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The nine islands of the Azores are spread out over a vast area. Based on their distance, they are classified in three groups. The western group consists of Flores and Corvo, the central group is formed by Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Graciosa and Terceira, and São Miguel and Santa Maria make up the eastern group.

São Miguel

The island of São Miguel is the largest of the islands and home to one half of the population of the Azores. Ponta Delgada, one of the three capital cities of the Azores and the largest city is also situated on São Miguel. The other two capital cities are Angra do Heroismo and Horta, located on Terceira and Faial respectively. Corvo is the smallest island with a mere 500 inhabitants.

Tourist Industry

The islands’ tourist industry has been steadily developing over the years. Despite the existence of beautiful beaches, with a yearly average air temperature of 17⁰ C (63⁰ F), sunbathing is not the main source of attraction for tourists. This is not to say that swimming in the ocean is impossible, as the waters are warmed by the Gulf Stream. Nevertheless, visitors are mostly drawn by the natural beauty, as well as a range of available activities, such as whale watching, trekking, diving, paragliding, horseback riding, cycling and sailing. In fact, the Azores are the perfect spot for both an active holiday and a quiet retreat. There are both upscale resorts and rural boarding houses that offer a unique countryside experience. The Azores are also one of the safest tourist destinations on the planet, with virtually no reported assaults on tourists and a good standard of living. A considerable part of the islands’ population consists of former emigrants who returned from the United States and Canada, so language differences will not be a problem.

Hot Springs and Lakes

The Azores are famous for their hot springs and lakes that lie inside volcanic craters. One of the most impressive landscapes in the Azores is the Sete Cidades (Seven Cities), a huge volcanic crater on São Miguel that boasts two freshwater lakes. What is particularly interesting is the difference in color between the two lakes; one is emerald green and the other a deep blue color. Equally dazzling is Furna de Enxofre, a 270 feet-deep volcanic tunnel on the island of Graciosa, taking us into the ground to a secluded warm lake.

Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroismo

The cities of Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroismo are tourist attractions in their own right. The latter was a very important outpost of the Portuguese empire and has been proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Vacation of a Lifetime

If you decide to visit the Azores, be prepared for the vacation of a lifetime! The islands’ unique setting will make your friends and colleagues blush with envy when you show them your holiday photographs from this extraordinary place on the very border between the Old Continent and the New World!

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Pearl of the Atlantic

Being volcanic islands, the Madeira archipelago abounds with greenery and wildlife. There are many autochthonous bird and plant species that are of particular interest to amateur and professional bird watchers and botanists. UNESCO has proclaimed Madeira as a World Natural Heritage Site. The Gulf Stream ensures a mild water temperature that never drops below 17 degrees Celsius. This makes Madeira a year-round haven for sunbathers and swimmers, as well as fans of other water sports. It is also famous for its deep sea fishing tours. Known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic”, Madeira has become increasingly popular with tourists who seek mild weather and an unspoiled natural environment. Its breathtaking landscapes and mountainous terrain make it especially appealing to hikers. Rich local customs, folk traditions, excellent wine and cuisine, and colorful wooden houses make Madeira a truly unique European island.

Funchal

The capital city of Madeira is Funchal, a modern city containing around half of the islands’ population. The city lies on a harbor and is completely surrounded by hills, giving it the look of an amphitheater. The first settlers chose the spot precisely due to this natural protection. The harbor welcomes most of the cruise ships that enter the archipelago and the international airport is also located just outside Funchal. The birthplace of the famous Portuguese soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo, Funchal is also Madeira’s main tourist resort with several world class hotels, restaurants, bars and numerous shops. Funchal takes unsuspecting tourists by surprise with its architectural treasures, since many of the city’s fifteenth and sixteenth century buildings have been preserved.

Porto Santo

Porto Santo is the other inhabited island in the archipelago and lies around 50 kilometers northeast of Madeira. With a population of only 4,500 people, the island has a small airport that connects it to Funchal and occasionally to mainland Portugal. Its sandy beaches extend over nine kilometers, making it the island with the largest beach area in the archipelago and serving as its main tourist attraction. It was also the home of Christopher Columbus, whose house has been turned into a museum. Furthermore, Porto Santo boasts an eighteen-hole and a nine-hole golf course, several hotels and many restaurants and bars.

Madeira Beach Vacations

Madeira is a safe and friendly tourist oasis with dazzling nature and scenery. It combines everything you need in a holiday, from culture, shopping and wonderful cuisine to great sports facilities and beaches. Regardless of your age, Madeira is the perfect spot to relax, connect with nature and get away from the hassles of the real world! It is also a prime ecotourism destination.