The 72-hour Reset: The Azores’ luxury wellness adventure you can do in a weekend

A micro-escape with maximum impact – built for travellers who want room to breathe and mountains to conquer.

Just four hours from the East Coast of America, the Azores hit you with a jolt of wild Atlantic energy the moment you arrive. This is Europe at its most elemental – lava fields, crashing surf, untamed silence. No crowds or clutter – just clean air, crisp wines and open trails. 

In a single long weekend, you can push your limits climbing the slopes of Mount Pico, trek through volcanic vineyards, plunge into the ocean and refuel with seasonal chef-led meals. Just a few days disconnecting on Pico Island is a hard reset disguised as a getaway.

Here’s what a short escape to the Azores could look like. Read on, then reach out to plan your one-of-a-kind adventure with Epic.

Ready to take the team to the Azores? Contact us at info@epic.travel

Day 1: Touch down, switch to island time

Feel your shoulders drop almost instantly as you breathe in the fresh, cool air and readjust to Azorean time. There’s no city rush here.

After settling into your lush villa, the trip starts the way all good adventures should: outside. Go on a light hike or cycle, weaving through Pico’s unique volcanic vineyards and black lava walls that lead you toward the ocean. Think of it as an easy warm-up – just enough movement to shake off the flight and switch your body into island mode.

As the sun dips, kick back with your crew as a private chef takes over. They’re with you for the whole weekend to provide nourishing, health-focused meals using local, seasonal ingredients and clean protein. After all, your group of friends or colleagues need good fuel to take you up the summit of Portugal’s highest mountain.

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Day 2: Summit Pico by day, savor Pico wines by night

Before dawn, set out toward the base of Pico Mountain. Today you’ll summit the 2,351-metre-high (7,713 ft) peak. The climb is demanding in the best way – a physical and mental challenge as you conquer volcanic rock while Atlantic clouds drift around you.

Typically it takes around 3 to 4 hours to summit Pico, and another 3 to 4 to return to ground. It’s only around 8 kilometres (5 miles) of distance, but the significant elevation gain makes it a true test of patience and grit.

Standing at the summit, you feel both completely invigorated and alive as you catch your breath. Gaze beyond nearby islands to see how the ocean endlessly stretches in every direction. Relax for a moment at the peak, basking in the achievement as you snack on a chef-prepared picnic lunch before returning to base.

But the real reward? Back at your villa there’s a post-summit treatment waiting. Your tired muscles will relish a slow, restorative massage before another cosy dinner, paired with local Pico wines. The local vinho has a distinct mineral and salty character, thanks to the black volcanic soil and sea breezes. The perfect tipple to celebrate the feelings of the day.

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Day 3: Yoga, sea swims and a long winery lunch

After yesterday’s summit, today we invite you to slow down (but keep moving!). Your restorative day of wellness begins as you hit the pool deck for a grounding yoga session. Enjoy a good stretch and restorative breathwork as sunlight warms your back and shake off those post-hike aches. Alternatively, the masseuse is on standby for anyone who needs a little extra repair.

After brunch, prepared by your chef, it’s time to explore the unique UNESCO-listed volcanic vineyards of Pico. This is Portugal’s unique wine island, where the terroir’s lava rock and salty air add character to every glass. Hop between rocky vineyards, meet the winemakers and sit down to a long lunch paired with local drops.

Closer to sunset, round out your final afternoon with a refreshing sea plunge. Diving into the icy blue Atlantic will reset your circulation, energy and mindset before one last dinner together.

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Day 4: Final farewell

Rise with the sun, grab a coffee and sit on the terrace looking out at Pico’s pointed silhouette. Do you feel lighter than when you arrived 72 hours ago? Perhaps your legs ache but your soul feels grounded – full of fresh air, good food and fresh perspectives.

It might be time to go, but you can take comfort knowing this paradise – halfway between the USA and Europe – is just a short flight from home.

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Where you’ll stay

Your base in the Azores is carefully chosen with intention. At Epic we’ll hand-select accommodation to match your group, your style and how you want to experience the island. Smaller groups may settle into the sleek, architectural serviced apartments by the Azores Wine Company, while larger groups may prefer a private villa with panoramic views of Pico and an in-house chef to reset the rhythm.

No two Epic trips are ever the same. Every stay, every meal, every detail is crafted specifically for you – so if you’re ready to hit pause and explore the Azores, reach out and we’ll co-design your ideal mini-escape.

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If you’re interested in exploring the Azores Islands of Portugal with friends or colleagues, reach out to our team at info@epic.travel

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