“A remote
location — about a thousand miles west of continental Portugal – has helped
limit tourist traffic and development in this unspoiled North Atlantic
archipelago.
The nine
major islands — connected by ferry service in summer, are home to green
volcanic mountains, mineral hot springs, hydrangea-covered hills, rambling
vineyards, white-washed seaside towns, cobblestone lanes, and traditional
Flemish and Moorish windmills.
Terceira
(“the lilac island”) is known for its weaving tradition and 50 brightly painted
imperios (empires), ornate chapels of the Holy Spirit.
São Miguel,
the biggest island, includes Ponta Delgada (the Azores´ largest city), secluded
black and white sand beaches, and natural steam vent ovens at Furnas Lake where
Portuguese cozido (stew) is cooked in earthen pots buried along the volcanic
shoreline.
Faial,
named “the blue island” for its abundant hydrangeas and blue-trimmed homes,
features numerous grottoes, caves, churches, and museums, as well as the
bustling Horta marina, a popular stopover point for transatlantic yachtsmen.
May to
September is the island-wide festival season with numerous religious
processions and cultural events celebrating patron saints, the sea, and the
local whaling heritage.”
in NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELER, 10 Best Trips
of Summer 2011
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