Bathed in the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the archipelago of the Azores rise up from the mid Atlantic ridge to form a group of verdant volcanic isles. The Azores are probably most famous for its hydrangeas, whose colourful blooms are at their best in June and July.
Explore’s island hopping Azores holidays cover all of the main islands; on Sao Miguel Island discover the crater lakes of Sete Cidades, walk in Furnas Valley and try a cozido, the local delicacy cooked by the thermal properties of the earth; on Terceira Island you can visit Biscoitos and the remarkable caves at Algar do Carvao; on Sao Jorge Island we explore the precipitous cliffs and small covers; on Horta Island there’s the chance to walk in the Caldera Natural Reserve and finally on Pico Island you can ascend Pico Alto, the classic volcanic cone which dominates the horizon.
As well as the natural wonders on dry land, the Azores are famous for their
whale and dolphin watching tours. These magnificent creatures have made the nutrient rich waters around the Azores their home and especially between May and August when sightings are at their best.
