High peaks, lush rolling hills and immense craters make the Azores archipelago an outdoor lover’s paradise. Resembling Hawaii, these nine Portuguese islands have more to offer than good looks, however. Between the local cuisine, wine and hospitality, tourists can’t stop flocking to these isles in the Atlantic.
1. Mistérios do Sul do Pico
Hiking the 5-mile Mistérios do Sul do Pico trail allows visitors to see distinctive lava fields—centuries old patterns serving as visual records of Pico island’s past. Ponta do Admouro offers a perfect post-trek rest area to spot numerous birds on their migratory route between the continents and a shady area to picnic and swim.
2. Caldeira
Created by the collapse of land after a volcanic eruption, this verdant valley (pictured at top) of endemic plants and a kettle lake is just part of what you’ll see as you hike along the 6-mile circular trail around the rim found in the center of the Faial island. Get a bird’s eye view of the island, including the beach area of Horta and neighboring Mount Pico, and join the regulars who do this trek to train for the annual Coast to Coast island competition.
3. Tourada à Corda
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