Azores





*UNSPOILED NATURE*



The Azores are often described as "Europe meets Hawaii" with a mix of Iceland's striking volcanic landscapes, but those who visit these islands will quickly realize that they are truly unique beyond comparison. Having remained relatively off the radar for decades, the islands remained largely untouched and undiscovered by tourists, perfectly preserving their natural beauty and authenticity. The locals appreciate and respect the nature of these islands and want to preserve athem just as much as they want to share them with the world. Sustainability and preservation are such a priority here in the Azores, that the destination has been recognized as one of the "Most Sustainable Tourism Destinations in the World." The pure, unspoiled landscapes of these islands attract visitors from far and wide -- and with good reason. So, what are the most impressive views and natural landscapes you can see in the Azores? We break it down, island by island, with this list of Best Natural Landscapes of the Azores Islands here.

*Sete Cidades in São Miguel Island, Azores*


One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping crater full of lakes has become one of the most emblematic images of the Azores. There are (amazingly) 11 lakes in total around Sete Cidades, but they can only be seen from certain angles at the different miradouros (viewpoints) in the area. To fully appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views over the mystical blue and green lakes, head to the Vista do Rei viewpoint. While you're there, make your way over to the Boca do Inferno for some jaw-dropping 360 views overlooking the Lagoa do Canario and the other lagoons below, Sete Cidades village, and an expansive view of the Atlantic beyond the ridge of the crater.

Lagoa do Fogo in São Miguel Island, Azores


Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into "Lagoon of Fire", is a crater lake at the center of São Miguel Island. This Protected Natural Reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far from the civilization and noise below. Lagoa do Fogo's crystal-clear turquoise waters are surrounded by tall mountain peaks, lush vegetation and white sand on all sides. Take in the magnificent views at any of the viewpoints around the mountaintop, or if you're feeling adventurous, venture out on one of the many hiking trails that take you down to the lake's edge.

Furnas in São Miguel Island, Azores


Furnas Valley is famous worldwide for its bubbling caldeiras and hot springs where visitors can relax with a thermal bath at any time of the year, but this mystical volcanic valley is full of interesting surprises. Visitors can take in impressive panoramic views of the lake and village from the Pico do Ferro viewpoint. Head to the lake for a walk around its perimeter and surrounding parks and gardens, and then watch as restaurant workers pull steaming hot pots of Cozido (a traditional Portuguese stew) out of the fumaroles for lunch. Make your way to the charming village of Furnas to enjoy some cozido, and then take a walk around the center of town to see the bubbling sulfur pits and try the mineral spring water spouting around every corner. Nature here is constantly shifting and changing before your eyes as you watch this dormant volcano breathe with activity all around you.

Vila Franca do Campo Islet in São Miguel Island, Azores


A picturesque nature reserve located approximately 1km off the coast, the Ilhéu de Vila Franca features a salt water inlet created by volcanic crater (perfect for snorkeling!) This little islet is rich in marine biodiversity and home to many unique species. To protect them all, the islet is only open to visitors during the summer months and is limited to 400 visitors per day.

Tea Plantations in São Miguel Island, Azores


The Azores Islands are known for their breathtaking natural beauty, unique volcanic properties, delicious food and endless potential for adventure. Though tea has been grown here for almost 200 years, the Azores have quietly reigned as Europe's secret tea capital. In the middle of the Atlantic, roughly 900 miles from the coast of mainland Portugal, you'll find Europe's only two commercial tea plantations sprawling along the hillsides of São Miguel Island's north coast.

São Lourenço Bay in Santa Maria Island, Azores
Santa Maria Island is often referred to as the "Algarve of the Azores" and one visit to the dreamy white sand coastline of São Lourenço Bay is enough to understand why. The calm, crystal clear waters are protected by steep, dramatic cliffs on either side, with sweeping vineyards growing up the hillsides behind the bay.


Barreiro da Faneca in Santa Maria Island, Azores
Designated the "Red Desert of the Azores", the Protected Landscape Area of the Barreiro da Faneca is a fascinating sight and a unique piece of geological history. The reddish clay was formed by lava flows, volcanic ashes, and 3 to 4 million years' worth of warm, humid weather -- a rare and beautiful natural landscape


Pico Mountain in Pico Island, Azores


Standing tall at 2,351 m (7,713 ft), Mount Pico looms taller than any other peak in the Azores and is in fact the highest point in all of Portugal. You don't need to hike this impressive mountain to appreciate her beauty, though it is one of the most popular hiking attractions in Europe; Mount Pico can be seen from nearly any spot on Pico Island, as well as nearby islands Faial and São Jorge, and on sunny days, she can even be seen from Terceira and Graciosa.

Fajãs of São Jorge Island, Azore
São Jorge is known for its beautiful "fajãs" and coastal views. A fajã is a permanent debris field constructed from landslides or lava flows and there are more than 40 on this island alone. Many can only be accessed through foot trails or by ATVs, but even if you can't make the trek, they are worth admiring from one of the many viewpoints overlooking them all around the island. From the Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo, the most famous because of its delicious local clams, to the Fajã dos Cubres, with its sparkling lagoon, and the Fajã do Ouvidor with its natural ocean pools, you can plan your trip to São Jorge around a fajã itinerary alone!


Serra do Cume in Terceira Island, Azores


One of the most popular attractions on Terceira Island, the spectacular Serra do Cume is actually the result of a volcanic eruption. This flat "patchwork" plain was once a volcanic crater, and is now a large stretch of vibrant green pasture land divided by basalt rock walls. At its highest point, Serra do Cume rises to 545 m (1,788 ft) in height, allowing for wide, panoramic observation and excellent visibility. From one of its faces you can see the city of Praia da Vitória and its bay, and Lajes Air Base. On the other, the view is of the immense plain and its vegetation, beyond the natural stone walls.

Algar do Carvão in Terceira Island, Azores


Descend 90 m (300 ft) down into one of the only volcanoes in the world you can enter and explore! Algar do Carvão is an ancient lava tube and volcanic chimney formed approximately 3,200 years ago and it is quite the sight to behold. This popular spot is a natural reserve with limited visiting hours, so be sure to plan ahead and put it at the top of your list.

Monte Brasil in Terceira Island, Azores


The Monte Brasil is the result of a collapsed volcanic cone that ended up attaching to the beautiful city of Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira Island capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Monte Brasil functions as a shelter to the city, and you can get to the top of it -- you'll be gifted with a 360º view over Angra and the island.

Capelinhos Volcano in Faial Island, Azores


Capelinhos Volcano is located on the western cape of Faial Island, and it is the site of the Azores' most recent volcanic eruption which occured from September 1957 - October 1958. This volcanic eruption started underwater, eventually boiling to the surface. The volcano spewed enough ash, sand and lava to form a new land mass, almost completely burying the nearby lighthouse. Now its lighthouse and underground Visitors Center serve as a popular landmark, and in fact, the Visitors Center was constructed underground so it wouldn't interfere with the stunning volcanic landscape that evokes the feeling of being on Mars. It's full of amazing expositions focused not only on the Capelinhos eruption, but also on volcanic activity in the Azores and beyond.

Caldeira of Faial Island, Azores
The Caldeira do Faial Nature Reserve is a sanctuary of rare, endemic flora of the Azores. It is a 400 m (1,312 ft) deep crater resulting from the eruption of the largest volcano on the island. Enjoy this view from the viewpoint of Caldeira do Faial, or head out on one of the trails that wind around this impressive landscape for a different perspective.



Windmills of Graciosa Island, Azores
The Flemish-influenced windmills of the island are spread a bit all over the island, and some of them serve nowadays as local accommodations for visitors who intend to have a unique and authentic experience.

Furna do Enxofre in Graciosa Island, Azores
On Graciosa Island, get ready to experience a lava cave of unique beauty. Furna do Enxofre's main feature is its impressive perfectly vaulted ceiling. Before entering the cave, you will walk through a mystical 200 m (656 ft) tunnel and then a 183-step staircase leads you further down on a descent into the Earth. The play of light inside Furna do Enxofre makes this natural setting a complete visual spectacle while allowing you to clearly observe the fascinating details of volcanic activity up close.

Poço das Alagoinhas in Flores Island, Azores
Although Flores Island got its name from the immense stretches of flowers that blanketed the island when settlers first arrived, the main show-stopping attraction of the island is actually its many waterfalls. Poço das Alagoinhas, which is also known as Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, is an unbelievable cliffside with 20 waterfalls cascading through lush vegetation, down into a lake that perfectly mirrors this breathtaking view. Poço das Alagoinhas is only accessible by hiking trail, which makes it an even more special and untouched place where the only thing you hear is the rush of running water falling and the birds singing (and maybe a few frogs!)


The Seven Lakes of Flores Island, Azores
A tour through Flores would not be complete without a visit to each of its seven lagoons. The viewpoint of Lagoa Negra & Lagoa Comprida promises to be one of your favorite places on the whole island, but the lagoons of Rasa and Funda, Lagoa da Lomba, and the Branca and Seca lagoons are not far behind.

Caldeirão in Flores Island, Azores
One of the Azores most beautiful natural landscapes can be found on the smallest and most remote island of Corvo. The island's only paved road leads to the breathtaking Caldeirão, a crater that resulted from the island's single volcano of origin. Boasting an impressive 3.7 km (2.3 mi) circumference and 300 m (985 ft) depth, this gigantic crater can be reached by spectacular hiking trails or from the viewpoint above. The crater also has two lakes with a few tiny islets, which locals like to say represent the islands of the archipelago.

and many many more...
























Other cities to explore


*Lisbon*	*Porto*	*Alentejo*	*Madeira*	*Algarve*


Home I About Us I Inspiration I Luxury Wellness I River Cruises I Useful Links I Contact