There is a place in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean where the cows seem happier than anywhere else on earth, hydrangeas line the roads like blue walls of clouds, and the ground breathes steam. I’m talking, of course, about the Azores.

Often called the "Hawaii of Europe," this Portuguese archipelago is a masterclass in dramatic landscapes and raw, unpolished beauty. Having traveled to over 40 countries, I can honestly say that stepping onto the island of São Miguel felt like stepping into a prehistoric world—one that Jurassic Park location scouts definitely missed out on! 🦖

If you are looking for a destination that combines adventure, relaxation, and incredible food without the overwhelming crowds of mainland Europe, pack your rain jacket and let's dive in. 🌊

The Island of Green and Blue

São Miguel is the largest of the nine islands and the perfect introduction to the Azores. It is nicknamed Ilha Verde (The Green Island), and within five minutes of leaving the airport in Ponta Delgada, you will understand why. The lushness here is aggressive; nature reclaims everything with vibrant moss and fern.

The Twin Lakes of Sete Cidades

No blog post about the Azores is complete without mentioning Sete Cidades. This massive volcanic crater houses two lakes: one blue and one green. Legend says they were formed by the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love. 💔

Pro Tip: Don't just stop at the famous Vista do Rei viewpoint. While iconic, it’s often crowded. Hike the trail along the crater rim near the abandoned Monte Palace hotel for a vertigo-inducing, uninterrupted view of the caldera. 🥾

Feeling the Heat in Furnas

Driving east, the landscape changes from pastoral rolling hills to bubbling geothermal activity. Furnas is a town built inside a dormant volcano crater, and it smells like sulfur and adventure (mostly sulfur).

Eat a Meal Cooked by a Volcano

One of the most unique experiences here is eating Cozido das Furnas. This is a traditional Portuguese stew made of meat and vegetables, but instead of an oven, the pot is buried in the volcanic soil for six hours and slow-cooked by the earth's natural heat! 🍲 It has a distinct earthy flavor that you won't find anywhere else.

After lunch, soothe your muscles in the Terra Nostra Park thermal pool. The water is yellow-orange due to the iron content, so don't wear your favorite white swimsuit! 👙

The Wild East: Nordeste

For the truly adventurous travelers, head to Nordeste. This is the oldest and wildest part of the island. The cliffs here are steeper, the forests denser, and the waterfalls more frequent.

Chasing Waterfalls

Make a stop at Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park. It’s like a fairy tale setting with old watermills and a massive waterfall that is easily accessible without a strenuous hike. It’s the perfect spot for those moody Instagram shots. 📸

Practical Tips for the Explorer

Before you book your ticket, here are a few things I learned the hard way:

• Rent a Car: Public transport is scarce. To find the hidden gems, you need your own wheels. 🚗
• The Weather is Bi-Polar: The locals say you can experience four seasons in one day. Dress in layers and always carry a rain jacket, even if the sun is shining when you leave the hotel.
• Look at the SpotAzores App: This local app shows live webcams around the island. Since the microclimates are so distinct, it might be raining in Ponta Delgada but sunny in Sete Cidades. Check before you drive!

Final Thoughts

The Azores aren't for the traveler who wants to sit by a pool with a cocktail (though you can do that). They are for the traveler who wants to feel small against the magnitude of nature. Whether you are hiking the rim of a volcano or swimming in the Atlantic heated by thermal vents, São Miguel reminds you that the Earth is very much alive.

Have you been to the Azores yet? Let me know in the comments below! 👇