We went on this trip April/May this year and the weather was cold, very wet and very windy with the odd bit of hailstone. Headwater (to whom this self-guided trip was seconded) need to get their agents in the Azores (Melo) to tighten up the transfer arrangements made by Melo and their agents (Novo Rumo) in Faial & Pico. Buses on the islands are very few and far between and cannot realistically be used for going to the start and ends of the walks. Taxis are mentioned but this needs to be stressed more in the notes. The Cantinho do Piano “self-catering” accommodation on Sao Jorge made it quite clear that the kitchen area could be used for coffee/tea making with the cooker not to be used (it was boarded in) and not even a table supplied. Not the best for making even just your own breakfast. The Aldeia da Fonte accommodation on Pico (in a gorgeous setting) really needs to put its staff on a customer relations course – a bit like Fawlty Towers where guests seemed to be an inconvenience. On Faial, the Pousada Forte da Horta was a very nice place but its dining was not equal to this and HB could be dropped there as there are many alternatives for food in Horta. As SATA has very few planes it is NOT advisable to have a domestic flight returning to Sao Miguel on the same day as the international flight home. One lost plane caused chaos one day.
Azores Tours & Trips
Top Things to do on our Azores holidays
Trips to the Azores
This sun-drenched, volcanic archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by travellers seeking natural beauty and adventure. With diverse landscapes, unique wildlife and a rich cultural heritage, Azores holidays are perfect for enjoying on foot or two wheels. We have a fabulous selection of both cycling and walking holidays in the Azores, which take you on an immersive journey through the region’s most spectacular scenery.
This string of Atlantic islands are the visible tips of huge underwater mountains, saddled across the American and African tectonic plates. The rich green scenery, cavernous grottoes, towering cedar forests and glistening cerulean lakes create the perfect backdrop for Portuguese wildlife holidays.
With a landscape of sprawling fields, broken by rocky craters, smoking fumaroles, gloopy mudpots and scorching springs, walking trips in the Azores are as awesome and varied as the terrain. The islands are also home to premier diving spots as the nutrient rich water makes it one of the best locations in the Atlantic to take the plunge.
Whale watching on Azores holidays is an unmissable marine wildlife experience that lets you witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores archipelago is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity. March to October are the optimal months for whale watching tours when you can spot a variety of species, including sperm whales, dolphins and fin whales. The shimmering waters of the Azores provide the perfect setting and give you a fascinating insight into the colourful underwater world.
Azores Holidays
Brian Struszczak Island Hopping in the Azores
Denise Konrad Walking in the AzoresFabulous week with an Amazing Guide
Melvyn Tisbury Walking in the AzoresA chance to explore 3 different Azorean islands. Good mix of inland and coastal walks varying from lush green vegetation to barren volcanic terrain.
When is the best time to visit the Azores?
The Azores enjoy a mild climate all year-round, making it a suitable destination for travel at any time. However, the peak tourist season typically falls between June and September when the weather is warmest and most favourable for outdoor activities. If you want to avoid the busier times, spring is a great time to visit the Azores and the landscapes are bursting with colour. While the temperatures are still warm, the heat is less intense than during the summer months.
What are the best things to do in the Azores?
From majestic volcanic lakes and gaping craters to stunning mountainous landscapes like Mount Pico, the Azores is brimming with natural wonders to explore. Furnas is a great place to visit with its geothermal hot springs, as well as the historic city of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The vibrant marine life and Atlantic waters make the Azores a paradise for whale watching. There are an incredible 80 species of dolphin and whales that occupy the waters, including sperm whales, blue whales, bottle-nose dolphins and pilot whales.
FAQs on Azores Holidays
The Azores is a group of nine volcanic islands situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,500 kilometres west of Portugal. Despite their remote location, these islands are easily accessible by air, with direct flights available from major European cities.
The Azorean cuisine is a vibrant fusion of Portuguese and regional flavours, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and locally sourced vegetables. There are several traditional dishes we recommend trying on Azores holidays: Cozido das Furnas (a stew cooked in volcanic steam), octopus salad and the famous Queijadas da Vila Franca do Campo, a sweet pastry specialty. The seafood here is something else and you won’t regret sampling the fresh tuna and succulent lobster, caught straight from the sea.
If you are a citizen of a country which is a member of the Schengen Area or the European Union, you don’t need a visa to visit the Azores, as it is an autonomous region of Portugal. However, if you are a citizen of a country outside of the Schengen Area or the EU, you may need to obtain a visa before travelling to the Azores. It is always recommended to check with the embassy or consulate of Portugal for the most up-to-date visa requirements.
Although vaccinations aren’t required for visiting the Azores, you might want to consider getting common vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, rabies and Tetanus. Please note that requirements may vary based on individual health conditions, the duration of your stay and specific activities planned. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to get personalised recommendations and ensure you are up to date on all necessary vaccinations.
Boasting diverse landscapes of lush green valleys, volcanic craters and stunning coastal views, the Azores provide an excellent setting for cycling holidays. Cyclists can enjoy a wide range of terrains and scenery, and the mild climate throughout the year makes it an ideal place for tougher climbs. The well-maintained roads offer smooth rides, while the network of off-road cycling trails provides opportunities for both leisurely rides and challenging routes. Also, the Azorean culture and delicious local food will enhance your experience exploring these enchanting islands.
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