The Azores: Europe’s Undiscovered Adventure Islands

OK, quick test: do you know where the Azores are?

Perhaps you do, but if you don’t know anything about this far-flung Atlantean archipelago, you don’t need to feel too embarrassed. Even devoted globe-trotters might struggle to pinpoint the Azores precisely on a map.

But, as I recently found out, its rural charms and dramatic scenery make the Azores the perfect destination for an adventure-filled trip.

Situated in the middle of the ocean far off the coast of Portugal, the Azores have an edge-of-the-world feel.

Once you make it to this outermost point of Europe you will be rewarded with some amazing opportunities for hiking, caving, scuba diving, canyoning, whale watching, and many more adventure activities—not to mention a wonderful local culture that’s proudly different from the mainland.

I recently spent a week on the Azores, exploring the islands of Sao Miguel, Faial, and Pico. My trip was arranged in part by the tourism board of the Azores, who assisted with…