51 Reasons To Visit The Azores
by Andi · 51 things on Twos
- Geothermal Wonderlands: Explore bubbling hot springs and geysers found nowhere else in Portugal!
- Caldeira Velha: Take a dip in natural thermal pools amidst lush rainforest-like surroundings.
- Volcanic Lakes: Marvel at the striking beauty of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo.
- Fumaroles of Furnas: Witness steaming hot vents and taste food cooked underground using volcanic heat.
- Islet of Vila Franca do Campo: Swim in a volcanic crater turned natural swimming pool.
- Whale Sanctuary: Encounter 24 different species of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Azorean Pineapple Plantations: Visit unique greenhouses cultivating pineapples without using soil!
- Terra Nostra Park: Wander through an exotic garden with thermal pools and a giant fern collection.
- Faial's Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre: Learn about the eruption that formed new land in the 1950s.
- Pico Vineyards: Sip on wines grown in ancient, UNESCO-listed, lava stone vineyards.
- Gruta do Carvão: Explore a lava tunnel, witnessing incredible geological formations.
- Natural Pools of São Miguel: Swim in saltwater pools carved by volcanic rocks along the coastline.
- Furnas Stew: Savor the traditional "Cozido das Furnas," cooked using natural volcanic heat.
- Serra da Tronqueira: Hike through a mystical forest and spot the endemic Priolo bird.
- Capelinhos Volcano Hike: Climb to the top of a dormant volcano for panoramic ocean views.
- Algar do Carvão: Descend into a volcanic chimney with unique rock formations and a lake.
- Azorean Tea: Taste locally grown teas at Gorreana or Porto Formoso tea plantations.
- Ponta da Ferraria: Bathe in a natural hot spring set by the ocean's edge.
- Alentejo Bullfighting: Experience traditional bullfighting without harm to the animals.
- Sperm Whale Skeleton: Marvel at a massive sperm whale skeleton at the Whalers' Museum.
- Azorean Handicrafts: Shop for unique crafts like ceramics, lacework, and wood carvings.
- Ponta dos Capelinhos Lighthouse: Visit a picturesque lighthouse standing on volcanic ash.
- Gorreana Tea Factory: Witness the tea-making process in the oldest tea plantation of Europe.
- Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Admire beautiful waterfalls in a lush setting.
- Festas do Espírito Santo: Join traditional religious festivals celebrated with parades and food.
- Nordeste Lookout Points: Enjoy jaw-dropping views from various scenic viewpoints.
- Scuba Diving Adventures: Dive into underwater caves and shipwrecks for an unforgettable experience.
- São Jorge Cheese: Delight your taste buds with this famous local cheese made from raw cow's milk.
- Caloura: Unwind at a picturesque fishing village with a natural rock pool for swimming.
- Cetacean Research Center: Learn about whale and dolphin conservation efforts in the region.
- São Miguel Botanical Garden: Stroll through a vast collection of exotic plants from around the world.
- Pico Whale Museum: Gain insights into the Azores' rich whaling history and its transformation into eco-tourism.
- Traditional Festivals: Participate in traditional events featuring folklore, music, and dances.
- Praia Formosa: Relax at the black sand beach with stunning views of the neighboring islands.
- Observatório do Mar dos Açores: Discover the wonders of marine life through interactive exhibits.
- Snorkeling in Ilhéu de Vila Franca: Snorkel in a volcanic crater-island surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
- Boa Nova Tea Factory: Tour another iconic tea plantation with a museum dedicated to tea history.
- Ponta do Sossego: Find serenity at this secluded coastal viewpoint amidst vibrant gardens.
- Surfing on Santa Maria: Ride the waves on the southernmost island with excellent surf spots.
- Canyoning in Ribeira Funda: Experience an adrenaline-packed adventure in a stunning canyon.
- Coasteering in Flores: Combine rock climbing, swimming, and cliff jumping in one thrilling activity.
- Ponta dos Rosais Lighthouse: Visit the westernmost lighthouse in Europe for stunning sunsets.
- Gruta das Torres: Wander through the longest lava tube in the Azores, a geological wonder.
- Criação Velha Vineyards: Explore vineyards dating back to the 15th century, producing unique wines.
- Ribeira Quente: Relax in a hot spring right at the beach's edge, a natural jacuzzi experience.
- Seafood Gastronomy: Delight in fresh and succulent seafood dishes unique to the Azores.
- Romantic Getaway: Experience the perfect escape for couples amidst beautiful scenery.
- Traditional Craftsmen: Meet local artisans keeping age-old crafts alive in their workshops.
- Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: Admire dramatic cliffs and sea arches from this striking viewpoint.
- Witness Whaling Boats: See traditional whale boats, a reminder of the Azores' historic past.
- I live here and have done maybe half of these so I could be your guide 👀