- General Information
- Nine volcanic islands located 850 miles west of Portugal
- Formed 36 million years ago by volcanic and seismic activity
- First archipelago in world to achieve sustainable tourism certification
- Home to 13 caldera lakes and rich biodiversity
- Top Islands
- Flores: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with colorful hydrangeas
- Pico: Highest point in Portugal at 8,000 feet
- São Miguel: Largest island with city life and natural landscapes
- Activities
- Over 80 hiking trails spanning 800 km across islands
- Whale watching from April to October with 24 species
- Natural pools with waterfalls and warm pools
- Holy Christ of Miracles festival in May
- Weather and Climate
- Four seasons in one day with unpredictable weather
- Best travel between May and September
- Rainy months from December to April
- Temperatures rarely exceed 30°C in summer
- Cuisine
- Local cuisine includes "Cozido das Furnas" cooked in volcanic soil
- Features octopus, fried mackerel, and local pineapples
- Known for pico cheese and black sausage