An undiscovered gem in the mid-Atlantic that boasts European culture and style, lush landscape with plentiful outdoor activity options, great food and wine, year-round moderate climate, and direct air service from Canada (with free stopovers!) – what’s not to love about Portugal’s amazing Azores islands?
“Canadians love our nature, adventure and authenticity,” Visit Azores marketing manager for Canada Maria João Gouveia told Canadian travel agents at the ACTA International Destination Conference held recently in the islands, adding, “The slow travel (trend) aligns perfectly with what the Azores offer.”
Five key things to know
- Location: The Azores comprise nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic, located about 1,200 km (and a two-hour flight) west of mainland Portugal. The archipelago is considered the western-most point of Europe and serves a standalone destination or stopover for visitors headed for Portugal and/or Europe beyond.
- Year-round: While summer is the most popular time to visit, The Azores – supported by extensive air service from Canada – offers mild weather year-round and is increasingly attracting both short-term and long-stay visitors outside high season. Average temperature in the winter is 12-17 degrees C and 24 in summer.
- Natural charm: From green valleys and mountains to crater lakes, volcanic coves, waterfalls, caves, laurel forests, hot springs, sea pools, unique landscapes, and “something blooming all year round” (it’s hydrangea heaven), the Azores are the personification of untouched nature, prompting the entire archipelago to be classified as a UNESCO global geo park.
- Sustainable/Adventure: Considered one of the world’s top 10 most sustainable destinations, the Azores have been voted Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination by World Travel Awards. As of 2019, the Azores was officially recognized as the world’s first island archipelago to be certified under the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination program, making it one of the most sustainable tourism destinations in the whole world. Sustainability is a strong commitment from Azores tourism.
- Stopover: In additional to direct connections from Canada, passengers on SATA Azores Airlines can stopover for free for up to seven days within the nine Azorean islands in either direction to/from Porto, Lisbon, Barcelona, Bilbao, Cape Verde, Madeira, Paris, or Frankfurt.
What to do
- The favourable climate allows for a myriad of enticing outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, diving, snorkeling, whale watching, swimming with dolphins, birding, canyoning, golfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
- Unwinding in the Azores also means enjoying an organic volcanic massage, a day of golf or at a spa resort, swimming in the natural hot springs found inland or along the rocky coasts and enjoying the culture and food.
- The islands offer a total of 83 official hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy strolls, horse- and bike-riding trails to extreme hiking and canyoneering with harness, helmet and appropriate rope systems.
- Senior travellers, including those with wheelchairs, can find themselves on a trail at a viewing point looking over the ocean, into dormant volcanic craters or onto charming, small villages. The viewpoints are easy to access for incredible views of the island.
- Ponta Delgada, the main city on the primary island of São Miguel, reminds one of charming European villages with cobblestoned streets, picturesque, colourful plazas and street cafés, along with botanical gardens, museums, year-round street festivals and a booming culinary scene.
- On the island of Terceira, the city centre of Anga do Heroísmo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with must-see sites and beautiful promenades. Housed in a former Franciscan monastery, the museum of Angra is a beautiful historical complex with informative exhibits that educate visitors on the rich history of the Azores due to its strategic geographical location. The Museu do Vinho (wine museum) is on the southern coast of the island in a gorgeous city with a beautiful vineyard landscape.
- With cattle farming the main economic engine of the islands, the Azores Islands are an epicurean delight for foodies. Farmers and local fishermen provide the salads, meat and fish found in restaurants. Arrangements can also be made to have an authentic, farm-to-table dining experience or visit the only tea plantation in Europe. There’s mouth-watering cheeses, delicious Portuguese-style pastries and local, and organic wines from the volcanic soil. The ultimate foodie experience is furnas, a traditional Azorean dish that involves burying meats and vegetables in volcanic soil that is then cooked with volcanic heat.
- At Algar do Carvão on Terceira, descending 90 m. down an ancient lava tube formed over 3,000 years ago leads to the world’s highest concentration of silica stalactites. Lava also creates interesting underwater architecture in the form of water arches, swim-through tunnels and caves that can be easily viewed along the coastline by bathers, boaters and divers. On land, the lava left its mark with huge craters and thermal bathing pools.
- The Azores’ location and convergence of currents makes the islands a haven for spotting amazing sea creatures. With sightings possible all year round, the waters surrounding the Azores islands are one of the largest sanctuaries for whales in the world and, therefore, one of the best places for whale watching. In addition to over 20 different types of whales, visitors will be able to spot dolphins, sea turtles and birds in their natural environment. Scuba diving in the Azores offers world-class views of some incredible species, including blue sharks, whale sharks, mako sharks, mobula rays and manta rays.
- Thousands of migrating birds make the islands a favourite for bird lovers.
Which island to choose
With such abundance and with nine islands from which to choose, how does one know where to go in the Azores?
Visit Azores’ Gouveia says, “Each island showcases a distinct personality and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors will have a different experience from island to Island.”
Here’s her quick breakdown:
São Miguel
- Largest island and most populous.
- Famous for its stunning crater lakes, such as Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo.
- Home of Furnas, known for geothermal activity, hot springs, and the traditional “Cozido das Furnas” stew.
- Vibrant cultural and urban life in Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores.
- Activities: Diving, whale watching, walking trails, geotourism, golfing, sailing, surfing and bodyboard, canyoning, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking, windsurf, cycling and mountain biking, horse riding, climbing, bird watching.
Terceira – The Lilac Island
- Known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, Angra do Heroísmo, with its historic streets and architecture.
- Rich in traditional festivals, bullfighting events, and a strong cultural identity.
- Features Gruta do Natal, a unique volcanic cave.
- Activities: Diving, whale watching, walking trails, geotourism, golfing, sailing, surfing and bodyboard, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking, windsurf, cycling and mountain biking, horse riding, bird watching.
Pico – The Mountain Island
- Dominated by Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak at 2,351 metres.
- Renowned for its UNESCO-listed vineyards, growing grapes in volcanic soil.
- A hotspot for whale watching and home to the Whalers’ Museum.
- Activities: Diving, whale watching, walking trails, geotourism, sailing, surfing and bodyboard, windsurf, cycling and mountain biking, horse riding, bird watching, climbing, windsurf.
Faial – The Blue Island
- Famous for the Marina of Horta, a meeting point for transatlantic sailors and its vibrant painted murals.
- Features the dramatic Capelinhos Volcano, a landscape created by a 1957 eruption.
- Offers stunning views of Pico from across the channel.
- Activities: Diving, whale watching, walking trails, geotourism, Sailing, Fishing, Surfing and bodyboard, canoeing and kayaking, cycling and mountain biking, horse riding, bird watching.
São Jorge – The Fajã Island
- Known for its “fajãs,” coastal plains formed by lava flows or landslides, ideal for hiking and unique ecosystems.
- A culinary hub, especially for its São Jorge cheese.
- Less crowded, offering an authentic and tranquil Azorean experience.
- Activities: Diving, walking trails, geotourism, sailing, fishing, surfing and bodyboard, canoeing and kayaking, cycling and mountain biking, horse riding, bird watching.
Graciosa – The White Island
- The smallest of the central islands, with gentle landscapes and traditional windmills.
- Home to the impressive Furna do Enxofre, a volcanic cave with a sulfur lagoon.
- Known for its wines and peaceful ambiance.
- Activities: Diving, whale watching, walking trails, geotourism, health and well-being, surfing and bodyboard, cycling and mountain biking, bird watching.
Flores – The Island of Flowers
- A paradise of waterfalls, cliffs, and lush greenery often considered the most beautiful island.
- Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking serenity.
- Features the Lagoas, a series of scenic volcanic lakes.
- Activities: Diving, walking trails, geotourism, fishing, surfing and bodyboard, cycling and mountain biking, bird watching, canyoning.
Corvo – The Small Island
- The smallest and most remote island in the Azores.
- Famous for the Caldeirão, a large volcanic crater with picturesque small lakes.
- Activities: Diving, walking trails, geotourism, bird watching.
Santa Maria – The Yellow Island
- Known for its warm climate and sandy beaches, such as Praia Formosa.
- Rich in history as the first island discovered and settled by the Portuguese.
- Home to Barreiro da Faneca, a unique semi-desert arid and clay landscape.
- Activities: Diving, whale watching, walking trails, fishing, sailing, surfing and bodyboard, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking, cycling and mountain biking, bird watching, geotourism.
Getting there
SATA Azores Airlines operates non-stop service from Canada to the islands of Terceira and Sāo Miguel, a little over five hours flight time. Both Terceira and São Miguel act as gateways to the other islands. One can fly between the islands, take ferries, or arrange a private water taxi.
In addition to year-round Toronto-Ponta Delgada service, Azores Airlines operates twice-weekly non-stop service from YYZ to Terceira. The airline also operates from Montreal to Ponta Delgado and has extended Terceira flights this winter with twice weekly service.
Azores Airlines has partnerships with WestJet, Porter and Transat that allows connections from other Canadian cities.
Tools for travel advisors
- Trade website: SATA4agents.com
- SATA Specialist Program: sataspecialist.com
- Canadian representatives: azores@discovertheworld.ca; Canada.agentworld.com
Getting around
Travelling in the Azores is easy. Renting a car allows visitors to explore the island on their own timetable and make stops along the way to swim in volcanic craters, explore caves and lagoons, learn about the history and culture of the islands or take part in a pre-arranged sport activity (like golfing).
Quotable
“I think Canadians treasure a destination a place where they can feel at home. The majority want an authentic experience, to get off-the-beaten track, and experience new things. Here you can feel peace and enjoy yourself” – Visit Portugal Canada director Ines Ameida Garrett
“(The Azores) is like Ireland meets Iceland meets Hawaii. It’s very magical and no one knows it’s here!” – Deborah Chapman, Envoyage
“(The Azores are) so experiential, there are so many opportunities. And the people all speak English and it’s safe – I felt completely at ease. It’s a great destination for female trips with boutique hotels and niche shopping; and for men, golf and bars. There’s wine, vineyards, cheese and even coffee. It’s interesting to me that it’s a well-rounded destination” – Louise Gardner, TTAND, Ontario
“I think the good thing about this destination is the experiences. It’s not just visiting churches and museums. And Canadians love to go where the weather is great all year around” – Leslie Schaff, globus family of brands
“You can relax, hike, enjoy culture and good food, all in one destination. And it’s within five hours (of Toronto and Montreal), that’s my window” – Laretta Campbell, Envoyage, Toronto
“A lot of my clients are older and looking for long-stay destinations. Being here has really opened my eyes to what I can offer them. It’s not over-touristed, that’s a big part of it. People don’t want to be squished. Now they like to explore and still love it” – Laura Tempan, TTAND, Edmonton
“It’s an exciting and emerging destination… and the stopover (opportunity) is incredible” – Barry Lynch, Travel Best Bests, Coquitlam, BC
“I think there’s a huge potential in this market… I think people should stay as long as they can (on a stopover), but nothing short of three to four days does it justice” – Justin Gosling, Discover the World/SATA Azores Airlines
“It’s a relaxing place to get away. There’s lots of nature. I honestly don’t want to share it; it’s so beautiful I’m going to hold it in my back pocket and keep it as a secret. They’re preserving the culture and I don’t want it to be overrun, so I’d be very selective who I send. I wouldn’t want to do a mass group” – Roxy Rae, Envoyage in Vancouver
“The Azores is an authentic and upcoming destination. And word of mouth is the best advertisement possible” – Diogo, local guide
“We don’t want to bring to the Azores the tourists who are coming to take selfies. (Laughs) Of course, we will take (them), but we want to them to explore. The Azores are much, much more than a selfie spot to visit” – Rui Costa, Regional Director for Tourism, Azores
Video
Click the video below for a short tour of Ponta Delgada that was produced specifically for agents visiting the Azores for the ACTA conference. Email: tobias.wilczek@atazores.com
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