The peaks of the Atlantic await. Experience the various facets of Europe’s most westerly islands: subtropical plant life, bizarre volcanic landscapes and hiker’s paradises. When spring revitalises the coastlines, your small expedition ship transforms the Azores into fascinating new territory. The HANSEATIC nature calls at all nine islands to let you really come to terms with the diverse archipelago – something few ships set out to do. This expedition starts in Santa Maria. The most southern island is most famous for its sandy beaches. With idyllic views over green mountain ridges and the blue ocean, take a hike to Formosa beach*, where you can enjoy the spring sunshine on the fine sand. The capital of the Azores, Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel, symbolises the vibrant history of the islands. Churches, squares and the city hall exude baroque flair that you can soak up on a stroll on your own. Travel to the crater lakes of Sete Cidades* and get close to nature’s creative power. Stunning panoramic views await at the edge of the caldera. Alternatively, set off to see fumaroles, tea plantations and the Botanical Gardens* and admire the diverse landscape, which produces tobacco, wine, pineapples and – unusually for Europe – tea.

Reminiscent of an ancient creature rising from the sea, Sao Jorge earns its name as the “dragon island”. The high, steep coast is an impressive sight above the deep blue of the Atlantic. Take a walk through the small town of Velas and trace the story of Saint George, dragon slayer and patron saint, or explore the island on a tour*. The green terraces formed by cooled lava, where tropical fruit and vegetables are cultivated, are particularly appealing on trip to see the surprising fajas with coffee tasting* and culinary treats.

Even from afar, Corvo, the smallest of the Azores, stands out. What looks like a mountain when seen from the sea is revealed to be a volcanic crater when you go ashore with the experts. This isolated, tranquil UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is the perfect place to watch seabirds. With a little luck, you might spot pilot whales, Risso’s dolphins and striped dolphins in the waters off the coast of Flores. The marvellous spectacles do not stop on land as you wander through seas of vibrant vegetation. Nature in its purest form awaits you here. You will see how the flower island earns its name as the wild and lovely home of hydrangeas, montbretia and canna lilies.

Deep-black rocks, rugged volcanic cones and Portugal’s highest mountain: welcome to Pico. A beautiful journey across the crater island* presents you with bizarre rock formations and lava fields. Discover how the nutritious volcanic soil brings the grapevines to life when you explore Pico’s vineyards on foot*. With its walls of volcanic rock and the craftsmanship of its cultivation practices, the wine region has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Horta’s harbour on Faial is steeped in the stories of people who have circumnavigated the globe and who meet in Peter Cafe Sport. Listen to their tales of the high seas or try the Atlantic’s best gin and tonic. Share the passion of volcanologists on a panoramic trip through the volcanic landscape* or on a hike around the Faial Caldera*. On a walk around the crater’s edge, admire the natural sight of the crater, which is around 2 km (1.2 miles) in diameter, 400 m (1,300 ft) deep and offers far-reaching views over the Atlantic. Wonders of nature also await you on Graciosa, “the graceful one”. 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*. The creative power of the earth’s core is plain to see on Terceira. As you explore the island in a jeep* you will see impressive lava formations, natural swimming pools and the interior of a volcanic cave. Those who would prefer to discover the island in a more active way can go on a challenging hike through the wild highlands*. The untouched sides of the island, with its lakes, heathland and hot springs in the geothermal region will be revealed. A city walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Angra do Heroismo* will provide more cultural insights. Traditional white houses, churches and the impressive cathedral attest to a time when the city was an intermediate stop for overseas trade. When the HANSEATIC nature sets a course for the Portuguese mainland, you will have plenty of new insights to take home with you. Now is the time to decide which of the Azores is the most beautiful. Or was it the exhilarating full experience that moved you?