The Azores, nine main islands and the smaller isles and atolls around them, are a mid-Atlantic treasure-trove of natural beauty just ripe for anyone with an adventurous spirit and a love of the great outdoors.The volcanic landscape is dramatic and there are three distinct biospheres. Plus the Azores have two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the old town of Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira and the vineyards of Pico.The varied beauty of the islands does make choosing the best places to stay on the Azores a challenge. Beautiful Angra do Heroísmo is the historic capital, a charming 18th century city on the island of Terceira, full of colourful cafes and bars and boutiques. Terceira is also one of the best places if you like a festival - between May and October a number of towns and cities on the island have a Spanish style tourada, when bulls are set free into the streets to join the party.
The Azores are also known for wildlife - especially whales, who grace the sea around the islands with their presence several times a year on their migrations. Almost every town or village with a marina will offer whale watching tours. Pico Island is a good choice if this is one of the things you’re most looking forward to about visiting the Azores. Pico is also where you’ll find Portugal’s highest mountain, 2351metres above sea level and a hike you can do in two or three hours if you’re fairly fit. From the very top you can see the islands of Faial and São Jorge.
Sailing, surfing, biking, hiking, paragliding and horseback riding are other popular ways to experience the landscape of the Azores. You can expect to come across incredible crater lakes, steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and incredible caverns, volcanic underwater landscapes and pristine and white sandy beaches. Much of this beauty is protected in national parks and marine reserves.
There are numerous highlights, but there are a few unmissable sights: the amazing blue and green caldera lakes of Setes Cidades - one of the lakes is blue, one green; the display centre of the Capelinhos Volcano, a spectacular underwater volcano which erupted in 1957; the springs at Terra Nostra Gardens on the island of São Miguel; the Heritage Listed vineyards of Pico, which date from the 15th century are laid between protective walls made of basalt.
Embark on a whale watching boat trip.
Sample the local cuisine, slow cooked in volcanic soil, at São Miguel’s village of Furnas.
Soak in the hot geothermal pools at Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija.
Hike to the top of Portugal's highest mountain, Pico.
Unwind on the picturesque beaches.
With so much on offer many of the best places to stay in the Azores are snapped up early so do make your plans and make a booking.
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Ilha do Pico (Ilha do Pico)
A coastal eco resort with individual volcanic stone houses. Private suites feature summery yellow rooms and traditional furniture. A popular restaurant and bar. Pico island is a nature lover's paradise with whale watching and stunning hikes. A laid backed resort perfect for families.
Sao Miguel Island (Rabo de Peixe)
This stylish hotel is set within a former 17th-century mansion in Azores, part of an ecological reserve which also comprises a farm and scuba diving centre. Following a recent renovation, the hotel now offers modern lofts and apartments, perfect for an active escape to the country.
Sao Miguel Island (Ponta Delgada)
A stunning coastal property offering incredible sea views. Rooms are contemporary in style with chic minimalist design, luxurious bathrooms and large balconies. A superb spa and striking infinity pool are utterly spoiling. The perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
Sao Miguel Island
Combining an eco approach with an elegant aesthetic, Santa Barbara Eco Beach Resort is a stunning hotel. The plush villas are great for couples looking for some additional privacy and the hotel's restaurant offers delectable seafood dishes.
Sao Miguel Island (Sao Miguel, Azores)
A fabulous conversion of a rustic estate on Sao Miguel. This eco-property not only champions sustainability but also provides stunning modern suites and cottages with a chic pared back feel and a grown-up vibe. Don't miss daily gin o'clock and occasional sushi dinners. Relaxation guaranteed!
Sao Miguel Island
A sleek modern property boasting a fabulous coastal location in the spectacular Azores region. Rooms are minimalist in style with soft hues, crisp white linen, light wood panelling and large windows that perfectly frame the coastal views. A luxurious base to explore this fascinating region from.
Sao Miguel Island
Secluded and serene, Furnas Boutique Hotel offers excellent accommodation in the Azores. The design is sharp and chic with minimalist rooms and an extensive spa. After a day's exploring, enjoy delicious Azorean cuisine in the hotel's stylish restaurant. A hillside wonder.
Sao Miguel Island
A luxury art-deco hotel situated on the hidden gem that is the Azores Islands. Spacious rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, feather-soft beds and crisp white linen. Spend relaxing days lounging in the thermal water pool or for those looking for an active holiday there's plenty on offer.
Sao Miguel Island (Azores)
A clifftop hotel above the southern shore of São Miguel Island. Modern interiors feel fresh and breezy, with driftwood pieces accentuating the coastal location. Some rooms boast fireplaces, heated plunge pools and terraces, plus there are picture windows framing epic views. Serious seaside style.
Sao Miguel Island
Embodying easy elegance, White is a stunning hotel in the Azores. The name succinctly sums up its style with sharp, luxurious rooms that offer stunning views out over the ocean. Spa treatments, horse riding trips and superb food in the restaurant will keep you engaged.
Sao Miguel Island (Azores)
On the island of São Miguel close to Santa Bárbara Beach, this traditional Portuguese property offers 2 studios and 2 cottages. Charming interiors are comfortable and homely, boasting terraces with views to the gardens and the outdoor pool. A great choice for a peaceful getaway.
