Terceira: Discover the Azores' Vibrant Island

Terceira, the third-largest island in Portugal's Azores archipelago, blends natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture. The main city, Angra do Heroísmo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colourful Renaissance architecture and impressive 16th-century fortifications. Visitors can explore dramatic volcanic landscapes, including the stunning Algar do Carvão cave and the scenic Monte Brasil peninsula. The island is known for its traditional bullfighting festivals and the lively Sanjoaninas, celebrated each June with parades, music and cultural events. The Holy Spirit Festivals, held throughout summer across the island, showcase Azorean traditions with processions, decorations and community feasts. From Terceira's Praia da Vitória port, travellers can easily connect to other Azorean islands like São Miguel, Faial and Pico, making it an excellent base for exploring this unique Atlantic archipelago.

São Miguel: The Green Island Paradise

São Miguel, the largest island in Portugal's Azores archipelago, offers a stunning landscape of volcanic craters, lush forests, and azure lakes. Known as 'The Green Island', it captivates visitors with its dramatic coastal cliffs and vibrant hydrangea-lined roads. Explore the beautiful Terra Nostra Park with its botanical gardens and geothermal pool, or visit the picturesque twin lakes of Sete Cidades, nestled in a volcanic crater. The historic city of Ponta Delgada, the island's main port, features charming cobblestone streets, distinctive black and white architecture, and the iconic Gates to the City. Throughout the year, São Miguel hosts colourful festivals, including the Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo in May, one of the Azores' most important religious celebrations. While São Miguel is an island destination, ferry services connect it to other Azorean islands, making it an ideal base for exploring this mid-Atlantic paradise.