Azores - Day 4

Thursday was our last full day in the Azores and we lucked out with another mostly sunny morning.  We first drove to the Shrine of Senhora da Paz.  The shrine sits on a hill above the Vila Franca do Campo village and dates back to the 18th century.  It makes for a striking view as there is a set of  steep stairs built into the hill.  It is quite a sight to see as there is nothing else nearby this high up!

We then drove to Lagoa do Congro.  It was a short 15 minute hike to get to the lake and once we made it to the water, it was so clear and the setting was very peaceful.  So much green all around!         

We ended the afternoon at Gorreana, the only tea plantation in Europe.  It has been in operation since 1883.  There was a two mile hiking trail around the property where we could explore the tea plants and get amazing views over the plantation and surrounding area.  They also offer tea tasting at the processing plant.  

Visiting the Azores Islands has been one of the highlights of our Portugal trip.  The beauty on this island is incredible and I feel very fortunate we had an opportunity to make this detour happen. We seldom saw other tourists during our time here and overhead another couple at the hotel asking one of the staff about low vs high season (winter is typically low season in Portugal).  The waiter said it is typically always like this and never gets too busy!  I'm sure at some point the secret will be out about the Azores, but until then, I'm so glad we visited this remote place when we did.

Alex captured this rainbow over Lagoa do Furnhas on our last day in the Azores