Azores Islands - The Hawaii of Europe: Escape there with Portugal by TravelTailors
Far out in the Atlantic ocean lie nine unspoiled volcanic islands, each with its own individual blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and sustainable stays - we asked Portugal by TravelTailors to take us on an escape to the “Hawaii of Europe”, and they’ve delivered in their usual impeccable style! The Azores archipelago is an off-the-beaten-track gem of truly stunning natural beauty. Think volcanic landscapes lush with greenery and dotted with pristine crater lakes and bubbling thermal waters. An azure ocean populated by whales and dolphins and dramatic cliffs that drop to tranquil beaches. And a fascinating cultural heritage paired with a fabulous local cuisine that makes the most of the freshest of ingredients.
We’ve got just the DMC to introduce you to the best travel possibilities available in this Atlantic jewel - our friends at Portugal by TravelTailors, who can bring their customary depth of local knowledge and unrivalled range of unique experiences to bear as they craft the Azores adventure of a lifetime for your guests.
A potted history of the Azores
In 1431, a Portuguese navigator named Gonçalo Velho landed on Santa Maria island, the closest to mainland Portugal and claimed it for his country - discovering nearby São Miguel soon after. These two islands were the starting points for the settlement of the Azores by people from the Algarve and the Alentejo region seeking new land to cultivate. They began with oranges, and then diversified into tobacco, coffee, tea, pineapples and, famously, dairy farming.
Ever since, the Azores has been home to lots and lots of cows - to this day, the best cheese, milk and butter is farmed here. And this is still a place of unique agriculture - São Jorge boasts the only coffee plantation in Europe, while São Miguel has one of the largest tea plantations on the continent.
The best Azorean adventures - and the weather!
What can guests expect to experience from a trip to the Azores? With plenty for couples and families alike, the islands are a nature lover’s paradise, offering:
Active adventures galore (including diving, kayaking, canyoning, horse riding and biking)
Stunning landscapes
Pristine beaches
Some of the best whale watching in the world
Plenty of old world culture and fascinating festivals to discover
Whale watching is a must, with the archipelago being one of the world’s premier destinations for spotting these magnificent creatures. Diving in the crystal-clear waters reveals an underwater world teeming with marine life, while kayaking, canyoning, and horseback riding offer more ways to explore the islands’ diverse landscapes.
Those looking for good-quality stays with a luxe, boutique feel will be in their element, with many accommodations set in idyllic locations, with stunning views and easy access to the natural attractions of their island home. And the food here really is a highlight, with each island offering its own culinary specialties - from the tender Cozido das Furnas, a mouthwatering stew slow-cooked in volcanic earth to the freshest of seafood delicacies and, of course, those Portuguese desserts!
But what about the climate?
The weather here is mild all year-round, making it a destination for all seasons. But its mid-Atlantic location means it can be very changeable - guests should be prepared to experience all the weathers; sometimes all in one day! And the best time to visit? It has to be during the summer months when the weather is warmer, making it the perfect time to enjoy the ocean and outdoor activities.
Explore the Islands…
How much time should you spend discovering the Azores?
For guests with time to only visit one island, São Miguel is the one - and to see all it has to offer with enough time to relax and take it all in, Portugal by TravelTailors recommend allowing 4-5 days. For those with more scope for exploration, allow for at least 7-10 days to give enough time to island hop and see, stay and experience the best of the archipelago as a whole.
For longer tours, Portugal by TravelTailors recommend beginning with the islands of São Miguel, Pico, Terceira and São Jorge - these are the four largest and easiest to reach and travel between, with the best accommodation options on offer. But of course, any and all of the islands can be added on - the suggestion being to begin a wider adventure on Faial (the one with the hydrangeas!) and then move out to the more remote islands of Flores, Corvo, Santa Maria and Graciosa.
São Miguel: The Green Island
São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores, famed for its lush landscapes and geothermal wonders. The recommended 4-day stay here begins in the central and eastern parts of the island with a visit to the charming town of Furnas, with its bubbling hot springs and fumaroles. Here, don’t leave without tasting the incredible traditional dish, the Cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked over 5-6 hours in a pot underground using volcanic heat - simple, delicious food, made by nature. And those seeking relaxation? Head to the Terra Nostra Gardens and indulge mind, body and spirit in the fabulous thermal baths, set in a botanical haven.
Day 2 is the ideal time to explore the northeastern coast with its breathtaking ocean viewpoints, picturesque villages (make time to see the traditional architecture of Nordeste) and the Caldeira National Park, whose tropical forest setting is home to waterfalls and thermal springs. On to the central highlands, where guests will find some of the archipelago’s most beautiful crater lakes, including the Lagoa do Fogo, Lagoa do Sombrio and Canário, on hikes peppered with views over the island’s black sand beaches. Here too is the famous Gorreana Tea Plantation, where Portugal by TravelTailors can organise a special tour and tasting - the perfect way to round off day 3.
And day 4 sees guests conclude their discovery of São Miguel in the west of the island, hiking first to the viewpoint of Boca do Inferno, a beautiful volcanic crater that guests can also choose to explore by bike or horse ride. Here, they’ll experience stunning panoramic views of the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, one blue and one green. According to legend, the lakes were formed from the tears of a princess and a shepherd who were forbidden to be together.
Pico: The Mountain Island
Pico is dominated by its namesake, Mount Pico, which is Portugal’s highest peak. Hiking enthusiasts will relish the challenge of ascending this majestic volcano, and be richly rewarded for their efforts with clear skies full of shooting stars for those on a night hike, and sweeping vistas over the surrounding islands for those climbing at any time. The best climb? For those with a good level of fitness, a 2am hike takes about 4 hours to reach the peak at sunrise - truly an experience to cherish for a lifetime.
Pico is also known for its UNESCO-listed vineyards, uniquely planted between beautifully mazed volcanic stone pathways, where visitors can sample unique wines produced from grapes grown in the island’s volcanic soil. Here, guests can really become immersed in the abundant natural beauty all around, with deserted views and endless, beautiful spots to picnic.
Portugal by TravelTailors can plan an outdoor feast anywhere on the island, with players of amazing food from across the archipelago to dine on.
Terceira: The Festive Island
Perhaps the richest island in terms of historical heritage, Terceira played a key role in the succession crisis of the late 16th century, becoming for a time the refuge and base for António, Prior of Crato, and the de facto Portuguese capital and centre of resistance against Spanish rule.
Its beautiful Renaissance capital, Angra do Heroísmo, is today a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for its stunning architecture as much as for its status as a significant port and trading hub - and its role in the island’s storied past. And the island is renowned for its vibrant festivals and lively bullfights, particularly June’s Sanjoaninas festival; one of the largest and most vibrant cultural events in the Azores, which celebrates Saint John with parades, concerts, bullfights and traditional festivities.
São Jorge: The Island of Fajãs
Known for its dramatic cliffs and fajãs (coastal plains formed by landslides or lava flows), São Jorge is all about nature - a haven for those seeking rugged beauty and serene landscapes. Hiking enthusiasts will find paradise in the island's many trails, especially the path to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, a remote and picturesque area known for its tranquil lagoon and rare clams.
The island's fertile soil supports vibrant agriculture, and visitors can savour local delicacies like São Jorge cheese, a robust and flavourful product that’s celebrated all across Portugal. Here, guests will move from charming village to charming village, snatching a glimpse at each into the ways of traditional Azorean life, and wandering the cobblestone streets between winding lanes of whitewashed houses. And of course, don’t miss the Fajã dos Vimes, where you can enjoy a cup of locally grown coffee at one of Europe’s few coffee plantations.
Faial: The Blue Island
Faial, known affectionately as the "Blue Island" for its abundant hydrangeas, is a sailor’s haven as well as a flower lover’s heaven. The bustling marina in Horta is a hub for transatlantic yachts, and the town itself is steeped in maritime history. And as with all the islands of the Azores, nature lovers will be in their element with plenty to explore - including the must-see Caldeira, a massive volcanic crater, with its stunning hikes offering views of the entire island and beyond.
Flores - The Island of Flowers
Renowned for its lush, flower-covered landscapes dotted everywhere with fairytale waterfalls and clear lagoons, Flores is considered one of the most beautiful of the nine islands and is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Corvo - The Black Island
The smallest and least populated island, known for its volcanic caldera, Caldeirão, which features two small lakes and several volcanic cones. Ideal for those seeking solitude and unspoiled nature.
Santa Maria: The Sun Island
Known for its warmer climate, sandy beaches, and traditional festivals, the island has a distinct architecture and is the site of the first European settlement in the Azores.
Graciosa - The White Island
Known for its serene landscapes, windmills, and thermal springs, Graciosa is home to the impressive Furna do Enxofre, a huge volcanic cave with a stunning underground lake.
Where to stay?
The Azores are known more for their natural, unspoilt beauty than they are for their high-end opulence - however, the larger islands, and especially São Miguel, offer several fabulous options for those seeking a stay that leans towards luxe:
Right in the heart of Ponta Delgada, this modern hotel offers stunning ocean views, a gorgeous rooftop pool, great bar and a central location perfect for exploring the city and embarking on whale watching tours.
White Exclusive Suites & Villas, São Miguel
Situated on a cliffside, this boutique hotel offers breathtaking ocean views, a fabulous pool and a serene atmosphere - ideal for a romantic getaway. There’s a great restaurant on site and, for those looking for the utmost intimacy, a 15-minute walk sees you reach a 4-bed villa in a secluded setting.
Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort, São Miguel
Nestled by the beach with its eco-friendly villas spread across a beautiful, ocean front location this gorgeous little property is a brilliant family option, featuring a small beach, pool, an organic vegetable garden producing the freshest of ingredients for the resort restaurant and a tent built for serene yoga experiences on site. Being that bit more remote, Portugal by TravelTailors recommend that guests staying here have a car, although a private driver can be arranged if preferred.
Furnas Boutique Hotel, São Miguel
In the lush Furnas Valley, the Furnas Boutique Hotel is a beautiful mix of luxurious accommodations and geothermal spa experiences. Here, guests can indulge in natural hot springs (so hot they have to be cooled!), a fabulous spa, exquisite local cuisine and serene surroundings. There’s a golf course close by - and it’s all super-sustainable, the hotel heated throughout with the warmth of the thermal springs.
Perched on Pico’s beautiful, rugged coastline, Lava Homes is a fabulous collection of little villas, all spread out in traditional style and all combining modern comforts with rustic charm - very trendy and very clean, with private terraces and panoramic vistas. Enjoy the tranquillity of the outdoor pool and on-site yoga classes, dine on traditional Azorean dishes and enjoy a great location close to hiking trails and vineyards.
Small, unique and very beautiful, the secluded Pocinho Bay provides intimate, luxurious accommodations with breathtaking sea views and is great for those who want to be close to the centre of Pico’s capital, Maddalena. Guests can unwind in stylish, contemporary suites with private balconies in a serene setting which, combined with personalised service and proximity to whale-watching tours, makes for a memorable and peaceful retreat.
Villa Atlantic Heritage, Pico
Brilliant for large families, this private 4 bed villa on a historic estate offers elegant accommodations with a blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities. Set amid lush gardens, the villa features 4 spacious rooms (each with ensuite), a swimming pool and stunning views of the ocean and Mount Pico, perfect for a luxurious and relaxing family getaway.
Angra Bed and Breakfast, Terceira
In the heart of Angra do Heroísmo, this villa-turned-boutique-hotel offers 6 cosy and super trendy bedrooms, each with a personal touch. Ideal for couples, guests enjoy comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast and easy access to the historic sites and local attractions.
Terceira Mar Hotel, overlooking Fanal Bay, is a more traditional hotel - large, luxurious and with stunning ocean views. The hotel features spacious rooms, an infinity pool, lush gardens, tennis and paddle courts and a relaxing spa, including a Turkish bath and sauna. Guests can savour exquisite dining and enjoy proximity to Angra do Heroísmo's UNESCO World Heritage sites, making it perfect for a serene getaway with service.
5 Practical Travel Tips for the Azores
Accommodation in the Azores needs to be booked well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as luxury options are limited and booking conditions are strict.
Renting a car offers much greater flexibility in exploring the islands.
Inter-island flights and ferries are available for travel between the islands.
Be prepared for variable weather conditions. Pack layers and waterproof clothing to stay comfortable.
Hikers should come prepared too - a comfortable backpack is a must, as are good, waterproof shoes and poles for those planning some of the more challenging activities.
Whether your guests are looking to hike in unparalleled natural beauty, relax in thermal springs, experience some of the best whale watching the world has to offer or savour a unique and delicious local cuisine - or all of the above! - the Azores promise a unique and unforgettable experience.
Love to discover what Portugal by TravelTailors can craft for your Azores-bound guests? Get in touch today
