São Jorge is an island in the central group of the Azores archipelago that is part of Portugal’s autonomous territory. The middle group is sometimes referred to locally as part of the Triangulo (“Triangle”) group or simply “The Triangle” since it is separated from its nearest neighbours (Pico and Faial islands) by the 15-kilometre (9.3 mi) Pico-São Jorge Channel.
São Jorge is one of the Azores’ most beautiful islands! The core group of the Azores archipelago is a total surprise, with enchanting views of the surrounding islands of Terceira, Pico, Faial, and Graciosa. São Jorge is distinctive because of its geographical form.
São Jorge is a rather long, thin island with steep cliffs, with residents centred on various geological debris fields (fajs) along the north and south coasts; the island is 53 kilometres (33 miles) long and 8 kilometres (5.0 miles) broad, with a total area of 237.59 square kilometres (91.73 sq mi).
Things to do and see in São Jorge
- The town of Velas
The historical centre of Velas, the island’s principal town, is beautiful and peaceful, with a clear view of Mount Pico whenever you gaze out to sea. Stroll through downtown Velas, which has restaurants and bars, also visit the Jardim da República, a beautiful oasis in the city centre.
- Preguiça Natural Pools
The natural swimming pools of Preguiça are located on the right side of the São Jorge Garden Hotel.
- Ponta dos Rosa
The Ponta dos Rosas, a group of distinctive tiny islands that dot the island shoreline, is located on the southwesternmost tip of São Jorge.
- Urzelina Windmills
The Urzelina windmills, which face Pico Island, are a spectacular place to watch the sunset.
- Coffee Plantation in Fajã dos Vimes
São Jorge has the only artisanal coffee farm in Europe! Descend down the steep hilly road to Fajã dos Vimes and experience the greatest coffee in the Azores at Café Nunes. You’ll also get the opportunity to explore the coffee plantations with the owner, who is quite friendly and hospitable. Make sure to buy a bag of coffee and support local businesses!
- Ponta do Topo Islet
The Ponta do Topo islet, located at the island’s southeastern extremity, is a flat piece of ground not far from the beach. In fact, cows swim all the way there in the summer and then graze freely on the islet. Topo village also boasts a cheese factory, for which it is well known.
- São Jorge Cheese Factory (Uniqueijo)
Book a tour of the São Jorge Cheese Factory to have a better knowledge of the Azores’ favourite cheese’s production process – learn what makes its flavour so distinctive and unique, so fiery! Even if you don’t want to do the complete tour, you may still go to the shop and buy the cheese (it is also available in every supermarket of the Azores).
- Pico da Esperança
Pico da Esperança, São Jorge’s highest summit at 1053 m (3,29 ft), offers 360-degree views of all four adjacent islands. You can get there by car, but you’ll have to walk to the very top of the mountain.
- Poça Simão Dias in Fajã do Ouvidor
If you’re looking for the most stunning natural swimming pool on the Azores, head to Fajã do Ouvidor! The Poça Simão Dias dazzles and enchants since it is nestled among high volcanic cliffs. The contrast between the crystal clear water and the black boulders is breathtaking.
- Fajã dos Cubres
Another must-see in São Jorge is the lovely Faj dos Cubres, which can be reached by car. Not only can you see this fajã, but also the lake of the Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo a little further away.
