A small haven of nature in its purest form
Discover the Azores Islands is something the traveler feels very personal. So close to our country, these beautiful islands are a true paradise that has stood by mass tourism for years and years. And in Azores, the visitor will not find large resorts, tourism “snack” or international clubs, but instead will be in the hearts and retina a set of incredible scenery, tropical sea-bed, cozy villages, colonial heritage and perhaps the majestic silhouette of a whale dives, sleek and silent in the sea …
Not in vain the Azores have been identified as the second best island in the world “by the prestigious magazine National Geographic. The archipelago, which belongs to Portugal, consists of nine islands in total cover an area of 2,333 km2, in turn populated by 256,000 inhabitants. Sao Miguel is the largest island, which rises in the lead with 747 km2, while her younger sister, Corvo, only covers an area of 17 km2. The capital of Sao Miguel is the town of Punta Delgada, at the same time is capital of the archipelago.
The Azores Islands are islands green, full of flowers, inland lakes and volcanic craters, of course, surrounded by spectacular shoreline. The marinas on the islands are visited by sailors around the world, in fact, these form the third largest port in the world famous as regards sailing. Located in beautiful places full of charm and attractions for visitors, its blue waters and warm and they have great equipment to make them a must for some of the most spectacular ships to behold.
The interior of the beaches holds many surprises for fans to activities such as hiking, climbing or cycle tourism, among others. The volcanic landscape dotted with boilers, inland lakes and craters are common, as well as waterfalls or even geysers. Incredible, jaw-dropping natural wonders that most seasoned travelers, who need several days to discover all the charms spread over nine islands. Charms which is no stranger to a great cultural heritage of the Azores, said imprinting the beautiful colonial architecture. Without going any further, the island of Terceira and its capital, Angra, are listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, the lovers of history and culture will enjoy a stroll through its stately streets, also repeated in many parts of the island of Sao Miguel.
Atlantic location in the center of the Gulf Stream, brings to these beautiful islands a pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging between 16 and 24 degrees year round. The warm waters, the result of the presence of this current, make the funds of the Azores in authentic “natural aquarium” where divers can dive accompanied by all kinds of marine species. Not forgetting, of course, that these islands are one of the best places in the world for whale watching, an activity very common among those who visit, the location between continents makes its shores are a transit point for whales, dolphins and sperm whales. Sailing on a boat in search of the incredible shapes of these beautiful animals is an experience not easily forgotten.
Great restaurants, meadows full of hydrangeas and agapanthus, villages in unlikely places at the foot of cliffs, natural pools and beaches, majestic cliffs and peaks … Not forgetting a superb cuisine and a pleasant climate, make the Azores one of the most special for any traveler. A paradise close at hand.
