 2 and maximum 8 people). ■ Extra excursions (see pages 21-23) can be pre-booked through Sunvil or locally through our agent.

Saturday Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for the return ﬂight home.

Grading of Walks 1 for Easy 2 for Medium

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Hotel Vila Nova

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

OR 7

Hotel Caloura

Caloura, São Miguel (see page 14)

68 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | São Miguel | Family Holiday

Azorean Experience

Whale and dolphin watching trip

São Miguel Family Holiday The Azores is the perfect destination for a family holiday. Experience an authentic Azorean family-run farm: ride on a horse drawn carriage; taste the locally made cheese and marmalade; or even learn how to milk a cow. Swim in natural rock pools, thermal hot pools, with dolphins, at beaches – wherever it is, its idyllic and unspoilt. Enjoy nature at its best in a friendly and geographically fascinating environment with our suggested family holiday on São Miguel. Departure: Saturdays (12May-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday Arrive Ponta Delgada airport. Transfer to the Antillia Hotel Apartments.

Sunday – Full Day Sete Cidades Jeep Tour Depart at 09:00 from Ponta Delgada for a visit to the Gruta do Carvao, the largest lava tunnel on São Miguel. Continue on to Sete Cidades, an extinct crater which has two lakes one green and one blue, where you will have the opportunity to

play some traditional Portuguese games or swim in the outdoor swimming pool at the Ferraria Spa (see page 73). Picnic lunch by the Sete Cidades Lakes. In the afternoon, take a canoe out on the lake followed by a visit to the Ethnographic Museum at Capelas. Return to Ponta Delgada.

Monday – Whale and Dolphin Watching Enjoy a 3-hour whale and dolphin watching trip led by a professional team of skippers, lookouts and biologists. Before setting off you will have a short brieﬁng (c.10-minutes) about the amazing mammals that you are able to see in the Atlantic waters off São Miguel. Twentyfour of the planet’s eighty species of whales and dolphins have been spotted in the archipelago. Free afternoon.

Tuesday – Full Day Azorean Experience Pick up at 08:45 from the hotel and transfer to the village of Ginetes where your Azorean Experience will begin at 09:30. After meeting with excursion provider Quinta das Raiadas, you are taken to a family-run farm where you will have an insight into rural farming on São Miguel, meet the resident farm animals and have the opportunity to milk a cow. From here you continue on your horse and cart journey to the Escalvado viewpoint, the Sabrina Islet viewpoint and to the Ferraria lighthouse before returning back to the farm for a demonstration, and participation, on how to make bread, local handicrafts and how to prepare many traditional Azorean

dishes. Light lunch included (homemade soup, bread, local cheese, marmalade and soft drinks – water, juice and tea).

Wednesday – Boat Trip Departure from Ponta Delgada marina at 10:30 onboard the 'E.T.' - a glass bottomed boat that allows passengers to view underwater life. The boat has a covered upper deck, which allows passengers to enjoy the coastal scenery, and a lower deck with a glass bottom to view the seabed and marine life including coastal ﬁsh, sea urchins and starﬁsh – see page 23 for more details.

Thursday – Full Day Furnas Jeep Tour Depart at 09:00 to Furnas taking the south coast road. Stop at the village of Vila Franca do Campo, the ﬁrst capital of the island. Continue on to Furnas valley, stopping at the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden. Time for a swim in the natural hot spring water pool. Visit the hot springs and then time for lunch (included). In the afternoon, visit the Furnas Monitoring and Research Centre where you can learn about what is being done to preserve the natural habitat of this area (plants, trees and animals).

Friday Free day at leisure. Opportunity to do some last minute shopping or simply relax by the pool.

Saturday Transfer from the accommodation to airport.

Jeep tour

Price from £867 per person based on a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children). Please ring us for a quotation.

Price includes ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7-nights’ accommodation on self catering basis at the Hotel Antillia Apartments in a 2-bedroom apartment. ■ Transfers (arrival/departure) between the airport and the hotel in Ponta Delgada. ■ 2 full day Jeep Tours with lunch included. ■ 1 whale and dolphin watching trip (life vest and rain coat provided). ■ 1 half day trip on a glass bottomed boat to observe underwater life (May-Oct only). ■ 1 full day Azorean Experience with lunch (transfers to/from Ginetes included). ■ Suitable for children aged 5 years upwards. ■ Extra excursions (see pages 21-23) can be pre-booked through Sunvil or locally through our agent. ■ Alternative accommodation in Ponta Delgada can be booked, please telephone us for a quotation. ■ Itinerary subject to change.

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Antillia Hotel Apartments

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 13)

Glass bottomed boat

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

real Azores | 69

Azores | Geological Tour

Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira

São Miguel

Azores Geological Tour São Miguel ■ Terceira ■ Graciosa The volcanic structure of these islands has awarded them with overwhelming beauty; vast craters housing gleaming lakes, sheer black cliffs rolling into the ocean, hot mineral springs and lush rolling valleys. São Miguel is located on the eastern side of the archipelago and is made up of six volcanic complexes and municipalities. Terceira, part of the central group of islands, is formed from four volcanoes; one of who’s collapsed Caldeira is the largest in the Azores. Graciosa, the second smallest island of the archipelago also belongs to the central group; it is here, in 1879, that Prince Albert of Monaco explored the volcanic phenomenon of Furna do Enxofre. Our suggested itinerary below gives you an insight into these three volcanic islands and a clearer understanding on how they were formed. It is also possible to extend the itinerary by a further 7 nights, taking in other volcanic points of interest such as Capelinhos on Faial, Gruta das Torres (lava cave) on Pico and the hot springs of Furnas on São Miguel.

Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday – São Miguel On arrival, transfer to the Hotel São Miguel Park, Ponta Delgada.

Sunday – São Miguel - Half Day Tour of Sete Cidades Lakes After breakfast, depart from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades, an extinct volcano crater of 40sq.km, within which are two magniﬁcent lakes, one deep blue colour and the other emerald green. After visiting the lakes, you will stop at the ‘Vista do Rei’ belvedere which offers the best panoramic view over Sete Cidades and the surrounding area. Return to Ponta Delgada, stopping en route at a pineapple plantation. Afternoon at leisure.

Monday – Terceira Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for your ﬂight to Terceira (c.40-minutes). On arrival, transfer to the Hotel Angra Garden, Angra do Heroísmo. Dependant on ﬂight arrival, free afternoon to explore the historic town of Angra do Heroísmo which dates back to the 15th century and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. From the botanical gardens adjacent to the hotel, there is a path that leads uphill to the ‘Miradouro of Memory’ offering superb views over the town.

Tuesday – Terceira – Full Day Island Tour After breakfast, depart from Angra do Heroísmo by the south coast to Praia da Vitória, passing en route the villages of Porto Judeu and Porto Martins. In the

afternoon, continue to Serra do Cume from where you can enjoy a panoramic view. Return to Angra do Heroísmo, visiting the underground lava tube of Algar do Carvao (June to September only) and via Biscoitos, stopping at the wine museum where the production of Verdelho wine is housed, as well as a visit to natural rock swimming pools.

Wednesday – Graciosa Transfer to Terceira airport for your ﬂight to Graciosa (c.30-minutes). On arrival, transfer to the Hotel Graciosa Resort, Santa Cruz.

Thursday – Graciosa – Half Day Island Tour After breakfast depart from Santa Cruz da Graciosa towards the caldeira where you will visit the Furna do Enxofre, an impressive lava cave which stretches 194m in length and 40m in height, located at the base of the crater. Enjoy spectacular views from the caldeira, across small meadows and forests, before continuing to the ﬁshing village of Praia, Fenais and on to Carapacho to visit the thermal baths. Return to Santa Cruz da Graciosa, stopping en route at Monte da Ajuda to enjoy the view over the capital. Afternoon at leisure to relax at the Thermal Spa located 16km from the hotel (special rates for hotel guests apply) or to take a leisurely walk (c.1km) into town or along the waters edge.

Friday – São Miguel Transfer to Graciosa Airport for your ﬂight to Ponta Delgada via Terceira (c.95minutes). On arrival, transfer to the Hotel Royal Garden, Ponta Delgada. Free time in Ponta Delgada with the opportunity to indulge in some last minute shopping or just relax.

Saturday – São Miguel Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for your return ﬂight to London Gatwick. Price from £1,132 per person based on 2-sharing. Please telephone us for a quotation.

Price includes ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7-nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. ■ All inter-island ﬂights, transfers and guided excursions (minibus and guide or taxi/jeep with English speaking driver) as detailed. ■ Extra excursions on Terceira and São Miguel can be pre-booked through Sunvil or locally through our agent – see details on pages 21, 22, 23 & 33. ■ Alternative accommodation on each island can be booked, please telephone us for a quotation.

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Hotel São Miguel Park

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 10)

Hotel Angra Garden

Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira (see page 30)

Hotel Graciosa Resort

Santa Cruz, Graciosa (see page 36)

Hotel Royal Garden

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (see page 12)

Sete Cidades church, São Miguel

70 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | Active Holiday

Canoeing on Furnas Lake

Cycling in Sete Cidades

Canyoning

São Miguel Active Holiday The Azores is fast becoming the go-to destination for adventure enthusiasts and offers a myriad of holiday pursuits over the summer months. Just a three-and-ahalf hour ﬂight away, this volcanic archipelago is a unique destination, enriched with emerald-green scenery, beautiful rugged landscapes and fascinating geology which makes for an awe-inspiring backdrop to any activitybased escape. Departure: Saturday (05Apr-24Oct14) Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Saturday – São Miguel Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport and transfer to your hotel.

Sunday – Whale & Dolphin watching trip Depart at 08:30 for a whale and dolphin watching trip (3-hours). The Azorean waters attract an impressive number of cetacean activity - 26 of the world’s 80 species have been sighted off the islands’ coast, including pods of Sperm, Pilot, Backed, Fin, Sei, Humpback and Blue whales. The emphasis of these trips is not only to see the mammals in their natural habitat, but also on teaching and conservation. A marine biologist will introduce the cetaceans and discuss their habitat, communication and behavioural patterns. Free afternoon. Why not explore the delights of Furnas? This spa town is one of the largest thermal water sources in the world, and in addition to its beautiful azalea bordered lake, is home to a 30 acre botanical garden of great international importance.

Please turn to pages 76-77 for Prices

Monday – Rock Climbing Drive to the meeting point in Ferraria for a 09:30 start. The challenge of rock climbing requires strength, coordination and agility. The climb has several areas with different degrees of difﬁculty, which means that it is suitable for both experienced climbers and novices alike (duration 2hr 30mins). In the afternoon, take a drive to visit Sete Cidades. This extinct crater is an enchanting natural wonder, which has two lakes - one blue and the other green. The best place to enjoy the majesty of the lakes is from the view point ‘Vista do Rei’ which offers spectacular panoramic views.

Tuesday - Canoeing Drive to the meeting point in Furnas for a 10:00 start. Take a couple of hours to enjoy the stunning and peaceful landscape of Furnas Lake. Learn to glide above the water, at your own pace, and experience the natural beauty of this volcanic crater. Free afternoon. Opportunity to visit Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake). Located in the centre of the island, this beautiful lake is one of the grandest natural attractions on São Miguel. Declared a nature reserve, Lagoa do Fogo is surrounded by high mountains and luxuriant endemic vegetation. Hikers can follow the well marked trails down into the crater to admire the transparent waters and white sandy beaches.

Wednesday – Canyoning (optional) Drive to the meeting point in Ponta Delgada for a 09:30 start. With its craggy

mountain faces, challenging ravines and cascading torrents of water, there is no better place to take part in this exhilarating sport, which sees adrenalin-junkies jumping, climbing, rappelling, scrambling and swimming through canyons. The island of São Miguel, with its exceptional geological conditions, abundant water ﬂowing and rugged settings, offers the best canyoning opportunities and new and diverse routes are being discovered all the time. The activity will ﬁnish at 16:00.

Thursday – Bike tour (Sete Cidades) and SPA (Ferraria) Morning departure from Sete Cidades by mountain bike. Pedal along trails through this volcanic massif and discover beautiful landscapes of dense and verdant vegetation and with lakes and the shimmering blue of the ocean as a backdrop. The trails are selected depending on each person’s ﬁtness level and technique. Lunch stop (included). In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing treatment at the SPA Ferraria, famous for its healing thermal waters. The Spa experience includes use of a sauna, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and thermal indoor and outdoor pools – sea water temperature about 38°C.

Friday – Swimming with dolphins (optional) Day at leisure. Book an experience of a lifetime and swim with dolphins in their natural habitat – see page 23. Water babies should take the plunge and swim alongside Common, Bottlenose, Risso and Atlantic

Spotted dolphins in the blue Atlantic waters ten miles off the shore. Summer months are the best to take part in this once-in-alifetime experience, as this is when the sea is at its calmest and dolphins are most numerous. During the rest of the three-hour trip, those onboard will also be able to spot Sperm, Pilot and Beaked whales, and possibly even sea turtles.

Saturday Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for the return ﬂight home. Price is £1,003 per person based on 2sharing and subject to a minimum number of participants. Supplement for Canyoning is £63 per adult and £48 per child (6-11yrs). Supplement for Swimming with dolphins is £68 per adult and £50 per child (5-11yrs).

Price includes ■ Saturday scheduled ﬂights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). ■ 7 nights’ accommodation on Self catering basis as stated. ■ 7 days ‘Group A’ car hire – see page 75. ■ 1 Whale & dolphin watching trip. ■ 1 Rock climbing activity. ■ 1 Canoeing activity. ■ 1 Bike tour (Sete Cidades) and SPA (Ferraria) visit. ■ Alternative accommodation and activities can be booked, please telephone us for a quotation.

7 Nights

Accommodation

Location

Furnas Lake Apartments

Furnas, São Miguel (see page 16)

real Azores | 71

Azores | Tailor-Made & Multi-Centre Holidays

Furnas, São Miguel

Islet – Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel

Tailor-Made & Multi-Centre Holidays Within our brochure you will find prices for 7 and 14 night holidays. However, these holidays are not fixed, they are just examples designed to give you a realistic idea of the costs involved. If you have a holiday idea, not quoted within the brochure, please give us a call – we will soon tell you if it is feasible and realisable at an acceptable cost. For instance, over a three-week period it is possible to visit all nine islands should you want to do so and we can make all the necessary arrangements for such a trip. It is also possible to combine a stay in the Azores with a holiday on Madeira, or with a stay on the Portuguese mainland. Our programme to the Azores is flexible and the possibilities endless. Portugal with its superb beach resorts, extensive range of UNESCO classified World Heritage sites which include the historical centres of Evora, Guimarães and Porto, and beautiful unspoilt landscape can be easily combined with a holiday in the Azores. Many of our clients chose to add a city break in Lisbon or Porto at the beginning or at the end of their holiday. For those wishing to extend their stay on the Portuguese mainland, it is possible to combine a stay in the Azores with a holiday on the Lisbon coast, or with a flydrive itinerary. With flights from Porto to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), and from Lisbon to Ponta Delgada, Pico, Santa Maria, Horta (Faial) and Terceira, it is possible for us to tailor-make a holiday to suit individual needs.

Madeira with its temperate climate and rich repertoire of floral species is one of the UK’s oldest and most popular tourist destinations. Described as the ‘Pearl of the Atlantic’ the island has much to offer – extensive walking trails, beautiful gardens and traditional villages as well as numerous quinta’s producing the famous Madeira wine. TAP Portugal operates a direct flight between Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and Funchal (Madeira) twice weekly (Tuesdays and Saturdays) and daily flights between the two islands via Lisbon. Both islands are endowed with a spectacular natural beauty, good walking trails and an abundance of flowers, so why not consider a twin centre between São Miguel and Madeira? Any combination of our featured properties on São Miguel and Madeira can be used. The islands of the Azores each have their own unique character, history and local customs, and in turn have much to offer the discerning traveller. Although not an island hopping destination in the sense of the Greek Islands, it is possible to prebook multi-island holidays for clients staying one week or longer. Once you have an idea of what you would like to do, our tailor-made department is happy to advise and quote. There are of course some restrictions, but within these you can do pretty much as you please.

Multi-Island Holidays All islands and resorts in this brochure can be combined. Listed below are some of the most popular combinations using the direct ﬂights in to São Miguel. ■ São Miguel and Santa Maria ■ São Miguel and Terceira (Graciosa can be added) ■ São Miguel and Faial and/or Pico ■ São Miguel, São Jorge and Pico ■ São Miguel and Flores (Corvo can be added) ■ São Miguel, Flores, Faial, Pico, São Jorge and Terceira

Flexibility We are able to arrange holidays to suit individual requirements. ■ We can arrange one, two, three centre holidays, or even nine islands if you have three weeks to spare. You choose the islands and we will arrange the order with the best connections in order to make the most of your holiday. ■ Itineraries on request: For complicated tailor-made holidays we need to confirm that the accommodation and/or transport are available through our local agent, so this process may take longer to confirm, usually between 24-48 hours. ■ SATA Air Açores operate inter-island flights between each of the nine islands, with at least one flight per day from São Miguel to each island, and 34 flights per day connecting the islands of São Miguel, Faial and Terceira.

■ There is a regular ferry service, during the summer months, between the central islands of Faial, Pico and São Jorge which can be booked as part of a multi-centre holiday. ■ Transfers between holiday centres can be arranged by private or shared transfers, inter-island ﬂights, ferries or self-drive car hire. ■ We can combine airlines (TAP Portugal and SATA International) to allow for more complex multi-centre holidays ﬂying in to one island and out of another on any given day.

Security One call to us will save you considerable time and effort, and probably cost no more (in the end) than trying to arrange it all by yourself. Most important of all, it is much safer: we are fully ATOL-bonded so your money is 100% protected, and by law we take full responsibility for our arrangements, which is not necessarily the case with ‘internet only’ operations who act only as ‘agents’. We ﬁrmly believe that, taken together, these beneﬁts will allow you to make the most of your designer holiday with complete peace of mind.

With a range of small character hotels, intimate manor houses and pousadas, our programme to Portugal and Madeira has something to suit all tastes – why not order a copy of our Portugal brochure today – Tel 020 8758 4722.

72 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | Flights | Accommodation at a Glance

Flights

Inter-island ﬂights São Miguel to: Santa Maria Terceira Faial Pico São Jorge Flores

Flights SATA International Flights (05 April – 24 October 2014) Weekly service, every Saturday, from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) S4 541 S4 540 ■ ■ ■ ■

London Gatwick / Ponta Delgada Ponta Delgada / London Gatwick

14:20 / 17:05 08:40 / 13:25

Gatwick South Terminal Luggage allowance is 20kg (international and inter-island flights) / 10kg for infants In-flight meals included The Azores is one hour behind the UK all year

Alternative flights with TAP Portugal (via Lisbon) to the Azores We are able to tailor-make holidays using TAP Portugal daily flights from Heathrow, Gatwick or Manchester to Lisbon with a connecting flight to the Azores (São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Faial). As the flights do not always connect on the same day, an overnight stay in Lisbon

may be required on arrival and/or departure. Please contact our ofﬁce for details and prices.

Sata advanced seat reservation: It is possible to pre-book, up to 36-hours prior to departure, speciﬁc ﬂight seats on Sata International for a small charge of between £10 and £25 per person (credit card payments only). This facility is only possible by logging on to the Sata website page and entering your booking reference (supplied by Sunvil). Sata Excess Baggage: If you are intending to take golf clubs, dive equipment, bicycles or surfboards abroad then please advise us at the time of booking. We will inform the airline and advise if and what the charge will be above your normal luggage allowance.

30-minutes 40-minutes 60-minutes 60-minutes 60-minutes 90-minutes

SATA Air Açores operate inter-island flights between each of the nine islands, with at least one flight per day from São Miguel to each island, and 34 flights per day connecting the islands of São Miguel, Faial and Terceira.

Boat crossings Faial to:

Pico São Jorge Pico to: São Jorge São Jorge to: Graciosa Flores to: Corvo*

30-minutes 90-minutes 60-minutes 90-minute 90-minutes

*Jun-Aug only

Accommodation at a Glance Family Units

Spas

São Miguel

Faial

■ Hotel Vila Nova, Ponta Delgada (page 10) ■ Hotel São Miguel Park, Ponta Delgada (page 10) ■ Hotel Talisman, Ponta Delgada (page 11) ■ Hotel do Colégio, Ponta Delgada (page 11) ■ Hotel Royal Garden, Ponta Delgada (page 12) ■ Antillia Hotel Apartments, Ponta Delgada (page 13) ■ Hotel Caloura, Caloura (page 14) ■ Furnas Lake Apartments, Furnas (page 16) ■ Quinta da Mó, Furnas (page 17) ■ Quinta dos Curubás, Vila Franca do Campo (page 18) ■ Quinta de Santana, Ribeira Grande (page 19) ■ Casas do Frade, Nordeste (page 20)

■ Hotel Faial, Horta (page 52) ■ Hotel do Canal, Horta (page 52) ■ Pousada Santa Cruz, Horta (page 53)

Santa Maria

São Miguel

■ Hotel Colombo, Vila do Porto (page 26)

Terceira ■ Hotel Angra Garden, Angra do Heroísmo (page 30) ■ Hotel do Caracol, Angra do Heroísmo (page 30) ■ Hotel Praia Marina, Praia da Vitória (page 32)

Graciosa ■ Hotel Graciosa Resort, Santa Cruz (page 36)

São Jorge ■ Cantinho das Buganvilias, Quiemada (page 41)

Pico ■ Baia da Barca, Madalena (page 46) ■ Hotel Caravelas, Madalena (page 46) ■ Adegas do Pico, Prainha (page 47) ■ Casa da Ouvidor, São Roque (page 48) ■ A Cancela do Porco, Bandeiras (page 48)

Flores ■ Argonauta, Fajã Grande (page 58) ■ Aldeia da Cuada, Cuada (page 59)

Interconnecting Rooms

São Miguel ■ Hotel Royal Garden, Ponta Delgada (page 12) ■ Antillia Hotel Apartments, Ponta Delgada (page 13) ■ Termas da Ferraria*, Ginetes – see location on map (page 9)

Terceira ■ Hotel Angra Marina, Angra do Heroísmo (page 30) ■ Hotel do Caracol, Angra do Heroísmo (page 31)

Termas da Ferraria, Rua Ilha Sabrina (Ginetes)

■ Hotel Vila Nova, Ponta Delgada (page 10) ■ Hotel Talisman, Ponta Delgada (page 11) ■ Hotel do Colégio, Ponta Delgada (page 11) ■ Hotel Royal Garden, Ponta Delgada (page 12) ■ Hotel Marina Atlântico, Ponta Delgada (page 12) ■ Hotel Terra Nostra Garden, Furnas (page 15) ■ Quinta dos Curubás, Vila Franca do Campo (page 18)

Terceira ■ Hotel do Caracol, Angra do Heroísmo (page 30) ■ Hotel Angra Marina, Angra do Heroísmo (page 31) ■ Pousada São Sebastião, Angra do Heroísmo (page 31)

Located on the southwest coast of São Miguel, the Termas da Ferraria Spa was opened in August 2010. Choose from a Vichy shower, a variety of treatments or use of the thermal Spa, Jacuzzi, thermal swimming pool, sauna and Turkish bath. Reservations can be made locally either direct with the Spa or through our local agent.

real Azores | 73

Azores | Sunvil and Responsible Tourism

Sunvil and Responsible Tourism Sunvil Discovery’s Responsible Tourism policy at a glance… We seek to use locally owned and operated suppliers: In 1990, we introduced our ﬁrst holiday programme to the Azores and over the years, we have passionately worked alongside our local agent, airline, and the tourist board to develop and expand our programme to this beautiful archipelago. We have a close relationship with our local agent; a family-run company with whom we have worked since the beginning.

We employ local people as representatives and guides: Our local agent employs local representatives and guides. Clients travelling to the Azores with Sunvil Discovery will be met by a local representative at the airport; all excursions are arranged with locally owned companies; and many tours, such as the Geological History Tour, will be led by a local guide.

We use locally owned and managed properties: Our accommodation has

Responsible Tourism aims ‘to create better places for people to live in, and better places for people to visit’. For us at Sunvil, this means building close relationships with our destinations and working alongside our local agents, tourist boards and the host communities to develop a sustainable and culturally sensitive tourism industry that aims to bring long-term social, economic and environmental beneﬁts.

been handpicked for character, charm, comfort and location. Wherever possible, we choose locally owned and managed properties. Some of our favourite ownermanaged properties include the Furnas Lake Apartments (São Miguel), Quinta das Curubás (São Miguel), Quinta das Mercês (Terceira), Casa do António ((São Jorge), Adegas do Pico (Pico) and Comodoro (Corvo).

We support local charities and initiatives: In the Azores, Sunvil supports the Casa do Gaiato on São Miguel, a home for boys from problem families. For each person travelling to the Azores, we donate £1 to the home. Sunvil Discovery has also purchased a number of litter bins. These bins now line the routes of walking trails in the Povoação region of São Miguel and aim to reduce littering in the area. Our local agent in the Azores is also supporting a project that aims to save Furnas Lake on São Miguel from eutrophication. For all Sunvil clients that book an Island Tour (see page 21) to visit Furnas Lake, a donation of 1.50 Euros is made to the project.

We are committed to the protection of the natural and cultural environment: Sunvil Discovery is an industry partner of the Travelife Sustainability System, a scheme designed to address the adverse social and environmental impacts of the tourism industry. Sunvil, together with our

accommodation suppliers, are using Travelife to improve the sustainability of our Azores holiday programme.

We strive to promote the Azores in an accurate and sensitive way: We believe the information contained in this brochure is true and correct. If you are unsure of anything, or require any additional information, please ask to speak to a member of our dedicated Azorean team who have ﬁrst-hand knowledge of each of the islands and of our featured properties. We would rather lose a booking than sell a holiday that does not meet your individual requirements.

We are working to reduce carbon emissions: The positive and negative impacts of a tour operator are far reaching, and it is important to note that impacts are felt both within the country where the tour operator is based, as well as the destinations visited. At Sunvil all of our staff air travel is offset, and amongst other measures, we also turn all lights, computers and screens off every night. Small things individually, perhaps, but we believe that any contribution, however small, is worthwhile. The Azores brochure has been printed on paper independently certiﬁed as coming from forests that meet the internationally recognised FSC Principles and Criteria of Forest Stewardship. For further information about FSC paper, please visit www.fsc-uk.org.uk.

Awards Sunvil is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO), a specialist tour operator association which ensures all members abide by three main principles; choice, quality and service. Companies admitted to AITO are all vetted and fully bonded for clients’ protection, in compliance with UK and European regulations. As recognition of our commitment to Responsible Tourism, Sunvil has been awarded 5-stars by the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO).

Carbon Offset Although the science of climate change, in particular the overall impact of aviation, is not yet fully understood, it is generally accepted that the carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by aircraft fuel is contributing to climate change.

The flights taken by Sunvil's 30,000 customers generate about 12,000 tonnes of CO2 every year - around the same as 3,500 cars. One return flight to the Azores releases 0.53 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere, 0.55 tonnes if you take an indirect flight via Lisbon/Porto. Since 2006, Sunvil has directly supported an offsetting project within the Retezat National Park in Romania, home to wolves, brown bear, wild boar, lynx, roe and red deer. For each client travelling with us we have donated 50p to the project, a total contribution of £51,818. This money has been invested in the installation of alternative energy systems (solar power) for the visitor centres, community centres and information points. The project in the Retezat National Park has now come to a close, and we are currently looking for a new offset project to support in one of our destinations. In the meantime, we are saving 50p per client to invest as soon as our decision is made. We know that carbon offsetting is not the total answer but, we have to make a start somewhere and, hopefully, from these small steps there will be a positive knockon effect which will go some way towards safeguarding the planet.

The Travel Foundation The Travel Foundation is a UK charity that cares for the places we love to visit. Their work aims to protect the natural environment, traditions and culture – the things that make your visit special – in destinations throughout the world. Most importantly, their work can help ensure that there are great places for us, and future generations, to visit. Current projects are based in: Brazil, Cape Verde, Cyprus, Egypt, Kenya, Mexico, Morocco, Rhodes, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, The Caribbean, The Gambia and Turkey. Sunvil, along with many other travel companies, is supporting the work of The Travel Foundation by donating 50p for every person booked to the charity and providing help in kind in the way of complimentary ﬂights, accommodation and other services in order to help the workings of the charity. The UK is taking a lead in changing the way the world travels. For more information, please take a look at The Travel Foundation's website at www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk

74 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | Car Hire

Car Hire Prices below apply to car hire on São Miguel, Terceira, Santa Maria, Pico, Faial, São Jorge & Flores 01Nov13-31Mar14

01Apr-30Jun 16Sep-31Oct

01Jul-15Sep

Group

Seats

Doors

Air-con

Car Model or similar

3 days

7 days

3 days

7 days

3 days

7 days

Renault Twingo

138

255

153

290

177

346

Nissan Micra

150

283

165

311

192

381

Yes

Ford Fiesta

168

318

180

339

207

416

Yes

Ford Focus (Station Wagon)

213

423

225

423

252

507

Yes

Ford Galaxy TDI (Sao Miguel only)

363

703

402

780

453

899

Nissan Micra (Automatic)

204

381

213

402

240

486

Included in your Rent-a-car ILHA VERDE rental 1. Unlimited mileage. 2. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). In the event of an accident this insurance covers the full value of the vehicle. However you remain liable for the excess amount of: 1. 875.10 Euros (Group A) 2. 1,051.10 Euros (Group B) 3. 1,167.10 Euros (Groups C & I) 4. 1,268.90 Euros (Group F) 5. 2,043.20 Euros (Group H) Please note that this insurance does not cover damage to the vehicle’s tyres, undercarriage or windscreen. 3. All local taxes and airport surcharges. 4. Third party Liability Insurance. This covers any third party in the event of an accident. 5. Additional drivers at no extra cost. 6. Theft Protection (TP) Insurance. Not included (payable locally): 1. Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW). This extra charge, if paid, will reduce the maximum

excess payable to 58.50 Euros in the event that the vehicle is damaged or stolen. This insurance does not cover damage to the windscreen, tyres or wheel rims. The price of the Super CDW per day is: • 10.20 Euros (Group A) • 11.20 Euros (Group B) • 12.25 Euros (Groups C & I) • 14.25 Euros (Group F) • 20.35 Euros (Group H) 2. Windscreen Damage Waiver (WDW). The price of the Windscreen Damage Waiver is: • 1.25 Euros per day (Groups A, B, C, F & I) Please note that this is not available for Group H vehicles. 3. Rim or Tyre Damage Waiver (CPJ). The price of the Rim or Tyre Damage Waiver is: • 5.80 Euros per day (Groups A, B, C, F & I) Please note that this is not available for Group H vehicles. 4. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) will cover the cost of any personal medical costs incurred in the event of an accident. This

insurance is optional and payable locally at 3.55 Euros per day. Please note that Sunvil travel insurance provides limited personal insurance and covers medical costs. If you have not purchased Sunvil travel insurance, please check with your insurance company prior to departure to see if you will be covered. 5. An out of hours charge of 31.10 Euros is payable: • After 24:00 at Ponta Delgada Airport and 19:00 for hotels in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). • After 19:00 from the car hire office in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), Velas (São Jorge), Madalena (Pico) and Horta (Faial); and after 18:00 at Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira). • After 21:00 at Santa Maria Airport; and after 19:00 at Flores Airport. Please note that you do not have to purchase these extras. However, should you decide to do so, these will be noted on your car rental agreement and are payable locally.

Notes: 1. A credit card imprint will be taken to cover local extras or any excess charges in case of an accident. A fuel deposit of 60.00 Euros will also be taken. 2. Cars will be supplied with a full tank of fuel. Any missing fuel on return of the vehicle will incur an additional service charge of c.11.70 Euros payable locally. 3. A full UK or EU driving licence, held not less than one year prior to rental, is required. 4. No extra charge for additional drivers. 5. Minimum age is 23 years. No maximum age. 6. Driving is on the Right. 7. We are not liable for any police or traffic fines incurred by clients. 8. We can request but not guarantee a particular make of car. 9. Child seats on request and payable locally at a rate of 5.85 Euros per day (maximum of 58.00 Euros per rental). Height and age of child required. 10. These conditions also apply to car hire already included in the cost of our holidays. 11. Our Insurance does not cover any personal belongings stolen while left unattended in a hire car unless in a locked and covered compartment. Valuables are excluded from cover. 12. Distances are relatively short and the majority of roads are good. Some roads can be precipitous with hairpin bends. 13. GPS (Navigation System) equipment is available on request at a cost of 11.60 Euros per day (maximum amount payable is 104.40 Euros per rental).

Prices below apply to car hire on Graciosa 01Nov13-31May14 Group

Seats

Doors

Air-con

Car Model or similar

Fiat Panda

Yes

Nissan Micra

Yes

Fiat Punto

171

Yes

Volkswagen

318

Included in your Rent-a-car MEDINA & FILHOS rental 1. Unlimited mileage. 2. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). In the event of an accident this insurance covers the full value of the vehicle. However you remain liable for the excess amount of: • 750.00 Euros (Groups A & B) • 1,000.00 Euros (Group C) • 1,950.00 Euros (Group F) Please note that this insurance does not cover damage to the vehicle’s tyres, undercarriage or windscreen. 3. All local taxes and airport surcharges. 4. Third party Liability Insurance. This covers any third party in the event of an accident. 5. Additional drivers at no extra cost.

3 days

01Jun-30Sep

01Oct-31Oct

7 days

3 days

7 days

153

315

162

336

153

315

162

343

174

357

162

343

357

183

378

171

357

693

339

735

318

693

Not included (payable locally) 1. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) will cover the cost of any personal medical costs incurred in the event of an accident. This insurance is optional and payable locally at 4.00 Euros per day. Please note that Sunvil travel insurance provides limited personal insurance and covers medical costs. If you have not purchased Sunvil travel insurance, please check with insurance company prior to departure to see if you will be covered. 2. Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW). This extra charge, if paid together with Theft Protection Insurance (TP), will reduce the maximum excess payable to 58.00 Euros in the event that the vehicle is damaged or stolen. The price of the Super CDW per day is:

3 days

7 days

• 11.50 Euros (Group A & B) • 12.65 Euros (Group C) • 18.40 Euros (Group F) The price of the TP per day is: • 4.60 Euros (Group A & B) • 5.20 Euros (Group C) • 12.65 Euros (Group F) Please note that this insurance does not cover damage to the windscreen, tyres or wheel rims. Please note that you do not have to purchase these extras. However, should you decide to do so, these will be noted on your car rental agreement and are payable locally. Notes 1. A credit card imprint will be taken to cover local extras and/or any excess charges in

case of an accident. 2. Cars will be supplied with a full tank of fuel. Any missing fuel, on return of the vehicle, will be charged locally. 3. A full UK or EU driving licence, held not less than two years prior to rental, is required. 4. Minimum age is 23 years. No maximum age. 5. Driving is on the Right. 6. We are not liable for any police or traffic fines incurred by clients. 7. We can request but not guarantee a particular make of car. 8. Child seats on request and payable locally at a cost of 5.80 Euros per day (maximum amount payable is 28.75 per rental). Height and age of child required. 9. These conditions also apply to car hire already included in the cost of our holidays. 10. Our Insurance does not cover any personal belongings stolen while left unattended in a hire car unless in a locked and covered compartment. Valuables are excluded from cover. 11. Distances are relatively short and the majority of roads are good. Some roads can be precipitous with hairpin bends.

Excess Car Insurance More people are now purchasing Excess Insurance before they travel, ﬁnding it better value if renting for more than 7 days, or hiring a car abroad more than once a year. A number of companies such as www.insurance4carhire.com offer this product. This insurance covers not only the insurance excess but also the underside of the car, windows and tyres. Please ensure you have all necessary receipts before you leave the country should you need to make a claim, as you will have to pay and claim it back on your return to the UK.

real Azores | 75

Azores | Prices

São Miguel Prices Saturday departures with SATA International Guideline prices shown below are in £'s per person departing on or between dates shown. Exact prices will be quoted at the time of booking. Page Accommodation

Room Type

Transfers / Car Hire

Board Basis

05Apr14 – 11Apr14 7 14

12Apr14 – 18Apr14 7 14

19Apr14 – 25Apr14 7 14

26Apr14 – 03May14 – 10May14 – 02May14 09May14 16May14 7 14 7 14 7 14

17May14 – 24May14 – 31May14 – 23May14 30May14 06Jun14 7 14 7 14 7 14

07Jun14 – 13Jun14 7 14

14Jun14 – 20Jun14 7 14

21Jun14 – 27Jun14 7 14

SÃO MIGUEL 10 Hotel Vila Nova

Standard room

Transfers

650 860 650 860 650

857

647 850

634

837 634 837

634

837 634

842

639 849

647 857

647 885

10 Hotel São Miguel Park

Classic room

Transfers

720 1000 720 1000 720

997

717

990

704

977 704 977

704

977 704

982

709 989

717 1045 765 1101

773 1109

11 Hotel Talisman

Standard room

Transfers

601 762

601

762 601

780

619 843

655

879 655 901

677

956

710

934

655 879

661 951

711

996

11 Hotel do Colégio

Standard room (Classic wing)

Transfers

643 846

643

846 643

867 664 944

711

991

711

991

12 Hotel Royal Garden

Balcony and garden view room Transfers

699 958 699

958 699

955 696 948

683

935 683 935

683

935 683 940

12 Hotel Marina Atlântico

Standard room

Transfers

741 1042 741 1042 741

12 Hotel Marina Atlântico

Balcony and ocean view room

Transfers

790 1140 790 1140 790 1137 787 1130

774

13 Antillia Hotel Apartments Standard room with balcony

Transfers

692 944 692

945 693 952

690 949 690 949

13 Antillia Hotel Apartments Studio

Transfers

650 860 650 860 650

867

669

14 Quinta do Mar 2

Balcony and ocean view room

Transfers

857 1242 857 1242 857 1239 854 1232 841 1219 841 1219

841 1219 841 1224 846 1231

14 Hotel Caloura 2

Balcony and ocean view room

Transfers

794 1116 794 1116 794

771 1079 771 1084 776 1091 784 1154 839 1231

15 Hotel Terra Nostra Garden 2 Standard room with garden view Transfers

873 1258 873 1258 873 1252 867 1238 850 1221 850 1221

944 692

711

727 1028 738 1039

1039 738 1032 725 1019 725 1019

657 895

1117 774 1117

907 669 907

1110 788 1096 771 1079 771 1079

716 1003 724 1011

724 1011

724 1051

688 947

696 955

696 987

696 955

725 1019 725 1024 730 1031

738 1099 798 1169 808 1179

774

774 1117

780 1189 846 1266 857 1277

690 949 690 954

695 961

703 1029 763 1113

669 907 669 907

669 907

675 978

1117 774

1117

787 1137

740 1069 766 1095

854 1299 914 1383 938 1407 861 1253

850 1221 850 1226 855 1233 863 1325 947 1423 961 1437

15 Hotel Terra Nostra Garden 2 Terrace and garden view room

Transfers

908 1328 908 1328 908 1325 905 1318 892 1305 892 1305 892 1305 892 1310 897 1317

905 1409 989 1507 1003 1521

16 Furnas Lake Apartments One bedroom apartment

Group A car

858 1348 921

911 1394

17 Quinta da Mó 2

Transfers

929 1370 929 1370 929 1367 926 1360 913 1347 913 1347

One bedroom cottage

774

1411 921 1405 915 1391 898 1374 898 1374 898 1374 898 1379 903 1386

One bedroom cottage

Group A car

774 1117

19 Quinta de Santana 2

One bedroom apartment

Transfers

783 1084 783 1084 783 1081 780 1074 767 1061 767 1061

767 1061 767 1066 772 1073 780 1081 780 1081 780 1081

20 Casas do Frade 1

One bedroom cottage

Group A car

774 1117

793 1164 793 1164 793 1164 799 1170 799 1170 799 1186

1117 774

1130 787 1179

911 1462

18 Quinta dos Curubás

774

1117 774

911 1394

913 1347 913 1382 948 1424 961 1437 961 1437 961 1437

1124 781 1152

814 1206 814 1206 814 1206 814

793 1164 793 1164

1211

819 1218 827 1226 827 1226 827 1278

Note: 1 We recommend that the last night be at a hotel in Ponta Delgada due to the early departure of the flight to the UK. This is not included in the prices shown above. 2 Car hire recommended. See car hire details on page 75.

Departure date determines the price – São Miguel Guide prices quoted are £’s per person based on 2 persons sharing a room, transfers or car hire and SATA International scheduled flights (as stated). Where prices include a car, a Group A car is provided, unless stated otherwise. All holidays with car include unlimited mileage, local taxes and Collision Damage Insurance Cover as described in the Car hire panels on page 75. Please note that the prices quoted are approximate and are subject to slight fluctuations (higher or lower) due to the complicated nature of our tailor-made programme. You should check the price with our Reservations department before booking your holiday and not assume that the brochure price is 100% accurate.

Flights Prices (05Apr-24Oct 2014) based on the direct flights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel). Special Offers When special offers apply, only one offer is applicable per booking. Codes BB (Bed & Breakfast); SC (Self Catering)

Other Island Prices# Santa Maria, Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo We have shown an indicative from price for our featured properties on the other eight Azorean islands and will quote the accurate price on application. The price will reflect any offers from hotels - only one offer applicable per booking. Prices based on the SATA International flight for Santa Maria include the last night stay in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and all transfers. For Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo, the first and last nights stay in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) is included and all transfers. Prices for more than 2 persons on request. Single room supplements on request. Prices available from April to October 2014. Page Accommodation

Room Type

Transfers / Car Hire

Board Basis

7 Nights Price from

Standard room

Transfers

789

SANTA MARIA# 26 Hotel Colombo

Page Accommodation

Room Type

Transfers / Car Hire

Board Basis

7 Nights Price from

909

PICO#

TERCEIRA#

46 Baia da Barca

One bedroom apartment

Transfers

46 Hotel Caravelas

Standard room

Transfers

883

One bedroom house

Group A car

992

30 Hotel Angra Garden

Garden view room

Transfers

931

30 Hotel Caracol

Standard room with balcony

Transfers

886

48 Casa do Ouvidor

Two bedroom apartment (4 pax) Group C car

918

Balcony and ocean view room

Transfers

921

48 A Cancela do Porco

One bedroom apartment

Group A car

1100

Hotel Angra Marina

Adegas do Pico

Pousada São Sebastião Standard room

Transfers

921

FAIAL#

Quinta das Mercês

Standard room

Group A car

1014

Hotel Faial

Standard room

Transfers

930

Hotel Praia Marina

Standard room

Transfers

906

Hotel do Canal

Standard room

Transfers

940

Pousada Santa Cruz

Superior room

Transfers

1065

Residencial Ilha Graciosa Standard room

Transfers

986

Quinta do Vale

Junior room

Group A car

1055

Hotel Graciosa Resort

Transfers

1056

Quinta do Canto

Standard room

Group A car

980

GRACIOSA# Standard room

SÃO JORGE#

FLORES#

40 Hotel São Jorge Garden

Balcony and ocean view room

Transfers

925

Argonauta

Standard room (Courelas)

Group A car

959

40 Casa do António

Standard room with ocean view Transfers

905

Hotel das Flores

Superior ocean view room

Transfers

881

979

Aldeia da Cuada

One bedroom apartment

Group A car

977

Standard room

Transfers

844

Cantinho das Buganvilias Studio apartment

Group A car

CORVO# 60 Hotel Comodoro

76 | Sunvil Discovery

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Azores | Prices

28Jun14 – 04Jul14 7 14

05Jul14 – 11Jul14 7 14

675 934 696 955

12Jul14 – 18Jul14 7 14

19Jul14 – 25Jul14 7 14

26Jul14 – 01Aug14 7 14

696 955 696 960 701

967

02Aug14 – 09Aug14 – 08Aug14 15Aug14 7 14 7 14

714 980

714

16Aug14 – 22Aug14 7 14

980 714

23Aug14 – 30Aug14 – 29Aug14 05Sep14 7 14 7 14

970 704

956 683 935

06Sep14 – 12Sep14 7 14

13Sep14 – 20Sep14 – 27Sep14 – 04Oct14 – 19Sep14 26Sep14 03Oct14 10Oct14 7 14 7 14 7 14 7 14

11Oct14 – 17Oct14 7 14

18Oct14 – 24Oct14 7 14

Accommodation

683

683 935

634 842

639

Hotel Vila Nova

935

683 914

662 865

634 837

773 1109 773 1109 773 1109 773 1119 783 1133 798 1148 798 1148 798 1138 788 1124 767 1103 767 1103 767 1103 767 1076 740 1013 704 977

704 982 709

738 1039 738 1039 738 1039 738 1049 748 1063 763 1078 763 1078 763 1068 753 1054 732 1033 732 1033 732 1033 732 1000 699 923

655 879

655

879

655

Hotel Talisman

764 1121 794 1151

711

996

716

Hotel do Colégio

794 1151 794 1161 804 1175 819 1190 819 1190 819 1180 809 1166 788 1145 788 1101 744 1024 711

991

711

991

711

991

728 1043 752 1067 752 1067 752 1077 762 1091 777 1106 777 1106 777 1091 762 1070 739 1047 739 1047 739 1047 739 1023 715

967

683 935

683 940 688

808 1179 808 1179 808 1179 808 1189 818 1203 833 1218 833 1218 833 1203 818 1182 795 1159 795 1159 795 1159 795 1129 765 1059 725 1019 725 1024 730

Hotel São Miguel Park

Hotel Royal Garden Hotel Marina Atlântico

857 1277 857 1277 857 1277 857 1287 867 1301 882 1316 882 1316 882 1301 867 1280 844 1257 844 1257 844 1257 844 1227 814 1157

774 1117

774

1117

774

Hotel Marina Atlântico

787 1137 787 1137 787 1137 787 1147 797 1161 812 1176 812 1176 812 1161 797 1140 774 1117

676

921

676 926

681

Antillia Hotel Apartments

634 837

634 842

639

766 1095 766 1095 766 1095 766 1105 776 1119 791 1134 791

1134 791 1124 781

774 1069 726 985 690 943 684 929

1110 760 1089 760 1037 708 946 669 892 654

857

938 1407 938 1407 938 1407 938 1417 948 1431 963 1446 963 1446 963 1431 948 1410 925 1387 925 1339 877 1255 841 1219 841 1219 841 1219 841 1224 846 861 1253 861 1253 861 1253 861 1263 871 1277 886 1292 886 1292 886 1282 876 1268 855 1247 855 1199 807 1115

771 1079 771 1079 771 1079 771 1084 776

Antillia Hotel Apartments Quinta do Mar 2 Hotel Caloura 2

961 1437 961 1437 961 1437 961 1447 971 1461 986 1476 986 1476 986 1461 971 1440 948 1417 948 1417 948 1417 948 1375 906 1277 850 1221 850 1226 855

Hotel Terra Nostra Garden 2

1003 1521 1003 1521 1003 1521 1003 1531 1013 1545 1028 1560 1028 1560 1028 1540 1008 1512 983 1487 983 1487 983 1487 983 1448 944 1357 892 1305 892 1310 897

Hotel Terra Nostra Garden 2

979 1581 1030 1632 1030 1632 1030 1645 1043 1680 1076 1713 1076 1713 1076 1698 1061 1662 1023 1618 1017 1544 949 1425 898 1374 898 1374 898 1374 898 1379 903

Furnas Lake Apartments

961 1437 961 1437 961 1437 961 1452 976 1473 993 1490 993 1490 993 1470 973 1442 948 1417 948 1417 948 1417 948 1402 933 1367 913 1347 913 1352 918

Quinta da Mó 2

879 1369 918 1408 918 1408 918 1413 923 1420 936 1433 936 1433 936 1423 926 1364 860 1280 842 1246 826 1218 814 1206 814 1206 814 1206 814 1211

819

Quinta dos Curubás

780 1081 780 1081 780 1081 780 1086 785 1093 798 1106 798 1106 798 1096 788 1082 767 1061 767 1061 767 1061 767 1007 713

641

Quinta de Santana 2

881

641 809 641

809

815 1214 827 1226 827 1226 827 1236 837 1250 852 1265 852 1265 852 1255 842 1241 821 1220 821 1204 805 1176 793 1149 778 1114 758 1094 758 1099 763

Casas do Frade 1

Caloura

real Azores | 77

Azores | General Information

General Information This General Information must be read in conjunction with our Booking Conditions (page 83) and with the price panels. Please take the time to read them. If you do not, we cannot be held responsible for any misapprehensions you may have about our holidays. Information contained in this brochure may change between its publication and any booking by a customer. Please check with us for changes when booking. Aircraft seat pitches and DVT

payable locally. Infants do not qualify for a seat on the aircraft, nor do they have any baggage allowance on most airlines. However, under the terms of our insurance policy, infants are insured free of charge providing the other members of the party are insured with us.

Clients with Disabilities We always do our best for our disabled clients, but very often we do not have enough information as to the extent of the disability. If you are disabled, we need the details in writing so the accommodation providers can judge if they can meet your requirements. This may well take a little longer but will avoid disappointment.

close in the afternoon for a siesta and restaurants, bars and discotheques are usually noisier and open later than their British equivalents. Plumbing is rarely perfect. Roads are largely unlit and often have no pavement. Utility boards (water/electricity/telephone) may dig roads up and leave them unprotected. So, if your accommodation is outside one of the towns, be prepared and take a torch! Please bear in mind too that life must go on – buildings must be built, roads must be dug and children will play noisily in the streets. We are not trying to dissuade you from travelling with us but just pointing out that you must take the rough with the smooth when you visit any foreign country with any tour operator. Despite the above, we are certain you will have the holiday of a lifetime but, if you do experience some niggles, try to have patience and understanding and gracefully accept that you cannot live as you would at home.

We have no control over how much leg room (seat pitch) airlines allow on their aircraft. We cannot guarantee a particular conﬁguration on board, as aircraft types vary. However, these seat pitches are standard throughout the airline industry and comply with the current Civil Aviation Authority guidelines. Advice on measures to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) may be obtained from your GP.

Currency

Airport Hotels and Parking

Excursions Booked Locally

A wide range of airport hotels and parking can be pre-booked via ‘Manage My Booking’ on our website.

The company does not operate its own excursions. Any excursions booked locally at destination do not form part of the package, whether reserved through our local agent or representative. Sunvil acts solely as an agent for any such excursions and takes no responsibility or accepts any liability for their correct performance.

Keep up-to-date with the latest UK Government Travel Advice as issued by the Foreign Ofﬁce before you travel. This can be accessed by telephone (0845 850 2829); the Internet (www.fco.gov.uk/travel/); or BBC text services. As a responsible tour operator, Sunvil follows FCO advice – should it advise against non-essential travel to any of our destinations during a period in which you are booked to travel imminently you may change or cancel your holiday with no penalty.

Facts of life

Festival dates

Amendments, late bookings and telephone charges A fee of £25 per booking will be charged for each amendment to a conﬁrmed booking to cover administration costs in addition to any charges made by airline or accommodation suppliers. In the case of a minor amendment (eg cancellation of a pre-booked hire car) this charge is per booking; in the case of a major amendment (eg. change of holiday dates, accommodation or resort) this charge is per person. Fax and telephone fees may also be charged when bookings are altered. For an alteration within 8 weeks of departure, we reserve the right to treat the alteration as a cancellation of the original holiday (attracting cancellation charges) and regard it as a new holiday booking.

Children and infants Children: Children’s reductions may apply on the basis of one child per two full fare paying passengers. Children must be under the age of 12 years on the date of departure to qualify and, in hotels, they must occupy the third bed in a three-bedded room. Infants: Infants under 2 years of age on the date of departure travel for a ﬂat rate of £50. Cots should be requested on the booking form and, for the most part, are payable locally. All baby food is also

At the time of going to press, there was no restriction imposed by the British Government as to the value of foreign currency, Sterling cash or travellers cheques taken out of the United Kingdom. Many shops, hotels and car hire agents abroad will accept Visa Card, Mastercard, Diners Club and American Express cards. The local currency is the Euro.

We believe the information contained in this brochure is true and correct and it is essential that you read our descriptions most carefully to avoid making a wrong decision in your choice of resort. If you are unsure of anything please ask to speak to someone from our office who has actually been to the area you are planning to visit. Our advice is impartial – we would far rather lose you to another company than allow you to visit a location completely unsuited to your needs. Having said that, we would also like to make our own position clear. Seasons change and so do resorts. What is ‘quiet’ in June can be crowded in August. Tourist facilities depend on the time of year, weather and/or demand. Please bear this in mind before booking as it is impossible to qualify every statement on every page. Remember too, that our prices tend to reflect these differences throughout the season. If you visit the Azores you must be prepared to accept the local way of life which, due to the climate, can be totally different from ours. Buses tend to run very early in the morning, shops and offices may well

FCO Travel Advice

The dates of events and festivals mentioned in this brochure were correct at the time of brochure launch. However, as the dates are subject to change, please enquire at the time of booking so that we can re-conﬁrm the event is still taking place.

Group travel We are experienced in making arrangements for special interest groups and welcome enquiries for afﬁnity, conference and incentive travel.

Health No vaccinations are required for entry in to the Azores. However, it is recommended that all travellers obtain the standard triple typhoid/ tetanus/polio inoculation prior to any departure abroad.

Hotel accommodation Air-conditioning: Where air-conditioning is mentioned this is provided at the discretion of the management and may not necessarily operate all day and every day.

Facilities: Saunas, steam rooms and Jacuzzis may not operate 24-hours a day. Many hotels offer these services at specific times of the day or on a request basis where advance notification of use, sometimes an hour or two, must be given locally. The provision of telephone lines, broadband Internet connections and WIFI do not form part of this contract. These facilities rely on local networks and therefore service levels cannot be guaranteed. No compensation is payable if the service is not working and is awaiting repair. Other facilities, fixtures and fittings including but not limited to, dishwasher, washing machine, swimming pool, lighting and air conditioning units may require servicing or repair. We cannot be held responsible for loss of use while repair is being undertaken. Ocean View: Ocean view can be guaranteed only where a supplement is charged. Otherwise, we can request ocean view rooms and the hotel will try to honour the request. Room furnishings: In most cases rooms are furnished with twin beds and, when a double bed is requested we pass the preference to the hotel. Most hotels do have some rooms with double beds – if they do not, they can usually successfully push two single beds together. Soap and towels are provided but not beach towels – please bring your own. Single rooms: Single rooms are sometimes smaller, tend to be without much of a view, and are more likely to be without balcony. They are also difficult to book in high season. In the low season you may well, however, have a twin for sole use, although it is very much luck of the draw. Three bedded rooms: Three bedded rooms are available in most hotels but, as they are often twin rooms with an extra bed, they may be rather cramped. The extra bed may be a proper bed, sofa bed or fold up bed. We cannot he held responsible if you find the room too crowded.

Local representatives and agents As this is a tailor-made programme for seasoned travellers we have no local representatives. We have local agents on São Miguel who can give any necessary help and guidance and can always be contacted. They have sub agents on the other islands. You will not be visited in your accommodation. Please remember that, wherever you are, most hotel managers, owners and receptionists are often only too keen to help you with local information. Any problems you experience must be reported locally so that we are given the opportunity of

78 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Azores | General Information

solving them. If you cannot reach our local agent then try us in London.

visa, immigration requirements or health formalities.

Our out of hours emergency telephone number is 00 44 (0)7050 126444.

In 2009 the UK Government began to implement its requirement for APIS (Advanced Passenger Information) data for all passengers travelling internationally into and out of the UK. We need to collect this information from all passengers on behalf of the carrier, who is legally required to collect this information and provide it as part of the check-in process. These details can be submitted conﬁdentially and securely online via the e-borders section at http://mybooking.sunvil.co.uk/apis/login. asp

Maps Maps shown in this brochure are not to scale and must only be used for general guidance.

Non-standard holidays Our holidays can be very flexible. Some of the most popular arrangements are the following: Longer durations: Any length of stay can be arranged. Please telephone us for a quotation. Multi-centres: Most of the holidays offered can he combined. Some suggestions are made on the resort pages, but please telephone if you have any specific ideas not mentioned there. Tailor-made holidays: For holidays in hotels not featured in this brochure or of a longer duration and more complex character please ask us for a quotation. We can arrange flights for one person and accommodation for two, a week in a hotel and a week free with a car, varying durations for different members of your party etc. In fact, we are generally open to suggestion.

Passport, visa and health requirements It is your responsibility to check and fulfill the passport, visa, health and immigration requirements applicable to your itinerary. We can only provide general information about this. You must check requirements for your own specific circumstances with the relevant Embassies and/or Consulates and your own doctor as applicable. Requirements do change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure. For further information contact the Passport Office on 0870 5210410 or visit www.passport.gov.uk Up to date travel advice can be obtained from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, visit www.fco.gov.uk Non British passport holders, including other EU nationals, should obtain up to date advice on passport and visa requirements from the Portuguese Embassy www.portugueseembassy.org.uk/en.html. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel, or incur any other loss because you have not complied with any passport, visa, immigration requirements or health formalities. You agree to reimburse us in relation to any fines or other losses which we incur as a result of your failure to comply with any passport,

If you do not have your passport details at hand this information can be submitted at a later date. However, it must be submitted at least 10 days before departure. The information will be passed on directly to the relevant airline and kept for no more than 10 years by the British Government. It will be protected in keeping with the Data Protection Act and appropriate security controls will ensure it is not used or accessed incorrectly. It will be given only to organisations that are legally authorised to receive it and that need it to carry out their ofﬁcial duties. Your details will be destroyed by us on your return to the UK.

Payment and ticket despatch The balance of your holiday cost, as detailed on your conﬁrmation and account, is due 8 weeks before departure. No reminders or statements are sent. We accept payment by credit, debit or charge card. As we are charged for this service by the credit card companies we must levy a 2% (for Mastercard, Visa or Amex), on top of the quoted price of the trip. Should credit card companies increase their charges to us this charge may well increase. You will be advised of the exact charge at the time of booking. Tickets are sent about 10 days before departure.

Persons travelling on their own All prices are per person. When clients are travelling entirely on their own, there may well be (depending on the individual holiday) additional supplements for transfers or car hire.

Safety standards and regulations The safety standards and regulations in operation overseas are those of the country in question and may not reach the same level as those we enjoy in the UK. The monitoring, enforcement and compliance with these local regulations is a matter for the authorities of that country and the foreign supplier of the services concerned. The general standards of safety and hygiene, ﬁre precautions etc, will generally be lower than in the U.K. Liability insurance

requirements vary considerably from country to country as does the responsibility placed on an organisation by local law. Please therefore, take all precautions to protect yourself and your family whilst on holiday. In particular, you should familiarise yourself with hotel ﬁre escape routes and always be aware of hidden dangers involving swimming pools, balconies and hotel lifts, especially if travelling with children.

Swimming pools Please note that the opening/closing date of the pool is an approximate date and cannot be guaranteed. Pools open/close according to the weather. If summer arrives early then pools are opened earlier than originally stated. The weather is unpredictable and therefore we cannot guarantee that pools will open/close when stated in our brochure. The dates given are simply guidelines.

Turismo Rural When you are staying at a Turismo Rural property please do not forget you are staying in someone’s home. These are not hotels and are run in a very different and informal manner. Many provide only breakfast.

Validity of programme This brochure is valid for departures from 1 Nov 2013 until the 31 Oct 2014 and was published in November 2013.

How to Book Our holidays can be booked through selected travel agents (excluding the multiple chains of Tui Travel or Thomas Cook). Alternatively you can call us Monday to Saturday during normal working hours. For all bookings including flights from the UK, an ATOL certificate will be issued at the time of confirmation. Please keep the ATOL certificate with your travel documents at all times. Once confirmed your signed Booking Form and deposit should be received by us within the next 7 days. For bookings within 8 weeks of departure, the full holiday amount is payable. A Holiday Confirmation will then be sent giving full holiday details and the balance due (payable 8 weeks before departure). Please check this carefully. No final invoice or statement will be sent. Your tickets and travel documents will be sent approximately 10 days before departure. Again, please check these as flight details may have slightly altered.

Quality Charter AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Our member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating. Exclusive Membership AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, ﬁnance and quality which must be satisﬁed before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct. Financial Security AITO members are required to protect money paid by customers to the member for any holiday sold under the AITO logo and to comply with UK Government Regulations in this respect. Members submit details of their bonding and guarantee arrangements to the Association on a regular basis. Accurate Brochures and Websites All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered. Professional Service and Continual Improvements All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards. Monitoring Standards AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnaire the results of which are scrutinised by the Association. Responsible Tourism All members acknowledge the importance of AITO's Responsible Tourism guidelines, which recognise the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating. Those demonstrating their achievements beyond the pure acceptance of this principle are recognised by the award of 2 or 5 star status. Customer Relations All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO's low-cost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion. Sunvil Holidays is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the Association visit www.aito.com or call 020 8744 9280. Sunvil Holidays has achieved AITO 5-Star Responsible Tourism status

real Azores | 79

Azores | Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance We consider adequate travel insurance vital prior to any trip, and therefore make this a condition of carriage. We have negotiated a comprehensive cover suited to our holiday products. The premium for this insurance is in addition to the £150 booking deposit and the price of your flights and will be shown separately on your Confirmation and Account Invoice. Should you not wish to take our travel insurance the deposit you pay remains £150 plus the cost of any bought in flights. The cover you take should be at least as good, and you must tick the box ‘NO’ on the booking form and advise us of your Insurer’s name, policy number (if applicable) and 24 hour emergency telephone number. Insurance premiums paid to us are non-refundable after a 14 day cooling off period. We would like to point out that, in the event of an emergency abroad, we are in a much better position to assist you quickly and efficiently if you have taken our insurance, as we know who to speak to for authority to take any action which may be necessary. It is the responsibility of each client to ensure that they receive a certificate of insurance from us and acquaint themselves with the terms and conditions contained therein. Only UK residents are covered by our policy.

for departures 1st November 2013 to 31st December 2014

Section

Sum Insured Per Person

Excess Per Person

Standard cover A Cancellation or Curtailment

Up to £5,000

B Emergency medical repatriation and associated expenses abroad Hospital benefit Criminal injuries benefit

£50

Up to £5,000,000 £50 £20 for each 24 hour period to a maximum of £500 Nil £100 for each 24 hour period to a maximum of £5,000 Nil

C Personal accident Disability Death (age limits apply)

Up to £25,000 (age limits apply) Up to £25,000 Up to £10,000

Nil Nil Nil

D Travel delay

£50 first 6 hour period and £25 each subsequent 12 hours to maximum of £150 Abandonment Up to £5,000 if delay of more than 24 hours Failure of Transport £1,000 Missed connection Up to £1,000 Hi-jack of Aircraft, train or sea vessel £100 per complete day up to a maximum of £3,000

E Personal possessions Single item limit Valuables limit Delay baggage (after 12 hours) Passport or Visas Tickets Personal money

Up to £2,500 £400 £500 Up to £100 £250 £1,000 Up to £500

F Personal liability

Up to £2,000,000

G Legal expenses

Up to £15,000

Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil £50 £50 £50 Nil £50 £50 £50 £250 Nil

Optional cover (available on payment of additional premium) H Scuba diving equipment: Plus 25% of basic premium

£50

Additional adventure activities: Plus 35% of basic premium Excess waiver £10.00 per person Catastrophe £10.00 per person £50 for each 24 hour period to a maximum of £500 Additional cancellation cover £75 per £1,000 of cover up to a total limit of £10,000 per person

Nil

We have negotiated some enhanced benefits including: ■ Travel Delay payment starts after 6 hours (note: this applies also to your arrival time at your destination) ■ Missed Connection applies after a 2 hour delay on your outbound journey. Our travel insurance has been arranged by Travel & General Insurance Services Limited to specifically meet your needs on your Sunvil Holidays holiday. Travel & General Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Full details can be found at www.fsa.gov.uk The schedule of the cover below sets out the cover provided by Sunvil Holidays tailored insurance. A policy document that fully defines the cover, conditions and exclusions will be sent to you with your booking confirmation. When you receive your policy, please take the time to read it carefully to ensure you understand what is and what is not covered, and that all activities that you may wish to participate in are included. Please note that white water rafting up to any grade, horse-riding (excluding competition and jumping) scuba diving up to a depth of 40 metres excluding solo diving, whale watching and swimming with dolphins are all included in the above rates. If you wish to take out the optional scuba equipment cover then the premium is 135%.

Premiums including insurance premium tax Europe Period Per person Up to 5 days from £18 Up to 10 days from £23 Up to 17 days from £28 Up to 24 days from £32 Up to 31 days from £36 ■ Children under the age of 2 on the date of departure – Free if accompanied by an insured adult ■ Children under the age of 18 on the date of departure – 50% of adult premium if

accompanied by an insured adult ■ Family rate, 1 or 2 adults and up to 4 dependent children under 18 – twice the adult premium ■ Adults aged 66 to 70 on date of departure – twice the adult premium ■ Adults aged 71 to 75 on date of departure – two and a half times the adult premium ■ Optional additional Scuba cover +35% of basic premium ■ Optional additional adventure activities cover +35% of basic premium. Please note our policy does not cover those aged 76 and over. We suggest you contact Travel & General on 0845 345 3456 who have a scheme that provides cover up to the age of 100.

Annual multi trip insurance If you are a frequent traveller who travels more than two or three times each year you may want to consider our annual multi trip policy. Our policy offers great ﬂexibility and a number of important advantages. If you are interested in purchasing our annual policy please contact Travel & General on 0845 345 3456 (tagdirect) quoting ‘Sunvil Insurance Premiums’.

Premiums including insurance premium tax Policy Europe Worldwide Single Adult from £61 from £83 Couples from £105 from £155 Family from £116 from £160 ■ Available for persons aged up to 65 ■ 66-70 years at twice the premium and 71- 75 years at 3 times the premium ■ Covers journeys up to 31 days ■ Winter sports cover included ■ Business travel cover + from £34 ■ Adventure activities and sports cover ■ Golf cover + from £23 ■ Scuba diving cover + from £29

Important declaration An insurance policy can only provide cover in respect of an event/occurrence which is sudden, unforeseen and beyond your reasonable control. Any facts known to you, which could possibly result in you having to make a claim, must be disclosed to us otherwise you may not be covered. In addition, anyone named under the policy must have read and understood the following relating to Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: 1 Do you or a Close Relative have a PreExisting Medical Condition? 2 Have you or a Close Relative received a terminal prognosis for a medical condition? 3 Are you a Close Relative aware of a medical condition but have not received a formal diagnosis? 4 Are you or a Close Relative on a waiting list or have the knowledge of the need for surgery in a hospital? 5 Are you aware of any circumstances that could reasonably be expected to give rise to a claim on this policy? If you cannot make this declaration when you take out the insurance, you must contact Healthcheck on 0844 826 2711. A policy document that fully deﬁnes the cover, conditions and exclusions will be sent to you with your booking conﬁrmation. When you receive your policy, please take the time to read it carefully to ensure you understand what is and what is not covered, and that all activities that you may wish to participate in are included. If it does not meet your requirements, please return the policy, proof of premium and any other relevant documents to us within 14 days of receipt and we will refund the premium in full, provided you have not travelled or made a claim.

Application for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) If you are a UK resident, you are entitled to medical treatment that becomes necessary, at reduced cost or sometimes free, when temporarily visiting a European Union (EU) country. Only treatment provided under the state scheme is covered. However, to obtain treatment you will need to take a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you. What is an EHIC? In line with EU rules, all EEA (European Economic Area) countries are issuing the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as a replacement for the E111 form. The EHIC gives the holder rights to treatment that becomes medically necessary during a temporary visit to EEA (European Economic Area) countries or Switzerland. People who are ordinarily resident in the UK can apply for an EHIC. Each individual travelling requires a card. How long will my card last? An EHIC will last for up to 5 years. You must renew your card up to 6 months before its expiry date, or at any time after. The expiry date is printed on the front of your card. Who is entitled to an EHIC? Any person who is ordinarily resident in the UK, is eligible for an EHIC. However there are some restrictions depending on your nationality. Visit www.dh.gov.uk/travellers or pick up a copy of the “Health Advice for Travellers” booklet at the Post Ofﬁce for further information. You must be over 16 years of age in order to apply. Residents of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are not eligible. Is there any charge for an EHIC? There is no charge. Why do I need an EHIC if I have travel insurance? The EHIC and holiday insurance are complementary and you are advised to have both. The EHIC does not cover some costs such as repatriation. Some insurance companies require you to have an EHIC and some companies will waive the excess charge if an EHIC has been used. What does the EHIC cover? The EHIC covers treatment provided by the state healthcare scheme in the country you are visiting. It does not cover repatriation costs.

Failure to comply with the terms & conditions of the policy may result in cover being restricted.

80 | Sunvil Discovery

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 01684 562406 OR malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Booking Form

Please return to Malvern World Travel 44 Somers Park Avenue, Malvern, WR14 1SD 01684 562406 malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk SUNVIL BOOKING NUMBER

CLIENT NAME & ADDRESS (or Agent's stamp)

Post code

TRAVEL AGENCY BOOKING

Sunvil International Sales Ltd Sunvil House Upper Square Old Isleworth Middlesex TW7 7BJ

Work

Agent’s Ref.

Reservations: 01684 562406

Name

Address

Home telephone no.

Mobile telephone no.*

Lee

ABTA No.

Email address

Q0833

Next of kin – whilst on holiday (contact name & tel no.) ■ Tick here to receive periodic emails of Sunvil promotional offers. Your email will never be passed to third parties.

*Important A mobile number is required for any flight delay updates, transfer changes etc. We never pass on numbers to third parties.

PASSENGER DETAILS (Party leader first)

Passport details (required for all passengers)

Name as written on passport - including middle names (Vital for airline ticketing**) Title Passenger’s given names Surname

Date of birth DD/MM/YY

Passport number

Date of issue DD/MM/YY

Country of issue

Expiry date DD/MM/YY

Nationality

** We will use the names written here to issue your airline tickets; please make sure they are correct as per your passport. Alterations to this at a later stage may incur charges. Note: Clients must advise us of any disabilities at the time of booking. Please refer to General Information.

HOLIDAY DETAILS

CAR HIRE

FOR OUR RECORDS

Departure Date

Name of Lead Driver

Have you travelled with Sunvil before?

■ YES

Departure Airport PERSONAL INSURANCE Sunvil personal insurance YES ■ NO ■

Group of Car

How did you hear of us?

No. of days

■ Guidebook* ■ Newspaper/Magazine*

Deliver to: Airport

It is a condition of booking that all travellers are fully insured before they travel, including 24hour emergency medical cover with a repatriation service. See brochure for Sunvil insurance cover details. If you wish to purchase insurance from us, then tick ‘YES’ above and include the premium within your deposit payment. An alternative insurance to ours should be every bit as good or better. If you prefer to arrange your own insurance, then tick ‘NO’. In this case we need to know your insurance details in case of an emergency, so please complete the following:

My insurers are

■

Resort

■

Resort

■

Date

Return to:

Airport

Date Please note that the car hire charges are calculated on 24 hour periods. Delivery charges, if any, payable locally.

Policy No. (if applicable)

■ NO

■ Personal Recommendation ■ Search Engine* ■ Tourist Ofﬁce ■ Travel Agency Recommendation ■ Website* ■ Email News *Please specify

24 hour Emergency No. ________________________________

Signed

* Personal insurance: 1-5 days: from £18; 6-10 days: from £23; 11-17 days: from £28; 18-24 days: from £32; 25-31 days: from £36. Supplements apply to clients aged 66 years and older. See brochure for full details. Important: You must declare any pre-existing medical conditions when taking out Sunvil Insurance cover – please see Sunvil brochure for details.

PAYMENT If booking less than 8 weeks before departure, the full cost of your trip is required. If booking more than 8 weeks before departure, a deposit is required. This is £150 per person (not infants), plus any additional charges quoted for non-refundable flights. Please also add our Insurance Premium (if you are taking our policy). Please advise us how you wish to pay:

■ ■

I wish to pay for the trip entirely by cheque, and have enclosed (a) cheque(s) for ___________________________________ payable to Sunvil Holidays. I wish to pay by credit, debit or charge card. As we are charged for this service by the credit card companies we must levy a 2% (for MasterCard, VISA and AMEX), on top of the quoted cost of the trip. This may change if credit card companies change their charges; we will advise you at time of booking. There is no surcharge for Maestro or Debit cards. Payment by card (deposit or full payment) should be made by telephone – please contact 020 8758 4722. Or, log on to https://mybooking.sunvil.co.uk and enter your details online.

SPECIAL REQUESTS (INCLUDING AIRLINE MEALS & COTS)

SIGNATURE (Party leader)

Although we will do our best to assist, special requests cannot be guaranteed unless a supplement is charged, nor can they be actioned after your booking has been processed. Please state any dietary requirements, preferences for twin/double beds or excess baggage (golf, diving equipment) etc.

Please read our Booking Conditions and General Information before signing. If under 18 years of age, this should be signed by a Parent or Guardian. On behalf of the above named persons, I accept the Booking Conditions detailed in this brochure which form part of this contract. I agree that the personal data, which has been provided to Sunvil in connection with this booking may be passed to government authorities for border control and aviation security purposes.

■ We plan to send documentation by e-mail in the near future. Please tick here if you do not wish to receive your holiday confirmation and/or travel documents electronically.

Signed

Date

Note: At the time of going to press, holidays in this brochure could not be booked through Tui Travel or Thomas Cook, as no commercial arrangements had been agreed between Sunvil and these travel agents.

the real

Sunvil

selection

Four decades of fabulous holiday-making, flexibility and 100% financial protection: no find the real country flowery descriptions or exaggerated claims; no hidden costs or rigid rules. Pioneer and protector of the unspoilt and unusual in travel, Sunvil is the obvious choice for independent travellers wishing to immerse themselves in a countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture and holiday in properties that have all been painstakingly hand-picked.

Greece and Cyprus With an expertise built up over some 40 years of operating to unspoiled areas of Greece and Cyprus, Sunvil offers the widest choice of holidays away from the crowds. We seek out quieter spots and individual, characterful accommodation, whether a boutique hotel, a village inn, a country cottage or a simple studio. Sunvil also offers a wide range of tailor-made, multi-centre and fly-drive options designed to give a true insight into the area you are visiting.

Call 020 8758 4758

visit www.sunvil.co.uk/holidays

Portugal, the Azores, Madeira, Italy, Sicily, Sweden, Norway and the Faroes Discover the real country across Europe, from Scandinavia in the north to Italy in the south, including the Atlantic islands of the Azores. Tailor-made for you, freedom, flexibility and independence are at the heart of every Sunvil Discovery holiday. We offer a wide range of accommodation to suit every taste - from 5-star city centre hotels and converted farmhouses, to beachfront hotels and rustic cottages. Our team of specialists will help you plan each stage of your tailor-made escape.

Call 020 8758 4722 or visit www.sunvil.co.uk/discovery

Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador & the Galapagos, Peru and Venezuela We have operated carefully-crafted trips to Latin America since 1995 and feature eleven countries across Central and South America. Options range from ancient Mayan pyramids to fascinating wildlife itineraries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ideal for the adventurous and free-spirited traveller. Creative and honest advice from knowledgeable experts. From character beach-side boutique hotels to remote jungle lodges.

Call 020 8758 4774 or visit www.sunvil.co.uk/traveller

The Villa Collection Greece and its islands and Cyprus The Villa Collection offers a range of individual properties in the Ionian, the Aegean islands and north west Cyprus for those who are looking for a private escape from the crowds. You benefit from our personal service and a hand-picked choice of accommodation tailored to your individual needs and style - including spacious villas with private pool, mountain-top retreats, waterfront town houses and country cottages.

Call 020 8232 9780 or visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Africa, Congo, Kenya and the Seychelles Our team of African experts use personal experience to advise travellers on amazing offbeat trips, spectacular safaris and perfectly relaxing Indian Ocean beach breaks. Wild about Africa organises a wide range of guided small-group trips to Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and northern Tanzania.

Call 020 8232 9777 or visit www.expertafrica.com

Wedding Specialist to Greece, Cyprus, Malta, Gozo, Portugal & Italy plus Luxury Hotels in Greece, Cyprus & Egypt Market leader for bespoke, stress-free weddings and honeymoons, combining years of expertise with a hugely varied selection of idyllic and truly romantic nuptial venues overseas. Planet Holidays programme also features hand-picked four & five star accommodation: from holiday resorts with award-winning spas and pristine golf courses to exclusive adult-only properties, plus intimate boutique hotels and stunning villas with private pools.

Call 0871 871 2234 or visit www.planetweddings.co.uk

Azores | Booking Conditions

Booking Conditions 1. Definitions These booking conditions, together with the General Information section in our brochures or on our website (depending upon how you make your booking), and any other document we brought to your attention before we confirmed your booking, form the basis of your contract with us, Sunvil International Sales Limited, registered number 984970. The signatory of the booking form accepts these contract terms on behalf of everyone named in the booking or added subsequently, and the words “you” in these conditions should be construed accordingly. 2. Booking (a) There will be no contract between us until you have signed a booking form for bookings not made ‘on-line’ and paid the required deposit and we have issued a Confirmation Invoice. For bookings which require 'bought-in' flights to be purchased by us a contract is deemed to exist once payment for these flights has been made. For website bookings, a contract is deemed to exist once an ‘on-line’ confirmation is issued by us. However, for bookings made within 56 days of travel (not in the case of website bookings), a contract shall be deemed to exist once you or your travel agent (the “Agent”) have made the booking “definite” by telephone and we have confirmed full holiday details, including a Booking Reference Number. If your confirmed arrangements include a flight, we (or if you booked via an authorised agent of ours, that agent) will issue you with an ATOL Certificate and a confirmation. Upon receipt, if you believe that any details on the ATOL Certificate or confirmation or any other document are wrong you must advise us immediately as changes can not be made later and it may harm your rights if we are not notified of any inaccuracies in any document within four days of our sending it out. (b) It is a condition of the contract that you will take out the travel insurance negotiated by us or an equivalent policy. Further information on travel insurance is in our brochure and on our website. (c) Any services purchased locally, even if these are arranged by our representative or agent, do not form part of this contract. 3. Payment (a) Any monies paid by you to the agent are held by the agent on behalf and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times, but subject to the agent's obligations to pay it to us for as long as we have not failed. In the event that we fail, any money held or subsequently accepted from the consumer by the agent is and continues to be held by that agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us. (b) The balance of the price is payable not less than 56 days prior to departure date. If the balance has not been paid by 48 days prior to departure, the booking will be cancelled and the cancellation charges set out in Clause 7 will be levied. (c) Full payment will be due immediately for bookings made within 56 days of travel. (d) No reminders or statements will be sent. 4. Special Requests Special requests should be indicated on the booking form or requested in writing. We will try to arrange for special requests to be met, but cannot, and do not, guarantee that they will be unless a supplement is paid. Adding requests after booking may incur an administration charge. 5. Prices and Surcharges (a) Prices stated are general indications of the likely price. But they can vary. The price you are given at the time of booking is the price to be paid. (b) The price of your confirmed holiday is subject at all times to changes in transport costs including the cost of fuel, and any other airline cost changes which are part of our contracts with airlines (and their agents), cruise ship operators and any other transport provider; and to changes in the currency exchange used to calculate your arrangements; and to rates, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, any or all of which may result in a variation of your holiday price. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges and/or additional services or travel arrangements. You will be charged for the amount over and above that, plus an administration charge of £2.00 per person together with an amount to cover agents’ commission. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your confirmed travel arrangements (excluding any insurance premiums, amendment charges and/or additional services or travel arrangements), you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid to us, except for any insurance premiums and any amendment charges and/or additional services or travel arrangements. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice. There will be no change made to the price of your confirmed holiday within 30 days of your departure nor will refunds be paid during this period. We will consider an appropriate refund of insurance premiums paid if you can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of your confirmed holiday cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place. 6. Alterations by You (a) A fee of £25 per booking for a minor change (e.g. cancellation of car hire) or £25 per person for a major change (e.g. name change, change of accommodation or change of dates to earlier or later in the season) to cover administration costs will be charged for each amendment requested more than eight weeks before departure to a confirmed booking. Any alteration requested within eight weeks of departure will be treated as a cancellation of the original holiday (attracting cancellation charges) and a new holiday booking. (b) If you are prevented from taking up your booking by illness, jury service, redundancy, unavoidable work commitment or the death or serious illness of a close family member, you may transfer your booking to another person acceptable to us provided that: (i) the transfer is requested in writing at least one week in advance of departure; (ii) the request is accompanied by documentary proof of the reason for the transfer, any tickets or vouchers already received from us, full details of the person who will take over the booking, any balance due for the booking and the appropriate administration fee which will be £25 per name-change, plus all charges of whatever nature levied by our suppliers. You should be aware that some suppliers,

particularly airlines, may charge a 100% cancellation fee and the cost of a new ticket; and (iii) the person taking over the agreement agrees to be bound by the booking conditions. 7. Cancellation by You (a) Should you wish to cancel the holiday, this must be done in writing to us. A written notification must be received by us by recorded or registered mail. No cancellation will be effective until such written notice is received by us. You will be liable to pay the following cancellation charges: Cancellation period Charge as a percentage charge before of total invoiced cost departure 49 days or more Deposit only 48 - 29 days 30% 28 - 22 days 45% 21 - 15 days 60% 14 - 8 days 80% 7 - 0 days 100% (b) We reserve our right to pass on to you any cancellation charges imposed by our suppliers which are in excess of the cancellation charges set out above. In particular, any “bought-in flight element” (i.e. that you are booked on non-standard Sunvil flights, scheduled or chartered, for which a higher deposit is required) will be charged at 100% cancellation fees for the flight. (c) Insurance premiums are non-refundable. (d) Should one or more members of a party cancel, it may increase the per person holiday price of those still travelling. Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements. 8. Alterations and Cancellation by Us (a) If we make a major alteration or cancel the holiday after the booking has been confirmed but before departure, you will have the choice of: (i) accepting the cancellation or alteration; (ii) taking another available holiday with us (if it is more expensive you must pay the difference, but if it is cheaper we will make an appropriate refund); or (iii) (in the case of a major alteration) cancelling the holiday and receiving a full refund. (b) A major alteration is a change of airport (except between airports serving the same city), a change of area, if this results in materially different facilities and/or anticipated experience, or a change to lower grade accommodation for a substantial part of the holiday. (Substantial means 25% or more of the nights spent incountry.) Any other change is a minor alteration. (c) If you decide to cancel because of a major alteration or if we cancel a holiday for any reason other than Force Majeure (please refer to clause 9) or Low Bookings (please refer to clause 8(d) below), we will pay compensation as follows: Period before scheduled Compensation per fare departure when major paying passenger alteration or cancellation is notified More than 56 days Nil 56 - 29 days £20 28 - 14 days £30 13 - 0 days £40 Please note that compensation payments relating to a child place for which you have paid a child price are half the amounts shown (up to half the child price paid). There are no compensation payments payable to those travelling on “free child places”, “free group places” or infants. (d) Low Bookings is where an insufficient number of people have booked the arrangements to make their operation financially viable in the advertised form. We will never cancel a holiday because of Low Bookings less than 42 days before departure. (e) If there is a minor alteration, we will try to notify you, although we are not obliged to do so, nor are we liable to pay compensation. (f) If we become unable to provide a significant proportion of a holiday after it has commenced, we will make suitable alternative arrangements for you at no extra charge to you or, alternatively, arrange for you to be returned to your point of departure and to receive a pro-rata refund for any ground arrangements not received. In addition, if appropriate, we will pay you compensation of an amount which is reasonable taking into account all the circumstances. Compensation will not be considered appropriate, for example, in cases where a major alteration has to be made as a result of Force Majeure or Low Bookings. 9. Force Majeure – Circumstances Beyond our Control Except where we say differently elsewhere in these conditions, we cannot pay any compensation, reimburse expenses, or cover losses for any amount or otherwise accept responsibility if, as a result of circumstances beyond our control, we have to change your holiday after booking, or we, or our suppliers, cannot supply your holiday, as we, or they, had agreed, or you suffer any loss or damage of any description. When we refer to circumstances beyond our control, we mean any event that we, or the supplier in question, could not foresee or avoid, even after taking all reasonable care. Such circumstances will usually include, but are not limited to, war, threat of war, airport closures, epidemic, natural or nuclear disaster, terrorist activity, civil unrest, industrial dispute, bad weather (actual or threatened), change to Foreign Office advice to advise against travel to destination and significant building work ongoing outside of your accommodation (such as resort development). 10. Overbooking In the very rare event of over-booking accommodation of which we are not aware before you depart, you will be offered alternative accommodation on arrival, which accommodation will be of a comparable standard if available. If the location and/or facilities of the alternative accommodation can reasonably be considered inferior to that originally booked, we will compensate you by paying you the difference in price, if any, between the two properties plus compensation of up to 5% of the original holiday price. 11. Accurate Descriptions We make every effort to ensure that all resorts and accommodation offered in this brochure or website are described as accurately as possible and that all price indications are correct. Changes, however, can occur and we reserve the right to make changes, in which case you will be informed, of any price change and any material descriptive change, at the time of booking or on your subsequent Holiday Confirmation Invoice. You should bear in mind that certain facilities, particularly sports, entertainment and excursions, are subject to demand at any given time. It would not, for instance, be reasonable to expect an excursion to run unless there is demand which makes its operation economically viable. If a hotel is equipped with centrally controlled air-conditioning, the period and time of functioning of the system is at the discretion of

the hotel management. 12. Accommodation (a) Accommodation which forms part of your booking may only be used by the persons named on the booking form. Subletting is not permitted. (b) You must observe the rules, if any, relating to the accommodation. (c) You must vacate the accommodation in most areas by 10 am on the day of departure. There may be some exceptions and these will be advised locally by our representative, agent or accommodation provider. Check-in is normally available from 4 pm onwards subject to hotel management discretion. 13. Conduct, Injury and Damage (a) You shall behave properly throughout your holiday and, in particular, must not do or permit to be done anything which might lead to damage to any property, injury to any person, or vitiation of any contract of insurance. (b) You will use, occupy and enjoy the accommodation provided as part of your holiday with due care and in a proper manner without allowing the accommodation to become unreasonably soiled. No items, fixtures or fittings shall be removed from the accommodation or left outside at any time. (c) You will be responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing any lost, broken or damaged items, including lost keys. (d) You will treat and speak to our employees and representatives in a reasonable and civil manner. 14. Travel Delays and Flights (a) Flight times are provided by airlines and are subject to change owing to matters such as air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions and technical problems. Flight timings are therefore estimates only and cannot be guaranteed. As between you and any individual airlines, the airline's standard conditions of carriage will apply. These may limit or exclude liability in accordance with relevant international Conventions. Copies of these Conventions are available from us on request. (b) If you or any member of your party misses your flight or other transport arrangement, it is cancelled or you are subject to a significant delay for any reason, you must contact the airline or other transport supplier concerned immediately. (c) The Package Travel etc Regulations 1992 provide that in the event that you experience difficulty on the occurrence of circumstances described in clauses 16 (2) (a) (b) (c) or (d) of these booking conditions, we will provide you with prompt assistance. Where you experience a flight delay or cancellation which is not owing to any failure by us, our employees or subcontractors, this prompt assistance is likely to extend to providing help in locating refreshments, accommodation and communications but not paying for them. (d) Under the Denied Boarding Regulation (EU 261/2004), if you have been denied boarding, your flight has been cancelled or it has been significantly delayed, it is the airline’s duty to look after you. This means providing food, drinks, and some communications. If you are delayed overnight, this also means a hotel and travel to and from it. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. If the airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Civil Aviation Authority at www.caa.co.uk/passengerrights. We have no liability to you in these circumstances whatsoever and your claim for this assistance and any compensation must be made directly to the airline. Liability of an airline under EU 261/2004 will not entitle you to a refund of your holiday price from us. (e) We cannot accept liability for any delay which is due to any of the reasons set out in clause 9 of these booking conditions (which includes the behaviour of any passenger(s) or for any passenger who, for example, fails to check in or board on time). A delay or cancellation to your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other arrangements even where those arrangements have been made in conjunction with your flight. However, you may be entitled to claim under the flight delay section of your travel insurance policy. (f) We have no control over how much leg room (seat pitch) airlines allow on their aircraft. No guarantee can be given as to a particular seat configuration on board as aircraft types vary. However, these seat pitches are standard throughout the airline industry and comply with current Civil Aviation Authority guidelines. (g) This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. 15. Suppliers’ Conditions Our third party suppliers have their own booking conditions and conditions of carriage, and you will be bound by these, so far as the relevant supplier is concerned. Our suppliers’ conditions will also apply to your contract with us, and in the event of any conflict between the suppliers’ conditions and our conditions, the suppliers’ conditions will prevail, save to the extent that any term in the suppliers’ conditions is deemed to be invalid or unenforceable, in which event our conditions will prevail. Some of our suppliers’ conditions may limit or exclude liability on the part of the relevant supplier, and, by virtue of their application to your contract with us, may also limit or exclude our liability to you, and they are often subject to international conventions. You can get copies of the relevant conditions if you ask us. 16. Our Liability 1) We will accept responsibility for the arrangements we agree to provide or arrange for you as an “organiser” under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 as set out below. Subject to these booking conditions, if we or our suppliers negligently perform or arrange the services which we are obliged to provide for you under our contract with you, as set out on your confirmation invoice, we will pay you reasonable compensation. The level of such compensation will be calculated taking into consideration all relevant factors such as but not limited to: following the complaints procedure as described in these conditions and the extent to which ours or our employees’ or suppliers’ negligence affected the overall enjoyment of your holiday. Please note that it is your responsibility to show that we or our supplier(s) have been negligent if you wish to make a claim against us. (2) We will not be responsible or pay you compensation for any injury, illness, death, loss, damage, expense, cost or other claim of any description if it results from:(a) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected; (b) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party unconnected with the provision of the services contracted for and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable; or (c) unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond ours or our supplier(s) control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or (d) an event which either ourselves or suppliers could not, even with all due care, have foreseen or forestalled. (3) We limit the amount of compensation we may have to pay you if we are found liable under this clause: (a) loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions and money, The maximum amount we will have to pay you in

respect of these claims is an amount equivalent to the excess on your insurance policy which applies to this type of loss per person in total because you are assumed to have adequate insurance in place to cover any losses of this kind. (b) Claims not falling under (a) above and which don’t involve injury, illness or death The maximum amount we will have to pay you in respect of these claims is twice the price paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total. This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you or your party has not received any benefit at all from your booking. (c) Claims in respect of international travel by air, sea and rail, or any stay in a hotel i) The extent of our liability will in all cases be limited as if we were carriers under the appropriate Conventions, which include The Warsaw/Montreal Convention (international travel by air); The Athens Convention (with respect to sea travel); The Berne/Cotif Convention (with respect to rail travel) and The Paris Convention (with respect to hotel arrangements). You can ask for copies of these Conventions from our offices. Please contact us. In addition, you agree that the operating carrier or transport company's own 'Conditions of Carriage' will apply to you on that journey. When arranging transportation for you, we rely on the terms and conditions contained within these international conventions and those 'Conditions of Carriage'. You acknowledge that all of the terms and conditions contained in those 'Conditions of Carriage' form part of your contract with us, as well as with the transport company and that those 'Conditions of Carriage' shall be deemed to be included by reference into this contract. ii) In any circumstances in which a carrier is liable to you by virtue of the Denied Boarding Regulation 2004, any liability we may have to you under our contract with you, arising out of the same facts, is limited to the remedies provided under the Regulation as if (for this purpose only) we were a carrier. iii) When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the transport provider or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question. (4) It is a condition of our acceptance of liability under this clause that you notify any claim to ourselves and our supplier(s) strictly in accordance with the complaints procedure set out in these conditions. (5) Where any payment is made, the person(s) receiving it (and their parent or guardian if under 18 years) must also assign to ourselves or our insurers any rights they may have to pursue any third party and must provide ourselves and our insurers with all assistance we may reasonably require. (6) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss or expense or other sum(s) of any description: (a) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you; or (b) relate to any business. (7) We will not accept responsibility for services or facilities which do not form part of our agreement or where they are not advertised in our brochure. For example any excursion you book whilst away, or any service or facility which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you. 17. Excursions Booked Locally The Company does not operate its own excursions. Any excursions booked locally at destination do not form part of the package, whether reserved through our local agent or representative. Sunvil acts soley as an agent for any such excursions and takes no responsibility or accepts any liability for their correct performance. Your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. 18. Complaints All complaints must be made at the time of occurrence to the supplier of the facility or service concerned, to give an opportunity to rectify the cause of the complaint. If unresolved, then you should swiftly call us directly. (If out of UK office hours, then use the relevant emergency mobile numbers supplied in your final travel pack.) Failure to do so will result in your legal rights being reduced or even extinguished. Any claims whatsoever against us must be submitted in writing to us in the UK within 6 months of your return. Disputes arising out of, or in connection with, this contract which cannot be amicably settled, may (if you wish) be referred to AITO’s or ABTA’s independent dispute settlement service. 19. Consumer Protection The air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 808. We will provide you with the services you have bought (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where we are not able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will be impossible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday you will receive and ATOL certificate. This certificate alongside your confirmation invoice lists the flight, accommodation, car hire and other services that are financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. See ww.caa.co.uk/ATOLCertificate. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. All holidays or accommodation only not including air travel are protected by a bond through the Travel Association (ABTA Ltd). 20. Data Protection (a) Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect personal booking Information. This information will only be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies. (b) If you travel outside the European Economic Area (“EEA”), controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will only pass your information onto persons responsible for your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, we will be unable to provide your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons.) Full details of our data protection policy are available on request. 21. Governing Law and Jurisdiction This contract and any matters arising from it are governed by the law of England and Wales and are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

real Azores | 83

sunvil house, upper square, old isleworth, middlesex tw7 7bj

reservations: 020 8758 4722 fax: 020 8568 8330 e-mail: discovery@sunvil.co.uk website: www.sunvil.co.uk

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