A guide to the 9 Islands of the Azores

The Portuguese Azores, a breathtaking archipelago in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, known for stunning landscapes, unique culture, and vibrant biodiversity. 

What Makes The Azores special?

The Azores Islands are a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. Here's what sets them apart:

• Diverse Landscapes: From volcanic craters and hot springs to lush forests and sandy beaches, the Azores' landscapes are incredibly varied and picturesque.
• Biodiversity: The islands are a hotspot for marine life, including whales, dolphins, and many bird species, making them a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Sustainable Tourism: The Azores are committed to preserving their natural beauty and promoting sustainable tourism practices, ensuring visitors can enjoy the islands' wonders responsibly.
• Rich Culture: With a blend of Portuguese heritage and unique local traditions, the Azores offer a vibrant cultural experience. Festivals, music, and cuisine reflect the islands' deep-rooted history and community spirit.

 

The Nine Islands of the Azores

Comprising nine islands, each with its own charm and character, the Azores offer an unparalleled travel experience. 

 

São Miguel

The largest and most populous island, São Miguel, is often the starting point for travelers. Known as the "Green Island," it is known for its stunning volcanic scenery, including the breathtaking Sete Cidades green-blue crater lakes, and the steaming fumaroles of Furnas. Visitors are enchanted by the verdant hills, tea plantations—the only ones in Europe—and the plethora of coastline that offers dramatic vistas and cliffs. São Miguel seamlessly blends the charm of traditional Azorean culture with many different opportunities for adventure, from hiking and whale watching to biking through charming towns and indulging in the unique geothermal cuisine. Whether seeking relaxation or excitement, São Miguel provides a captivating glimpse into the unspoiled splendor of the Azores.

 

Terceira

Terceira, known as the "Lilac Island" of the Azores, is a blend of rich history, lively culture, and natural beauty. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira boasts an array of well-preserved historical architecture and cobblestone streets that transport visitors back in time. The island is renowned for its traditional festivals like the Sanjoaninas which runs in the month of June, and colorful houses adorned with traditional ironwork and unique local tilework. Nature enthusiasts can explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes, including the impressive Algar do Carvão, an ancient lava tube that reveals the island's fiery origins. From its picturesque vineyards to scenic coastlines, Terceira offers a captivating mix of cultural and natural attractions, making it a must-visit destination in the Azores archipelago.

 

Faial

Faial Island, called the "Blue Island" of the Azores, is renowned for its striking hydrangea-lined roads and picturesque maritime culture. The island's main town, Horta, is a bustling port and a well-known stopover for transatlantic yachts, featuring the famous Peter Café Sport, a historic meeting point for sailors from around the world. The marina is like an open-air art museum with paintings from seafarers passing through. Faial's landscape is dominated by the dramatic Capelinhos Volcano, which last erupted in 1957, adding a lunar-like terrain to the island's natural beauty. The island offers stunning viewpoints, such as Monte da Guia, and tranquil dark sand beaches ideal for relaxation. Faial's blend of vibrant cultural heritage, breathtaking scenery, and historical significance make it a captivating and essential stop in any Azorean itinerary.

 

Pico

Pico, known as the "Mountain Island" of the Azores, is dominated by its namesake, Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal. This towering volcano, often capped with clouds, beckons adventurers with the promise of breathtaking views from its summit. The island's dark landscape, characterized by black volcanic rock interwoven with lush greenery, creates a stark yet beautiful contrast to the other islands. Pico is considered the youngest island in the archipelago.  Pico is also famed for its vineyards, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, where the unique "currais" (stone walls) protect the vines from the harsh Atlantic winds. These vineyards produce the island's renowned Verdelho wine. Alongside its natural wonders, Pico offers charming coastal villages, rich maritime traditions, and some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the Azores, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

 

São Jorge

São Jorge, known as the "Dragon Island" of the Azores, is celebrated for its dramatic cliffs and distinctive "fajãs" – flat, fertile landforms created by lava flows and landslides. This is both the highest average terrain and the flattest island in the group. This narrow, elongated island offers some of the archipelago's most stunning coastal views and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking trails wind through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and down to secluded fajãs that dot the coastline, each with its unique charm and ecosystem. São Jorge is also famous for its delicious (and smelly) cheese, which is a staple of Azorean cuisine and beloved by locals and visitors alike. The island's main town, Velas, exudes a quaint charm with traditional architecture and a welcoming atmosphere. São Jorge's rugged natural beauty, rich agriculture, and serene ambiance make it a captivating seasonal destination within the Azores.

 

Santa Maria

Santa Maria, also called the "Sunshine Island" of the Azores, boasts a warm, dry climate and the only golden sand beaches in the archipelago's. This southernmost island has become a vacation destination for the Azorean people, with a very quiet vibe and beautiful beaches, particularly at Praia Formosa, which contrasts with the dark volcanic beaches typical of the other islands. Santa Maria's charming villages, like Vila do Porto—the oldest settlement in the Azores—showcase traditional whitewashed houses with colorful trim, reflecting its heritage origins. The island's rolling green hills and terraced vineyards add to the picturesque landscape, while sites like the Barreiro da Faneca, a red desert-like area, offer unique geological wonders. Santa Maria also boasts underwater spectacles with some of the best scuba diving in the Azores. The diverse seafloor topography creates ideal conditions for a diverse abundance of underwater species. Santa Maria's sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local culture make it a delightful summer destination for those seeking total relaxation or ocean exploration in the Azores.

 

Graciosa

​​Graciosa, aptly named the "White Island" of the Azores, is distinguished by its white stone landscapes, gentle hills, white clay beaches, and striking whitewashed buildings. This tranquil island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, celebrated for its unique volcanic features and rich biodiversity. The Furna do Enxofre, a remarkable volcanic cavern with an underground lake, offers a glimpse into the island's geothermal activity and is a must-visit for geology enthusiasts. Graciosa's vineyards, producing notable local wines, dot the landscape alongside traditional windmills that add to its rustic charm. The island's main town, Santa Cruz da Graciosa, exudes a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere with charming streets and historical architecture. Known for its warm hospitality, Graciosa invites visitors to experience the slow-paced island life, surrounded by natural beauty, making it a quiet hidden gem within the Azorean archipelago.

 

Flores

Among the nine islands, Flores often stands out as the prettiest island in the Azores. It’s also the hardest to get to. Its name, which means "flowers'' in Portuguese, is a testament to its lush, floral landscapes. This westernmost island in the group is a botanical wonder adorned with vibrant hydrangeas, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes that create a picturesque, almost fairy-tale setting. The dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline are punctuated by serene bays and natural pools, offering stunning views and tranquil spots for relaxation. The village of Fajã Grande, the most westerly points in Europe, is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and hidden waterfalls. Flores' unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a summer destination for those seeking natural splendor and serenity. 

 

Corvo

Corvo, the smallest and most remote of the Azores islands, offers an intimate glimpse into this Atlantic archipelago's untouched beauty and tranquility. Often called the "Island of the Crow," Corvo is dominated by the stunning Caldeirão, a massive volcanic crater with a picturesque lake at its center, surrounded by verdant landscapes and dotted with small volcanic cones. The island's sole village, Vila do Corvo, is a quaint settlement where daytrippers can experience the close-knit community and traditional Azorean way of life. Corvo's rugged coastline, teeming with birdlife, makes it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The island's isolation and pristine environment provide a unique escape, allowing campers to reconnect with nature in one of the Azores' most serene and unspoiled settings.

 

Whether hiking up Mount Pico, exploring the historical streets of Terceira, or simply basking in the natural beauty of Flores, the Azores offer something for every traveler. Each island has a story to tell, and together, they create a mosaic of truly unforgettable experiences.

Embark on your Azorean adventure today and discover why these islands are considered one of the world's best-kept secrets. Our most popular Azores Itineraries include Taste of the Azores, Azores Adventure Seeker, Three Island Azores Tour and Azores Cultural Exploration.