You’ve probably heard of the mystical Azores Islands at some point and thought, “where is that?” Or maybe you came across a connecting flight from North America to Portugal that includes a stop in the Azores. After a quick internet search, you discovered that you had to zoom quite a bit into the center of the Atlantic Ocean on google maps to get a glimpse of the nine islands that seem almost invisible at first glance. Located a two-hour flight off coast of Portugal, the autonomous archipelago of the Azores is sometimes referred to as “Europe’s Hawaii,” given its remoteness and geological composition. With a subtropical climate, the Azores are probably one of the most unique destinations in Europe that will surely take your breath away.
Lagoa do Fogo volcano as seen from the plane. ©Tobias Wilczek
If you’ve always thought about visiting this volcanic paradise, or cannot wait to book your next trip, follow the @AzoresBlog to read a series of one, two, and three-day itineraries to experience the Azores in the best possible way.
Being a volcanic archipelago, the islands’ rugged terrains make for some of the most spectacular hiking experiences, offering views that will make you feel like you’re in a dream. One of the most famous hikes in the Azores and an absolute must-see is Lagoa do Fogo, a volcanic crater lake in the center of the main island of São Miguel— the island with most direct international connections, both from North America and Europe. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the volcano as your plane approaches the island!
Lagoa do Fogo. ©Tobias Wilczek
Once you’ve landed, you can make your way to the access point and hike up to the crater on an epic 11km-long circular trail, discovering the abundant nature of the Azorean forests along the way, home to many endemic species such as Azorean juniper and blueberry, and you will quickly learn why São Miguel is also known as the “Garden Island”. Half-way trough the trek, you will be rewarded with a stunning view over Lagoa do Fogo.
If you wish, expert @Azores hiking guides can accompany you on your adventure and you’ll be sure to learn plenty about the history and botany of the islands.
Alternatively, you can drive up directly to the Barrosa peak of the crater by following the “Lagoa do Fogo” road signs. If you’re visiting during the summer months, you’ll only be able gain access to Lagoa do Fogo before 9am or after 7pm—otherwise you can catch a shuttle bus between 9am and 7pm or book a guided visit, such as a thrilling off-road tour. You can purchase your shuttle bus ticket or guided visit at the Azores Ticket Office.
Once you’ve reached Lagoa do Fogo, enjoy some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets that the archipelago has to offer, or hike down into the crater and stroll along the beach—you will instantly feel like you’ve been teleported to another dimension.
Sunrise above Lagoa do Fogo. ©Tobias Wilczek
After you experienced the beauty of Lagoa do Fogo, it’s time to feel the power of the archipelago’s volcanoes. Located just a short drive from Lagoa do Fogo, you will find Caldeira Velha—a natural hot spring fed by the ceaseless heat that lies beneath the Azores—perfect for relaxing after a long hike, surrounded by lush greenery that will certainly enchant your senses and make you marvel at the fact that you’re lounging in a hot spring in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Note: Reservations must be made in advance of your arrival, so be sure to book your visit with the Azores Ticket Office.
If you only have a short layover in the Azores, seeing Lagoa do Fogo, followed by a hot spring visit will offer you an unforgettable glimpse of the endless beauty of our islands. In case you’re visiting us for a longer period of time, stay tuned for the next blog post in our @AzoresBlog series, or contact the @Azores team of travel experts to book a tailor-made Azorean adventure. Até ja!
Written by Tobias Wilczek, @Azores Guide.