Azores Car Tours: Top 5 Unforgettable Road Trips

Planning a trip to the Azores and itching for adventure? So, that archipelago out in the middle of the Atlantic is practically calling out for a good old-fashioned road trip. With their unbelievably lush landscapes, volcanic craters that’ll make you go “whoa,” and coastlines that just don’t quit, the Azores are that perfect spot to explore at your own pace. We will, it is a breakdown the top 5 car tours to experience in this island paradise. And you know, forget those big, crowded bus tours, this is all about putting you in the driver’s seat (literally) and giving you the freedom to uncover these islands on your terms.

1. São Miguel: The Green Island Grand Tour

Ah, São Miguel, very fondly known as “The Green Island.” So, this tour is that introduction to the Azores most people have. That place is packed full of things to look at that would make anyone’s jaw drop: twin crater lakes at Sete Cidades, the steaming vents and bubbling mud pots of Furnas, and that breathtaking coastline, too it’s almost too much to handle in one trip! You will, that round-the-island road trip should take about 5-7 days if you actually want to enjoy all of it without being rushed. Start in Ponta Delgada, the island’s capital, and make your way west towards Sete Cidades.

Stop at Vista do Rei viewpoint for that shot of the iconic blue and green lakes. Then, proceed towards the charming village of Sete Cidades. Next up, make your way to Furnas, on the east side of the island. The Terra Nostra Park is that place to be. Just imagine strolling through gardens and taking a dip in thermal waters. While you’re at it, definitely try cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground using volcanic heat. Don’t forget to drive along the north coast. Check out Ribeira Grande and the tea plantations in Gorreana. Round off your journey by heading back to Ponta Delgada. You can, it gives you the time to reflect all you’ve seen, and make a start on figuring out how to upload all the pics.

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2. Terceira: A Historical Island Hop

Terceira is that place to go if history is your thing, very much a UNESCO treasure. It also has rolling green hills and dramatic coastlines, too it’s almost the complete package. Angra do Heroísmo, a historic port city, and also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just that amazing for starting off. Spend a day wandering those ancient streets. And be sure to marvel at that architecture and historic forts. Next, head inland and explore the island’s volcanic interior. The Algar do Carvão is a lava tube where you can go explore caves and stalactites – that’s a pretty great way to get that adrenaline pumping. And then, follow the scenic roads along the coast. You could discover natural swimming pools and gorgeous viewpoints that stretch for miles.

For that foodie experience, sample some of Terceira’s specialty dishes, such as alcatra (beef cooked in a clay pot) and the island’s rich pastries. Arguably, a car tour of Terceira can be done in about 3-4 days, allowing you plenty of time to take it all in. This trip really is that reminder of what things once were. Very amazing that so much of it remains unchanged. It goes without saying that makes the entire place all the more valuable.

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3. Pico: Volcanic Heights and Whale Tales

Fancy climbing Portugal’s highest mountain? Or getting a glimpse of majestic whales breaching on the horizon? This, that’s Pico Island in a nutshell. Dominated by that towering Mount Pico, this island offers a completely different perspective on the Azores. First of all, climbing Mount Pico is the biggest challenge here, it’s almost like the Mount Everest of the Azores, too it’s almost like you get to tick something major off your bucket list if you give it a go! You know, only attempt this hike if you are fit and ready. And remember to check conditions prior to setting out! Still, once you have, those panoramic views from the summit are worth every bit of that effort. And if hiking up a mountain doesn’t sound like that best way to use your time, don’t panic!

Pico is really that famous for its vineyards that have spread all over the volcanic soil. They have built stone walls to protect against wind. So, exploring this UNESCO-listed landscape by car offers that completely unique way to absorb this unusual area. You will, those rock formations and vineyards will leave a strong mark on you. Whales are fairly common around the Azores, with some pods always sticking close. Loads of boat tours depart from Pico that give tourists a chance to watch and marvel at those gentle giants.

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4. Faial: The Blue Island’s Coastal Drive

Faial is, interestingly enough, known as the “Blue Island,” and it is very popular with yachts from every corner of the world, you know, they end up moored in Horta marina at some stage or another. This is mainly because of its situation slap bang in the middle of that Atlantic. But don’t imagine it to be all about the boats. So, drive around this island to view the volcanic landscape.

That famous Capelinhos Volcano, site of that last eruption in the Azores in 1957, is quite stark as a reminder of the island’s geology. In Horta, definitely visit Peter’s Café Sport, which is a tradition for seafarers that will warm you up when you drink it. Also, visit the Caldeira, a gigantic crater in that center of the island, and marvel at those stunning panoramic vistas. If time allows, maybe include a boat trip over to Pico, Faial sits super close to Pico. It is really worth making use of that opportunity if you can.

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5. Flores: The Waterfall Wonderland Expedition

Flores is that place if seeing lush landscapes that remind you of scenes from the Jurassic age is your cup of tea. Very tucked away and a bit of a secret, but you know, many regard this as that most beautiful island from the entire collection. The remote island is, understandably, often overlooked by many tourists, that does mean its unspoiled nature gets to stay like that, without interference. So, the island has that reputation for unbelievable amounts of flowers (flores translates to flowers, for that reason!), stunning crater lakes, and breathtaking waterfalls that cascade straight into that ocean.

Poco do Bacalhau, and then the Rocha dos Bordões. That landmark should definitely go onto your must-see list. Also drive along the coast. That way you find isolated viewpoints. Stop off, and absorb this quieter island. It goes without saying that this car tour makes you feel very peaceful in an undisturbed paradise. And the trip’s that length that three days will allow you plenty of opportunities for relaxation as you potter about this sanctuary. That is just about long enough for you to recharge.

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