Head almost 900 miles off the coast of Portugal and you’ll discover one of Europe’s last great secrets. In terms of geology and scenery, the Azores have more in common with Hawaii than Europe. Huge cliffs rise from the sea whilst swathes of forest cover the slopes of volcanoes. Sounds good doesn’t it? But what are the top 10 things to see in the Azores?
Photo by: Schlierner/Fotolia
Top 10 things to see in the Azores
- Whale watching
- Hike Mount Pico
- Sete Cidades
- Bird watching
- Discover Azorean wine
- Spas
- Golf
- Paragliding
- Angra do Heroismo
- Get away from it all
Lying in the middle of the Atlantic, it should come as no surprise that you’re likely to see whales and dolphins on your visit. You’ve got a 98% chance of seeing a whale, so there’s no excuse not to give this trip a try!
Certainly one for the fitter and crazier tourist, Mount Pico stands at 2,371m (7,713ft). It’s the highest mountain in Portugal, let alone the Azores! It’s a tough but rewarding climb as the summit offers breath-taking views. For the ultimate experience, take a sleeping bag and spend the night in the crater and ready yourself for a stunning sunrise.
The twin craters either side of Sete Cidades, on Sao Miguel are truly stunning.
Photo by: Lukasz Janyst/Fotolia
For a special experience, hire a bike and cycle the track around the caldera above Lagoa de Santiago. You’ll be met with panoramic views of the lakes and island. At the end, head down towards Ponta da Ferraria for a swim in the sea heated by the volcano.
If you’re interested in birding, the Azores are home to some of Europe’s rarest species. You may spot the Azores Bullfinch or Monteiro’s storm petrel and plenty more. São Miguel is certainly the best place to start.
Head to Pico to sample the best on offer. There’s a great museum in Biscoitos on Terceira with its own vineyard. Tours are free and include a tasting! What more could you ask for?
Thanks to the volcanic landscape, the Azores are home to a number of spas such as Termas da Ferraria on São Miguel. With thermal salt water pools and a selection of spa packages to choose from, you’re sure to emerge refreshed and rejuvenated.
Popular throughout the year, choose from traditional golf or pasture golf. Gaining a steady following, pasture golf is played away from traditional courses in fields. It’s good fun but certainly different! There are 2 traditional golf courses on São Miguel and 1 on Terceira. All provide rental equipment should you not wish to take your own clubs.
For a completely different view of the islands, why not try paragliding? With stunning launch sites and numerous calderas to fly over, paragliding in the Azores is a wonderful experience. Sete Cidades is a particularly popular spot, especially in the summer.
Founded in the 15th century, Angra do Heroismo is a gorgeous town on the coast of Terceira.
Photo by: eyewave/Fotolia
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts a rich history which can be discovered in its excellent museum.
Head to one of the smaller islands such as Corvo and relax in its peaceful surroundings. Home to around 1,000 people, this tiny islands still relies on farming and only received electricity in 1973.
What are you waiting for?
If you’re planning on visiting, tour the sights with a hire car? Or for more unusual holidays, check out these lesser known spots.
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