Azores
Europe's Unspoilt Paradise
Upon the mid-Atlantic ridge around 950 miles west of Lisbon lies the stunning Azores archipelago. Often described as the tips of the lost continent of Atlantis, these Portuguese islands maintain an old world charm that is difficult to find almost anywhere else in Europe.
There are 9 islands in the group, each with their own distinctive landscape from high volcanic craters concealing twin lakes, cascading waterfalls, coastal plains encircling lagoons full of birdlife, moonscape scenery left by recent volcanic activity and the highest mountain in Portugal – the classic volcanic peak of Mt Pico at 2351m.
The Azores also have a mild all year climate resulting in lush green scenery and the locals are very friendly and pack their summer months full of festivities and religious celebrations.
The islands are one of the premier whale and dolphin watching sites in the world, with the BBC and National Geographic regularly filming here. 21 different species of whale and dolphin have been sighted in recent years including the main regular, the sperm whale.
Apart from whale and dolphin watching, the islands offer a wealth of activities and educational experiences for all age groups from cycling to horse riding, from botanical tours to diving, from bird watching to family adventures and with such romantic scenery they are also popular with honeymooners!