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We were able to really thoroughly explore three islands in such a short amount of time. Since Faial had just experienced a storm, there was a huge influx of them. I would say out of all the islands we visited, Faial felt the most natural to me, with lots of open space, and not a ton of people. This ended up being our favorite cheese, and apparently it’s even sold in the US. We got up early on day 5 and took some photos around the lovely town of Angra do Heroismo then headed out to the airport for our final island in the Azores. We also ate at a restaurant that was recommended to us by a local called Os Moihnos.
Hotel Caravelas offers an outdoor pool and rooms with private balconies and air conditioning. At the time of writing, the site was closed due to the construction of a new visitors' center. There are thousands of pineapple greenhouses, but only a handful of plantations are open to visitors. Santa Barbara Beach, meanwhile, is the spot for epic surf waves, and Porto Formoso Beach offers a more tranquil vibe with its lush, green cliffs.
SATA Air Açores offers flights between each of the islands. Also consider flying into Terceira and out of São Miguel, or the other way around, and optionally including other islands. If you want to explore several islands, easiest is the central group, which features five islands in a tight group, either by plane or ferry. The free flight must be arranged at least 7 days in advance and can be booked through the SATA Air Açores website. Consider an “open jaw” ticket – returning from a different airport than your arrival one – so that you can see more islands without needing to circle back.
Youth discount on ferries with the Interjovem Card
Alison joined the Sunvil team in 2019 but has long been an extended member of our family, having sold our holidays as a travel agent for 25 years! Walking and hiking are the best ways to explore a destination's natural landscape. April offers a transition into spring, making it an ideal month for travel before the peak summer crowds arrive. May marks a sweet spot for travel, offering pleasant weather in many European destinations before the peak summer crowds arrive. All bookings, starting from 1st January 2025, will incur a city tax of 2 Euros per night, per person for guests aged 14 or older (including the day of their birthday), with a maximum of 3 consecutive nights.
And when it comes to the crime rate, it’s very low μπρουσκέτεσ με προσούτο on these islands so you can relax into your evenings. I am going to share with you the ultimate way to spend 10 days in the Azores. And as an experienced hiker, I advise getting some great outdoor gear before you make your way to the Azores. But it’s also, and perhaps more importantly, a paradise of fajãs, these stretches of land formed by lava on the coasts of the Azores Islands. We recommend Aldeia da Fonte, six volcanic stone houses sitting on a cliff, which will certainly make you feel closer to the island’s whaling tradition than to its winery.
Santa Maria — The Sunniest Island in the Azores
As you continue along the trail, you’ll reach the Caldeira viewpoint, where you’ll be treated to views of the island’s west coast. Starting at the Miradouro Pico Alto viewpoint, the trail offers breathtaking views of Santa Maria Island and the vast Atlantic Ocean. The final destination is the beautiful Piscinas da Maia, natural swimming pools created by volcanic rock, which is a perfect spot to relax after the hike. The Volta à Caldeira – Furna do Enxofre trail is one of the best hiking experiences in the Azores. Graciosa’s hiking trails allow you to explore the island from multiple perspectives, showcasing its natural beauty.
- Renting a car is a popular option, as it allows you to explore the islands at your own pace and on your own schedule.
- This can be a great base for those that want to explore Pico alongside Faial and Sao Jorge.
- You can spend some time walking around the town, and enjoying this one of a kind settlement.
- Whale watching is now one of the lures of the Azores and many people come to see the sperm whale swimming in the deep cerulean waters.
However, international airports are also on Faial (HOR IATA), Flores (FLW IATA), Santa Maria (SMA IATA), Terceira (TER IATA) islands. The main entry point is Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL IATA)—also called João Paulo II Airport—on the island of São Miguel. The official language in Azores is Portuguese, which is spoken by the native population with a very particular accent, which varies a bit from island to island. In the winter, though the temperatures are mild (cool, not cold), it can be very rainy, foggy, and windy, to the point that it is dangerous to go outside, and especially dangerous to hike. However, if going to the beach is just one of the activities you will do, it should be just perfect. Daily maximum temperatures usually range 15–25 °C (59–77 °F).
The island also offers spectacular diving spots, including the sunken remains of old shipwrecks and vibrant marine life. Whether you're immersing yourself in local festivities, exploring underground lava formations, or enjoying the island's unique culinary delights, Terceira promises an unforgettable experience. The island’s coastline is dotted with natural swimming pools, perfect for a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. Beyond the city, the island’s volcanic origins can be explored in places like Algar do Carvão, a mesmerizing lava cave adorned with stalactites and a crystal-clear underground lake.
And, one thing that a lot of people don’t realise is that wine grows in the Azores. Madeira doesn’t have classic sandy beaches – it’s mostly cliffs and coves – but it makes up for it with unique swimming spots. Hikers will love both – but if you’re short on time or want stress-free trails, go with Madeira. The Azores feel more raw and adventurous – there are plenty of trail marked paths, it’s just all a little more spread out than on Madeira. Both island groups offer unforgettable walking experiences, but they differ in style. Summer (June to September) is the best time to go if you want drier trails and less weather roulette.
Most people who visit Flores – another UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – believe that this is the most beautiful island in the Azores, comparing it to such destinations as Hawaii, Switzerland and Ireland. The proximity to an urban area doesn’t taint the beach-going experience at all, and the bay is like a shelter. Even though some of these fajãs can be reached by car, being able to get to them as locals did in the old days, via official trekking trails, makes São Jorge the best island for hiking.
The Unspoiled Nature: Top Natural Landscapes of the Azores
So riveting, sly, and sophisticated is Azor, it’s incredible to think that it’s Swiss filmmaker Andreas Fontana’s debut feature. As we move from person to person the impact of the troubled times becomes clearer, as people struggle to hang on to what they have or grab what they can from the turmoil. Set in Argentina during an era of dictatorship, Azor is about the people who learn to benefit in such situations. Attending a local festival in the Azores is a joyful experience.
Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. FLIGHTS When booking flights, please note that your arrival airport is Ponta Delgada (PDL) and your departure airport is Lajes (TER).
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