Portugal: The Azores
8 days, 6 races, countless adventures!
OVERVIEW
MAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
BOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Solitary, Serene, & Unforgettable
Solitary, Serene, & Unforgettable
Among snorkeling enthusiasts, the Azores of Portugal is one of the most coveted spots to explore under the sea. On land, this cluster of nine volcanic islands houses some of the best hiking and outdoor experiences around.
We'll spend our time on Faial and Pico islands, home to world class trails and Portugal's youngest (and largest) stratovolcano. Come along for a week of splendid scenery, colorful hydrangeas, and delicious wines and seafoods in "Europe's Hawaii."
UPCOMING trip dates
2024 |
|---|
May 11-18, 2024 |
October 5-12, 2024 |
QUICK INFO:
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- International flight not included
- Covid-19 vaccination not required
- 8 days/7 nights all-inclusive trip
- 6 trail runs and hikes (7-12K)
- Daily afternoon activities
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
Follow scenic trails through vibrant, volcanic-formed landscapes.
Enjoy locally produced wines and food — a product of rich volcanic soil.
Grab your binoculars, we're going whale watching!
"...you're guaranteed to leave with tired legs and a full heart."
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host Region: The Azores, Portugal
Nestled in the heart of the North Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are a stunning archipelago of nine volcanic islands. As an Autonomous Region of Portugal, the Azores have its own regional government and administration. Of course, some matters like foreign and monetary policy still remain under the central government of Portugal.
These charming islands are known for incredible hiking, world-class snorkeling, and cheerful hydrangeas that seem to grow everywhere on the islands. The Azorean culture is a harmonious blend of Portuguese traditions and unique island influences. From its vibrant festivals like the "Festas do Espírito Santo" to its delectable cuisine featuring fresh seafood and the famed Azorean pineapple, the Azores offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
MAIN ISLANDS
Saō Miguel and Pico
LANGUAGE
Portuguese
CURRENCY
Euro
WEATHER
63° / 52° in
May & Oct
LANDSCAPE
Volcanic mountains and valleys
KNOWN FOR
Whale & dolphin watching
Chromatic Nicknames
Each of the nine Azorean islands has a colorful nickname that speaks to that island's unique nature. Faial is the Blue Island because of its maritime history and the bushy blue hydrangeas that grow everywhere and Pico is nicknamed the Grey Island, for its dark basalt coastline, an outcome of Pico's impressive volcanic roots. Though, perhaps Pico should be named the Red Island because it's known for producing delicious wines and brandys.
Vibrant & Volcanic
Known as "Europe's Hawaii," the Azores have also formed by volcanic activity. However, where Hawaii formed over a hot spot, the Azores formed at the junction of three tectonic plates — the North American, Eurasian, and African plates. The islands are home to 26 active volcanoes, but they haven't shown signs of eruptive activity for many years.
A Viking Discovery
For centuries, people believed that the Azores were discovered by the Portuguese. But recently discovered records suggest otherwise. Thanks to some nifty soil science, researchers believe the first settlers came to the island between 700 and 850 AD, the early era of Viking exploration.
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Portugal: The Azores Itinerary
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Welcome to Faial
- Day 2: Horta town
- Day 3: Caldeira
- Day 4: Capelo & Capelinhos
- Day 5: Boat ride to Pico
- Day 6: Caminho dos Burros
- Day 7: Free time in Pico
- Day 8: Depart from Pico
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Faial, Portugal
Welcome to the Azores! You'll land on the island of Faial and then have a quick 15-minute car ride to the resort, the beautiful and quaint Azoris Faial Garden Resort. Grab a taxi at the airport for the easiest transfer. Get settled in and join us for our welcome dinner and presentation in the evening.
If you arrive early in the day and want to stretch your legs, walk around the resort grounds, or head into the town of Horta and check out the famous sailor's bar, Pete's Cafe Sport!
- Welcome dinner & orientation
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Arrive in Faial, Portugal
- Event check-in: approx. 6:00pm
Planning your travel? Check out the Plan Your Travel tab for more info!
Sunday (Day 2): Exploring Horta town
Horta is a wonderful town because it's so walkable. We'll enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then take a short walk to our first run of the week! See the town and cliff top views on this grassy and gravely course. At the finish line, you can cool off with a swim in the ocean.
Work up an appetite yet? We thought so. Fill up on a tasty lunch with the group in town because we're going on a historic whaling experience. Here, you'll get to ride on an original whaling canoe and see what it was like to hunt for whale before modern technology.
These canoes were built locally and designed to hunt sperm whales with harpoons. This method of whaling persisted on the islands until 1984. Of course, today they are used for fun.
- Historic whaling tour
- Between Mounts Run (5K)
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Horta, Faial
Monday (Day 3): Visit Caldeira Volcano
Day three starts with breakfast at the hotel, then a quick drive to Caldeira, the tall volcano on the island...technically the volcano is the island, but you get the point. This is an epic and thrilling run around the crater rim that will take your breath away. A picnic lunch in Parque Cabouco follows.
Back to Horta we go for more leisure! This time, we'll enjoy a walking tour of Horta and discover Azorean maritime history at the whaling museum. Afterward, we'll enjoy a relaxing and delightful dinner together.
- Museum visit
- Caldeira (6K)
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Horta > Caldeira
Tuesday (Day 4): Diving in the Azores
Rinse and repeat! Fuel up in the morning and then get ready to run. We're heading to Capelo Capelinhos on the west side of the island. You may want your trail shoes for this one. It's got mud, grass, lava stones, sand, and roots. We couldn't pick a more varied terrain if we tried. Cool off with an ocean swim afterward.
After such a thrilling run, indulge in a rich barbecue lunch complete with a Chamarrita dance show! Chamarrita is danced to a 3/4 rhythm and usually features fiddle as well. You're in for a lively treat!
Take the afternoon off and relax or explore in your preferred travel language — whether that includes sunning yourself on the beach, hitting the water on a paddle board, snorkeling, or casting a line into the blue ocean, we can help you arrange an activity.
- Chamarrita dance performance, free time for water activities
- Capelo - Capelinhos Run (6K)
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Horta > Capelo Capelinhos
Wednesday (Day 5): Journey to Pico's Vineyards
It's island hopping day. Luckily, this is a leisurely trip. We'll ride a boat from the island of Faial to the island of Pico and will look for dolphin and whale along the way. While wildlife is never guaranteed, this is one of the best spots to see these graceful sea mammals. Relax and keep your eyes on the horizon.
When we arrive on Pico Island, enjoy lunch, have a bit of down time, and change into your running clothes. We're embarking on a sunset run through local vineyards. And yes, you will get to dine and sample the wine after our run. Yum!
Thursday (Day 6): Running the Caminho dos Burros
El Caminho dos Burros. It's our longest run yet and you may wish you had a donkey to carry you to the finish line. Luckily, it's mostly downhill, so no pack animals are required. Take a dip in one of the island's natural swimming holes after your run, if you'd like.
In the afternoon, inviting blue waters gently rock our kayaks as we paddle around the sea. After kayaking, the afternoon is yours. Have dinner on your own with new friends that you've made. Ask us for recommendations!
Friday (Day 7): Free Time & Farewells
Our final race of the week takes us to our run, Mistérios do Sul. Enjoy your last jaunt around the island, stretch out those legs, and snap some epic running photos!
We'll enjoy swimming and lunch together after our run before chilling out for more free time. This is your chance to grab some souvenirs in town, explore a museum, and soak in the island life. We conclude our week with a farewell dinner at Cella Bar, known for its great food and unique architectural design. Together, we'll reminisce on beautiful landscapes, exhilarating trails, and memorable moments.
Saturday (Day 8): Depart from Pico
We're sorry to say it but even this adventure must come to an end. You're free to stick around and explore some more on your own or head home to tell your friends and family about your week abroad. Either way, it's not "goodbye," it's "until next time."
Planning your travel? Check out the Plan Your Travel tab for more info!
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
Get some insight on how a Global Adventure works from booking to farewells.
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us three months before your trip - we'll send detailed packing and itinerary info and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Weather in the Azores can be temperamental. Pack layers!
- Bring some euros for souvenirs and snacks.
- Avg. 50-75 people per trip
Culture Kick Trip
While all Global Adventures include daily trail runs and active fun, this more relaxed trip focuses on giving you a backstage pass to life in the Azores. We'll learn about island history, enjoy tours & performances, and taste the local fare.
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, a detailed trip itinerary, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet with swag one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices.
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once you register for an event in RunSignup, you'll have a traveler profile on your RunSugnup account. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
While each adventure is unique, the info below captures the daily schedule of a typical Global Adventure.
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
On most trips, we'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, kayaking, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute trail pace on these runs.
portugal: the azores TRAIL runs
Exact trail runs may change based on permitting and weather!
Between Mounts (5K)
Route: Some elevation, point-to-point
Terrain: Dirt and sand trail, loose rocks and roots
Level: Moderate
We're off to a scenic start with this clifftop run, offering views of Horta town and aqua blue waters you'll be able to dive into at the finish line.
Around Caldeira (7K)
Route: Mostly flat, point-to-point
Terrain: Single-track dirt trail through the forest
Level: Moderate
Let's get volcanic! Today we'll run around an epic volcanic crater that offers views of the mountains, oceans, and even Pico island - our next stop.
Capelo - Capelinhos (7K)
Route: Point-to-point with two steep climbs
Terrain: Gravel and grass trail
Level: Moderate
This run takes us to two peaks, past a cave, and down to the ocean with a lighthouse finish!
Sunset Vineyards (6K)
Route: Mostly flat loop
Terrain: Mixed pavement, grassy and mud trail, and lava stone
Level: Easy
Welcome to Pico! We'll introduce ourselves to the island with a sunset run through the unique vineyard landscape of this island.
Caminho dos Burros (11K)
Route: Flat, downhill, point-to-point
Terrain: All of them! Pavement, grass, mud, stone, sand, etc.
Level: Moderate
Our longest run is a fast, downhill run towards the ocean.
Mistérios do Sul (9K)
Route: Moderate elevation, point-to-point
Terrain: Mixed pavement, grassy and mud trail, and lava stone
Level: Moderate
We'll follow this coastal trail down to our third picturesque swimming hole. Hey, who gets tired of a post-run swim?
Plan Your Travel
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the nitty gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (Saturday):
- Please plan to arrive on Faial island mid-afternoon on the first day of your trip
- Horta Airport (HOR), Faial Island, Portugal
- Check in at our group hotel (Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel) & enjoy a welcome dinner! Taxi rides from the airport are an affordable ~15 minute ride costing ~20-25 euros.
Depart (Saturday):
- You may depart anytime on the last day of the trip
- Pico Airport (PIX), Pico Island, Portugal
- Check out of our hotel on Pico island (exact hotel TBD). Taxis to the airport should be an affordable 15 minute ride costing ~20-25 euros.
Flight Tips & Tricks
VR Recommended flights to purchase:
all travelers:
The below recommended flights reflect the quickest and most economical way we have found to reach the Azores.
- International Flight: Round-trip between your home airport and Lisbon, Portugal
- Domestic Flight #1: Lisbon > Horta Airport (HOR) (~2hr 45min direct)
- Domestic Flight #2: Pico Airport (PIX) > Lisbon (~2hr 30min direct)
east coast u.s. travelers:
SATA operates flights from both JFK and BOS directly to the airports on Faial and Pico! These flights have one stop-over in São Miguel island, but are a good option for those who want to avoid a self-transfer in Lisbon.
Additional notes:
Two main airlines have flights to the Azores: SATA and TAP. Direct flights from Lisbon start at ~$46 each way.
We recommend booking a day or two in Lisbon to enjoy mainland Portugal and a pastéis de nata.
Packing & Prep
Coverage: You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure! Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
Packing List: These are fast-paced events. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training: Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the the Azores trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
Registration opens TODAY: September 22, 2023 at 8:00am MT
2024 Dates
May 11-18, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Join the waitlist and we'll contact you if a spot becomes available!
SOLD OUT - Waitlist Available!
October 5-12, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Join the waitlist and we'll contact you if a spot becomes available!
SOLD OUT - Waitlist Available!
Included in all Global Adventures
- 6 trail runs or hikes (7-12K)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Got Questions? We've Got Answers:
Payment & Policy Info
Pricing Breakdown
Trip Pricing:
$4,500 (double occupancy room)
$5,300 (single occupancy room)
Deposit:
$500 (refundable until 5 months before the event)
Trips are refundable minus a fee until 3 months before the event. Please read the Registration Policy for maore info.
Registration Policies
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration & Trip Planning
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on Global Adventures trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for attending these running trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old!
Some of our Global Adventures trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind. For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips is spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
The Azores are waiting for you!
Join us for the all-inclusive running trip you never knew you needed.
Still have questions? Schedule a chat with us.
Not passport ready? Join the email list.
We'll send you updates about registration opening, price jumps, and more to keep you on track!
