Forget the crowded beaches of the Mediterranean and the well-trodden paths of mainland Europe. There’s a place far out in the Atlantic, a verdant archipelago of volcanic peaks, crater lakes, and thermal springs, that has somehow remained one of the continent’s best-kept secrets. I’m talking about the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, and I’m here to tell you why this emerald-green paradise needs to be at the very top of your travel list.

For over 30 years, I’ve roamed the globe in search of places that genuinely take your breath away—places that feel raw, untouched, and utterly magical. The Azores are one of the very few destinations that have left an indelible mark on my soul. This isn’t just another island getaway; it’s an immersion into the raw power of nature. It’s a place where you can hike along the rim of a sleeping volcano in the morning, swim in geothermal pools heated by the earth’s core in the afternoon, and watch whales breach against a dramatic sunset in the evening.

If you’re seeking a journey that combines the thrill of adventure with moments of profound peace, then come with me. Let’s explore the islands that many have called the “Hawaii of the Atlantic.”

What Makes the Azores So Special?

In a world of over-tourism, the Azores are a breath of fresh, clean Atlantic air. The archipelago consists of nine major islands, each with its own distinct character, but all sharing a common thread of staggering natural beauty. The magic lies in its diversity.

• A Symphony of Green and Blue: The islands are intensely green, covered in lush pastures, ancient forests, and manicured tea plantations. This vibrant green is starkly contrasted by the deep, sapphire blue of the crater lakes and the surrounding ocean. The landscape is so vivid it almost feels unreal.
• Adventure at Every Turn: This is not a lie-on-the-beach-all-day destination (though you can do that too). The Azores are an adventurer’s playground. Think world-class hiking, canyoning down waterfalls, kayaking in volcanic craters, scuba diving in underwater volcanic vents, and some of the best whale watching on the planet.
• Sustainable and Unspoiled: The Azores have been recognized as one of the world’s most sustainable tourism destinations. There’s a deep respect for nature here that is palpable. You won’t find sprawling, all-inclusive resorts. Instead, you’ll discover charming guesthouses, eco-lodges, and a travel ethos that prioritizes preservation over profit.

Getting to Know the Islands

While all nine islands are worth visiting, for a first-time trip, it’s best to focus on one or two to truly soak it all in. The largest and most accessible island is São Miguel, often called “The Green Island.” It serves as the perfect introduction to the archipelago, offering a little bit of everything the Azores have to offer.

• São Miguel: The gateway to the Azores, home to the main airport in Ponta Delgada. It boasts the famous twin lakes of Sete Cidades, the steamy, geothermal wonderland of the Furnas Valley, and Europe’s only commercial tea plantations.
• Terceira: Known for its vibrant, UNESCO World Heritage capital, Angra do Heroísmo, with its colorful buildings and rich history. It’s also home to Algar do Carvão, a remarkable empty volcano that you can walk inside.
• Pico: Dominated by the magnificent Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak. This island is famous for its unique vineyard culture, where grapes are grown in small, stone-walled plots to protect them from the wind and salt.
• Faial: The “Blue Island,” thanks to the hydrangeas that bloom everywhere in summer. It’s a hub for transatlantic sailors, and its main port, Horta, has a legendary marina and an even more legendary sailor’s bar.

The Ultimate 7-Day São Miguel Itinerary

To give you a taste of the magic, here is a detailed itinerary for a week on São Miguel. This plan balances iconic sights with the freedom of discovery.

Day 1: Arrival and Ponta Delgada Charm

Arrive at Ponta Delgada (PDL), pick up your rental car (essential for exploring), and settle into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon wandering the charming, cobblestone streets of the city center. Admire the three-arched city gates, the black-and-white mosaic sidewalks, and the imposing Forte de São Brás. For dinner, find a local restaurant and try the fresh, grilled limpets with a side of pimenta da terra (local chili sauce).

Day 2: The Mystical Lakes of Sete Cidades

Today is for the postcard image of the Azores. Drive up to the Vista do Rei (King’s View) viewpoint for the breathtaking panorama of Sete Cidades. You’ll see the twin lakes—one blue, one green—nestled in a massive volcanic crater. Legend says they were formed from the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love. After soaking in the view, drive down into the crater and explore the sleepy village of Sete Cidades. For the adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle on the lakes themselves.

Day 3: Furnas Valley – Earth’s Cauldron

Prepare for a sensory overload. The Furnas Valley is a geothermal wonderland where the earth literally breathes. You’ll see steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and natural hot springs. The highlight is the Terra Nostra Park, a stunning botanical garden with a massive thermal pool. The water, rich in iron, is a unique orange-brown color and a blissful 35-40°C (95-104°F). For lunch, you must try Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew slow-cooked for hours underground by volcanic heat.

Day 4: Lagoa do Fogo and Caldeira Velha

Drive to the center of the island to witness Lagoa do Fogo, or “Lake of Fire.” This is arguably the most beautiful and pristine of São Miguel’s crater lakes. The view from the top is spectacular, and if you’re up for a steep hike, you can descend to the white-sand beach at its edge. Afterwards, reward yourself with a stop at Caldeira Velha, a nature reserve with several smaller, warmer thermal pools set within a lush, jungle-like environment. It feels like stepping into Jurassic Park.

Day 5: A Dance with Giants – Whale Watching

The Azores are a premier destination for whale and dolphin watching, with sperm whales and several dolphin species being year-round residents. Book a tour with a responsible operator from Ponta Delgada or Vila Franca do Campo. The feeling of seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is humbling and unforgettable.

Day 6: The Wild East – Nordeste

The Nordeste region is the oldest and most rugged part of São Miguel. The drive itself is an experience, with dramatic coastal cliffs, deep gorges, and impeccably maintained viewpoints (miradouros) at every turn. Visit the Farol do Arnel, the oldest lighthouse in the Azores, and wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens at Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego. This is the island at its most untamed.

Day 7: Tea for Two and Farewell

Before heading to the airport, visit one of Europe’s only tea plantations, Gorreana or Porto Formoso. Tour the factory to see the 19th-century machinery still in use, and then enjoy a complimentary cup of Azorean tea while overlooking the terraced green fields that roll down to the sea. It’s a perfectly tranquil end to an adventurous week.

Practical Tips for Your Azores Adventure

• Best Time to Visit: The weather is famously unpredictable (“four seasons in a day” is a local saying). The best time for warmer, drier weather is from June to September. However, the shoulder seasons (April-May and October) offer fewer crowds and still-pleasant conditions, with the landscape at its greenest.
• Getting Around: Renting a car is non-negotiable on São Miguel. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the main roads. Book in advance, especially for the summer months.
• What to Pack: Layers are your best friend. Bring a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, a swimsuit (for the thermal pools), and sunglasses. Don’t forget your camera!

The Azores are more than a destination; they are an experience. They reconnect you with the natural world in a way few places can. It’s a journey for the curious, the adventurous, and for anyone who still believes in finding a little bit of magic in the world. So, what are you waiting for? Europe’s greatest secret is out.