Portugal - Azores - More Information
The Azores are a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean about 1500
km (950 miles) from Lisbon and about 3900 km (2400 miles) from the east
coast of North America. The two western most Azorean islands (Flores
and Corvo) actually lie on the North American plate and are only 1,925
km (1,200 miles) from St. John's in the Canadian province of
Newfoundland and Labrador.
All of the islands have volcanic origins, though Santa Maria also has
some reef contribution. The mountain of Pico on Pico Island, at 2,351 m
(7,713 ft) in altitude, is the highest in all of Portugal. The Azores
are actually the tops of some of the tallest mountains on the planet, as
measured from their base at the bottom of the ocean. The archipelago
forms the Autonomous Region of Azores, one of the two autonomous regions
of Portugal the other being Madeira.
Walking on the Azores
Walking on the Azores Islands has long been known as one of the most scenically varied areas to explore – no two walks are the same. The nine Islands of the Azores are Europe’s western most point located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. With their blue lakes bordered by flowers, dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters, the islands of the Azores are a paradise for walkers and nature lovers.
The Azores are part of Portugal and therefore in the European Union and the currency is the Euro. The Azores is popular for the Portuguese in July and August so early booking for these months is recommended.
What we offer
We offer the best seven walking islands - São Miguel is the largest island renowned for its green landscapes and scenic lakes, São Jorge with its steep escarpments and green pasture lands known as ‘fajãs’, Pico with its iconic perfectly coned volcano, Faial with its blue hydrangea hedges and volcanic craters, Santa Maria is the oldest island with its drier climate and small ‘red desert’, Flores is the most western island of the Azores with its masses of pink flowers and finally Corvo, the smallest island known for its slow paced, relaxed lifestyle.
Multi-Island Combinations
We have put together 4 different combinations of Azorean Islands that we feel best complement each other. By visiting a number of the islands you will be able to experience a great range of landscapes and enjoy stunning views. We will arrange all of your accommodation, flights, transfers between the islands (car transfers, ferries and/or inter-island flights) and provide walking notes and maps, all of which are included in the price of your holiday. We can also organise guided walking at a supplement if requested. We also have a 7 night itinerary solely for the island of São Miguel.
São Miguel – The Big Island
Santa Maria – The Old Island
São Jorge – The Jagged Island
Pico – The Volcanic Island
Faial – The Octopus Island
Flores – The Western Island
Corvo – The Small Island