Better known for its high pressure at the time of the weather than for its natural and cultural riches, the Azores archipelago nevertheless has many assets to seduce the visitor. Less than five hours from Paris, the visitor is plunged into a world anchored in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean. The colourful landscapes and underwater treasures make it a unique land, the secret of which is still jealously guarded by a privileged few.
An exceptional nature on these volcanic islands
The Azorean flora is the highlight of the show. Almost all year round, the Azores form nine symphonies of the most intoxicating colours and aromas. The extinct volcanoes form a hummocky relief which offers a great variety of landscapes. The intermingling of sea and land, the jagged basalt coastline, the black sand and natural pools, the volcano lakes, the strange volcanic fumaroles that emerge from beneath the earth: the Azores are a delightful natural spectacle that is easy to get into. Fertile plains and distant mountains, misty volcanoes and clear cities: at every moment, our senses are awakened. Tectonic activity can be felt everywhere in the Azores! Volcanism has left fascinating traces here: the Ponta do Pico, Portugal's highest peak, is a beautiful climb with, in good weather, a breathtaking panorama; on the island of São Miguel, the fumaroles of Lake Furnas or the crater lakes of Fogo or Sete Cidades are wonders. On Faial, you can see the Capelinhos volcano which was born... in 1958! In Flores and Corvo, the crater lakes look like an Auvergne or Scottish landscape, with hydrangeas and the sea below! Marked paths, geographical proximity of towns and villages: these volcanoes and their lakes are perfect for hiking and walking.
The Azores, a real paradise for hikers
The natural wonders of the Azores can be discovered on foot. On the menu are invigorating walks through ever-changing landscapes, along wildly flowing streams that tumble down through thickly vegetated ravines, lakes with translucent waters and green shores, spectacular cliffs, dormant craters and iridescent caves
Due to its size, São Miguel offers many possibilities for excursions, once you have discovered the architectural charm of the capital. It is indeed the most visited island of the archipelago and the most suitable, together with the second island Terceira, to receive tourists. Furnas, Sete Cidades and the Pico da Vara reserve are the most popular places on the island. In Terceira, head for the Serra de Santa Barbara or the Monte Brasil for invigorating walks punctuated by magnificent views thanks to the many belvederes planted here and there. In Faial, after having strolled around this mythical port for sailors from all over the world, you can observe the endemic plants of the archipelago on Monte da Guia, the promontory which dominates Horta and Porto Pim. The Cabeço do Pico Verde can be discovered in two hours. From there, you can go around the crater and enjoy a magnificent view of the Capelinhos volcano.
But the real star is Mount Pico on the eponymous island. The highest peak in Portugal (2,351m) was the scene of the first Air France accident, which saw the death of boxer Marcel Cerdan on the fateful 27th of October 1949, as he was on his way to New York to take his revenge on Jake LaMotta and join Edith Piaf more quickly. After a five-hour climb, the view is extraordinary: you can see the archipelago, especially the central islands, and you get the confused and fascinating impression of dominating the Atlantic Ocean, from the Americas to Europe!
The assault on the Atlantic Ocean
A green paradise, the Azores are obviously an extraordinary place to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean. In fact, although you will have to take a plane to reach the central islands from the capital Ponta Delgada, you will travel between them by boat. Going out to sea to discover dolphins, and especially whales, is a more fun way to learn about the history of these Portuguese islands. Mythical animal of the Azores, the whale was still hunted in 1987. The harpoons have been replaced by binoculars and a camera for an unforgettable excursion. Vila Franca do Campo, in São Miguel, and Lajes do Pico, in Pico, will be privileged starting points to discover the maritime fauna and its giants of the sea. In addition to this typical outing, there are plenty of opportunities to take on the ocean. Surfers and body-boarders will find fabulous spots, such as the Fajã do Santo Cristo in São Jorge, a small village lost near its lagoon, accessible only on foot or by boat, or the beach of Santa Barbara, in the municipality of Ribeira Grande, on São Miguel Island
In the meantime, sailors will be able to set off for a regatta or organize memorable fishing trips. Scuba diving enthusiasts will also find something to enjoy, either with a tank or by snorkeling. As the coasts are of volcanic origin, it is a wonder to stroll between the arches, the debris of some cliff collapse, the tunnels, the caves, etc
A rich cultural heritage
We insist a lot on the natural beauties of the archipelago, but we must also underline that the men knew perfectly how to integrate there. There is little in the way of contemporary ugliness, and the Portuguese colonial architecture is simple and bright: white villages with beautiful balconies and gardens, and small towns that feature baroque and 18th and 19th century architecture. The main towns of the Azores are all worth a visit: Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has many treasures; Horta, the international maritime port of call, has a beautiful historic port and a charming old town; Ponta Delgada also has its old charm. Not to mention the attractive rural landscapes with cows and hydrangea hedges: the Azores are a land of nature that man has managed to appropriate with balance and respect.
Good infrastructures and excellent regional products
Finally, the Azores are well equipped with tourist infrastructures: competent tourist offices on each island, choice accommodation, numerous quality restaurants, a good car rental service (even if it is better to book in summer), and enough tourist service organisations for land and sea activities. Moreover, for historical as well as geographical reasons, the Azoreans still speak English more frequently than their fellow citizens on the mainland. And, when it comes to eating, epicurean travellers will be in for a treat on the archipelago! Between the wine of Pico, local beef, seafood, cheese from São Jorge and sweet pineapples, the Azores are full of local products, both from the land and the sea, from the north and the south, which are well worth a visit! Very few imports, fresh products, little industrial processing, almost exclusively short cycles: organic islands before their time! And, to make matters worse, on these islands, which are still not very popular with tourists, the hospitality of the Azoreans is beyond compare. Proud of their islands, they will share their advice and anecdotes with you. Finally, what better way to get to know the destination?
Useful information
When is the best time to visit? The best months are between May and September: the weather is fairly stable, the sea is at an ideal temperature, hydrangeas brighten up the roads and numerous festivities enliven the smallest village... On the other hand, prices are more expensive and there are more people. That said, winter can also bring its share of good surprises: camellias are in bloom, azaleas brighten up the landscape and there is no one on the islands. However, you should anticipate the weather at this time of year: wind, fog and rain are often present.
Getting there. From France, several airlines can take you to the Azores - TAP Portugal, Ryanair or SATA in particular. Expect to pay between €130 and €450
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