The largest island, São Miguel is known for its stunning landscapes and is home to two of the Azores‘ most iconic natural attractions – the Sete Cidades caldera lake and the Fogo lake. It’s also known for its thermal springs, particularly the Ferraria Hot Spring. Other attractions include the Gorreana Tea Plantation and the Arouca Natural Park, which is perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
Terceira
Terceira is considered the heart of the Azores and is home to the capital city, Angra do Heroísmo, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. This island boasts a wealth of attractions, including the Serra de Santa Barbara and the Nossa Senhora dos Anjos Chapel. Terceira is known for its vineyards and its delicious local cuisine, as well as its traditional festivals and markets.
Graciosa
Graciosa is known for its beautiful beaches and its mild climate. This island is home to the Caldeira de Santa Iria, a crater lake that is a popular spot for swimming and fishing. Other attractions include the Furna do Enxofre, a unique lava tunnel, and the Pico da Esperança, the highest peak in the Azores.
São Jorge
São Jorge is an island full of dramatic cliffs, lush green pastures, and picturesque villages. It’s home to the Vila do Corvo, the smallest town in Portugal. Visitors to São Jorge can explore its many natural attractions, such as the Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã dos Cubres, two breathtaking coastal cliffs.
Pico
The second-largest island of the Azores, Pico is known for its iconic volcano – the highest mountain in Portugal. Visitors can explore the volcano by hiking to its summit or simply admire its beauty from a distance. The island is also home to the Pico Island Vineyard Culture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the site of the 1720 Treaty of Pico, which ended the Portuguese War of the Oranges.
Faial
Faial is known as the Blue Island, thanks to its stunning blue hydrangeas that grow in abundance. This island is home to the Horta Marina, one of the oldest marinas in Europe, and the Capelinhos Volcano, which erupted in 1957. Other attractions include the Caldeira do Faial and the Faial Nature Park. Flores Flores is the westernmost island of the Azores and is known for its rugged coastline, lush woodlands, and stunning waterfalls. The island is home to the Rocha dos Bordões, a large volcanic crater lake, and the Gruta das Torres, an impressive lava tube cave. Other attractions include the Lagoa do Fogo and the Ponta dos Cedros, a beautiful coastal viewpoint.
Corvo
The smallest of the nine islands, Corvo is known for its stunning volcanic landscape and its high cliffs. This island is home to the Caldeira, a massive volcanic crater lake, and the Ilhéu das Rolas, a small islet off the coast. Other attractions include the Lagoa Seca and the Corvo Museum, which has a collection of artifacts from the island’s history.
Santa Maria
The southernmost island of the Azores, Santa Maria is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. This island is home to the Praia Formosa and the Serra de Santa Bárbara, both of which offer stunning views of the ocean. Other attractions include the Vila de São Lourenço and the São Lourenço Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the island’s history.