The Azores Travel Guide
Stranded in the vast expanse of the Atlantic, the Azores feel like a world apart, where time slows down and nature is at the forefront. This remote archipelago of nine islands offers an unforgettable escape from rush and routine, and is a haven for those seeking pristine landscapes, adventure and tranquillity.
International flights do make their way to the Azores, which lie 900 miles west of Portugal, but tourism hasn't spoilt the islanders' traditional way of life nor marred the magnificent natural attractions, including the geysers at Lagoa das Furnas or the white sand beaches of Lagoa da Fogo.
Those who visit soon forget about stress and pollution, and give in totally to enjoying the islands' year-round subtropical climate of mild temperatures and high humidity. The only concern that might arise is the odd earth tremor, as the islands are rather geologically unstable, and are pitted with volcanoes and hot sulphur springs. The 250,000 inhabitants seem unperturbed by this, however, and go about their daily rounds much as their forefathers did hundreds of years ago.
The daily business is generally agricultural labour, as the region is characterised by large tracts of farmland, sprinkled with little settlements of whitewashed houses. The gently sloping hillsides are carpeted with vineyards and fruit orchards, while the coast of the islands is, in the main, rather rugged, though there are bays and inlets for swimming and sunbathing with the odd stretch of white sand. Island hopping is simple to achieve as all the islands are connected by ferry and local air services.