Azores Mountain Biking: A Dream for Riders
Azores Mountain Biking delivers one of the most impressive riding experiences in Europe, and nowhere showcases it better than São Miguel.
It is a place where you can ride from mountain to sea, descend volcanic crater rims, and finish the day soaking in a hot spring or at an ocean side pub.
Sao Miguel is one of nine volcanic islands that rise from the mid‑Atlantic like emerald peaks, carved by volcanic craters and cliffs, cloaked in subtropical forest, and featuring natural tracks that riders say are perfect for the sport.
Why Sao Miguel Is Recommended for Mountain Biking in the Azores
São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores and the most diverse for terrain. You can find steep, technical terrain, or wide open crater top paths, as well as easy, smooth tracks. There are a handful of passionate tour operators that help maintain and shape the various places
It is also has the most amenities to enjoy outside of the adventures of each day.
Signature MTB Area on São Miguel
Sete Cidades Crater Rim
For me, hands down, the most iconic ride is a loop in Sete Cidades which circles the twin crater lakes for over 20 km. Much of it is open sections with incredible views of the two lakes (blue and green) below and also some ocean views as well.
Finding Azores Mountain Biking Locations
There are several reputable tour companies that can take you out riding and that will ensure you ride in places that are permitted and appropriate. You can also find trails using either:
Bike Rentals & Guided Tours
Local operators make it easy to ride without bringing your own bike. And they ensure you find the best trails to match your skills.
There are varying levels of terrain, and therefore varying levels of skill required to mountain bike in the Acores. Some areas would only be suitable for experienced mountain bikers.
Local tour operators offer:
- Full‑suspension rentals
- E‑bike rentals (great for volcanic climbs)
- Custom tours
- Shuttle-assisted enduro days
These guides know the terrain intimately, and they’ll take you to trails you’d never find on your own.
Planning a Visit to the Azores?
Plan your activities with our guide on What to do in the Azores
Plan your visit to Sao Miguel with our 7 day itinerary for Sao Miguel
Figure out trip planning logistics like accommodation and transportation at: Visit the Azores
The area pictured first is Lagoa do Fogo in Sao Miguel. It is a protected natural reserve formed by a dormant volcano. I enjoy visiting there and have hiked in the area but never biked.
Be sure to bike only in the permitted areas. Riding down into the crater is not permitted. And it is possible that the next couple of pictures are in spots that are no longer permitted to ride in. Check the Trailforks page
The next area pictured is also in San Miguel and is known as Pico dos Bodes. I am not sure that it is an official trail and I recommend checking on Trailforks
Mountain Biking in Santa Maria
Other Acores Biking Pictures
I believe the photo above is from Tronqueira. I have driven this road and it's quite beautiful.
I hope you enjoyed these pictures, courtesy of Cristina Silva Sky and Ricardo Marques. To see more by Ricardo and Cristina, check out these two pages: http://dhaguaretorta.blogspot.ca/ and http://www.pinkbike.com/u/rmarques79/album/Azores-Freeride/
Please read more on the Acores here and at www.magical-azores-islands.com
Oh, by the way, are you wondering what the quality of road cycling is here? Aside from in the narrow city streets, and old cobblestone streets, there are great quality asphalt roads to check out. Like this one here (I don't encourage riding on the wrong side of the road though!):
Subscribe To Magical Azores Islands
