Azores and Madeira: abundant, wonderful nature
Dreaming of an island holiday is very close to the idea of paradise. For travelers motivated by this vision, the Portuguese archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira are wonderful destinations to make the dream come true.
Madeira: 600 years after being discovered by the Portuguese, Madeira still amazes its visitors. This archipelago consists of the inhabited islands of Madeira and Porto Santo and the important nature reserves of Desertas and Selvagens islands. From year-round mild temperatures to the hospitality of Madeira's people, the culture, cuisine, famous Madeira wine, luxuriant vegetation and long beaches of golden sand in Porto Santo, there are countless attractions and outdoor activities to enjoy when getting to know this idyllic destination.
Go for nature walks along the levadas, visit an ancient Laurissilva Forest, a World Heritage Site, learn about cultural heritage, enjoy the sun and sea in natural pools, play golf, or take part in health and wellness programs.
Throughout the year are events which are also opportunities to enjoy the cuisine and see Madeira in a festive mood: the Carnival parades, the Flower Festival, the Atlantic Festival and, above all, the New Year's Eve fireworks display, loved by visitors worldwide, which takes place in Funchal bay,.
Azores: Located between the American and European continents in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores archipelago is an ideal destination for those seeking pristine nature. The nine islands are divided into three groups: the Eastern Group (Santa Maria and São Miguel), the Central Group (Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial), and the Western Group (Corvo and Flores).
Recognized for their geodiversity, protected marine wildlife, and four islands belonging to the world's biosphere reserve network, the Azores became the first archipelago to earn the Sustainable Tourism Destination seal from the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination program.
They are nine islands of volcanic origin, with stunning scenery at every turn, a history going back centuries, and unique heritage, such as the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture and the city of Angra do Heroísmo, both recognized by UNESCO.
Discover natural waterfalls and lagoons in ancient volcano craters, bathe in the hot springs and try the tasty Cozido das Furnas, take a boat trip to watch dolphins and whales, dive in an abundance of marine life and unique underwater landscapes, sail between the islands and discover Horta Marina in Faial (a mandatory point of reference for international yachting), go birdwatching , wander along the network of nature trails, or climb above the clouds to the top of Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal. These are some of the wonderful experiences that await you in the Azores.
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, nature lover or just want to relax on a beautiful, exotic island, the Azores and Madeira have something for you.
