Technical archive for English island articles. The public island hub is /en/the-islands/.
The beaches of Santa Maria in the Azores are different from almost anywhere else in the archipelago. While many Azorean islands are known for black volcanic rock and natural pools, Santa Maria also has golden sand, warmer sea temperatures and sheltered coastal bays. Santa Maria is small, sunny by Azorean standards and easy to explore … Read more
Terceira is one of the most complete islands in the Azores: historic towns, volcanic caves, green viewpoints, natural pools and a strong local identity. This guide to the best things to do in Terceira focuses on the places that really define the island. To make the most of the island, renting a car is the … Read more
Furnas is one of the most fascinating places in São Miguel: fumaroles, hot springs, volcanic cooking, gardens and a lake surrounded by green hills. It is a must for any first trip to the Azores. Waterfalls and lush vegetation complete the green volcanic scenery around Furnas. Best for Independent travellers planning routes, viewpoints and practical … Read more
Sete Cidades is the most famous volcanic landscape in São Miguel and one of the essential places in the Azores. The blue and green lakes, crater views and surrounding viewpoints make it a highlight of any island route. The Sete Cidades lakes show the colour contrast that makes this volcanic landscape famous. Best for Independent … Read more
Santa Maria is the sunniest island in the Azores and the best choice if you want golden beaches, dry landscapes, quiet villages and a slower rhythm. This guide explains the best things to do in Santa Maria, how to organise the island by areas and where it makes sense to stay or rent a car. … Read more
São Miguel is the best island in the Azores for a first trip: volcanic lakes, hot springs, tea plantations, viewpoints, waterfalls and black-sand beaches are all within reach. This guide groups the best things to do in São Miguel by area so you can plan a realistic route. Sete Cidades is one of the most … Read more
Visiting Graciosa island in the Azores is a good choice if you want a slower, more local and less crowded side of the archipelago. Graciosa is not the island for rushed sightseeing or dramatic checklists. It is an island of volcanic caves, white villages, vineyards, sea pools, rural roads and open Atlantic views. The rhythm … Read more
Visit Faial Azores if you want Horta, marina culture, volcanic landscapes, ocean views and one of the easiest combinations with Pico. Faial is often used as a stop between islands, but it deserves more attention than that. It has a strong maritime identity, a beautiful harbour, the dramatic Capelinhos volcano and one of the best … Read more
Visit Sao Jorge Azores if you want cliffs, hiking trails, fajãs, cheese, ocean views and one of the most distinctive landscapes in the central group. São Jorge is long, narrow and dramatic, with high ridges dropping towards small coastal plains created by lava flows and landslides. These plains are called fajãs, and they are the … Read more
Visit Flores Azores if you want waterfalls, crater lakes, green cliffs and one of the most dramatic natural landscapes in Portugal. Flores is remote, lush and deeply Atlantic. It is not the easiest island logistically, but for many travellers it becomes one of the most memorable places in the Azores. The island belongs to the … Read more
