- Swim in Natural pools and thermal baths, created by combining cold ocean waters and hot geothermal water.
- Dive deep into Algar do Carvao through an ancient lava tube. Explore the insides of an extinct volcano!
- Learn about the expeditioners who made the transatlantic journey to travel to America at Andra do Heroisma.
- Explore the beauty of Caldeira, a former lake that transformed into a crater after a volcano eruption.
Best Things to Do in Azores
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Things to do in Azores - Expert's guide
1. Soak in Nature Pools and Thermal Baths
There are thermal baths on numerous of the Azores Islands, but San Miguel (the biggest island) has many. Thermal baths are created when the hot geothermal waters and the cold ocean water mix, usually situated in a natural pool near the ocean.
2. Sete Cidades
If you’re dreamy of a fairy-tale setting in nature, without the hilly hikes most of the Azores offer, you must visit Sete Cidades. Several walking trails sit amongst two lakes (one with blue water, one with green), hydrangea-filled paths, and forested cliffs.
3. Vineyards of Pico
Wineries are found in the Azores, but they may look a little different from your traditional winery. Black basalt was sprinkled through the landscape, creating ridgy paths. Those who worked in the vineyards used the basalt to build stone walls, known as “currais.” The currais walls allow for the vines to be protected from the winds, but still allow them to soak in the sun. The area itself is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Algar do Carvao
Allows visitors the opportunity to walk inside a volcano! Walk down among the overgrown moss. The depth and variation of lava rocks, and the fact you’re inside a volcano, makes this a must visit for everyone.
5. Capelinhos Volcano
An underwater volcano that erupted back in 1957. The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center is filled with displays and exhibits that helps visitors understand all geological finds that the scientists found while studying the 13 month long eruption.
6. Lagoa das Furnas
Another place to check out sulfur pools. Surround yourself in nature and soak in the water. If you’re up for a tasty surprise, grab a bowl of the stew that is cooked in the sulfur pool!
7. Terra Nostra Park
This botanical garden filled with plants from around the world. Keep strolling and in the middle of the park, visitors will find a natural swimming pool. The color throws people off, but the brown color comes from iron and sulfur found in the water. It’s safe to get in!
8. Mt. Pico
Sitting at 2351 meters high, this is the highest mountain in Portugal! Upon arrival at Pico island, it’s pretty hard to miss, as the mountain towers over the island. Visit the mountain for great views, beautiful photos, and for those who want to get outdoors, hiking Mt. Pico!
9. Caldeira
A volcano turned crater on the island of Faial. The nature reserve is covered in juniper, ferns and cedars. If the weather permits, visitors can (and should!) walk around the crater rim, and take in the views of both the island and inside the crater.
10. Azores Geopark
A unique geological site that is scattered around the 9 Azores islands. The geopark features 121 geological heritage sites, and provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the vast biodiversity of the Azores volcanoes. Don’t miss out on the calderas, underwater geothermal sources and crater lakes; just some of the amazing natural sites that make up this park!
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B
Bernard
Sep 2024
Walking in the Azores
The Azores are very much unspoilt. Each island has unique geology which we saw close up. The volcanoes range from 800,000 years to 70 years old. Tania the guide is w...
A
Alun
Sep 2024
Walking in the Azores
Many wonderful experiences on our holiday in the Azores - thoroughly recommended. Special mention must be made of our superb tour leader Tania. She was faultless -...
L
Lorraine
Sep 2024
Walking in the Azores
Hikes were a bit difficult for me, even though rated at easy to moderate. Even our guide disagreed with the rating of some of the hikes. Most of the hotels were exce...
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