Azores – a paradise in the Atlantic

In the midst of the vast waters of the North Atlantic lie the Azores – an archipelago of nine islands where time flows more slowly and nature still sets the pace of life. Volcanic landscapes, hot springs and exceptional biodiversity make this one of the most fascinating and unspoiled places in Europe.

A geological masterpiece in the Atlantic

Located about 1,500 km from the coast of Portugal and 1,900 km from Newfoundland, the Azores consist of nine islands divided into three groups: eastern (São Miguel, Santa Maria), central (Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial) and western (Flores, Corvo). Their volcanic origin is visible everywhere – from the majestic Pico, the highest peak in Portugal (2,351 m a.s.l.), to crater lakes, hot springs and lunar lava fields.

The islands emerged along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates are still shaping the landscape. The Capelinhos volcano on Faial, which created new land during its eruption in 1957–1958, is a reminder of nature’s power. In Furnas on São Miguel, hot springs reaching up to 40°C bubble among colorful mineral deposits, forming natural works of art. The Azores are a living geological laboratory, captivating both scientists and travelers.

The islands’ biodiversity

The Azores are a true paradise for nature lovers. The waters surrounding the islands belong to one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world. The archipelago is an ideal spot for whale watching – sperm whales, blue whales, orcas and bottlenose dolphins regularly appear in these waters, attracted by an abundance of plankton and favorable ocean currents. The underwater world also hides rare species of fish and deep-sea corals that are the focus of international research.

On land, volcanic lakes such as Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, with their turquoise waters contrasting with green slopes, dominate the scenery. Subtropical laurel forests – relics of the Tertiary period – cover the islands, and endemic species such as Azorean heathers or tree ferns add to their charm. The Azores are also home to unique animals, including the Azorean bat – the smallest mammal of the archipelago – and seabirds like shearwaters and Azorean gulls.

The Azores and the culture of water in residents’ lives

Water is the heart of the Azores – not only geographically, but also culturally. For centuries, the islands were a stopover for sailors, and the port of Ponta Delgada remains a center for fishing. The geothermal springs of Furnas are used to prepare the traditional cozido das Furnas – a dish cooked in hot ground that has become a culinary symbol of the region. Locals even brew tea in thermal waters, giving it a unique flavor.

The Azores are also pioneers in whale conservation. Regulations introduced here for marine tourism minimize the human impact on these majestic animals. Local festivals, such as the Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres, celebrate the connection to the ocean, blending religious traditions with maritime motifs.

Sustainable development and nature conservation

The Azores were the first archipelago in the world to receive the EarthCheck certification for a sustainable tourism destination. Each of the nine nature parks – from the São Miguel Natural Park to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on Corvo – protects unique ecosystems, including crater lakes, hot springs and endemic species. Sensitive areas, such as the Ilhéu de Vila Franca reserve, are under strict tourism restrictions.

The islands rely on clean energy – geothermal, wind and hydropower supply a significant portion of local electricity. Thanks to this, the Azores remain one of the best-preserved ecosystems in Europe, combining natural beauty with a modern approach to ecology.

Azores – an invitation to paradise

The Azores are also a paradise for the active. Treks around calderas, hikes through laurel forests and volcanic trails, or diving in crystal-clear waters offer unforgettable views. Water sports enthusiasts can try kayaking, sailing or canyoning, while the Terra Nostra hot springs in Furnas tempt visitors with relaxation in natural sulfur pools.

Tourism in the Azores remains authentic – the lack of mass commercialization allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the region’s culture and nature. The local cuisine, with dishes such as cozido and queijo da Ilha cheeses, and Europe’s oldest tea plantations in Gorreana, add flavor to the journey. Pico Island stands out with its unique heritage – vines grown on black lava fields produce Verdelho wine. In 2004, the vineyard landscape was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This volcanic beverage is the essence of Azorean harmony with nature.