From Volcanic Craters to Vibrant City Life

A unique MICE Famtrip to Azores & Lisbon

From March 12-16, 2025, a group of German event professionals embarked on an extraordinary journey that took them from the stunning volcanic landscapes of the Azores to the vibrant streets of Lisbon. This immersive Famtrip offered an exclusive opportunity to experience the Azores’ untamed beauty and the urban charm of Lisbon, showcasing nature-driven incentives and cultural experiences perfect for MICE groups.

Day 1 – Azores – a destination like no other

Known for its untouched beauty, the Azores is a destination where nature reigns supreme. With its volcanic craters, lush landscapes, and rich culinary heritage, it offers unique incentives for MICE groups looking for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

The journey began with a warm welcome at Octant Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, a beautiful 5-star hotel offering a perfect blend of modern luxury and stunning ocean views. This comfortable base allowed the group to relax and prepare for the day’s exciting adventures ahead.

Day 2 – Canyoning and volcano adventures

The second day in São Miguel was packed with adventure, starting with an exhilarating canyoning experience. Guests navigated through scenic waterfalls, volcanic rock formations, and crystal-clear pools, jumping and rappelling down natural rock walls into refreshing waters.

After an adrenaline-fueled morning, the group refuelled with a delicious lunch featuring local ingredients, highlighting the Azores’ commitment to fresh, sustainable cuisine.

The afternoon brought a thrilling buggy adventure around Ponta Delgada, where guests explored scenic trails and rugged terrain, soaking in breath-taking ocean and mountain views. This self-drive experience provided a dynamic and immersive way to take in São Miguel’s unique landscapes.

The adventure continued with a visit to a traditional pineapple plantation, where guests discovered the island’s unique greenhouse-grown pineapples—a distinctive cultivation method that takes up to two years per fruit! The experience ended with a tasting session, featuring fresh pineapples and locally made pineapple-infused delicacies.

The evening concluded with a delicious meal showcasing the best of Azorean cuisine. Guests enjoyed fresh seafood, locally sourced meats, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared in a traditional Azorean style with a modern twist.

Day 3 – Off-Road exploration, hot springs, and Santa Bárbara Beach

The day began with an off-road Jeep adventure, taking guests deep into the heart of São Miguel’s stunning landscapes. The route included the stunning Fire Volcano Lagoon (Lagoa do Fogo), known for its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. Along the way, the group also visited the Gorreana Tea Factory and its lush plantations, home to Europe’s oldest tea producers, where they had the chance to learn about Azorean tea-making traditions and sample some of the finest brews.

In the afternoon, the group visited Furnas, a volcanic valley known for its hot springs. Here, guests enjoyed the famous Cozido das Furnas, a traditional stew cooked underground using volcanic steam. This dish, prepared with local meats and vegetables, was served during lunch at Octant Furnas.

After lunch, it was time for some well-earned relaxation. The group visited Caldeira Velha, a stunning thermal spa located in a tropical forest. The naturally heated pools, with temperatures ranging from 24ºC to 38ºC, provided the perfect setting to unwind amid lush greenery and volcanic rock formations.

To wrap up the day, the group made a stop at Santa Bárbara Beach, a popular surfer’s paradise on the north coast of São Miguel. With its black volcanic sand and powerful waves, it was a striking contrast to the island’s lush landscapes.

The trip culminated in an unforgettable farewell dinner, where guests indulged in locally sourced meats, cheeses, and vibrant island-grown produce.

Day 4 – Lisbon – discovering the capital’s charm

After departing the Azores, the group headed to Lisbon, a city known for its rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. From iconic landmarks to hidden local treasures, Lisbon offers an exciting blend of old-world charm and modern energy—ideal for a MICE destination.

In Lisbon, the group stayed at the EPIC SANA Marquês, a contemporary hotel offering modern accommodations and an ideal location for exploring the city’s attractions.

The day began with an exhilarating speedboat ride along the Tagus River, offering spectacular views of Lisbon’s iconic monuments from a unique perspective. Afterward, the group visited the charming fishing village of Seixal, where they savored authentic Portuguese cuisine at 100 Peneiras, a beloved local restaurant.

Later, the group explored Lisbon’s beautiful streets on electric bikes, enjoying the city’s famous light and fresh air while discovering hidden corners of the city. Every kilometre ridden contributed to a donation for Assoc Salvador, a charity that supports individuals in wheelchairs.

To wrap up the journey, the group enjoyed a memorable final dinner in Lisbon, hosted in a truly special and intimate venue—a hidden gem in the heart of the city. It felt like dining in a family home, with warmth and personal touches everywhere. The chef, passionate about preserving her heritage, prepared traditional recipes passed down from her grandmother, offering an authentic taste of Portuguese home cooking. The setting was equally unique, with special linen draping the table and everyone gathered around one long, communal table. To cap off the evening, the group was treated to a beautiful Fado performance, creating the perfect ending to this unforgettable destination showcase.

Partner with us for seamless event planning

Based in Portugal, Malta and Italy, ECMeetings is an award-winning and quality-assured destination management company (DMC) with over twenty years of experience in organizing high-touch conferences, meetings, and corporate events. Get in touch with our team at portugal@ecmeetings.com to create a tailored program in Portugal.