Start our family adventure by exploring the green treasures of São Miguel. Our first stop is the famous Parque Terra Nostra, a true gem among botanical gardens. Established in the 18th century, this impressive park delights not only with its rich collection of plants from around the world, but also with its charming pathways and thermal pools. Children will be delighted to explore the park's diverse corners, discovering exotic species of trees and flowers. A special attraction is the large thermal pool with its distinctive orange color, where you can take a relaxing dip (note: the water can be quite hot for the little ones). Admission is €16 per adult, with slightly cheaper family tickets (as of 2023). Note that the park can be quite crowded, especially during the summer season.

Another place that is sure to delight the whole family is Jardim Botânico António Borges. This smaller but no less charming botanical garden offers a fascinating journey through a variety of ecosystems. Children will enjoy exploring the mysterious grottoes, bridges and hidden corners. The garden is famous for its impressive collection of trees, including majestic sequoias and exotic palm trees. What's more, admission to the garden is free, making it an ideal option for families traveling on a tight budget. The tour takes about an hour, but the fascinating surroundings will make the time pass unnoticed.

Comparing the two gardens, Parque Terra Nostra offers more attractions and greater variety, but comes with an admission cost and can be more crowded. Jardim Botânico António Borges, while smaller, impresses with its intimate atmosphere and is an excellent option for families looking for a quieter place for relaxation and nature education.

For those wishing to combine nature education with active recreation, Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park is ideal. This picturesque natural park offers not only beautiful scenery with waterfalls, but also the opportunity to learn about local flora and fauna. Children will enjoy bird watching and discovering a variety of plant species. The park offers well-marked hiking trails of varying levels of difficulty, so every family will find a route suitable for them. What's more, the park features traditional water mills, which provide an interesting lesson in history and technology. Admission to the park is free, making it an attractive option for families on a tight budget. It's a good idea to plan your visit for the early morning hours to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

The next point on our family adventure is Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, a viewpoint that will take your breath away and spark your imagination. This spot offers a panoramic view of picturesque volcanic lakes surrounded by lush greenery. Children will be thrilled to observe the 'green and blue universe' from so high up. The route to the viewpoint is relatively easy and takes about 15 minutes, making it accessible even to younger children. However, it is worth remembering to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, as the weather can change quickly. Admission is free, which is an added benefit for families traveling on a tight budget.

For families looking for an unusual educational experience, Gruta do Carvão - Monumento Natural is a must-see. This fascinating volcanic cave allows children (and adults!) to immerse themselves in the geological history of the island. During the 30-minute guided tour, you can admire the unique rock formations and learn more about volcanic processes. Admission is €5 per adult (as of 2023), with discounts available for children. It's worth remembering to book in advance, as the number of seats is limited. This is a great opportunity to learn geology in a fascinating and interactive way.

As we continue our journey through the natural wonders of São Miguel, we can't miss the Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha. This place combines environmental education with relaxation in the hot springs. Children will be delighted to swim in the warm pools, surrounded by lush vegetation. The center offers interactive exhibits that explain the island's geological and ecological phenomena in an accessible way. Admission is €10 per adult with bathing (as of 2023), but it's worth checking current prices and opening hours before visiting.

For families looking for a more active vacation, Cascata do Salto do Prego is an ideal destination. This scenic trekking route leads through lush forest to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is not too demanding, but offers children an exciting adventure in a wilderness setting. It's a good idea to bring snacks and drinks to have a picnic by the waterfall. Admission is free, making this attraction accessible to all families.

When comparing these attractions, each offers a unique educational and natural experience. Miradouro da Boca do Inferno and Cascata do Salto do Prego are ideal for families who enjoy active recreation and beautiful views, while Gruta do Carvão and Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha offer more structured educational experiences. The choice depends on the family's preferences and the age of the children, but each of these places guarantees an unforgettable experience and valuable lessons about the nature and geology of the Azores.

At the end of our family adventure on São Miguel, there are two unique places to visit that will not only delight the children, but also provide insight into unique aspects of the island's culture and agriculture.

The first is Plantação Ananases A Arruda, a pineapple plantation that offers a fascinating journey through the process of growing these exotic fruits. This place is a true paradise for little explorers and an excellent lesson in biology in practice. During the free tour, you can see the different stages of pineapple growth, from small seedlings to mature fruit. Children will be delighted to see how pineapples grow - something they don't usually have the opportunity to observe on a daily basis. The plantation also has a souvenir and local products store, where you can buy pineapple preserves or local liquors (for adults). A visit to the plantation is not only an educational experience, but also an opportunity to taste fresh local fruit. It's worth planning an hour or so for the tour and possible shopping.

For contrast and to round out our family adventure, let's revisit the Jardim Botânico António Borges. This garden, although already mentioned above, deserves special attention for its unique character and atmosphere. Unlike more commercial attractions, the Jardim Botânico António Borges offers a peaceful oasis, perfect for a relaxing end to a busy day of sightseeing. Here, children are free to explore hidden paths, discover mysterious grottos and admire the huge, exotic trees. This place inspires creative play and stimulates imagination. Note the impressive aerial roots of some of the trees, which form natural 'bridges' and 'tunnels' - this is sure to delight little explorers. The garden is also a great place for a family picnic, so be sure to bring a blanket and snacks.

Comparing the two attractions, Plantação Ananases A Arruda offers a more structured, educational experience focused on a specific aspect of Azorean agriculture. This is a place where children can learn something new and satisfy their curiosity about the origins of food. The Jardim Botânico António Borges, on the other hand, is a more open space for casual exploration and relaxation, ideal for families who need a moment of respite and contact with nature.

To sum up our tour of São Miguel's family attractions, it's worth noting that each of the places we visited offers unique experiences and educational opportunities. From majestic parks and gardens to fascinating geological formations to exotic fruit plantations, São Miguel is an island that has a lot to offer families with children. Each of these attractions not only provides entertainment, but also teaches respect for nature and helps you understand the unique ecosystem of the Azores. When planning your family adventure, be sure to tailor your plan to your children's ages and interests, and check current prices and opening hours. Regardless of the destinations you choose, São Miguel is sure to leave unforgettable memories in your hearts and ignite your children's passion for exploring the world.