An Azores trip is high on the wish list of nature lovers. Breath taking landscapes shape the archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic. The extraordinary powers of the earth can be seen in thermal springs, volcanic lakes and geysers. Far away from mass tourism, you will experience a fabulous natural spectacle on Portugal’s evergreen islands with mild temperatures all year round!

Welcome to the grandiose islands

You will get to know a unique island world around 1,400 kilometers from mainland Europe. Where else can you see 25 species of whales and dolphins in Europe’s pristine nature? The months of June to October are the best travel period. The least precipitation falls in July and August. Nature explorations and hikes are possible all year round in the Azores. Whale watching tours are offered from May to October. Camellias and azaleas bloom from February. In July and August hydrangeas transform the Ilhas dos Acores into a blue sea of flowers. Hibiscus, oleanders and amaryllis enchant the archipelago in autumn.

The dream islands at a glance

The Azores include nine picturesque islands. Each island has a distinctive charm. Regardless of whether you are planning an Azores trip as an individual traveler or a group tourist, island hopping is definitely perfect for your vacation.

Sao Miguel

On the main island of the Azores you arrive at the airport of the capital Ponta Delgada. From Germany there are regular flights all year round, which are somewhat more expensive than other Portuguese travel destinations. Sao Miguel is the ideal starting point for a trip. The largest island in the archipelago impresses with hot springs, fantastic views and charming tea plantations.

Santa Maria

The southernmost and oldest island of the Azores can be reached by ferry from Sao Miguel or with the island plane of SATA Air Azores. In contrast to other islands, the island is no longer volcanically active. Sun worshipers will find lonely sandy beaches here, nature lovers can walk around the island on the Grand Route – an 80-kilometer long-distance hiking trail. The main town is called Vila do Porto

Pico

Until the 1960s, the island was mainly a whaling base. Today Pico is considered the best base for whale watching tours. The challenging ascent to the volcano of the same name at 2,351 meters rewards with fascinating impressions.

Terceira

In the capital, Angra do Heriosmo, you can find an excellently preserved old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. Don’t miss the Gruta do Natal. The caves and grottos in the interior of the island can also be reached by bike.

Graciosa

Graceful is the second smallest island in the archipelago, which has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It has an approximately oval shape. In addition to the main town of Santa Cruz da Graciosa, a hike to the Caldeira da Graciosa crater is one of the highlights of an Azores trip.

Faial

Sailors are familiar with the Horta marina as a stopover on the way to the Caribbean. Due to the splendour of blooming hydrangeas, the fifth largest island proudly bears the nickname “Blue Island”. The moon landscape of Capelinho was only created in 1957 during the last volcanic eruption and captivates almost every visitor. A museum documents the event.

Sao Jorge

The island has long been known as a hotspot for experienced surfers. However, the harsh surfing conditions require real skill. In addition to coffee, bananas and oranges, everything seems to thrive on the so-called fajas – volcanic headlands. The elongated island with bizarre cliffs invites you to wonderful hikes with great views during an Azores trip.

Corvo

There is only one road on the smallest inhabited island in the Azores. The town of Vila do Corvo is one of the smallest cities in Europe. Cows graze leisurely along the crater pastures. From the Miradouro do Caldeirão viewpoint, the Caldeira offers one of the best photo spots in the Azores.

Flores

On the flower island is the westernmost point of Europe, as well as the most beautiful hiking trail in the Azores. The promising Faja Grande leads through imposing juniper forests into the tranquil highlands.