Being from Bermuda my grandparents parents are from the Azores. The Azores are often described as a mix between Iceland and Hawaii and offer unmatched beauty in exchange for a lack of commercialism on the smaller islands. If you’re the type of person who likes to truly escape on vacation visiting the more rural islands is the ultimate vacation.

Nestled in the middle of the vast Atlantic Ocean, the Azores archipelago is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those yearning for a unique and authentic travel experience. These are literally the tips of active volcanoes sticking out of the ocean. Among its enchanting islands, Terceira, São Miguel, and Flores stand out for their diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a plethora of activities. Here are the best islands and what to do on each of them. This order is also best. Flying into Terceira and back home from Sao Miguel.

Terceira: Historical Charm and Festive Spirit

1. Angra do Heroísmo:

The capital of Terceira, Angra do Heroísmo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with historic charm. These place was build in the 1500s! Literally just walking around it is amazing. Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit the iconic Cathedral of Angra, and explore the Duke of Terceira Garden. If you’re up for a bit of a drive head over to Monte Brasil (before sunset, it closes around 9pm). There’s a wild cat colony (that’s very well taken care of) here. You can see breathtaking views of the city below with a lab full of cats if you want LOL.

2. Algar do Carvão:

Venture into the heart of Terceira with a visit to Algar do Carvão, a volcanic chimney featuring a unique underground lake. The surreal beauty of this natural wonder is a testament to the island's volcanic origins. You literally get to walk into the middle of an empty volcano. This is one of the few places in the world you can do this from what I’ve read. Speaking of volcanoes drive over to the trail for Misterios Negros, no need to hike it, you can see lots of relatively recent volcano cones just driving through.

3. Piscinas Naturais

These are essentially the ‘beaches’ in the Azores, they’re just carved rock outcroppings with absolutely amazing snorkeling, the one in Quatro Ribeiras also has a giant pool there as well.

There are man-of-war in the Azores so make sure you bring a bottle of Sting Away-Blue!

4. Lagoa das patos

This is a lake with ducks. But it’s awesome. Theres another nearby park here and if you catch it right (which shouldn’t be hard since the weather is insane in the Azores - super foggy and rainy one min totally clear the next. The Parque Natural da Terceira is also close to here, it’s also awesome. Very much a Lord of the Rings magic in the air at these places. Moss covered and foggy.

Flores: Nature's Untouched Masterpiece

And I am not kidding. There’s not much here, it is a masterpiece. The best place in the world maybe in my opinion, and I was literally born in Bermuda. If you stay on the other end of the island (Faja grande) the drive to everywhere is amazing.

1.Lagoa Funda and Lagoa Rasa:

Explore the twin lakes of Lagoa Funda and Lagoa Rasa, nestled in volcanic craters surrounded by lush vegetation. The tranquility of these hidden gems invites contemplation and connection with nature. This is indescribable. A giant black and green lake side by side. You can just drive right up to them right off the side of the main road between the airport side and the side with Faja grande.

2. Canyoning

This experience is worth a trip twice around the world over. It’s the sole reason you should go to Flores on a trip to the Azores. 4-5 hours of tricky river walking but with jumps, rappels, and slides all along. You’ll be exhausted but my 11 year old did it and so can you. Do the level one trip with Westcanyon Adventures.

3. Ribeira do Ferreiro waterfalls

This is a group of waterfalls and if you go later in the afternoon during the week you might land it all to yourself which is like being on another planet. NOT an easy hike though. I see people list it as such but it’s half an hour uphill on uneven rocks (you’ll notice a rat or two jump across the path too LOL). This is in between the airport side and Faja grande.

4. Bacalhau Waterfall

This super tall waterfall is in Faja grande and down towards the end. You can swim here if you’re okay with ice water and like eels, the endangered European eel is here, if it freaks you out you might want to stay out of the water. If this entices you then get an underwater camera case for your iphone.

Sao Miguel

1. Sete Cidades:

São Miguel is renowned for its lush landscapes, and Sete Cidades is a prime example. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the twin lakes, one blue and the other green, surrounded by rolling hills. After being in Flores this won’t blow your socks off but they have McDonalds on this island so it might be worth the tradeoff since you’ll be starving by then.

2. Furnas:

Immerse yourself in the geothermal wonders of Furnas. Explore the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, soak in the natural hot springs, and indulge in the traditional "Cozido das Furnas," a meal cooked underground using volcanic heat. This place is super cool but it’s a solid drive all the way to the other end of the island if you stay close to the airport, about 45min. Worth it but go early because the park closes at 5pm. Bring your bathing suit (one you don’t mind turning a bit orange. There’s also Caldeira Velha na Ribeira Grande which is closer to the airport size of the island.

2. Gorreana Tea Factory

This is a cool place to stop on the way to or from Furnas, it’s a tea plantation. Didn’t visit it when open but you can walk through the plantation and get pictures whenever you want.

2. Jardim Botânico António Borges

These gardens are the best in the Azores, really nothing short of an amazing collection of trees and plants as well as a delicious cafe that serve acai and other super fresh food.

3. Just chillax:

There’s lots of great hotels on this island. Particularly the Senora Da Rosa, and you’ve already seen the best nature the Azores has to offer so take a bit an just relax towards the end of your trip.

Practical Tips:

Transportation: Utilize inter-island flights or ferry services to navigate between Terceira, São Miguel, and Flores. You’ll have to rent a car (and have someone who can drive manual, they rarely offer automatics). I can’t imagine trying to do this sort of trip with a taxi.
Local Cuisine: Sample Azorean specialties such as "Cozido das Furnas," "Queijadas," and fresh seafood. To be honest the food isn’t the highlight of a trip like this. Remember this is Europe and not America, be prepared to wait forever on service and to dine out. Factor that into your time.
Weather Considerations: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the Azores are known for their changeable climate. Pack layers and waterproof gear. It can go from freezing to straight up hot very quick.

The Azores, with its blend of natural wonders and cultural richness, offers an unparalleled travel experience. Seriously not kidding. From the historic streets of Terceira to the lush cityscapes of São Miguel and the untouched beauty of Flores, each island reveals a unique facet of the archipelago's allure. So, pack your sense of adventure and set forth on an Azorean adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime. Happy exploring!

The ultimate outdoor adventure travel guide to the azores.