Enrico Pescantini
Portugal's answer to Spain's Canary Islands, the Azores are a nine-island grouping 1,529 kilometres (950 miles) out in the Atlantic Ocean west of the Iberian Peninsula. The largest (759km²/293 square mi.) and most populous of the archipelago, São Miguel, is home to capital Ponta Delgada, but also a spectacular volcanic but verdant landscape including towering cliffs and ancient laurisilva forests that make a truly splendid playground for nature and adventure lovers.
Topping the list of outdoorsy musts are São Miguel's more than 20 signposted hiking trails, many of them apt for beginners as much as experienced hikers and some of which can hiked with the help of expert guides. The best known is the one running from Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades, including along the way some of the best views of the lagoons within the caldera of the island's volcano. (You can also, by the way, experience this nature and landscapes via tours on horseback, on two wheels or via 4x4, jeep, or quad.)
Replies