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Lisbon & The Azores: Biodiversity and Culture in Portugal

  • 8 nights / 9 days
  • Biology, History, Geography, Climate change, culinary arts

This tour is a fascinating combination of mainland European culture and history combined with a unique island biosphere. Designed for teachers looking for physical and wellness activities in an other-worldly location.

Discover Portugal's vibrant capital and geothermal landscapes.

Top Highlights

  • Learn about biodiversity while hiking the Azores' rugged landscapes admiring the unique flora and fauna
  • Appreciate local cuisine with an interactive, authentic cooking class led by a Portuguese chef
  • Explore the iconic landmarks and rich history of Lisbon on a guided tour
  • Enjoy Portugal's culture through Fado music performances
  • Discover Benefica Stadium and its real-life eagle mascot

What’s Included

We design unforgettable educational journeys for you and your students. Our educational trips include:

  • Shared occupancy at centrally located 3* and 4* hotels
  • Breakfast at hotels
  • Dinners at restaurants featuring local cuisine
  • Private transfers
  • Private tours and experiences
  • Full support from your travel designer and on the ground
  • International and Domestic flights

Itinerary

Arrive in Lisbon

Lisbon

The beautiful city of Lisbon lies draped across a string of seven hills on the western Iberian Peninsula and is the westernmost and oldest city in western Europe. Its long and tumultuous history has resulted in an aesthetic characterised by a haphazard combination of old and new; however, the aesthetic chaos of Lisbon only adds to its appeal and its undeniable charm. Bright yellow centenarian trams rattle their way up steep, tree-lined, cobbled streets; ornate ironwork balconies overrun with bougainvillaea sit above elegant outdoor cafes housed in ancient whitewashed, red-roofed stone houses; and a flurry of detailed mosaics decorate the sidewalks. Ancient statues adorn grand squares and hidden gardens. A diverse culinary scene, a plethora of fascinating museums, and numerous castles make it easy to see why Lisbon is one of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Activities:
    • Lisbon Aquarium: be educated and enchanted by all kinds of marine life
    • Sintra: explore the fairy-tale like Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site
    • Cascais: stroll along the coast and enjoy traditional Portuguese Fado music
    • Benfica Football/Soccer Stadium: witness the culture and spectacle of Portuguese football
    • Guided walking tour of Lisbon’s historic districts: explore Lisbon’s maritime history, the age of exploration, and iconic landmarks
    • Cooking class: interactive lesson from a Portuguese chef at TimeOut Market in Central Lisbon

The Azores

Set on the southwestern coast of the island of São Miguel, Ponta Delgada serves as the capital of the Azores. It is one of the most beautiful towns within the archipelago, featuring unique Portuguese architecture seen in the whitewashed buildings lining the narrow cobbled alleyways. There is a wonderful array of attractions to see in this stunning island capital. Visitors can stroll along the Avenida seaside promenade and soak up the coastal views; discover Carvao Cave, the largest lava tube on the island; and view the Church of St. Sebastian and the old Portas da Cidade, city gates built in the 18th century. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the natural wonders of the island including the hot springs at Lagoa das Furnas, and the glistening Lagoa do Fogo.

Activities: 
  • Valley of Furnas: immerse in nature, swimming in hot springs, hiking the botanical gardens, and witnessing spectacular views
  • Cozido meal:  fascinating cooking demonstration at Furnas Lake where  cauldrons are lowered into volcanic vents
  • Sete Cidades: hike the islands mountains while admiring the diversity of flora and fauna
  • Gorreana Tea Factory: visit Europe’s oldest tea plantation, learning its rich history as you watch the production and taste the tea
  • Nordeste: enjoy a coastal hike along this rugged and wild slice of São Miguel Island and learn about its volcanic activity
  • Natural History Museum: interactive exhibits and fascinating specimens showcase the archipelago’s unique biodiversity

Depart from Ponta Delgada

We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you.

Hear it from our clients first

I had an absolutely incredible experience with GHardy Tours for my trip to Switzerland. From start to finish, everything was flawlessly organized and executed. The attention to detail was remarkable – from the seamless travel arrangements to the carefully selected accommodations that provided stunning views of the Alps. I can confidently say this was one of the best travel experiences I've ever had. I'm already looking forward to my next adventure with them!
Tamara Bahry / Toronto Canada
Thank you so much for arranging everything for our Italy trip. We had an amazing time without focusing on planning logistics. Your driver and guides are top of the line and mesmerized us with their in-depth knowledge. We cannot express our sincere gratitude with everything you have done for us. Thanks to you, we LOVED, LOVED, LOVED our experience in Italy!
Rob Romero / King City, Canada
The GHardy team planned the perfect family vacation to Italy for us! The hotels, private tours and excursions were all exceptional and exactly what we were hoping for! We didn’t have to stress over anything - we just showed up and there was always someone to meet us. We also took great comfort knowing if any issue did arise, the G/Hardy Tours team, as well as a 24/7 emergency contact on the ground in Italy were always a message or call away.
Kerri Torrey / Toronto, Ontario
Our family vacation to Greece, which included Athens, Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, was unforgettable! The accommodations were lovely and centrally located to maximize our time at all of the hot spot destinations. Our private guides were very informative with all of the history and culture that Greece has to offer. Various transportation needs were met through planes, boats and private transfers which made travel effortless from one destination to the next. Thank you GHardy Tours for putting together a remarkable experience for the whole family to enjoy and providing memories to last a lifetime.
Tammy and Jason / Toronto, Ontario

Why we are the top choice for your next luxury trip.

Our unique approach to planning transformative experiences ensures our clients gain more than just a vacation: they come away with a greater understanding of the world, their place in it, and how the journey has enriched their lives.

  • We prioritize personalized experiences tailored to guests’ wants and needs, from holiday getaways to educational trips and everything in between.
  • Travel is about more than just going from point A to point B. It's an experience; we're here to help you create the best possible one for you and your family or friends.
  • Taste. Indulge. Immerse. Each destination has unique flavours and dishes. Bespoke travel is the perfect way to indulge your senses.
  • Our team of experienced travel planners has an eye for detail, meaning no stone goes unturned when crafting the perfect itinerary. Whenever you want it, the way you want it.