By Kenya Barrett
Have you ever been to the Azores? If not – well. you’re in for a treat!
This beautiful archipelago consists of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean and serve as part of the autonomous regions of Portugal. In addition to breathtaking views, the Azorean islands are home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders on Earth. Here are a few natural wonders you need to witness in the Azores!
Sete Cidades Massif
Location: São Miguel Island
The Sete Cidades Massif is one of the many stratovolcanic complexes on the island of São Miguel, that is also home to the iconic Lagoa da Sete Cidades. The area was formed thousands of years ago by volcanic eruptions that eventually created a large caldera within the complex.
Today, the Sete Cidades Massif features the iconic bluish-green twin lakes surrounded by lush green valleys and mountain ranges. You can enjoy the picturesque views from different vantage points at the crater’s edge or even head down to the lake for a swim! Alternatively, you can explore the village of Sete Cidades, which is located in the southwestern corner of the caldera!
Lagoa do Fogo
Location: São Miguel Island
Located in the center of São Miguel island is the Aqua de Pau Massif – another stratovolcano complex. This region is home to Lagoa do Fogo, one of the highest lakes situated on all of the islands. The body of water rests in a caldera that was formed nearly 15,000 years ago and has been considered a natural reserve by the regional government since 1974.
Visitors who explore the lake will spot various rare and native plant species of the Azores including the Azores juniper and St. John’s wort. For those who love to birdwatch, visiting this caldera should be at the top of your list. Some native species you’ll spot here include the Azorean buzzard and the Azores wood pigeon!
Mount Pico
Location: Pico Island
In addition to being one of the most breathtaking spectacles in all of the Azores, Mount Pico also holds the title of the highest mountain in Portugal. Standing at roughly 7,713 feet tall, this natural beauty last erupted in 1720 – so don’t worry, it’s safe for hiking! Simply follow the 47 pole markers that are set to guide hikers to the top of Mount Pico!
Once you’ve made it to the top, you’ll instantly be rewarded with outstanding views of the Azores and the Atlantic Ocean. Depending on the time of day and weather, you’ll very well be able to snap pictures of the surrounding Azorean islands including Faial and Sao Jorge!
Poca da Dona Beija
Location: Furnas, São Miguel Island
The village of Furnas is filled with many natural geothermal pools, with the Poca da Dona Beija being the most popular. This natural wonder allows visitors to soak their troubles away in the warm, naturally occurring pools of São Miguel Island. Each pool varies in temperature – so if one is too hot, you can easily jump into a cooler one.
What makes this hot spring much better than your average spa is the abundance of spa materials. That’s right, you can treat yourself to a free clay mask by using the natural clay found along the pool walls. The naturally occurring minerals within the clay will leave your skin feeling rejuvenated and fresher than it’s ever been!
Algar do Carvo
Location: Terceira Island
The Algar do Carvo, which translates to “Cavern of Coal,” is by far one of the most interesting wonders of all the Azores. Located in the center of Terceira Island, the cavern is essentially an ancient lava tube that is a result of the nearby caldera of the Guilherme Moniz volcano. Once you’ve descended into the cavern, you’ll be able to observe the main chamber and the clear waters of the lagoon.
Within the cave, travelers can marvel at the presence of stalactite minerals that glisten when hit by beams of sunlight. Additionally, they’ll observe several endemic plant and animal species such as springtails and moss!
Which of these natural wonders will you visit on your next trip to the Azores?
