São Jorge Island Van Tour: Full Day, Cheese Tasting & Fajãs

Summary

Full-Day São Jorge Van Tour with Local Food & Fajã Visits

If you want to see São Jorge without rushing or hiking all day, this van tour covers everything: wild viewpoints, local cheese tasting, swimming in natural pools, and real stories from people who live here. You’ll get to try island coffee and snacks you won’t find anywhere else—all with someone who knows every shortcut and secret spot.

What’s the experience like?

Right from the start, the salty breeze at Ponta dos Rosais woke me up better than any coffee. Our guide, Ana, pointed out the old lighthouse—still standing after all those storms. We even spotted a couple of locals scanning the horizon for whales; apparently, this is a favorite spot for sightings if you’re patient enough. The wind can get pretty wild here, so bring a light jacket even in summer.

We rolled through Forest Park 7 Fontes next. It’s quieter than you’d expect—just the soft crunch of leaves underfoot and the occasional bird call. Ana shared how families picnic here on Sundays, which made it feel less like a tourist stop and more like someone’s backyard. From the west-side viewpoint, I could see Pico’s volcano peeking through the clouds, and Faial looked almost close enough to swim to. The air smelled faintly of wild mint, especially after last night’s rain.

At Fajã de João Dias, we paused at a viewpoint that honestly felt like standing at the edge of the world. Down below, tiny houses hugged the coast. The visitor center had these old photos showing what life was like before the big earthquake—hard to imagine now with everything so peaceful. We stopped at another lookout over one of São Jorge’s most famous Fajãs; Ana explained how these flat bits of land were formed by ancient landslides. She knew every twist in the road.

Midday, we reached Simão Dias Pool. If you’re up for it—and I was—you can grab a mask and fins (they’ve got extras) and slip into the water. It’s chilly at first but worth it for the bright fish darting around your feet. There’s always someone laughing nearby; it’s that kind of place. Lunch came next—a buffet at a local spot where I tried “espécies,” São Jorge’s spiced cookies, along with fresh cheese and homemade bread. The owner poured us coffee that tasted almost chocolatey—turns out it comes from Fajã dos Vimes just down the road.

The afternoon took us to an old church from the 1500s—stone walls cool to the touch—and then to a cheese factory where we sampled São Jorge cheese at different ages. The 24-month one had a real kick to it. Our last stop was Fajã dos Vimes itself, famous for its artisanal coffee. The woman running the café let us smell the beans before she brewed them—nothing like it anywhere else in Portugal.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — São Jorge Island Highlights

• Visit Ponta dos Rosais and Whale Watch
• Explore Forest Park 7 Sources
• Viewpoint over São Jorge Island
• Fajã de João Dias Viewpoint
• Visit Visitor Center
• Viewpoint at emblematic Fajãs
• Swim and snorkel at popular spot
• Buffet lunch at local restaurant
• Tour 16th century church
• Taste cheese at São Jorge Cheese factory
• Descend to Fajã with artisanal coffee

Top questions

Is this São Jorge van tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The tour is relaxed with minimal walking. Kids and older guests are welcome—just let us know if you need extra help or have special requests.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear for Simão Dias Pool?

No need—we provide masks and fins if you want to swim or snorkel. Just bring your swimsuit and towel!

Is lunch included? What kind of food is served?

Lunch is included at a local restaurant—usually buffet style with regional dishes, fresh cheese, bread, and one drink per person.

Can I customize parts of the itinerary?

Absolutely! Our guide will offer tips so you can choose activities or adjust stops based on your interests or energy level.

What’s included

You’ll get a full-day guided van tour across São Jorge Island with all entrance fees covered. Lunch at a local restaurant (with one drink), plus snacks like São Jorge cheese and coffee tasting are included. We provide snorkeling equipment at Simão Dias Pool if you want to swim. Our certified guide handles everything—and there’s personal accident insurance too.