Comprised of nine islands, the Azores is a geological phenomenon full of adventure. The nine islands are brimming with natural beauty, volcanic peaks and clear lakes surrounded by dazzling scenery.
This subtropical paradise is the perfect year-round destination for any groups seeking outdoor activities! Discover more about the Azores below…
What is there to see in The Azores?
Located between three of the world’s major tectonic plates, these volcanic islands are a geographical wonder littered with natural hot springs and offer a unique way to connect with nature. The Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens are known for their geothermal waters, perfect for a relaxing dip to recover from your fast paced activities.
Its year-round warm climate makes for ideal growing conditions, giving the islands the oldest and only tea plantation in Europe. The Gorreana Tea Plantation has continuously produced tea since 1883 offers guided tours to provide an insight into the history and process of growing and producing tea in the Azores. The climate aids in the production of the Azorean Pineapple, paired with greenhouses the pineapples typical environment of a hot and humid climate is created – take a self-guided tour through the crops to see the stages of cultivation and production.
The vegetation also benefits from the region’s climate. Not only are the islands filled with unique endemic plants and Hydrangeas that have become a symbol of the islands despite not being native to the climate, it also provides lush green fields for the many cows that live there. It is said that that there are more cows than people thanks to the thriving dairy industry that produces some of Europe’s finest dairy products.
The Islands are also a prime spot for whale and dolphin watching. As home to over 20 species including sperm whales, blue whales, and common dolphins, a boat trip is the ideal way to spend an afternoon – you’re almost always guaranteed to see the two majestic mammals.
Seeing so many cows was great, they are said to be the happiest cows in the world due to the lush fields that surround them.
Amy Howe, Venture Abroad Tour Consultant.
The Islands are also a prime spot for whale and dolphin watching. As home to over 20 species including sperm whales, blue whales, and common dolphins, a boat trip is the ideal way to spend an afternoon – you’re almost always guaranteed to see the two majestic mammals.
What is there to do in the Azores?
The volcanic formation of the island makes it the perfect location for more adventurous activities. The Azores dramatic landscape is perfect for hiking, biking, and much more. You can jump, slide, and abseil down the breathtaking waterfalls and navigate downstream terrain to get your adrenaline pumping. Canyoning is one of the most popular activities done on the island as it gives the opportunity to traverse the impressive waterfalls, springs, streams, fairytale forests – a natural playground. Even for those not wishing to join in with the group will see why it’s our tour consultants’ favourite site to visit.
Nothing beats when you get to a viewpoint and the clouds clear and the view unveils itself to you in the most dramatic way!
Amy Howe, Venture Abroad Tour Consultant.
The twin lakes of Lagoa das Sete Cidades located in the crater of a dormant volcano is the optimal location for stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking. The slice of paradise shows off the beautiful nature of the Azores, with one blue and one green lagoon amongst green covered mountains and forests it produces a truly unique landscape. these mountains and forest can be explored by renting a bike to simply walking one of the many trails.
Many other guided hikes are available allowing you to see the various beautiful scenery as you are lead through a lush cryptomeria forest, witness picturesque waterfalls and traditional working watermills.
Get the most out of your tour!
These islands provide the perfect destination for scout and guide groups! Take it from our staff:
Overall it’s such a great hidden gem, it’s untouched by mass tourism so you get to feel the authenticity of the island.
Amy Howe, Venture Abroad Tour Consultant.
Get that adrenaline pumping!
Chat to our specialist team to build a tour packed with adventure!
