12 Jaw-Dropping Places in the Azores You Won’t Believe Exist

I thought I knew what volcanic islands looked like until I landed in the Azores. The moment I saw Sete Cidades, with its twin lakes nestled in an ancient crater (one blue, one green!), I realized I was somewhere that defied logic. The whole scene looked like someone had taken Ireland, dropped it in the middle of the Atlantic, and added volcanoes just for fun.

Trust me, the most beautiful places in the Azores will mess with your brain in the best way possible. When I stood at the edge of Lagoa do Fogo, watching steam rise from hot springs while wild hydrangeas bloomed everywhere, I couldn’t believe this was real life. Here are 12 spots that made me question if I had somehow stumbled onto another planet entirely.

Jaw-Dropping Places to Visit in the Azores

Looking to explore the Azores’ most beautiful places? From the stunning landscapes of Sete Cidades to the lush greenery of Furnas, the Azores are packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the charming streets of Ponta Delgada, marvel at the natural beauty of Lagoa do Fogo, or explore the volcanic wonders of Pico Island. Discover the tranquil allure of Terceira, the vibrant culture of Angra do Heroísmo, or the breathtaking views from Capelinhos Volcano. Whether you’re into hiking, hot springs, or island beauty, here are 12 of the Azores’ most breathtaking spots!

1. Algar do Carvão

• 📍 Location: Terceira Island, about 20 minutes from Angra do Heroísmo
• 🏆 Best For: Volcano explorers 🌋, geology enthusiasts 🪨, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Descending into the volcanic chimney, admiring stalactites, viewing the underground lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October (when the cave is open), summer for best visibility 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Terceira Mar Hotel – Comfortable accommodation with ocean views near Angra

Algar do Carvão beckons adventure seekers with the rare thrill of walking through an ancient volcanic chimney. This 3,200-year-old lava tube creates an otherworldly experience as you descend 330 feet into the earth. The journey reveals remarkable silica stalactites and a crystal-clear underground lake that perfectly mirrors the cavern above.

I was speechless when first gazing up through the massive skylight opening formed when lava receded millennia ago. For the best experience, visit on sunny days when light beams cut through darkness. The vibrant mineral-rich walls display colors from deep reds to golden yellows. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip and bring a light jacket – the interior stays cool year-round regardless of Terceira’s outdoor temperature.

2. Angra do Heroísmo

• 📍 Location: Terceira Island, southeast coast
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, architecture lovers 🏰, culture seekers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the UNESCO city center, visiting São João Baptista Fort, strolling colorful streets
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for warm weather and festivals, especially Sanjoaninas in June 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pousada Forte São Sebastião – Historic fortress hotel with panoramic bay views

Angra do Heroísmo transports visitors through time as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has served as a vital Atlantic maritime crossroads since the 15th century. The city’s preserved historic center feels like stepping through time with Renaissance military architecture and vibrant pastel buildings lining narrow streets.

The imposing São João Baptista Fort offers commanding views over the bay and city. Walking through the gold-adorned Sé Cathedral and relaxing in the lush Duke of Terceira Garden are must-do experiences. I couldn’t believe my luck when I stumbled upon a local festival with impromptu street performances.

For the best perspective, climb Monte Brasil for breathtaking views of red-tiled roofs against the deep blue Atlantic. The town truly comes alive during June’s Sanjoaninas Festival with parades, bullfighting, and street parties.

3. Caldeira

• 📍 Location: Faial Island, central highlands
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature photographers 📸, birdwatchers 🦜
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the rim trail, photographing misty crater views, spotting endemic flora
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for clearest weather, early morning for atmospheric mist 🌫️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel do Canal – Modern accommodation in Horta with views of Pico Mountain

Caldeira captivates hikers with its massive collapsed volcanic crater stretching 1.5 miles wide and dominating Faial Island’s center. This natural amphitheater creates its own microclimate, often filled with swirling mists that occasionally part to reveal the lush green interior below.

The 5-mile circular rim trail offers constantly changing perspectives of this geological wonder. Along the path grow juniper, cedar, ferns, and colorful hydrangeas found nowhere else on Earth. My favorite moment here was watching fog slowly lift from the crater floor like nature’s own theatrical reveal.

For the most magical experience, arrive early when mist fills the crater, creating an ethereal landscape. On clear days, neighboring Pico Island with its towering volcano stands visible in the distance. The visitor center explains the formation of this unique ecosystem within a protected natural reserve.

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4. Furnas

• 📍 Location: São Miguel Island, eastern region
• 🏆 Best For: Hot springs enthusiasts ♨️, foodies 🍲, garden lovers 🌺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Bathing in geothermal pools, tasting cozido das Furnas, exploring Terra Nostra Garden
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for hot springs, spring for beautiful garden blooms 🌷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel – Historic accommodation with direct access to thermal pools

Furnas awakens all your senses as a geothermal wonderland where the Earth’s volcanic activity bubbles dramatically to the surface. Steaming fumaroles and mineral-rich mud pots scatter throughout this picturesque valley. Sulfurous mist rises from various points around town, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.

The highlight is experiencing Cozido das Furnas, a traditional stew cooked underground using natural volcanic heat. I still remember the rich flavors of this unique dish that slow-cooks for about six hours.

The magnificent Terra Nostra Garden features one of the Azores’ most famous attractions – a large iron-rich thermal pool surrounded by an exotic botanical garden with over 2,000 tree species. For variety, visit the smaller, hotter Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths with their series of orange-tinted pools. Take the scenic walk around Furnas Lake to see fumaroles up close.

5. Lagoa do Fogo

• 📍 Location: São Miguel Island, central region
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, photographers 📸, nature lovers 🏞️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewpoint photography, hiking to the shoreline, birdwatching
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for best visibility, early morning to avoid clouds ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort – Modern accommodation on the north coast with easy lake access

Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake) isn’t just another viewpoint – it’s one of the most pristine crater lakes in the Azores. This striking blue water jewel nestles within a young volcano caldera at 1,900 feet elevation. Steep slopes covered in endemic vegetation surround the lake, creating a scene of unspoiled natural beauty.

Several rim viewpoints around Lagoa do Fogo offer jaw-dropping vistas, but I recommend taking the moderate Trilho da Lagoa do Fogo trail that descends to the shoreline in about 2 hours. Since motorized boats are prohibited and development restricted, the lake maintains rare serenity. White sand beaches along parts of the shore provide perfect spots for picnicking.

Visit on clear mornings before clouds typically gather mid-day. The lake’s higher elevation means weather changes quickly, sometimes creating magical conditions as fog rolls across water or parts to reveal stunning reflections. The entire area protects diverse bird species, including potential sightings of São Miguel Island’s rare Azores bullfinch (Priolo).

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6. Montanha do Pico

• 📍 Location: Pico Island, dominating the western half
• 🏆 Best For: Mountain climbers 🧗‍♂️, adventure seekers 🏔️, sunrise enthusiasts 🌅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Summiting Portugal’s highest peak, watching sunrise above clouds, stargazing
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for stable climbing conditions 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Aldeia da Fonte Hotel – Charming stone accommodations with mountain views

Montanha do Pico isn’t just any mountain – it’s Portugal’s highest peak at 7,713 feet and a perfectly shaped stratovolcano dominating the entire Azores archipelago. The distinctive cone often rises majestically above clouds, visible from neighboring islands in a scene from fantasy.

The challenging 7-8 hour round-trip hike rewards with unparalleled views across multiple islands. Above the tree line, black volcanic rock creates an otherworldly landscape. Standing at the summit’s Piquinho (Little Peak), I watched wisps of sulfurous steam escape – a reminder this volcano merely sleeps.

For the ultimate experience, book an overnight permit to camp near the top, allowing you to witness both sunset and sunrise from above the clouds. Night climbing tours during summer offer exceptional stargazing. The mountain shapes not only the landscape but also local culture, where people have adapted to living in its shadow while harnessing fertile volcanic soil for the island’s renowned vineyards.

7. Pico Natural Park

• 📍 Location: Pico Island, encompassing Mount Pico and surrounding areas
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, wine enthusiasts 🍷, volcano adventurers 🌋
• 📸 Top Experiences: Summiting Mount Pico, touring UNESCO vineyard landscapes, exploring lava caves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for mountain climbing, September for wine harvest celebrations 🍇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Aldeia da Fonte Hotel – Eco-friendly accommodation built from volcanic stone

Want to conquer Portugal’s highest peak before lunch and sample volcanic wines by dinner? Pico Natural Park centers around Mount Pico, an active volcano reaching 7,713 feet. The challenging summit hike rewards with views across the entire archipelago.

Beyond the mountain lies a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Thousands of stone-walled enclosures called “currais” create a geometric landscape where grapevines thrive in volcanic soil. These ingenious walls protect plants from harsh Atlantic winds while absorbing heat for the grapes. Local wineries offer tastings of distinctive Verdelho and Pico wines born from this unique terroir.

Throughout the park, bizarre lava formations showcase the island’s volcanic character. The Gruta das Torres, Portugal’s longest lava tube, offers guided underground tours through a geological wonderland. This island perfectly blends adventure, geology, and wine culture into an unforgettable experience.

8. Poça da Dona Beija

• 📍 Location: Furnas Valley, southeastern São Miguel Island, about 45 minutes from Ponta Delgada
• 🏆 Best For: Wellness seekers 💆‍♀️, couples 💑, thermal bath enthusiasts 🧖‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in iron-rich thermal pools, night bathing under the stars, exploring the lush gardens
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (especially magical during cooler months), early morning or evening for fewer crowds 🌙
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Furnas Boutique Hotel – Luxury accommodation with its own thermal spa

Work stress melts away the moment you slip into the rusty-orange waters of Poça da Dona Beija. This natural spa experience features five thermal pools of varying temperatures nestled among tropical vegetation. The mineral-rich waters hover around 100°F, soothing tired muscles after days of island exploration.

Evening visits offer a magical atmosphere when steam rises against the night sky. The contrast between warm water and cool air creates an otherworldly experience. Wooden walkways connect the pools, maintaining a rustic yet comfortable vibe throughout the facility.

Combine your soak with a meal of traditional Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground using natural volcanic heat. Your skin will thank you for the mineral infusion, and your Instagram followers will envy the steamy paradise you’ve discovered.

9. Porto Pim Bay

• 📍 Location: Southern coast of Faial Island, adjacent to the town of Horta
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, whale watchers 🐋, sunset chasers 🌅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the crescent-shaped bay, visiting the whaling museum, dining at waterfront restaurants
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for swimming and beach activities, year-round for whale watching 🐳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Do Canal – Modern accommodation with views of the marina and Pico Mountain

Seeking that perfect beach day between adventure activities? Porto Pim Bay curves in a golden crescent of sand. This sheltered bay sits at the foot of Monte da Guia, protected from the open Atlantic.

The calm, crystal-clear waters invite swimming and paddleboarding after days of hiking volcanic terrain. History buffs will appreciate the Porto Pim Whaling Factory Museum, which chronicles the island’s transition from whaling to whale conservation. Today, numerous operators offer tours to spot over 20 cetacean species in these waters.

As sunset approaches, the bay transforms into the perfect spot for watching the day end behind the silhouette of Pico Mountain across the channel. Waterfront restaurants serve fresh seafood paired with local wines. The short hike up Monte da Guia rewards with panoramic views of the colorful town of Horta spreading along the coast.

10. São Miguel Island

• 📍 Location: Largest island in the Azores archipelago, eastern group of islands
• 🏆 Best For: Road trippers 🚗, hot spring enthusiasts ♨️, outdoor adventurers 🏞️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting geothermal areas at Furnas, whale watching tours, hiking to Salto do Prego waterfall
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April through October for best weather, June for hydrangea blooms 🌺
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Azor Hotel – Contemporary luxury hotel in Ponta Delgada with rooftop pool

Tired of vacations where everything looks the same? São Miguel Island offers dramatic landscape changes within minutes of driving. This natural playground shifts from steaming fumaroles to sapphire crater lakes to verdant tea plantations around every corner.

The island’s well-maintained ring road makes exploration easy. Beyond the famous Sete Cidades and Furnas Valley, discover Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake surrounded by untouched nature. The northeastern Nordeste region features dramatic coastal cliffs and charming rural villages frozen in time. Wildlife enthusiasts can join whale-watching tours from Ponta Delgada or Vila Franca do Campo.

Unique gastronomy includes underground-cooked Cozido stew and visits to Europe’s only tea plantations at Gorreana and Porto Formoso. With such diversity packed into one island, four days provides the perfect introduction without rushing through paradise.

11. Sete Cidades

• 📍 Location: Northwestern São Miguel Island, about 30 minutes from Ponta Delgada
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, hikers 🥾, nature lovers 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the twin lakes from Vista do Rei viewpoint, hiking the crater rim, kayaking on the lakes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for clearest views, early morning to avoid fog and clouds ⛅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sete Cidades Lake Lodge – Charming accommodation with lake views

Need the ultimate Instagram backdrop that will make your friends question their own vacation choices? Sete Cidades offers jaw-dropping twin lakes – one blue, one green – nestled inside a volcanic crater. The legendary Vista do Rei viewpoint offers that perfect panoramic money shot without breaking a sweat. For more active travelers, the 12km rim trail reveals different perspectives of this natural wonder with every turn.

I couldn’t believe how the colors shifted throughout the day as sunlight played across the water. Down in the quaint village, the distinctive white church provides a charming cultural contrast to the wild landscape. Rent a kayak to cross between the lakes or explore the hydrangea-lined roads that wind through this geological masterpiece. The abandoned Monte Palace hotel offers an alternative viewpoint worth seeking out.

12. Terra Nostra Gardens

• 📍 Location: Furnas Valley, southeastern São Miguel Island, adjacent to Terra Nostra Park Hotel
• 🏆 Best For: Botanists 🌱, garden enthusiasts 🌸, thermal bath lovers 🧖‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the iconic yellow thermal pool, exploring botanical collections, photographing exotic plants
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for camellias and rhododendrons, summer for water lilies, autumn for colorful foliage 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel – Historic hotel with direct access to the gardens and thermal pool

Craving an exotic escape that combines luxury spa vibes with Indiana Jones adventure? Terra Nostra Gardens offers both with its famous ochre-colored thermal pool surrounded by an 18th-century botanical paradise. This 31-acre wonderland houses over 2,000 tree species from around the globe.

The garden unfolds in distinct sections. The formal “Avenue of Jasmines” leads to English-inspired woodland areas. The “Valley of Ferns” creates a Jurassic atmosphere with massive tree ferns towering overhead. Rare endemic plants showcase the Azores’ unique botany.

The thermal pool maintains a constant 95°F year-round, perfect for rejuvenating tired hiking muscles. Bring a dark swimsuit as the iron-rich waters may temporarily stain light fabrics. The adjacent Terra Nostra Garden Hotel allows guests privileged early-morning access before day visitors arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in the Azores

Want to learn more about the most beautiful locations in the Azores? Here are some frequently asked questions many people ask me about what are the top things to do and see in the Azores.

What is the most beautiful part of the Azores?

The Azores, an archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean belonging to Portugal, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and rich marine life. Each of the nine islands has its own unique charm and beauty, making it challenging to pinpoint a single “most beautiful” part. However, here are some highlights from various islands:

1. São Miguel Island:
   • Sete Cidades: This area features twin lakes situated in the crater of a dormant volcano. The viewpoint at Vista do Rei offers a breathtaking panorama of the lakes.
   • Furnas: Known for its geothermal activity, you can find hot springs, fumaroles, and the unique opportunity to taste “cozido,” a stew cooked underground by volcanic steam.
   • Lagoa do Fogo: A pristine crater lake surrounded by forests and hills.
2. Terceira Island:
   • Algar do Carvão: An ancient lava tube that you can enter, with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
   • Serra do Cume: A viewpoint that offers a patchwork view of green pastures known as “manta de retalhos.”
3. Faial Island:
   • Capelinhos: A volcanic landscape that looks lunar, resulting from the last eruption in the 1950s. The lighthouse and the interpretative center are worth a visit.
4. Pico Island:
   • Mount Pico: The highest peak in Portugal, this stratovolcano offers challenging hikes and stunning views from the summit.
   • Vineyards: Unique UNESCO-protected vineyards separated by stone walls.
5. Flores Island:
   • Waterfalls and Lakes: The island is known for its abundance of waterfalls, particularly around the Fajã Grande area, and its scenic crater lakes.
6. São Jorge Island:
   • Fajãs: These are flat coastal plains formed by lava or landslides, and São Jorge has several, each with its own unique ecosystem and charm.
7. Santa Maria Island:
   • Praia Formosa: A beautiful white sand beach, which is a rarity in the Azores.

Which is the prettiest island in the Azores?

Each island in the Azores has its unique charm and beauty. While São Miguel is often lauded for its diverse landscapes and geothermal wonders, Pico boasts the highest mountain in Portugal, and Flores is renowned for its cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. The “prettiest” island often depends on individual preferences, but every island offers a unique slice of Azorean paradise.

Which of the Azores is the best?

The “best” Azorean island varies based on what you’re seeking. São Miguel, being the largest, offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Terceira is rich in history and festivals, while Faial is a sailor’s dream. If you are seeking tranquility, Graciosa and Santa Maria might be the top picks. Each island has its distinctive allure. This makes the Azores a versatile destination.

How is the weather in the Azores throughout the year?

The Azores enjoy a mild maritime climate. Summers are warm but not too hot, while winters are relatively mild. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the islands often experiencing microclimates due to their varied terrains.

Are the Azores a good destination for families?

Absolutely! With a plethora of outdoor activities, safe environments, and family-friendly accommodations, the Azores destinations are perfect for families looking for adventure and relaxation.

Is Azores more beautiful than Madeira?

Comparing the beauty of the Azores and Madeira is a bit like comparing apples to oranges. Both Portuguese archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean have their own unique charm, landscapes, and attractions. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the distinct features of each:

Azores:

1. Diversity of Islands: The Azores consist of nine islands, each with its own character and landscape. From the geothermal wonders of São Miguel to the dramatic cliffs of Flores, there’s a wide variety of scenery.
2. Volcanic Landscapes: The Azores are known for their volcanic origins, which means lots of crater lakes, hot springs, and geothermal areas.
3. Rural and Untouched: The Azores have a more untouched and off-the-beaten-path feel. There’s a sense of being in raw, unspoiled nature.
4. Marine Life: The Azores are one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching.

Madeira:

1. Lush Greenery: Madeira is often called the “Garden of the Atlantic” because of its lush botanical gardens, terraced fields, and green mountains.
2. Levadas: Madeira is famous for its levadas (irrigation channels) that offer unique hiking experiences through forests, along cliffs, and beside waterfalls.
3. Milder Climate: Madeira generally has a milder and more stable climate compared to the Azores, which can be more unpredictable.
4. Cultural Attractions: Madeira has a richer array of cultural and historical attractions, including festivals like the famous New Year’s fireworks and the Flower Festival.

What local delicacies should I try when visiting Azores?

The Azores offer a rich culinary heritage. Don’t miss out on trying dishes like cozido das Furnas, fresh seafood, Azorean cheeses, and the unique teas cultivated in the islands.

Is it easy to travel between the islands?

Yes, inter-island flights and ferries make it convenient for travelers to hop between the islands and explore the diverse Azores scenery each has to offer.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in the Azores

The Azores, with its enchanting landscapes, rich history, and warm-hearted locals, is a destination that beckons travelers from all walks of life. From the towering peaks of Pico to the serene waters of Porto Pim Bay, every island offers a unique experience. This makes it one of the most beautiful places of the Azores to explore. The Azores beauty isn’t just in its natural wonders. The Azores beauty is also in its culture, traditions, and the stories that have been passed down through generations.

As you chart your journey through this archipelago, remember that the true essence of the Azores lies in the moments of discovery, the connections you make, and the memories you create. Whether you’re hiking through the lush trails of São Miguel, indulging in the local delicacies, or simply soaking in the geothermal pools of Furnas, the Azores promises an adventure that’s both exhilarating and soul-soothing.

So, if you’re wondering where to go in the Azores, let your heart guide you. Each island, each corner, and each moment in the Azores is a testament to the magic that nature and mankind can create together. Happy travels!