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Until recently the Azores have been relatively unknown as a holiday destination and that is a shame, as they have a lot to offer. There is plenty to satisfy the thrill seekers and adventurers! The unique geography of the islands makes them ideal for a range of different active sports and activities. Whether you want to try your hand at something completely new, such as canyoning, or challenge your existing cycling or sailing skills in a new environment, you will find the perfect opportunities in the Azores.
Below we have chosen our 5 favourite activities in the Azores many of which are provided by AvenTour Azores Adventures! They will ensure that you are safe and most importantly that you have fun, with trained experts ensuring you have a great experience. The company has a fantastic connection to the islands and will make sure that you get the most out of your experience. Group sizes are also kept small, so you will always get a personal touch!
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What better way to explore the Azores, than from the sea? Hop onboard a luxury catamaran and sail along the coast of some of the world’s most unique island groups. Sailing is a great way to see the other Azorean islands with their rich green interior contrasting with the blue of the Atlantic. You can enjoy panoramic views while you relax onboard and keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins! Sailing is a fantastic way to view the sunrise and sunset giving breath-taking views across the sea. You can stop off at beaches and coves only accessible by boat, dive in the clear blue seas and best of all you will have it all to yourself. It is a wonderful multi-activity day out.
The guides at Picos de Aventura know some of the most unforgettable views on São Miguel and one of the most fun ways to see them is on a jeep tour. With these all terrain vehicles you can access spots not usually accessible to the public. On the full-day Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo tour you will get to circle the crater of a volcano along the dirt road and see some wonderful views down into it. Brace yourself for a bumpy ride though! From the volcano you will make your way to Lagoa do Fogo, one of the many unique crater lakes in the Azores. From the top of a nearby peak you will be able to take some fantastic photos of the lake and maybe even catch the sunset!
As an archipelago formed by volcanic activity, the Azores make an ideal climbing destination. The volcanic rock seems to almost form natural climbing walls with great handholds and varying levels of difficulty. With Picos you will be guided to a climbing section of up to 15 metres high with some beautiful views of the sea from the top. Whether you are a complete beginner or expert climber, Picos de Aventura will provide you with everything you could need for a safe and enjoyable experience (equipment, guidance and insurance are included). You can also enjoy a well deserved break at the end of the day with a dip in the local natural thermal pools.
The volcanic rock formations of the Azores and the millennia of erosion by the islands’ natural springs have created the perfect environment for canyoning. If you have not done it before, canyoning involves scrambling across rocks and down cliffs, abseiling down waterfalls, sliding down natural rock slides and diving up to 5 metres into crystal clear waters. It is the perfect activity for thrill seekers! With expert guidance both beginners and more experienced will enjoy this daredevil activity with all equipment needs taken care of. The Ribeira dos Caldeirões tour lasts all day and will also give you the opportunity to see the unique green fields of São Miguel criss-crossed by the black volcanic rock walls, as you drive to the starting point on the other side of the island.
A lovely way to see the breath-taking sites of the island up close is by cycling along many of the dirt paths that circle around the island. There are tracks encircling most of the lakes with plenty of view points along the way. Opt for the Furnas half-day tour and you will get the chance to see the Lagoas das Furnas from the Pico dos Milhos with wonderful views across the lake and out into the ocean. The tours are suitable for beginners to intermediate cyclists and Picos can tailor tours to your needs and abilities. All equipment can be hired and you will also have the opportunity to stop for refreshments in the local villages.
These are just 5 of the many fantastic active adventures you can enjoy on the Azores! Ensure your holiday is memorable with a unique experience with AvenTour Azores Adventures.