Discover the Azores

The nine tiny islands of the Azores, situated halfway across the Atlantic Ocean, prove that when it comes to picking a destination with pristine environments primed for outdoor adventure, size isn’t everything. Their remote location and year- round subtropical climate make the landscapes unlike any other, combining opalescent lakes, volcanic peaks and lava caves with lush green hills – littered with colourful hydrangeas from March to June. Just a four- hour flight from the UK, SATA flies direct from London Gatwick to the Azores on Saturdays between May and October. Inter- island transfers are short – the 12- minute flight between Sao Miguel and Santa Maria is one of the world’s shortest. Each has its own airport and is connected by short flights or ferry transfers, the frequency of which increases during the summer months. Offshore the adventure continues, as waters visited by BBC and National Geographic camera crews are navigated by cetaceans. Perched on the mid- Atlantic ridge, in the path of many species’ yearly migration, the Azores is one of the best places in the world to see while dolphins and whales. Pods of bottlenose and common dolphin are spotted yearround on exhilarating rigid inflatable boat excursions from Sao Miguel, Pico or Faial, along with resident sperm and pilot whales. Travellers visiting between February and April may even spot the mighty blue whale passing through the archipelago. These volcanic landscapes are a known walkers’ paradise, but the Azores are also perfectly primed for a fly- drive, as each tiny island boasts open roads, endless ocean views and almost no traffic. Independent travel is easy in the Azores. Regent Holidays can arrange for a hire car to be waiting for you when you arrive on each island. The best time to visit the islands is between March and October as the summer temperatures hover in the pleasant mid- twenties, and the rain that accompany January are less and rarely prolonged. The climate and volcanic soil keep the landscape vibrant and green. And that’s the beauty of a fly- drive around this archipelago: whichever road you choose to follow and whichever island you opt to explore, you’re constantly immersed in the beautiful volcanic or coastal scenery. “While each island has its own cultural heritage, they all share unspoilt nature, tranquility and a traditional way of life, with the main sources of income being agriculture and fishing” Emma Brown, Azores Travel Specialist