The Azores, an archipelago of nine Portuguese volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, are loved for their untouched natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of things to do on the islands of the Azores with its mild climate year-round, including quad biking, Jeep rides, canyoning, whale-watching, and hiking around crater lakes, such as Sete Cidades. The islands are also known for their geothermal activity—with plenty to explore, including hot springs, natural pools, geysers, and geothermal food specialties.
The best time to visit the Azores depends on your interests. If you want to swim or hike, summer or early fall (typically June–September) tend to be drier and warmer. You may want to avoid the October–April rainy season. The islands are hot spots for bird-watching and whale-watching year-round. For big festivals, check out Sao Miguel’s Tremor Festival (a music festival, usually in March) or the Sanjoaninas on Terceira (typically in June).
If you’re keen to go island-hopping, then the best bet is to catch ferries among islands—however, be aware that these don’t run year-round, and the trips can be long, so planning is required. There are also domestic airlines available that travel among the islands. If you’re planning to base yourself on one island, car rental is advisable, as bus services can be limited and irregular.
There are three particular foods you shouldn’t miss if visiting the Azores: wine, cheese, and bread (it’s the simple things!). Oenophiles may want to plan a wine-themed pilgrimage to Pico—the island where volcanic wine is produced. If you can’t make the trip, you'll find Pico wine sold on the other islands, too. For cheese, try tasty samples from Sao Jorge island. And don’t miss bolo levedo, a bread that's similar to English muffins.
