The Azores: Europe's hidden paradise

Scattered like emeralds in the mid-Atlantic, the nine islands that make up the Azores archipelago—São Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores, and Corvo—are rewarding destinations in and of themselves. 

Celebrated for their stunning natural beauty, these Portuguese islands offer a wealth of outdoor adventure and nature tourism options. The only problem is choosing which island to explore first.

Browse the gallery for some visitor highlights and ideas of where to go and what to do.