The Açores Islands. Our trip twice postponed thanks to covid. These nine islands in the Atlantic, each unique, make up an autonomous region of Portugal. We took a 2-hour direct flight from Porto to São Miguel Island (the largest and most populated island) and then spent a bit over two weeks exploring this very special place. We stayed on three of the islands and day-tripped by ferry to a fourth. We will most definitely return to see more of this archipelago. I really hope to go back some mid-June when the hydrangeas are in full, glorious bloom and more species of whales are migrating by. The natural beauty of these volcanic islands was stunning. The towns were charming and laid-back. What a privilege to get to visit here while these islands are still relatively unspoiled. It took me several days to pare back the ridiculous number of photos I took on this trip down to “just” 610 keepers. Below are just some.
São Miguel Island:
Dozens of meticulously maintained miradouros (scenic overlooks.) Breath-taking skies and clouds. Charming villages. Yummy cheese, tasty pineapples, tea plantations, and cornfields. Waterfalls, thermal springs, bubbling caldeiras, and ocean pools. Mesmerizing waves. Sudden cloud bursts and so many rainbows that we lost count.
Pico Island:
The peak (Pico), highest elevation in Portugal, peeking in and out of clouds. The black lava rock coastline and grapes growing between stacked rock walls. Cows in the roads. The crazy sound of the cagarro birds at night. Dolphins & whales viewed from a zodiac and whale-spotters on the cliffs.
Faial Island: – a day-trip by Ferry from Pico.
A 30-minute ride on the ferry taking our rental car. The large crater that was completely fogged-in that day. The fascinating, surreal area where an eruption in 1958 caused many inhabitants to relocate to the U.S..
Terceira Island:
Colorful buildings – especially the over 50 shrines to the Holy Ghost near churches. Cows and tractors ruling the narrow roads. Walled pastures. Magical forests. The pretty city of Angro do Heroísmo. Views over the clouds to neighboring São Jorge Island and to Pico beyond. The lava tube down into the cave. Soaking in the sunsets, moon rises, and starry nights.
