The Azores

The Azores archipelago is an autonomous region of Portugal, located in the Atlantic Ocean. All 9 volcanic islands are inhabited.

The eastern group comprise Santa Maria and São Miguel and Formigas Islets, the central group include Terceira , Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial , and the western group consists of Flores and Corvo. The islands are situated approx. 1500 km from the European coast and approx. 4000 km from the N. American coast. Most travel between the islands is by air or ferry. Portuguese is the main language so it is good to take your phrase book and learn a few words.

The Azores is covered with numerous types of flowers. The island of Flores lives up to its name in this regard. The most seen is Hortencias which grows on all the islands, as well as azalea, camellia, mahogany, Japanese pine, heather and wild ginger. The islands are also a resting stop for many migrating birds due to the location being roughly halfway between Europe and America .

Christopher Columbus visited the islands in 1493 and the Azores were uninhabited until the fifteenth century. The first colony was at Porto on Santa Maria . The Azores was granted autonomy from Portugal in 1976 and has its own parliament and government. The Azores is still a popular stopping-off point for sailboats and all types of vessels making Atlantic crossings.

Agriculture and fishing are the main industries. The Azores ’ tropical climate allows for crops such as bananas, pineapples, tea and tobacco. Breeding of livestock and dairy cattle is an important aspect along with production of milk, cheese, butter which are the main exports

The Azores is not a primary destination for sunseekers or beach lovers, although there are a few small white sandy beaches. However, the islands do offer abundant natural beauty and beautiful scenery. The lack of hoards of tourists is part of its appeal to those wishing to avoid crowds.

The Azores is great for walking in the mountain areas or around the crater lakes, which offer wonderful views. There is scuba diving on São Miguel island and there are nautical centers located on all the islands. Sailing cruises are available as are sport fishing expeditions. The Azores is renowned for the variety of sport fish, including marlin, tuna, wahoo and some types of shark. During the summer months whale watching trips are available. All the islands offer good hiking opportunities, or visitors may choose to explore by horseback, bicycle or scooter. The volcano on Pico island, at approx. 2342 meters is popular for mountaineering enthusiasts. Tennis is also widely available.

The island of Terceira offers sights for those who like to explore caves. The adventurous might also enjoy paragliding which is available on several of the islands for a really spectacular view of the archipelago. Windsurfing is available in some places. Also Portuguese bullfighting and running with the bulls can be seen on the islands of Terceira and Graciosa. For golf enthusiasts there are courses on both São Miguel and Terceira islands.

There are internet cafes and restaurants, and shoppers can amble and browse the local handicrafts, including pottery and embroidery.

Facts
President: Carlos César
Capital: Ponta Delgada
Population: Approx. 240,000 (for the 9 islands)
Time Zone: UTC-1 (summer UTC)
Currency: Euro
Country Dialling Code: 351

Weather / Climate
The Azores has a temperate climate for most of the year. Some rainfall is common throughout the year, although greater during the winter months. Average temperatures are around 17 C, but cool to around 13-14 C during the winter months (January-February) and 22-23 C during the summer months (July-August). Due to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream , the water temperatures are approx. 15-16 C during the coldest months, to 20-22 C in the warmest.

Health

Links
www.drtacores.pt The official Azores tourism board site, includes maps, history, geography and climate information as well as sports and cultural activities.

Disclaimer: While we have tried to ensure this information is correct we do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy.
* Inclusion on this guide does not guarantee travel insurance is available in this country at any given time. Travel Insurance is not available in countries for which the FCO advise against travel to.
** The FCO advised against travel to countries marked thus at the time of writing. Travel Insurance is not available in areas where the FCO advise against travel to.