A Tropical Getaway to the Azores

Europe's most exotic islands, the Azores are a tropical paradise sitting in the mid-Atlantic. This remote archipelago is a part of Portugal but feels more Hawaiian than European. Enormous cliffs covered in deep greens, jungle-waterfalls flowing into sulfur pools and massive rock formations formed by lava are some of the awe-inspiring landscapes you can find on the island chain. With a warm year-round climate, the Azores are the secret gardens of the Atlantic and a tropical getaway that should be at the top of your bucket list.

Everywhere you look, you'll constantly be in awe of nature. The landscape is filled with tropical rainforests, seething sulfur pools, enormous crater lakes and volcanic rock formations. Each island is unique and offers its own beautiful nature.

The Azores are known for an incredible variety of hiking trails. You can wind around dramatic coastlines or explore jungle forests. Every hike has amazing sights and takes you along some incredible places.

The island's coastlines are as diverse as the interiors. From rugged volcanic rock formations to black sand beaches, you can find traveling surfers and local fisherman. Additionally, there's great whale-watching and bird-watching on all the islands.

Despite the warm climate, the Atlantic ocean remains cold all year round. If you don't like the cold water, head to one of the many island hot springs. The pools are surrounded by palms, ferns and jungle-waterfalls.

On the island of Sao Miguel sits Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe's oldest and largest tea plantation. The plantation is open daily and visitors are encouraged to walk the fields, take a tour and the observe the tea-making process. You can also sample some tea at no charge.

Scattered across the islands are incredibly scenic 'picnic-spots' for a quick bite to eat or daily break. The Azores have heavily invested in their infrastructure over the last few years, making daily road trips, scenic picnics and amazing viewpoints more accessible. Pack a lunch or simply take in the view at one of the many roadside lookouts or gardens.

Being volcanic, the island soil is very fertile, resulting in a diverse range of beautiful tropical vegetation. Additionally, the island climate has helped grow the beautiful gardens and botanical sanctuaries. Parque Terra Nostra, on the island of Sao Miguel, has an enormous garden structure, winding trails and a thermal pool at the end.

There are numerous protected areas and parks scattered across the islands and each area is incredibly unique. Some of the protected areas are made up of tropical rainforests, temperate forests, rocky coastlines and volcanic craters. Each area has great trails and accommodating guide maps.

The Azores islands are a dream for photographers for its epic viewpoints and jaw-dropping scenery. The numerous viewpoints, or "Miradouros," offer astonishing views of the surrounding areas of coastlines, forests and mountains. The best part is that generally, each established viewpoint is only a short walk from the road.

Relax in the sun and unplug from the hustle of everyday life because the island lifestyle is a dream. The locals are friendly, the food is tasty and the islands have a pleasant year-round climate. Additionally, the Azores are still living in the shadow of the popular Canary Islands, so you won't find many tourists.