The Portuguese islands of the Azores, set in the mid-Atlantic, are characterised by dramatic landscapes, lake-filled calderas, fishing villages and hedgerows of blue hydrangeas. And tea and pineapple plantations. There are also some fabulous places to stay in the archipelago, from the best Azores hotels to guesthouses, mostly with staggeringRead More →
If you’re looking for a great hotel in São Miguel, Azores, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether it’s the celebrity treatment you’re looking for or the chance to spend some time relaxing in the middle of lush greenery, this amazing island is guaranteed to give you a vacation you’ll neverRead More →
Ponta Delgada, on São Miguel Island, is the capital of the Azores archipelago of Portugal and, as such, has some super places to stay. Here is my selection of Ponta Delgada hotels and other accommodation, including apartments, that will help make your stay in this part of Portugal special. ForRead More →
Given that there are 9 islands in the Azores archipelago, first-time visitors often wonder which to go to first. Due to its size, diversity and the number of flights, I’d say that São Miguel is the best island in the Azores to start off with. The attraction of the AzoresRead More →
Narrowing down the selection of idyllic locations for romantic getaways in Portugal has been a tough job. There’s just so much choice! To keep it simple, I’ve highlighted places for every region in Portugal where you and your sweetheart can feel the love and not just on Valentine’s Day. Table ofRead More →
Our Portugal golf travel expert, Andy Waple, is back with some more helpful insights. This time, the focus is on the Madeira golf scene and a quick overview of the three Azores golf courses. Over to Andy… The mainland is undoubtedly the greatest draw for travelling golfers wishing to experienceRead More →
The plan was to spend 3 hours or so walking around the crater lake at Furnas, one of many such lakes on the island of São Miguel in the Azores. Our attempts the day before to walk around the crater edge at Sete Cidades and gaze down at the blueRead More →
I know that many of you enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle of cities to explore picturesque villages and I’ve shared many of my favourite villages in Portugal with you over the years. In anticipation of a public vote on the best villages in Portugal, I decided to roundRead More →
When I’m feeling stressed and long to retreat from the world for a while, the place my mind transports me to São Jorge island in the Azores. I’ll admit, I haven’t been to all of the Azores islands yet so there is a chance that São Jorge’s position as my favourite mayRead More →