Exploring the Enchanting Azores Islands: Nature's Hidden Gem in the Atlantic

Nestled in the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores Islands beckon travelers with their untouched beauty and awe-inspiring landscapes. This remote archipelago, located roughly 1,500 kilometers west of mainland Portugal, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

São Miguel Island | Getty Images

As the azure waves crash against dramatic cliffs, and verdant hills roll into picturesque valleys, it becomes clear why these nine volcanic islands have earned the nickname "The Hawaii of the Atlantic." With their mystical charm, vibrant flora and fauna, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, the Azores offer an unforgettable experience that feels like stepping into a world untouched by time. Embark on a journey with us as we delve into the enchanting secrets of this remarkable destination.

The Azores Islands consist of a group of nine stunning volcanic islands spread across the Atlantic Ocean. Each island possesses its own unique character and charm, making the archipelago a diverse and captivating destination.

Shall we get to know the 9 islands? 

São Miguel, the hawaii of europe

Getty Images

Starting with São Miguel, the largest and most populous island, visitors are greeted with a vibrant mix of lush vegetation, volcanic lakes and hot springs. Its capital, Ponta Delgada, is a bustling city that serves as the gateway to the rest of the Azores.

The island of São Miguel is the largest of the Azores archipelago, with an area of 744.7 km2. It has a length of 62.1 kilometers and a maximum width of 15.8 kilometers. Together with Santa Maria it forms the Eastern Group of the archipelago and its highest point is Pico da Vara, with an altitude of around 1105 meters. Also known as the "green island", it is home to more than half of the Azorean population, with 137,856 inhabitants.

Places to Visit in São Miguel Island

Getty Images

Getty Images

Lagoa das Sete Cidades / Sete Cidades Lake - located inside a volcano caldera with about 12 kilometers of perimeter, the Sete Cidades Lake is the largest freshwater reservoir in the Azores. With its two lakes, the green and the blue, the Sete Cidades lake presents itself as one of the most fascinating landscapes of the Azores.

Getty Images

Getty Images

Lagoa do Fogo / Fogo Lake - located in the center of the island, this is a beautiful lake that is flanked by a lot of endemic vegetation and where many nesting birds live. It is possible to go down near the lagoon.

 Getty Images

Lagoa das Furnas / Furnas Lagoon - beautiful lagoon located in the Furnas Valley, associated with the volcanic formation of this area, surrounded by an immense density of Macaronesian vegetation. On its banks you will find several volcanic water calderas and fumaroles.

Getty Images

Lagoa do Congro / Congro Lagoon - located in the center of the island, this is a lagoon surrounded by immense vegetation, which translates into the beauty of its green color.

Getty Images

Islet of Vila Franca do Campo - one of the main tourist attractions of the island that can be visited by boat. Also known as "Ring of Princess", this natural reserve resulted from a submerged volcano and presents in its interior crystal clear waters and a small beach, perfect for a nice swim.

Getty Images

Caldeira Velha - secondary volcanic area, visible in its fumaroles and thermal springs. It enchants by its waterfall and abundant vegetation. Here you have the possibility to bathe in pools of hot water.

Paulo Goulart | ArchDaily Brasil

Poça Dona Beija - located in Furnas, this is a place of mystical relaxation in the middle of the Azorean nature. It has 5 bathing areas, with temperatures around 39º C. The properties of the waters are therapeutic and help with various health problems, such as rheumatism.

The more attentive will be able to recognize the island locations from the Netflix series "Rabo de Peixe" 

Santa Maria Island: Unveiling the Serene Beauty of the Azores' Sunlit Gem

Circulo Perfeito

Santa Maria Island, São Miguel's companion in the eastern group of the archipelago, was a pioneer in several respects: not only was it the first Azorean island to form, more than 8 million years ago, but also the first island to be discovered and populated in the Azores.

To the west lies Santa Maria, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and warm climate. It is a haven for sun-seekers and offers a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation.

Circulo Perfeito

The island of Santa Maria, São Miguel's companion in the eastern group of the archipelago, was a pioneer in many ways: not only was it the first Azorean island to form, more than 8 million years ago, but it was also the first island to be discovered and populated in the Azores. But the scenery quickly changes with the central peak, Pico Alto, its highest point (590 meters): we find the refreshing Azorean forest with cryptomeria trees.

Places to Visit in Santa Maria Island

Praia Formosa seen from the viewpoint | Circulo Perfeito

Praia Formosa / Formosa Beach - Praia Formosa is located in the parish of Almagreira, municipality of Vila do Porto, and is one of the rarities of the whole archipelago of the Azores, with clear sands that, because it is so clear, the black colored sands originated by volcanic phenomena end up predominating there.

Santa Maria's unique microclimate makes it an excellent region for wine production. Visit Praia Formosa Vineyards, where you can taste and learn about the local wines produced on the island. Explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in the flavors of Santa Maria's renowned wines.

Circulo Perfeito

São Lourenço Bay/ Baía de São Lourenço - São Lourenço is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Santa Maria Island, Azores. Its beauty lies especially in the natural harmony of its bay, decorated with a small islet, in union with the small white houses and the terraces with vineyards.

Circulo Perfeito

Barreiro da Faneca - This geological wonder is a natural rock formation resembling a ship, located on the southern coast of the island. Marvel at the unique shapes and colors created by volcanic activity and erosion, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

Circulo Perfeito

Poço da Pedreira - A former inactive aggregate extraction area, it draws attention by its peculiar reddish coloring and the vertical formation of its walls.

Flickr | Robert Grant

Pico Alto -  For panoramic views of the island, head to Pico Alto, the highest peak on Santa Maria. Hike to the summit or drive up the winding road to reach the viewpoint, where you can gaze upon breathtaking vistas of the island's landscapes, coastline, and neighboring islands.

Immerse yourself in the island's vibrant culture and savor the natural wonders that make Santa Maria a hidden treasure in the Azores.

Terceira Island: Unveiling the Timeless Charm of the Azores' Cultural Gem

Getty Images

Terceira, the third-largest island, captivates visitors with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Angra do Heroísmo. This charming town features stunning architecture, historical sites, and a vibrant cultural scene.

When exploring Terceira Island in the Azores, you'll find a plethora of captivating places to visit. Here are some must-see destinations to include in your itinerary:

Places to Visit in Terceira Island

Getty Images

Angra do Heroísmo - Begin your journey in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Angra do Heroísmo. Admire the beautifully preserved historic center, characterized by colorful buildings, charming streets, and impressive architectural landmarks such as the Sé Cathedral and the São João Baptista Fortress. Take a stroll along the promenade, visit the local museums, and soak in the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting city.

António Araújo

Monte Brasil - Embark on a hike to Monte Brasil, a volcanic peninsula located near Angra do Heroísmo. This natural reserve offers scenic trails, breathtaking viewpoints, and lush green landscapes. Climb to the summit for panoramic views of the island and its surroundings, including Angra do Heroísmo and the Atlantic Ocean.

Algar do Carvão: Explore the mesmerizing underground world of Algar do Carvão, a volcanic cave with a unique atmosphere. Descend into the depths of this lava tube and marvel at its stunning geological formations, including a picturesque lake at the bottom. Guided tours provide insight into the island's volcanic history and the cave's formation.

Serra do Cume Viewpoint: Visit the Serra do Cume Viewpoint, known for its breathtaking panoramic views of Terceira's patchwork fields. The viewpoint offers a remarkable vantage point to admire the agricultural landscapes, geometric patterns, and vibrant colors created by the divided farmlands.

Graciosa Island: Discovering Tranquility and Natural Splendor in the Azores

Graciosa, with its rolling hills and serene landscapes, offers a peaceful retreat. It is renowned for its vineyards, unique windmills, and the enchanting Furna do Enxofre, a volcanic cave worth exploring.

What to See in Graciosa Island

Unukorno 

Furna do Enxofre - Also known as the "cathedral" of volcanic cavities in the Azores, Furna do Enxofre is one of the places to include in a Graciosa Island tour. After collecting useful information at the Visitors Center, its entrance gate, head towards the furna, walking among the verdant vegetation of Caldeira.

@ Manuela Juliano

Furna da Maria Encantada - The access to Furna da Maria Encantada (also known as Furna do Castelo) is through a short trail whose beginning is marked by a small sign on the road surrounding the Caldeira. Venture through the cave shaped like a lava tube. At the end you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the green vegetation of the interior of the Caldeira.

Manuela Juliano | Porto Afonso Bay, Graciosa

Porto Afonso - Porto Afonso enchants those who visit it with its mysterious environment. This old fishing port located on the west coast of Graciosa, is nestled in the reddish cliffs of the parish of Guadalupe. Although it is currently unused, it is still possible to see the caves carved into the cliffs where the fishermen used to store their boats. In the summer, some people take the opportunity to cool off in the transparent waters of the bay.

São Jorge Island: Explore the Majestic Cliffs and Untamed Beauty of the Azores

São Jorge is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with its towering cliffs, deep valleys, and stunning viewpoints. It boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Azores.

Unmissable Places in São Jorge Island

Visit Azores

Fajã do Ouvidor and Poça Simão Dias - Fajã do Ouvidor is one of the most famous fajãs of São Jorge, not only for its beauty but also for being a well-known bathing resort among the local population.

Explore São Jorge 

Fajã da Ribeira da Areia and its volcanic arch - Fajã da Ribeira da Areia is one of the few lava fajãs on the island, that is, it was formed by a lava flow that entered the sea and not by a cliff fall. It is not as well known or visited as its neighbor Fajã do Ouvidor, but it is no less spectacular for that.

Luis Godinho 

Fajã dos Cubres - Unlike its imposing neighbor, which is only accessible on foot (the Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, which we will talk about in the next point), the beautiful Fajã dos Cubres can be reached by car.

Pico Island: Scaling New Heights in the Enchanting Azores Archipelago

Pico, home to Portugal's highest peak, Mount Pico, attracts adventurers and wine enthusiasts alike. The island's volcanic soil is ideal for grape cultivation, and its vineyards produce the famous Pico wine.

Pico Island, what to visit

ArchDaily

Cella Bar - Imagine the picture: feet on a volcanic island dominated by the black of the rock, a mountain of 2351 meters on your back, another island sprinkled with green in front (hello Faial), a shy April sun comforting your skin, a turquoise sea here, an oil-blue there, some stone faces that stare at you.

ArchDaily

Markedly inspired by the natural environment around the place, several characteristics of the island of Pico are present in the architecture of this building designed by architect Fernando Coelho (FCC - Arquitectura) with the interior design by Paulo Lobo and the sculpture of the exterior by Paulo Neves: the outline of the island, the rocks, the whales and the reference to the wine barrels. The Cella Bar was reborn in 2015, after the successful remodeling that unites the original basalt building (restaurant) to the new wooden project (bar). In 2016, it won the International Architecture Award for the Best Building of the Year in the "Hospitality" category, awarded by the ArchDaily website.

Mount Pico - Mount Pico, the majestic centerpiece of Pico Island in the Azores, stands as a testament to the raw power and beauty of nature. As the highest peak in Portugal, reaching a staggering altitude of 2,351 meters, it dominates the island's landscape and beckons adventurers to conquer its summit. The towering volcanic cone, covered in lush vegetation and adorned with rugged rocks, offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience.

Azores Getaways

Scaling Mount Pico is an exhilarating journey, where hikers navigate through ever-changing terrains, from dense forests to lunar-like sceneries above the clouds. The breathtaking panoramic views from the summit stretch across the Atlantic Ocean, revealing a tapestry of islands and the ethereal beauty of the Azores archipelago. Mount Pico is not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual one, as it represents the island's rich volcanic history and serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring forces that shape our planet. Whether standing at its base or conquering its peak, Mount Pico leaves an indelible mark on those who dare to venture into its majestic realm.

Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico - A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico (Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture) is a remarkable testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people of Pico Island in the Azores. This unique cultural landscape showcases the centuries-old tradition of vineyard cultivation on volcanic slopes, where small stone walls, known as "currais," protect the vineyards from the harsh Atlantic winds. The black lava soil, combined with the labor-intensive methods employed by generations of winegrowers, has resulted in the production of exceptional wines, particularly the renowned Verdelho. As visitors explore the landscape, they are immersed in a tapestry of vineyards spread across undulating hills, punctuated by quaint wineries and historic buildings.

The harmonious integration of human intervention and natural elements in the Pico Island vineyard culture creates a visual spectacle that celebrates the island's rich viticultural heritage and the passion of its inhabitants. It is an awe-inspiring sight, where the tenacity of the winemakers and the striking beauty of the volcanic landscape converge, offering a captivating experience for wine enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Faial Island, the Azores Blue Gem

Faial, often referred to as the "Blue Island," charms visitors with its colorful marina and the striking Capelinhos Volcano. It is a popular stopover for yachts crossing the Atlantic and offers a lively atmosphere with cozy cafes and restaurants.

Places to Visit in Faial Island

Marco C. Pereira - Sara Wong

City of Horta - Horta is not only the main city of the island of Faial, but also the seat of the Azores Regional Parliament.

Vulcão dos Capelinhos - The Capelinhos Volcano originated in an underwater eruption in 1957 and was active for 13 months, resulting in a harsh and unusual landscape.

Caldeira - Located in the center of Faial, Caldeira is the huge crater of the volcano that was the origin of the island.

You park your car in a parking lot, climb a few steps and go through a dark tunnel. Then it's a dazzle: you have the entire caldera in front of you, much bigger than you had imagined and much more beautiful than any photo you have seen.

Flores Island: Untamed Beauty of the Azores' Floral Paradise

The central island of Flores, known for its dramatic waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and lush vegetation, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Its unique beauty has earned it the distinction of being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Places to Visit in Flores Island

Santa Cruz das Flores - It is the main village of Flores and it is here that the main services of the island can be found. Take a walk through the center of the town, visit the old port and the port of Poças, the tourist office, the museum of Fábrica da Baleia do Boqueirão and the Flores Museum. These are the must-see museums, where you will get to know the history and traditions of this small pearl of the Atlantic.

Mais pra Lá

Set of 7 Lagoons - On the island of Flores there are 7 lagoons, all very different from each other, so they are worth exploring! They are all located in the central part of the island and on the same trip you can visit the 7 lagoons that have names related to their characteristics: the Lagoa Funda, Lagoa Comprida, Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa Seca, Lagoa Branca, Lagoa Negra and Lagoa da Lomba.

©AZORESPHOTOS.VISITAZORES

Morro Alto (High Hill) - It is the highest point of Flores, with more than 900m, and from here you can get a panoramic view of the island, including the lakes and green valleys with their streams.

Islets - On Flores, there are three islets: the Ilhéu Maria Vaz - located in Ponta Delgada, the Ilhéu de Monchique - the westernmost point of Europe, and the Ilhéu Alagado - in Santa Cruz das Flores.

Corvo Island, a Remote Charm

Iberian Escapes

Iberian Escapes

Lastly, Corvo, the smallest and most remote island, is an untouched gem of natural beauty. It boasts rugged cliffs, a stunning caldera, and a sense of isolation that enchants those who venture to its shores.

Corvo Island, what to visit

Shutterstock

Red Cave - Cova Vermelha (Red Cave) is the area of the Coroínha crater, formed basically by ash and fine reddish lapilli, known as bagacina. This magnificent crater is located to the south, the place where the lava flows that outcropped on the top of the cliff were released.

Fajã Lávica is located in Corvo Village, becoming the main flattened surface of the island, originated from the outflows of Morro da Fonte. The characteristic feature is the surface covered by deposits of pumice, lahars and other pyroclastic deposits related to the Caldeirão formation.

From São Miguel to Corvo, each of the Azores Islands offers a distinct experience, inviting travelers to explore their natural wonders, immerse themselves in local traditions, and create lasting memories in this captivating corner of the world.

What is the best month to visit the Azores?

The best month to visit the Azores can depend on personal preferences and the specific activities you have in mind. However, the months of May through September are generally considered the most favorable for tourism. During this period, the weather is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the islands.

If you're interested in whale watching, the best time to visit is from April to October when these magnificent creatures migrate through the Azorean waters.

How Many Days to Spend in the Azores?

The number of days to spend in the Azores depends on various factors, including your travel goals, available time, and the number of islands you plan to visit. While it's possible to have a fulfilling experience in just a few days, ideally, it is recommended to spend at least one week to explore the Azores and truly appreciate their beauty. This allows for a more relaxed pace, ample time for island hopping, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture and natural wonders of the archipelago.

If you have limited time, a minimum of 3-4 days can provide a taste of the Azores, allowing you to explore one or two islands in more depth. However, keep in mind that each island offers its own distinct landscapes and attractions, so if possible, allocating more time for your visit will allow you to experience the diversity of the Azores more fully.

Remember to consider travel logistics, as some islands may require a short flight or ferry ride to reach. It's also important to factor in weather conditions and the specific activities or festivals you wish to participate in, as certain seasons or months may offer unique experiences.

Which is prettiest island in Azores?

All of the islands in the Azores have their own unique beauty and charm, making it difficult to single out one as the "prettiest." Each island offers its own distinct landscapes, from dramatic volcanic terrain to lush green valleys, stunning coastlines, and picturesque towns. Beauty is subjective, and what one person finds most appealing may differ from another's perspective.

Karim Sakhibgareev | Unsplash

However, some commonly regarded as particularly beautiful islands in the Azores include São Miguel, with its breathtaking lakes and vibrant landscapes; Pico, known for its towering volcanic peak and vineyards; and Flores, celebrated for its stunning waterfalls and lush vegetation. These islands, among others in the archipelago, offer captivating scenery and an abundance of natural wonders.

Talk to us and customize your trip to the Azores, taking into consideration your preferences as a traveler, and time! We take care of everything for you.