The Azores: What to see in one of the most beautiful natural corners of Europe?
Imagine a place where volcanic lakes are hidden among emerald green hills, the ocean stretches to the horizon, whales and dolphins swim by your boat, and the air smells of hydrangeas, tea, and fresh sea salt.
Sound like a faraway exotic destination?
Actually these are Azores Islands – an autonomous region of Portugal, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
The archipelago consists of nine volcanic islands, each with its own character, landscapes and experiences. Here you will find green mountains, crater lakes, natural thermal pools, volcanic landscapes and some of the most impressive whale and dolphin watching opportunities in Europe.
But what makes the Azores so special?
And why is this a destination that deserves a place on every traveler's list?
In this detailed guide to Journey Group We'll show you what to see, what to try, and how to prepare for a trip to this green paradise in the Atlantic Ocean.
The Azores – the short answer
If you are looking for:
🌋 volcanic landscapes and crater lakes → The Azores are the perfect place.
🐋 whales, dolphins and ocean adventures → this is one of the most exciting European destinations.
🥾 hiking trails and wildlife → you will hardly find a more suitable place.
🌿 tranquility away from mass tourism → The Azores will surprise you.
🍲 authentic Portuguese cuisine with local character → here food is part of the adventure.
And the best part?
The Azores are not just a place you visit. They are a place you experience.
Why visit the Azores?
The Azores are one of those destinations that can hardly be described in just one word.
They are simultaneously:
- oceanic islands;
- volcanic world;
- natural paradise;
- a place for adventure;
- a peaceful European destination.
Here you can walk around a volcanic lake in the morning, take a boat trip into the Atlantic Ocean in the afternoon in search of whales and dolphins, and dine on local specialties in the evening.
And all this just one trip away.
Sao Miguel – the island to start with
If you are visiting the Azores for the first time, Sao Miguel is a great starting point.
This is the largest island in the archipelago and offers an incredible variety of natural attractions – volcanic lakes, green mountains, thermal springs, tea plantations, beautiful coastal views and numerous hiking trails.
It is here that you will find some of the most recognizable landscapes of the Azores.
Sete Sidades – one of the most photogenic places in the Azores
Imagine a huge volcanic crater covered in greenery, with two lakes glistening in it.
This is Sete Sidadesh.
One of the most impressive places on São Miguel looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale.
One lake has a blue hue, the other is greenish. From the panoramic platforms you can see the entire volcanic crater and the surrounding hills.
This is where the phone almost comes out of the pocket by itself.
📸 Photo is required.
Advice from Journey Group: Don't rush to leave the panoramic platforms. In the Azores, the views are part of the experience itself.
Furnace – the place where the Earth is alive
If there is a place that best shows the volcanic nature of the Azores, it is Furnas.
Here the earth literally "breathes".
You will see geothermal springs, steam, volcanic pools and places where you can feel the heat coming from the depths of the earth.
But Furnas offers more than just impressive natural views.
One of the most famous traditional dishes of the Azores is prepared here – cozidu das Furnache.
It is a rich meat stew that is cooked slowly underground using natural geothermal heat.
Yes, you read that correctly.
Underground.
And this is precisely what makes lunch in Furnas one of the most interesting culinary experiences on the islands.
Thermal springs – relaxation amidst volcanic nature
After a day full of walks and discoveries, there is nothing better than warm mineral water.
São Miguel is famous for its thermal springs and natural pools.
Imagine:
🌿 greenery around you;
♨️ warm mineral water;
🌋 volcanic landscape;
🌧️ light Atlantic rain;
☕ and complete peace of mind.
This is one of those experiences that is difficult to describe with a photo.
You just have to experience it.
Whales and Dolphins – The Atlantic Ocean Up Close
One of the most exciting experiences in the Azores is whale and dolphin watching.
The archipelago is known for its rich marine life and the opportunities for organized boat tours in the Atlantic Ocean.
Imagine:
You get on the boat.
There is only ocean around you.
There is no noise from city life.
Just water and horizon.
And suddenly the captain slows down.
You look out to sea.
And you see a whale.
Or a group of dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
This is a moment that doesn't need an Instagram filter.
It just remains in the memories.
Pico – the island of the volcano
If São Miguel is the green heart of the Azores, Picou has a completely different character.
The Pico mountain of the same name dominates here – the highest mountain in Portugal.
The volcanic landscape creates the feeling that you have entered another world.
The island is also famous for its vineyards, grown on the black volcanic terrain.
People who love:
- the mountains;
- nature;
- adventures;
- photography;
- local wine;
- the unusual landscapes.
Faial – the island of blue hydrangeas
Fayal is known for its beautiful green landscapes, blue hydrangeas and impressive volcanic terrains.
One of the most interesting natural attractions here is the volcano Capelinush, which looks different from the rest of the island.
The black volcanic earth, the greenery and the Atlantic Ocean create an incredible contrast.
A city Horta is famous for its marina and the maritime atmosphere, which is an integral part of island life.
What to try in the Azores?
A trip is not complete without the local cuisine.
And there is something to try in the Azores.
Cozidou das Furnache
Volcanic heat + traditional recipe = one of the most interesting culinary experiences on the archipelago.
Fresh seafood
The ocean is literally on your doorstep, so fish and seafood are an integral part of the local cuisine.
Azorean cheeses
The islands have a long tradition of cheese production.
They are a great complement to local cuisine and a glass of Portuguese wine.
Tea
Yes, tea.
The Azores are famous for their tea plantations, especially on São Miguel.
A walk through the tea fields is another one of those experiences you wouldn't expect to find in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Best time to visit the Azores
The Azores have a mild oceanic climate, but the weather can be changeable.
This means that it is entirely possible to see sun, clouds, and brief rain within the same day.
However, it is this variability that is part of the charm of the islands.
Spring
The nature is extremely green, and the flowers are beginning to turn the islands into a real garden.
Summer
A suitable period for walks, sea activities, boat tours and exploring the islands.
Autumn
The islands are calmer, and nature retains its beauty.
Winter
Temperatures are relatively mild compared to many other European destinations, making the Azores an interesting choice for a winter escape.
Advice from Journey Group: Don’t plan your trip just around „perfect weather.“ In the Azores, weather is part of the adventure.
What to take with you?
Changeable weather means good preparation is important.
We recommend that you wear:
- comfortable walking shoes;
- waterproof jacket;
- light clothing in layers;
- sunscreen;
- sunglasses;
- hat;
- small backpack;
- swimsuit;
- water bottle;
- phone or camera.
And most importantly:
Leave room in your luggage for adventures.
Azores or Madeira?
The Azores are often compared to another popular Portuguese destination – Madeira.
Both places offer impressive scenery, ocean views, and a mild climate.
But their character is different.
If you are looking for a wilder, calmer and more environmentally friendly experience, Azores are a great choice.
If you prefer a combination of nature, urban atmosphere and a more developed tourist infrastructure, Madeira may be more suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many islands are there in the Azores archipelago?
The Azores archipelago consists of nine islands – Sao Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, Graciosa, Sao Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo.
Which is the best island for a first visit?
Sao Miguel is an excellent starting point for a first trip, as it is the largest island and offers a wide variety of natural attractions and activities.
Can whales be observed?
Yes. Whale and dolphin watching is among the most popular experiences in the Azores.
Are the Azores suitable for nature lovers?
Definitely. Hiking trails, volcanic lakes, thermal springs, ocean adventures, and impressive landscapes make the archipelago an excellent choice for nature lovers.
What is the typical dish of the Azores?
One of the most famous local dishes is cozidu das Furnache, which is prepared using the natural geothermal heat in the Furnas region.
Are the Azores suitable for family travel?
Yes. With a properly chosen itinerary, the Azores can be a great destination for a family trip, especially for people who love nature and active experiences.
The Azores are waiting for you
Somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, there is a place where volcanoes meet the sea, greenery is everywhere, and nature dictates the rhythm of the day.
These are Azores Islands.
And if your next trip needs to be different from all the others, maybe it's time to look not to the most popular destination, but to one that still retains a sense of discovery.
Journey Group – Journey Group Ltd.
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