The Azores are a group of nine Volcanic islands way out in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands are an autonomous region of Portugal. But because of their isolation, climate and volcanic nature they feel very different to the rest of Europe.
Viewpoint on Sao Jorge, looking across to Pico
The predominant climate is mild and humid, and this results in a lush, green vegetation. Some areas have a distinctly other-worldly appearance.
Tree fern, Sao Miguel
Waterfalls on Flores.
Hydrangeas are very common on some of the islands. Together with the abundant ginger lilies they provide lots of summer colour.
Hydrangeas growing by the side of a track, Sao Miguel
Ginger lilies
The islands rise from very deep water. Unlike mainland Europe and islands closer to the mainland, there is no continental shelf. This makes them an excellent feeding site for whales and dolphins, and the Azores are probably the best place in Europe to go whale watching. Over 20 species of whales and dolphins are seen around the islands.
Whale watching tower used to spot whales at sea, and direct tour boats to the best areas
Volcanic Features
The Azores contain a wealth of interesting volcanic features. Sao Miguel has bubbling hot springs and fumeroles around Furnas. Furnas itself is situated in a Huge Volcanic Crater.
Hot springs near Furnas, Sao Miguel
Path down to Furnas, situated inside a huge volcanic crater
Throughout the islands there are ancient craters, lava tubes, basalt columns and various other evidence of past volcanic activity. Anyone the least bit interested in volcanoes, like me, will be fascinated.
Lagoa Funda and Lagoa Rasa crater lakes, Flores
Pico do Pedro, Sao Jorge
The Azores are extremely beautiful, and because they are so unique they are fascinating to explore. Please keep returning because I am currently writing about the islands we visited on an island-hopping holiday. Every island has great walks, amazing sea views, fascinating geological features, and unique fauna and flora. I can’t wait to go back!
Santa Cruz, Graciosa
