Azores

Some 1,500 kilometres west of mainland Portugal, the nine islands of the Azores form an autonomous region of Portugal. Crater lakes, hot springs, hydrangea hedges and steep coastlines shape their landscapes, and the waters of the archipelago are renowned for whale and dolphin watching.

Each island has its own character: São Miguel, the green island, with Sete Cidades and Furnas; Terceira with the World Heritage town of Angra do Heroísmo; Pico, crowned by the highest mountain in Portugal, with its World Heritage vineyards; Faial, the blue island, with the marina of Horta. The best way to experience the Azores is to combine several islands, on an arranged tour or with a hire car.