Follow in the footsteps of Columbus, who came ashore here on his voyage home in 1493. Lush pastures cover the hilly interior of the island and terraced vineyards adorn the steep coastlines.

Pico
The island’s namesake and Portugal’s highest volcano at over 2,350 m (7,710 ft) shapes the scenery here, as do more than 100 other volcanoes and the deep-black rocks. Explore the home of Verdelho wine, famous to this day, with a walk through the vineyards*.

Sao Jorge
Along the steep coast there are unforgettable views of the many fajas, the lush, green stretches of land formed by cooled lava, and the expansive plateaus strewn with volcanic cones.

Faial
The island is known as the “blue island” due to its many hydrangeas. Relics of the whaling era bring history to life here. Take a local boat trip* from Faial in search of whales and dolphins.

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Europe’s most westerly point, Flores is an insider tip for nature lovers. The island of flowers boasts an impressive array of crater lakes and tall waterfalls, while ancient island trails* lead along the bizarre coastal cliffs.

Graciosa
Be enchanted by the island’s delightful natural charm. Idyllic little fishing villages make way for volcanoes, caves and hot springs – as revealed on the hike to the Furna do Enxofre*, which is around 20,000 years old.

Terceira
Imagine what the privateer Francis Drake would have felt like in Angra do Heroismo long ago with a city walk* through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The former capital of the Azores is studded with churches and palaces.