Full Description
Now in its eighth edition, Bradt's Azores remains the only comprehensive guidebook to this nine-island archipelago - a mountainous, nature-lover's wilderness perched in the mid-Atlantic at the western extremity of Europe.
One of the world's best whalewatching destinations, a geological curiosity and - more recently - a mid-Atlantic adventure playground, the Azores have become ever more accessible thanks to low-cost European flights. The nine islands making up the Azorean archipelago share volcanic origins, albeit from different eras, so each rugged landscape boasts a unique feel. The approach to tourism also differs from island to island: while São Miguel welcomes a rising number of cruise ships and international flights, and Faial is a busy hub for trans-ocean yachts, tiny Corvo and gentle Santa Maria remain almost untouched. The Gulf Stream guarantees a mild climate and plenty of greenery: a pleasant environment for this easily accessible, safe, welcoming and authentic mid-haul destination.
With each island treated to its own chapter, Bradt's Azores provides all the details a visitor needs for a rewarding, enjoyable visit to an archipelago where cows outnumber people. Author and expert botanist David Sayers shares his deep knowledge about flora, fauna and geology that are integral to getting to know the islands. This new edition - thoroughly updated by prolific guidebook author Tim Burford - strengthens coverage of the land- and sea-based activities that have become a significant part of the Azores' attractions this century while providing the most recent practical information such as where to stay and eat in every price band.
Five centuries of human history are well documented in a host of museums spread across the islands, which explain the fluctuating fortunes and strategic importance of the archipelago through the centuries. Attractive architecture, carefully preserved festivals, four islands with UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status and thermal pools complete what is a very agreeable picture. Little wonder then that the Azores attracts geologists, birdwatchers, whalewatchers, horseriders, walkers, mountaineers bent on climbing Portugal's highest peak (on Pico island), divers, surfers, sailors, mountain-bikers and canyoners - indeed anyone who loves nature or the great outdoors in all its forms.
Contents
Foreword by Ben Fogle
Introduction
PART ONE GENERAL INFORMATION
Chapter 1 Background Information
Geography and climate, Natural history and conservation, History, Government and politics, Economy, People, Language, Religion, Culture
Chapter 2 Practical Information
When to visit, Highlights, Planning an itinerary: which islands?, Tour operators, Tourist information, Red tape, Getting there and away, Health, Safety, Travelling with a disability, LGBTQIA+ travellers,
Travelling with kids, What to take, Money and budgeting, Getting around, Accommodation, Eating and drinking, Public holidays and festivals, Shopping, Arts and entertainment, Sports and activities,
Media and communications, Cultural etiquette, Travelling positively
PART TWO EASTERN GROUP
Chapter 3 São Miguel
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Ponta Delgada, Sports and activities, Walks on Sao Miguel, Touring the island
Chapter 4 Santa Maria
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Santa Maria, Touring the island
PART THREE CENTRAL GROUP
Chapter 5 Terceira
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Terceira, Touring the island
Chapter 6 Graciosa
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Nightlife, Shopping, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Graciosa, Touring the island
Chapter 7 São Jorge
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Nightlife, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Sao Jorge, Touring the island
Chapter 8 Faial
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Entertainment and nightlife, Shopping, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Faial, Touring the island
Chapter 9 Pico
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Shopping, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Pico, Touring the island
PART FOUR WESTERN GROUP
Chapter 10 Flores
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Flores, Touring the island
Chapter 11 Corvo
Background, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Walks on Corvo
Appendix 1 Language
Appendix 2 Flora
Appendix 3 Fish on the menu
Appendix 4 Further information
Index
