The Azores is made up of nine remote and spectacular mountainous islands in a breathtaking tropical mid-Atlantic archipelago. Could there possibly be a more romantic backdrop to embark on the adventure of a lifetime?
Often referred to as the Hawaii of the North Atlantic, the Azores are one of Portugal’s natural hidden treasures. Nine small volcanic islands offer the ideal haven to kick back, relax and celebrate life’s finer pleasures.
Endless dramatic landscapes dotted with bright blue hydrangeas, verdant tropical forests, lush vegetation and stunning rocky cliffs carpeted with green moss await your arrival. Plus you’ll find natural wonders such as mind-blowing geysers and waterfalls, hidden grottoes, an array of outdoor activities, charming fishing villages and traces of volcanic activity at every turn.
Fly into Ponta Delgada on São Miguel, the largest and most accessible island, and rent a car. Day trip to your heart’s content around the island. Meander down cobblestone streets and admire traditional Portuguese architecture. Discover quaint ocean-side restaurants featuring traditional Portuguese cuisine, local wines, fresh fish and seafood, cheeses and hearty geo-thermal cooked stews! Don’t miss Ponta Delgada’s thriving bar and music scene.
Where to stay on São Miguel
From villas and manor houses to apartments and cottages, from boutique B&Bs, romantic and luxury hotels to eco-resorts, simply choose whatever suits your tastes (and budget)! Or, try a couple places during your stay.
Mind-blowing natural beauty
Ready to get up close to nature? These islands offer epic outdoor adventures! How about a climb up Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest and most challenging trek? Or a soak in the hot springs with your sweetheart surrounded by a dreamy tropical jungle? Walk on lava from a recent volcanic eruption, enjoy a picnic on black sand beaches, or relax in the Furnas thermal pools. Go diving, sailing, whale watching, kayaking, surfing or “canyoning” in the falls; the activities are infinite!
Saúde!
5 things to know about Azores:
- Legend has it that Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Lagoon of the Seven Cities), spectacular blue-green twin crater lakes, connected by a bridge, were created from the tears of star-crossed lovers.
- When measured from their base at the bottom of the ocean to their peaks, the Azores are actually some of the tallest mountains in the world.
- It’s always “tea-o’clock”. The only producers of tea in Europe, the Gorreana de Cima tea plantation has been in operation since 1883. Sample free, locally-grown green and black teas.
- Wine in the Azores is made from three grape varieties – Verdelho, Arinto and Terrantez. The vines are grown in pens encompassed by volcanic stonewalls to shelter them from the winds and fluctuating temperatures.
- The Azores is one of the top sustainable travel destinations in the world. Islanders ask that tourists leave behind “nothing but footprints”.
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