The Azores are in the Macaronesia area of the North Atlantic Ocean. Like Madeira, they are an independent part of Portugal. The archipelago is approximately 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) west of Lisbon, 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) northwest of Morocco, and 1,930 kilometers (1,200 miles) southeast of Newfoundland, Canada.
Agriculture, dairy production, cattle raising, fishing, and a burgeoning tourism industry are the main drivers of the Azores’ economy. Tourism is quickly becoming the most important service industry in the region, contributing substantially to economic growth and development in the Azores.
There are nine major Azorean islands and an islet cluster that are divided into three groups. Flores and Corvo are located to the west; Graciosa, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial are located in the centre; and São Miguel, Santa Maria, and the Formigas Reef are located to the east. All of the islands are volcanic in nature, however, some, such as Santa Maria, have had no reported activity in the centuries since the islands were colonised.
Mount Pico, located on the island of Pico, is the highest peak in Portugal, standing at 2,351 metres (7,713 ft).
Pico Island, Azores (Portugal)
Pico Island, which is the second-largest island in the Azores archipelago, is home to Pico Mountain, the highest mountain in Portugal, reaching an elevation of more than 2,000 metres above sea level. Pico Island, with an age of just 300,000 years, stands as the most recently developed island within the Azorean archipelago. Pico Island, sometimes Read More
Corvo Island, Azores (Portugal)
Corvo Island, also known as Ilha do Corvo in Portuguese, is a picturesque gem nestled in the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean, forming part of the enchanting Azores archipelago. With its captivating landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Corvo Island stands out as a unique destination for those seeking serenity amidst nature's splendour. Despite its diminutive Read More
Faial Island, Azores (Portugal)
Faial Island, also known as Fayal, is indeed a fascinating destination in the Azores archipelago, with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here's a detailed overview: History: Settlement: Faial Island was settled by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century, and it played a significant role in Read More
Santa Maria Island, Azores (Portugal)
Santa Maria, the southernmost island in the Azores archipelago, boasts a rich history and a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. Here's a comprehensive overview of the island's history, along with recommendations for things to do and see: History: Early settlement: Portuguese explorers found Santa Maria to be one of the first islands in Read More
Explore the crater lake of Sete Cidades.São Miguel Island, Azores (Portugal)
Sete Cidades crater lake, located on the island of São Miguel in the Azores archipelago, is a natural wonder that never fails to mesmerise visitors with its stunning beauty and unique charm. From the shimmering blue and green waters to the rugged peaks of the crater walls, Sete Cidades offers a plethora of experiences Read More
Furnas: Azores’ Hidden Treasure
Furnas, on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores, is a charming town that many visitors ignore in favor of more popular attractions. Those who make the effort to visit Furnas are rewarded with breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating history, and a variety of one-of-a-kind experiences. The Origins of Furnas Furnas has a rich Read More
The Azores Islands (Portugal) : Where Nature, Culture, and Adventure Meet
The Azores, a group of nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, are a hidden gem that offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. With its lush green landscapes, volcanic mountains, hot springs, and crystal-clear waters, the Azores has something for everyone. Its mild oceanic climate, rich history and culture, and diverse range Read More
São Jorge Island, Azores (Portugal)
São Jorge is an island in the central group of the Azores archipelago that is part of Portugal's autonomous territory. The middle group is sometimes referred to locally as part of the Triangulo ("Triangle") group or simply "The Triangle" since it is separated from its nearest neighbours (Pico and Faial islands) by the 15-kilometre (9.3 Read More
Graciosa, the Azores’ White Island (Portugal)
UNESCO has designated Graciosa, the White Island in the Azores, as a World Biosphere Reserve. This island has a distinct environment and a rich architectural past, making it a must-see Azorean destination. Graciosa is 12.5 kilometres long and home to around 4,000 people. It is part of the Azores Archipelago's Central Groups, and its nearest Read More
Terceira Island, Azores (Portugal)
Terceira Island, (known as “The Lilac Island”) Portuguese Ilha Terceira, is a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean that is part of the Azores archipelago. It has a total area of 153 square miles (397 square km). Terceira was given its name since it was the third Azorean island found by the Portuguese. The Read More
São Miguel Island, Azores (Portugal)
São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, has a lot to offer for active people who like kayaking, paddleboarding, diving, surfing, canyoning, coasteering, sailing, fishing, hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking. In addition, the Azores are Europe's top location for whale and dolphin viewing. There's no need to limit yourself to land-based activities on Read More
Flores Island, Azores (Portugal)
Flores Island is one of the islands in the Azores Archipelago's western side. This island is rich in natural beauty, with craters, lakes, cliffs, bays, fajãs, forests, vistas, natural pools, and so on. It is hard to arrange a path along the island's shoreline due to its orography. As a result, it is best to Read More