What to do in the Azores?

1. Sete Cidades and its Miradores

This is probably theone of the most famous views of the Azores. Many people decide to go to the Azores after seeing the magnificent landscapes of these two lakes inside the same crater. 

There are several Watchtowers from where you can observe these two lakes, but the best known is the Mirador King's View. You can admire this view on the island of Sao Miguel in the West region of the island.

Also, it is recommended to go walk around the lake and to approach in particular other points of view and other surrounding lakes because you will find many nice viewpoints in the area.

2. Lagoa do Fogo

Le lake of fire, located in the central region of the island of Sao Miguel, is the lake located at the highest altitude of the Azores. Lagoa do Fogo is located between Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande on the east side. It is a lake in a crater that has been created by rain over the centuries. You have the possibility of hiking around the lake since there are marked trails. 

 

You have to be relatively lucky to be able to benefit from a beautiful unobstructed view of the lake because the fog can quickly arrive and spoil the landscape.  

3. Climb Pico, highest mountain in Portugal

Located at a altitude of 2m, Pico Bridge and the more high peak of Portugal. It is about a volcano located on the island of Pico which forms with Faial and Sao Jorge the “islands of the triangle”. Many trails on the island allow you to reach the top of the volcano in order to admire a splendid view on, in particular, on the islands of Faial, Terceira, Sao Jorge or Graciosa. However, the weather can be capricious and the view may be blocked. Learn about the weather before venturing to climb this volcano. 

4. Observe cetaceans: whales and dolphins

The Azores archipelago is one of the largest sanctuaries in the world to observe cetaceans. On many islands, you will easily find agencies allowing you to meet cetaceans.

Among these cetaceans, you will have great chances to see dolphins, sperm whales or else blue whales. Note that these can reach up to 30 meters. 

Also note that the best period to observe these cetaceans is between March and May.

If you do not yet know which island to go to, know that it is possible to observe cetaceans on:

• Faial
• Pico
• Graciosa
• Sao Miguel

5. Visit Ponta Delgada in São Miguel

Ponta Delgada, "Capital" of Sao Miguel who is the island the biggest as well as the most famous. When you arrive in the Azores, it is quite possible that you will arrive directly on the island of Sao Miguel. So all you have to do is take advantage of this chance and set off to explore the city of Ponta Delgada. This historic city is a real witness to the heritage of Portuguese settlers. You will find there many tourist places such as typical churches in particular. 

6. Bathe in a natural swimming pool

On all the islands of the Azores, you will find many natural pools. These swimming pools or natural water sources are well known in the Azores. It is possible to find natural pools formed by the ocean by the ocean. But it is also possible to find small thermal pools where the temperatures can easily reach 40 ° C. 

For example, on Sao Miguel Islandyou will find natural pools to Mosteiros or alternatively thermal baths to Furnas. This is the perfect activity in bad weather.

7. Visit a tea plantation

This activity may seem surprising for an archipelago of European islands. However, I am totally serious when I talk about going to visit a tea plantation. 

Indeed, on the'island of Sao Miguel, you will find the only European tea plantations. It would therefore be a shame not to take the opportunity to visit them and enjoy a little tea at the same time. 

8. Take a hike to the Capelinhos volcano in Faial

Go for a exotic hike giving you the impression of walk on the moon on'Faial island. The first and last eruption of Capelinhos volcano took place in 1957.

The cliffs of this volcano plunge into the sea, it is a amazing site. 

Also, to fully understand volcanoes, it is advisable to visit the volcano interpretation center.

9. Go hiking

The Azores archipelago is the perfect place for nature and hiking lovers. On each of the islands, there is a large number of marked trails allowing you to explore the surroundings. As a general rule, these hikes can be done on foot, by bike or on horseback. 

Check with the tourist offices so that we can give you the prospectuses of all the possible trails on the island you have chosen. 

Among the most famous islands for hiking, we find:

• Pico
• Sao jorge
• Sao Miguel

However, keep in mind that you will find hiking trails on all the islands of the Azores. 

10. Take advantage of the sports activities offered on the different islands

The Azores are a perfect destination for athletes. In addition to hiking, many activities are offered on the various islands of the archipelago.

This includes in particular:

• Surf
• Diving
• Canyoning
• Paragliding
• The beach

Each island has its specialties, for that, I advise you to read my article " Azores: which island to choose ».