Travel to The Sustainable Azores

You have probably heard of the Azores before, but do you have any idea where they actually are? Don’t feel bad, I didn’t either. When I first read about the destination, I just knew from the photographs I was seeing that someday I wanted to visit. After reading about the myriad of awards they’ve received for eco-friendly travel, the nine island archipelago became a priority. The award winning, sustainable Azores are in the north Atlantic ocean, almost 1000 miles off the coast of Portugal. I have a feeling that isolation is part of what makes them so special.

Later this week I will make the direct flight from Boston to Terceira. We will be visiting 4 of the nine islands and along the way bringing you our explorations and adventures. Whale watching, hot springs, national parks and hiking are just a few of the activities. Togo Lake (above) is a nature reserve designated in 1974. This crater lake reaches a depth of close to 100 feet. Several trails on São Miguel island lead around the lake. There will be a walking tour of the city of Angra do Heroism, the only city on the archipelago designated a  Unesco World Heritage site.

The Azores has the only place in Europe where tea is actually produced. Experts arrived at the end of the 19th century to share their expertise with the islanders. Hydrangeas grow prolifically on the islands, so a Nantucketer would feel right at home.

The famous Caldo de Peixe is just one of the fish dishes I look forward to trying. Chefs believe the greater the variety of fish, the better the taste. I’m on board with that concept and can almost taste the broth of this specialty. Deep sea crabs and lobsters, here I come.

I’ve just tried to whet your appetite with a few of the items on the itinerary for the week ahead. Are you ready to be transported to the eco-friendly and sustainable Azores?

All photos except feature used with permission © Azoresphotos.