Curator’s statement
The Azores are a rare gem in the Atlantic—authentic, charming, and still off the beaten path compared to similar island destinations. With far fewer tourists, they offer a peaceful escape for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and volcanic beauty. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives that wind through small, welcoming villages, as well as world-class hiking trails that showcase the islands’ unique terrain. It’s a destination where unspoiled nature and cultural charm come together for a truly unforgettable experience.
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São Jorge
You’ll land on São Miguel and, without leaving the airport, catch a short inter-island flight to São Jorge—an island beloved for its dramatic landscapes, authentic culture, and quieter, less-touristed vibe. Here you can:
Explore the fajãs—fertile coastal plateaus formed by lava flows at the base of steep cliffs
Hike the iconic Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Cubres trail, one of the Azores’ most scenic walks
Savor São Jorge cheese, a bold, tangy specialty made right on the island
Unwind and embrace the tranquility of a true off-the-beaten-path escape
Pico
When you’re ready to leave São Jorge, take a short ferry ride to Pico—home to Portugal’s highest mountain and UNESCO-listed vineyards, where vines grow between walls of volcanic rock. Here you can:
Climb Mount Pico (7,713 feet), the island’s awe-inspiring crown jewel
Explore the Vineyards of Criação Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of volcanic landscapes and stone-walled vines
Sample Pico’s distinctive wines on a guided tasting tour
Take a whale-watching excursion in the surrounding Atlantic waters
Drive scenic coastal roads to uncover charming villages and natural lava swimming pools
Venture underground on a guided exploration of dramatic lava tubes and caves
Faial
Next, take a day trip by ferry to Faial, an island known for its maritime history, volcanic landscapes, and charming port city. Hire a local guide for a full day of sightseeing so you can maximize your time without needing to rent a car. Then take the ferry back to Pico for the night. Highlights include:
Horta and its world-famous marina, a stopover for yachts crossing the Atlantic
Capelinhos Volcano, site of the dramatic 1957–58 eruption that reshaped the island
The Caldeira of Faial, a vast volcanic crater with a breathtaking rim hike
Blue hydrangeas everywhere, earning Faial the nickname “The Blue Island”
São Miguel
From Pico, hop a flight back to São Miguel and settle in to explore the Azores’ most visited island, brimming with natural wonders and rich local culture. São Miguel is best known for:
Sete Cidades, twin crater lakes divided by a narrow bridge
Furnas Valley, with its hot springs, thermal baths, and lush gardens
Ponta Delgada, the vibrant capital with lively cafés, historic architecture, and excellent restaurants
Miradouros (viewpoints) scattered across the island, perfect for capturing dramatic coastlines
Need to know
This four-island journey captures the best of the Azores—São Jorge’s rugged trails, Pico’s volcanic vineyards, Faial’s maritime charm, and São Miguel’s crater lakes and hot springs. The route is designed to minimize travel between islands, so you spend more time exploring and less time in transit. Together, they deliver the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Travel Advisor
Anne Bettesworth
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Azores page.