The Azores: Portugal’s Secret Atlantic Archipelago of Crater Lakes and Thermal Springs
Located 1,400 km off the coast of Lisbon in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, The Azores is a green paradise of nine volcanic islands. With lush hydrangeas lining roadsides, dramatic caldera crater lakes, and steaming hot springs, it is often called "the Hawaii of Europe."
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Highlights of São Miguel Island
- Sete Cidades: Walk along the crater rim overlooking twin lakes—one vibrant emerald green and the other deep turquoise blue.
- Furnas Geothermal Valley: Soak in iron-rich warm thermal waters at Terra Nostra Park, surrounded by exotic botanical gardens.
- Cozido das Furnas: Sample a traditional stew cooked underground for 6 hours using natural volcanic earth heat!
