Azores, Volcanic archipelago in North Atlantic, Portugal.
The Azores are an island group in the North Atlantic belonging to Portugal, located roughly 1500 kilometers west of the mainland. The nine islands stretch across 600 kilometers of ocean and display mountain peaks, crater lakes, green pastures, black sand beaches, and active geothermal zones.
Portuguese navigators established the first permanent settlement in 1432 on Santa Maria island, which led to gradual colonization of the entire archipelago until 1452. Throughout the following centuries, the islands became an important stopover for ships crossing the Atlantic between Europe and the Americas.
Traditional Festas do Espírito Santo bring entire communities together during summer months, when neighbors share beef stews and bread in open-air celebrations with street processions. Many villages still keep livestock in small pastures enclosed by stone walls, while fishermen land fresh tuna and limpets daily at harbors across the islands.
Travelers reach the islands through international airports on São Miguel, Terceira, and Faial, with connections between islands by plane or ferry. Weather conditions change quickly, so waterproof clothing and flexible planning work best for hikes or boat trips.
Mount Pico rises 2351 meters above sea level, forming Portugal's highest peak and part of the most extensive mountain range measured from the ocean floor. On São Miguel, locals bathe in natural thermal pools by the sea, where water is heated by underground volcanic activity.
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