Hidden Gem Alert: The Azores — Europe’s Most Underrated Island Escape
If there’s one place in Europe that still feels untouched, it’s the Azores. This volcanic Portuguese archipelago sits quietly in the Atlantic, far from the crowds of mainland Europe. And that’s exactly what makes it magical.
The landscapes are breathtaking: deep crater lakes, emerald-green hills, dramatic cliffs, natural hot springs, and waterfalls that feel like scenes from a movie.
The Kind of Beauty You Don’t Forget
São Miguel is known for its iconic Sete Cidades, two lakes split by a narrow bridge, one blue, one green. But the real charm lies in the quieter moments:
- Watching steam rise from geothermal pools at night
- Hiking along volcanic trails
- Whale watching off the coastline
- Sipping Azorean tea grown on local plantations
Everything feels calm, authentic, and unspoiled.
Eco-Friendly Stays on the Rise
The Azores were named one of the world’s top sustainable destinations. Eco-lodges, small boutique hotels, and farm stays help preserve the environment while giving travelers a unique way to connect with nature.
Perfect For
- Nature lovers
- Couples seeking a peaceful escape
- Hikers
- Photographers
- Travelers wanting something “different”
The Azores is one of those places you visit once and spend years telling people about.
