4* Holidays to the Azores

Nine islands in the Atlantic Ocean make up the Azores. Located about 1,400km from Lisbon, and 3,900km from the United States, they are renowned for their relaxed pace of life and stunning natural beauty.

The Azores were discovered in the 15th century by Portuguese navigators in transit to the New World. They have been under the control of Portugal ever since, save for a spell under Spanish rule from 1580 to 1642, when the two countries were in union. The islands now have a permanent population of just over 246,000 people.

Green Island with an area of 744 square km and a population of just over 140,000, it’s the largest and liveliest of the isles. Its capital, Ponta Delgada, is a lively town with cobbled streets and old Portuguese architecture that offer clues as to its long heritage.

São Miguel and the island of Santa Maria form the Eastern Group of the Azores. Northwest of these two are the five islands that make up the Central Group: Faial, Graciosa, Pico, São Jorge and Terceira. Furthest out into the Atlantic are the Western Group of islands – Flores and Corvo. Because the islands were colonised gradually, over the space of two centuries, there is great variation in their culture and traditions.

The nine islands that make up the Azores are remote, unspoilt and scenic. Located in the middle of the North Atlantic, some 3900km from the east cost of America. They were first discovered by Portugese mariners in the 15th century. Today, holidays in the Azores are a popular choice for those seeking peace and relaxation in a pristine environment