As a fragment of Europe drifting in the Atlantic, the volcanic archipelago of Azores is still an unexplored destination, with much to discover. Placed in the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the nine islands spread over an area of ​​645 kilometers, almost halfway between Lisbon and the United States. The region is most famous for its natural beauties, lush vegetation, and peaceful charm, not to forget the various calderas, hot springs and crater lakes dotting the islands.

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Gastronomy
Due to its volcanic nature, Azorean cuisine is rich and varied, with many dishes of fish, seafood, meats, and cheese.

The famous verdejo wines from Pico and Graciosa islands, which once accompanied the meals of the Russian czars, and the locally produced pineapples are the basis of many of the typical dishes of the Azores.
The specialties of the archipelago include beef stew called Terceira-style rump steak and sausage with yams.

Not to be missed is the Portuguese stew in the Furnas fumaroles, a meat and vegetable dish that it is cooked in the hot springs of Furnas located in the eastern part of the S. Miguel Island. The dish is placed in pans inserted into holes in the ground and cooked slowly by the steam released by the sulfurous fumaroles.

Famous for its farm products, the islands offer a wide variety of cheeses, capable of satisfying even the most discerning connoisseurs. The most famous is the island cheese, originally from S. Jorge, much appreciated on the continent and it's considered the best one of the region. Cured, over several months, at a constant temperature, this cheese is characterized by a strong aroma and pungent flavor.

Must visit
The largest of the islands, S. Miguel, is popular for the hot springs of Furnas and the capital, Ponta Delgada, a city with many Baroque churches from the 17th and 18th centuries. With its sandy beaches and great beauty landscapes, Santa Maria, more to the south, was the first island to be discovered by Portuguese navigators in 1427. Other places not to be missed are the city of Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira island, UNESCO World Heritage, and the Pico Mountain, which at its 2351 meters of altitude is the highest point in Portugal.

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Main attractions
Fajã Grande, on the island of Flores, the westernmost point of Europe
Monte do Pico, a volcano with 2351 meters of altitude, highest point of Portugal

Capelinhos Vulcanology Center, on the island of Faial
The natural harbor of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island
Natural lake and hot springs of Furnas on the island of S. Miguel
Lagoa das Sete Cidades, on the island of S. Miguel

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Main events and festivities
AngraJazz, International Jazz Festival - Angra do Heroísmo - October
Sanjoaninas Festivals - Angra do Heroísmo - June
Agosto Festival - Santa Maria - August
SATA Rally Azores - São Miguel - June, July
Sea Week - Horta, Faial Island - August
Divino Espírito Santo Festival - Terceira, São Jorge and Pico - April to September