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Discovered in the 15th century by navigators en route to the New World the Portuguese islands of the Azores are an archipelago of nine beautiful islands set in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 900 miles west of Portugal.
The volcanic origin of these islands has produced outstanding natural beauty, with vast green valleys, vibrant blue lakes and eye-catching black cliffs that rise up from the ocean. The hot mineral springs and geysers add a glorious tranquility to the scene, which is nearly impossible to find anywhere else in the world.
Our hotels are based on the island of São Miguel, also known as the 'Green Island', which is around 40 miles long and 10 miles wide at it's widest point. The picturesque capital, Ponta Delgada, which is situated to the west of the island provides both character and amenities, as historical buildings and narrow cobbled streets combine with cafés, bars and restaurants. Just a short drive away the town of Sete Cidades is well worth visiting for its extinct volcano crater within which there are two lakes that are emerald green and dark blue in colour.
The most beautiful gardens in São Miguel are to be found in the village of Provação on the south-east of the islands. The nearby spa village of Furnas is blessed with what is believed to be one the largest thermal water sources in the world as well as a spectacular lake bordered with azaleas and the most beautiful botanical garden in the archipelago.
 To the north lies one of the most important towns on the island, Ribeira Grande, which is surrounded by fertile land that yields a variety of produce including the famous tea; the Azores is the only place where tea is grown in Europe. Further along the awesome 'Lake of Fire' is not to be missed and the mountains provide a truly dramatic backdrop to the enormous 'Lagoa do Fogo', which was formed from an ancient volcanic eruption. Some of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island can also be found here.
The towns of Lagao and Vila Franco do Campo can be found lying to the south; both of which are surrounded by large plantations of pineapples, oranges and bananas and are bordered by cliffs that recede into the sea.
The pace of life in the Azores has changed very little over the decades and farming and fishing remain the principal livelihood for the Azoreans. With the exception of tourism very little industry is evident, making these islands one of the very few unspoilt destinations in Europe where peace and relaxation in an unpolluted environment are guaranteed.
Day trips to some of the other Azorean islands can be arranged through the local representatives.
All of our holidays to the Azores are eight days/seven nights duration and fly on Mondays from Gatwick, but can easily be extended to as many weeks as you like, subject to availability. There is a wide range of 3 & 4 star hotels to choose from, in different locations around the island.
Please note that all of our holidays to the Azores are operated in conjunction with Atlantic Holidays - ATOL 2074
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