Azores vacation
Amidst the Atlantic Ocean, two flying hours from Lisbon, almost four from Paris or Barcelona, five from Boston or six from Toronto, lies the Azorean island of São Miguel. Not only is it the largest of the nine Azores islands, but there are also regular and frequent flights from Europe mainland and North America.
Fortunately, the Azores have so far been spared from hotel towers and all-inclusive clubs, so that on the one hand spectacular, but on the other above all original (cultivated) landscapes have been preserved.
The moderate climate, free from frost or drought, together with the incredibly fertile soil nurtures a wonderful diversity of vegetation. Depending on the elevation around the island, the landscapes are reminiscent of Irish or Mediterranean coastlines, Asian jungle, Alpine foothills, New Zealand, British Columbia's Ancient Forest or even the Scottish Highlands. It is green all year round and thus hardly surprising that there are more dairy cows than people on São Miguel. It is also home to the only commercial tea plantation in Europe, which produces black and green tea.
You will hike through hugely varied magnificent landscapes or experience them by rental car, enjoy nature and clean air without hustle and bustle, swim in hot volcanic springs, marvel at botanical gardens with flowers and trees from all over the world, watch dolphins and whales, refresh yourself by jumping into the Atlantic Ocean, surf or just watch the waves from cliffs or sandy beaches for a while.
There are guided tours for active vacations, such as canyoning, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, mountain biking and alike, but it is also very easy to discover the most spectacular views, hikes and natural wonders on your own with a free map.
In order to really be able to enjoy the island of São Miguel, we recommend, from our own experience, to stay no less than two weeks.