An often overlooked archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic, The Azores are packed with natural wonders. Verdant countryside, dramatic hilly landscapes, tea plantations, vineyards, volcanic lakes and one of the largest whale sanctuaries in the world are just the beginning.

Across the 9 different islands of this autonomous region of Portugal, there’s plenty to see and do. Let Portugal By TravelTailors show you what’s possible.

Angra do Heroismo

Angra do Heroismo is the capital of the island of Terceira and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its picturesque streets reflect years of history as an important trade center. Influenced by visitors and traders over the years, there are also signs of great wealth, from manor houses to palaces like Bettencourt.

Explore the history & gardens of Angra do Heroismo

Easy to explore at your own pace, wander the city's highlights and soak in its charms. Visit the city’s first fortification, São Sebastião Fort which played an important role in the island’s defense. Explore the Marina and enjoy views over the beautiful Bay of Angra and pop in to visit the Misericórdia Church.

Then get your nature fix at the Jardim Duque da Terceira, the island’s most impressive Botanical Gardens, boasting not only an incredibly diverse array of plant species but fantastic views over the city. Finally, end the day at Silveira Natural Pools and enjoy a relaxing swim.

Explore Terceira

Get out of the city and explore the island’s natural and cultural highlights. Visit beautiful beaches and bathing spots, small parishes, and magnificent viewpoints, all while enjoying the sights on foot. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and continue to visit the island’s oldest church and the Wine Museum.

Pico

Pico is the second largest island in The Azores and boasts Portugal’s highest mountain at 2,351masl. Mineral rich soil and a hot, dry climate make Pico a paradise for wine growing, especially Verdelho. Extensive lava fields cross the landscape and have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From vineyard to coast

Explore Pico, starting with the wine museum in the Convento do Carmo, a perfect introduction to the wines and protected landscapes of the region. Continue to the coast, admiring geological formations and natural pools, stopping in small villages along the way.

In the afternoon, discover Pico’s central plateau and its many lakes, before finally visiting the Vineyard Culture Landscape.

Whale watching from Pico

Begin with a briefing from local biologists and learn about the 25 species of cetaceans that live in these waters. Then board your boat and head out for a morning of whale watching! Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles, seabirds and other marine life too. As with all wildlife encounters, sightings are never guaranteed but are common.

Full day visit to Faial Island

Faial is a small island that was discovered by Flemish settlers in 1432. Its name comes from the many beech trees that dot the island, but it’s also nicknamed Blue Island for its incredible mass of blue hydrangeas. The island was an important trading post and a safe haven between Europe and the Americas.

The highest point of the island provides spectacular views across the other islands in the archipelago. Begin your journey here and then marvel at the massive volcanic crater close by, an ecosystem in itself that’s surrounded by hydrangeas, cedars, junipers, beech trees, ferns and mosses.

Continue to the Capelinhos Volcano on the western coast. The volcano last erupted in 1958, leaving incredible lava fields behind that have shaped the landscape. Visit the interpretation centre and continue climbing to reach the lighthouse for more standout views.

The rest of the day will spoil you with volcanic landscapes, coastal panoramas, vineyards, sulphur pits and hot springs. End at the picturesque town of Horta with its many churches and museums.

Coffee plantations & nature in São Jorge

A 1-hour boat trip from Pico brings you to the long and narrow island of São Jorge, which was formed entirely from volcanic eruptions. Its rugged coastline provides plenty of drama as it plunges into the sea. Its pastures are a paradise for dairy farming and the island is known for its speciality cheese, which is still manufactured using traditional techniques.

Hiking on this island is fantastic, with intriguing landscapes, and dramatic coastline. After a short walk, visit the towns of Velas and Calheta, before exploring a coffee plantation. Get to know more about the coffee harvesting process as it goes from bean to cup, before returning to Pico.

São Miguel

São Miguel is an island blessed with remarkable volcanic landscapes. It’s a great choice for travellers who enjoy active adventures, like hiking, sailing, fishing, mountain biking, or kayaking, along with many others. Expect geysers, natural hot springs and other incredible nature as you explore this gem in The Azores archipelago.

Kayaking & hiking on São Miguel

Head to the island of São Miguel and begin with some showstopping viewpoints over the north and south of the island. Marvel as lakes glitter below you, taking notice of the Green and Blue Lagoons, considered some of Portugal’s most beautiful natural attractions.

Climb to Lagoa do Fogo and experience the nature of the Caldeira Velha, a biosphere reserve with an incredible wealth of flora and fauna. The lake sits at the bottom of a volcanic crater, with white sandy beaches and crystalline waters, making for a dazzling sight. Spend some time enjoying the area’s nature, before returning to your hotel along the mountainous coastal road.

Horseback Riding & tea plantations on São Miguel

Enjoy a 2-hour horseback ride through a 17th Century estate. The grounds are beautiful, with mountains, valleys and some ocean views. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, the landscape has something suitable for you and the tour will be completely tailored. Ride through villages, pastures and along historic stone walls.

Continue to a tea plantation, the oldest and only one in Europe at the time of writing. The plantation has been in the same family for five generations and produces both black and green tea. It’s entirely free from chemicals as the environment of the island means it remains safe from the insects that other teas are attacked by. Learn about the tea process and sample some of the teas grown on the site.

Furnas Valley & Terra Nostra Gardens

Begin at Furnas Village, home to a lake with volcanic geysers. Admire the geysers and some spots of natural beauty before sampling the local speciality, Cozido das Furnas, a kind of stew.

Continue to the Terra Nostra Gardens where you can explore the botanical gardens, before enjoying a well-earned swim in their thermal baths.

If you’d like to learn more about travel in The Azores, get in touch to set up some destination training with us and Portugal by TravelTailors . Alternatively, we can share some itineraries and resources which may help your team sell trips to this magical archipelago.

Adventures In The Azores with Portugal by TravelTailors