Nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores, often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe, offer a captivating escape from the ordinary. This enchanting archipelago, a part of Portugal, beckons travelers with its pristine beauty, rich culture, and adventurous spirit. Despite its remote location, reaching the Azores is easier than you might think, with Sata Azores offering direct flights from Boston Logan Airport that whisk you away to paradise in just five hours.
The Islands
The Azores consist of nine volcanic islands, each with its own unique charm and allure. From the westernmost islands of Flores and Corvo to the easternmost islets of São Miguel and Santa Maria, the archipelago is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The islands are renowned for their self-sufficiency, with agriculture, livestock farming, and fishing forming the backbone of their economy, providing visitors with an abundance of fresh local produce to savor.
São Miguel
São Miguel, the largest island among the nine in the Azores archipelago, holds within its embrace a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural delights. Serving as its capital, Ponta Delgada exudes a quaint charm, with its cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere. Here, a delightful array of restaurants awaits, offering a tantalizing mix of local Azorean cuisine and flavors inspired by Italian and Mediterranean kitchens.
The island's warm, humid climate and fertile soil foster a lush green landscape teeming with diverse vegetation. Ferns, palms, and a myriad of flora adorn São Miguel's terrain, creating an enchanting backdrop for exploration and discovery. The island's cascading waterfalls add to its allure, their majestic beauty beckoning adventurers to embark on exhilarating hikes to behold their splendor.
Among São Miguel's most renowned attractions and waterfalls are its therapeutic thermal baths. Scattered across the island, these baths beckon visitors to immerse themselves in the soothing embrace of volcanic waters, warmed by the island's subterranean fires. Whether nestled amidst the mountains near Ribeira Grande or amidst lush greenery reminiscent of the Amazon, each bath offers a unique and rejuvenating experience.
Venturing westward on São Miguel reveals one of its most breathtaking sights: the Sete Cidades Lakes. Nestled within a volcanic crater, these two azure-hued lakes captivate visitors with their serene beauty. From the lookout point atop the mountain, one can gaze upon this stunning vista, a testament to São Miguel's natural grandeur and timeless allure.
Near the Sete Cidades lakes on Sao Miguel Island lies the abandoned Monte Palace hotel, a haven for adventurous daredevils. Dating back to its prime in 1989, the hotel's opening was short-lived, leading to its closure and abandonment. Despite its desolate state, exploring its eerie corridors, rooms, and panoramic deck offers an adrenaline-fueled experience like no other. Walking through its forgotten halls and marveling at the breathtaking views provides a unique thrill and a glimpse into the island's intriguing past. For those seeking an unforgettable adventure off the beaten path, the Monte Palace hotel promises an adrenaline rush and a memorable journey through time.
The Monte Palace in 1989 (left). The Monte Palace in 2024 (right)
Tea plantation
Founded in 1883 by Ermelinda Pacheco Gago da Câmara, Gorreana tea is a longstanding family-owned business. Nestled in an environment blessed with a humid, rainy climate and volcanic soil, Gorreana produces premium green and black teas known for their exceptional quality.
Internationally recognized, Gorreana tea stands out for its commitment to organic cultivation practices. Shielded from industrial pollution in the vast mountains of its estate, Gorreana tea thrives without the use of herbicides, pesticides, or fungicides. Harvested between April and October, the tea remains 100% organic, benefiting from the island's climate that naturally repels typical tea pests.
Today, Gorreana's plantations cover 32 hectares, yielding approximately 40 tons of tea annually. While a portion is enjoyed locally in the Azores, the majority is exported worldwide, with destinations including mainland Portugal, Germany, the USA, Canada, and beyond. Renowned for its quality and uniqueness, Gorreana tea continues to captivate tea lovers across the globe.
In conclusion, Sao Miguel in the Azores offers a truly unique and captivating vacation experience. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and wealth of outdoor activities, Sao Miguel promises an unforgettable getaway for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether exploring volcanic craters, relaxing in thermal hot springs, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Sao Miguel has something to offer every type of traveler. With its accessibility, friendly locals, and reputation as the "Hawaii of Europe," Sao Miguel should undoubtedly be at the top of the list for anyone planning their next vacation destination.
