Walking in the Azores

This 13-night escorted walking holiday with Explore Worldwide moves at a measured pace through four of the Azores’ less-travelled islands: Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge, Pico and Faial. It begins in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel’s main town, with a walk around the twin lakes of the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, whose green and blue waters are visible from the steep crater ridge.

The route then leads to islands born of volcanic activity. On Sao Jorge, the hikes pass through narrow gorges and coastal fajas – small fertile plains tucked beneath cliffs. On Pico, dominated by its volcano, there’s a walk amidst vineyards protected by black volcanic stone walls, capped by a chance to taste local wine. Faial, known as Ilha Azul, offers a volcanic caldera and the surreal black cones of the Capelinhos eruption site, as well as views across a yacht-dotted harbour.

If the idea of an early start to climb Pico’s summit appeals, this can be arranged. Otherwise, most days offer short, manageable walks with time left to linger. The tour finishes quietly in Faial, which has an outdoor pool and gardened hotel, a place to rest after exploring islands shaped by their fiery pasts.

New to Portugal? Our Portugal guide has the practical essentials: money, plugs, visas and when to go.