Nine islands scattered across the mid-Atlantic, the Azores lie around 1,500 km (932 miles) west of Portugal's mainland. This remote archipelago melds a mild but capricious climate with a dramatic and brilliantly verdant landscape.
Volcanic in origin and astonishingly rich in biodiversity, the region is celebrated for its outstanding natural beauty, cultural and historical allure, and wealth of exciting and sustainable adventure tourism options. Paul Bernhardt reveals why these incredible islands should be your next destination.
DK Top 10 Azores
View BookIt's full of natural wonders
Lagoa das Sete Cidades in São Miguel is the stuff of postcards, and one of Portugal’s most endearing landmarks. The Montanha do Pico, standing at 2,351 m (7,708 ft) tall, is Portugal’s highest mountain. On a clear day, hiking the summit is rewarded with a jaw-dropping panorama of the Atlantic Ocean.
On Terceira don’t forget to venture underground to investigate the subterranean spectacle that is Algar do Carvão, a vast ancient lava tube hidden deep in the heart of the island.
But perhaps the Azores’ most coveted geosite is the Capelinhos Volcano. Sited in the far west of Faial, the stark, lunar landscape you see today is the result of a series of violent eruptions that took place in 1957–58.
You can spy some amazing wildlife
One of the world’s best whale- and dolphin-watching hotspots, some 28 different species of cetaceans have been sighted in the mild, nutrient-rich waters off the islands.
The majority of these majestic mammals arrive early in the year for the warm summer season. The sperm whale, however, is a much-loved resident. Often seen together with pods of playful dolphins, admiring these beautiful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat is an amazing and humbling experience.
In fact, this vast marine ecosystem is home to a whole variety of incredible sea life, such as gentle loggerhead turtles, mild-mannered groupers, beady-eyed rays and sleek, graceful sharks.
The islands are also teeming with birdlife. Out at sea, petrels and shearwaters skim the choppy surface, while on land the rare Azores bullfinch is a prize draw. Look out, too, for the Santa Maria goldcrest, Europe's smallest bird.
There's a great wine culture
One of the great pleasures in exploring the archipelago is discovering its wines. On Pico, UNESCO has declared the island’s coastal vineyards a World Heritage Site. Cleverly designed museums explain the island’s viniculture and spotlight the delicious wines produced.
Biscoitos, on Terceira, is known for its smooth and rich Verdelho wines that include the highly regarded Chico Maria. Graciosa, meanwhile, is home to the respected Pedras Brancas label. Treat your palate to a wine-tasting tour or enjoy a glass or two in your favourite restaurant.
It's home to traditional festivals
Time your visit a month or so after Easter and you’re likely to stumble across one of the Festas do Espírito Santo – festivals associated with the Holy Spirit. These exuberant religious ceremonies take place in towns and villages across the archipelago.
The most revered celebration, however, is Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres (Lord Holy Christ of Miracles). Centred on Ponta Delgada’s 16th-century Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, this spectacular procession takes place on the fifth Sunday after Easter.
The islands boast some unique sights
Don't miss Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira’s old town. This sightseeing marvel is blessed with a historic centre of remarkable elegance that's truly deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage status. Rich in architectural styles, it’s a destination shaped over centuries by European, American and Asian cultural influences. Wander the narrow streets and leafy squares and take time to absorb its charm and splendor.
You can get active outdoors
The Azores are packed with outdoor activities. Excellent hiking trails snake their way across every island allowing you to wander to you heart's content. Next, hop on two wheels and cycle quiet country lanes or indulge in a leg-pumping mountain challenge. Dramatic escarpments and cascading waterfalls present the more daring with plenty of adrenaline-fuelled canyoning opportunities.
Watersports also abound. Kayakers can glide across pristine, mirror-like lakes or craggy coastal islets, while surfers can ride Atlantic rollers year-round. Sailing is a traditional pastime here – try island hopping by boat to explore the Azores in style.
For birdwatchers, the Azores is a veritable open-air guidebook of rare and endemic species. Arrive during the autumn migration and focus your binoculars on exotic North American visitors, birds on the wing that include the handsome yellow-billed cuckoo.
When to go
For more destination tips, detailed maps and need to know information, check out our DK Eyewitness Top 10 Azores.
DK Top 10 Azores
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