Luxury Travel to
the Azores made for you
Angra do Heroísmo
is a beautifully preserved historic town with impressive architecture and fortifications
The Furnas Valley
for bubbling hot springs
Pico Island
for exceptional volcanic wines
São Jorge Island
to go on scenic hikes
Santa Maria Island
for pristine beaches and stunning coastal views
A breathtaking archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean
The Azores, an enchanting archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, is a hidden gem of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Comprised of nine volcanic islands, the Azores belongs to Portugal and holds a distinct identity that sets it apart from the mainland. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and warm hospitality, the Azores has become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience.
One of the most striking features of the Azores is its stunning landscapes, shaped by volcanic activity over millennia. Majestic mountains, verdant valleys, and azure crater lakes adorn the islands, creating a captivating tapestry of natural wonders.
The iconic Pico Mountain on the island of Pico stands tall as the highest point in Portugal, offering adventurous hikers a challenging yet rewarding climb. The Sete Cidades twin lakes on São Miguel Island present a surreal panorama of contrasting colors—one blue and the other green—nestled within a volcanic caldera. These natural spectacles provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking and whale watching to diving and canyoning.
The Azores is also renowned for its abundant biodiversity and preserved ecosystems. The archipelago benefits from a unique geographical position, where warm Gulf Stream waters meet cooler currents, creating a fertile marine environment. These waters host a plethora of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and various species of fish, making the Azores a haven for marine enthusiasts and researchers alike. The islands are also home to endemic plant species and rare bird populations, making it a destination of interest for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Beyond its natural wonders, the Azores boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects its historical ties to Portugal and its maritime significance. The towns and villages of the islands exude a charming, old-world atmosphere with their cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and ancient churches.
Highlights
Explore the UNESCO-designated vineyards (currais) and enjoy a wine tasting experience on Pico Island.
Visit the Whale and Dolphin Museum in Lajes do Pico, a renowned spot for whale watching tours.
From Horta, take a boat trip to the nearby volcanic islet of Capelinhos.
Embark on scenic hikes along the cliffs of São Jorge Island.
Visit the stunning Sete Cidades twin lakes and the volcanic landscape of Furnas Valley.
Taste traditional Cozido stew cooked underground using volcanic heat.
Murray Mitchell
Travel Designer
Exploring the Azores is an experience that tends to exceed all expectations. Often, it leaves an indelible mark on your heart. From the moment you set foot on São Miguel Island, be prepared to be captivated by the sheer beauty of the landscapes, the warmth of the people, and the richness of the Azorean culture. Hiking through lush forests to discover hidden waterfalls, immersing yourself in the therapeutic hot springs of Furnas, and witnessing the awe-inspiring beauty of Sete Cidades' twin lakes are just a few of the countless unforgettable moments you can experience in the Azores.
Murray Mitchell
Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in the Azores
Trip inspiration
Places to combine the Azores with
Porto
Built on a steep riverbank, a jumble of colourful medieval houses hug the calm waters of the Douro River where wooden boats bob on the surface and people spill out of its cafes and bars, more often than not with a glass of the wine that gave the city its name.
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Lisbon
Europe’s second oldest capital, Lisbon is an effortlessly elegant city, full of old-world charm. Lisbon has plenty to offer, with a plethora of museums and galleries as well as beautiful buildings covered in iconic azelujo tiles.
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Douro Valley
The Douro River winds its way from the north of Spain, along the Portuguese border and eastward to Porto where it meets the sea. It is most famous for its port, a sweet brandy fortified wine that must originate in this valley to be considered the genuine article.
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Algarve
Striking rock formations extend skywards from azure waters as the sun warms the sandy coastline. The southernmost part of Portugal, Algarve is most known for these Mediterranean beaches, quaint coves, fishing villages and luxurious hotels and eateries.
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Alentejo
Alentejo is a vast region of cork plantation, wheat fields, vineyards and clusters of historic hilltop towns.
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When to visit
The best time to visit the Azores is during the month of September. During this dry month, temperatures are ideal for island-hopping and hiking in Faial, Sao Jorge and Pico. The best time to visit the Azores for wildlife is between April and May for whale and dolphin watching.
Sealife
April - May
Cultural Festivals
May - June
Island-hopping and hiking
September
Plan your trip to the Azores
Whatever you want from your adventure in the Azores, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Why book with Jacada?
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.
Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Plan with peace of mind
When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.
If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.