The Azores is a small Portuguese archipelago located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, halfway between Europe and the EUA. Its nine volcanic islands form an incredible green paradise that holds many secrets and peculiar stories.
Discovered in 1427 by Portuguese explorers, the Azores (Açores) have more than 500 years of rich history and its share of adventures. When they arrived to the islands, the sailors found a big colony of birds of prey. Although they were all common buzzards, they were confused with northern goshawks, or “Açores” in Portuguese. Hence, the islands were wrongly named, a mistake that still lingers and has become the “best kept public secret” of the islands.
The Azores is a place of adventure. From the highest mountain in Portugal to amazing hiking trails or to deep-blue crystalline sea water, the islands offer a wide variety of opportunities to venture in nature. Still, it is also a place to take it easy. The welcoming and peaceful people provide the perfect setting for discovering unique traditions, exquisite festivities and delicious food.
Home to about 250,000 people, each of the nine islands has its own peculiarities: from the verdant and virgin beauty of Flores island (the most western land point in Europe), to the gorgeous beaches and delicious melons of Santa Maria island, one thing they all have in common is the wonderful and unique experience their people and culture provide.
Find out more from our Detour digital map: