Introduction
If you’re dreaming of a road trip with sweeping ocean views, volcanic landscapes, and charming coastal towns, the Azores has your name written all over it! This Portuguese archipelago is an adventurer’s paradise, offering scenic routes through verdant hills, hidden lakes, and volcanic craters that seem to appear straight from a fantasy. Ready to take the ultimate Azores road trip? Buckle up as we explore some of the best drives across these incredible islands.
São Miguel Island: The Volcanic Beauty of the Sete Cidades Drive
A drive through São Miguel Island will take you straight to the iconic volcanic twin lakes of Sete Cidades. Known for the mesmerizing contrast between its green and blue lakes, this scenic drive is pure magic. Start at the Miradouro da Vista do Rei viewpoint, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder that legends say was formed by the tears of a star-crossed couple. The lush landscape, punctuated by hydrangeas in the spring, creates a postcard-perfect scene that you’ll want to capture from every angle.
After soaking in the views at Sete Cidades, continue along the winding road toward Lagoa das Empadadas, where you can take in another beautiful, secluded lake surrounded by tall pine trees. This drive is perfect for those who love lush scenery and tranquil stops. Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the nearby town for some freshly baked queijadas (local pastries) and coffee—São Miguel’s charm isn’t only in its sights but also in its flavors!
Pico Island: Dramatic Coastal Views and Vineyards
Pico Island is a place where ocean views, volcanic landscapes, and charming vineyards collide. Take a drive along the Estrada Regional 1-2, a coastal road where you can marvel at Portugal’s highest peak, Mount Pico, as it rises over 2,300 meters above sea level. Known for its UNESCO-protected vineyards, Pico’s unique landscape is shaped by volcanic rock walls that cradle rows of grapevines. These scenic vineyards not only produce award-winning wines but also create an unforgettable sight on your drive.
Don’t miss stopping by one of the many whale-watching viewpoints that dot the coast. Pico’s location makes it one of the best places to spot these magnificent creatures, especially in spring and fall. As you continue your drive, take time to explore the rugged coastal lava fields, where dark, craggy rocks meet the sparkling Atlantic, creating a striking contrast you’ll only find in the Azores.
Faial Island: The Surreal Landscape of the Capelinhos Volcano
Ready for a drive that will make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet? Head to Faial Island, where you’ll find the surreal Capelinhos Volcano landscape, formed after a massive eruption in 1957. The volcanic ash and rock give the land a lunar look, making it a must-visit for geology enthusiasts and travelers who want to see something truly unique. Start your journey at the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center to learn more about this fascinating area.
As you drive around Faial, make sure to stop at scenic viewpoints along the island’s lush northern coast. Here, the contrast between the barren volcanic terrain and green landscapes is striking and makes for stunning photographs. This route gives you the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and a peek into the Azores’ volcanic heart.
São Jorge Island: The Fajãs Drive
The scenic drives on São Jorge Island lead you to incredible coastal formations known as fajãs. These are flat, fertile land areas that sit between steep cliffs and the ocean, formed by landslides or lava flows. São Jorge’s fajãs are simply breathtaking, and driving here feels like discovering a hidden piece of paradise. Start with the famous Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, where you’ll find a remote lagoon known for clams—a local delicacy!
Continue along the coastline to Fajã dos Cubres, where you can enjoy views of lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and traditional houses. The scenic drives here are for those who love off-the-beaten-path spots and wish to experience the Azores’ dramatic landscapes up close. With each turn, São Jorge reveals a new and awe-inspiring view.
Terceira Island: The Serreta to Biscoitos Coastal Drive
On Terceira Island, the drive from Serreta to Biscoitos is an absolute gem. Starting in Serreta, a charming village with an enchanting forest trail, this route takes you along the wild west coast of the island. The journey is filled with scenic ocean views, cliffs, and verdant countryside—perfect for travelers who love a mix of landscapes. Stop along the way to take in the panoramic ocean views from one of the coastal cliffs and breathe in the fresh Atlantic air.
One of the highlights of this drive is Biscoitos, where you’ll find natural swimming pools formed by volcanic rock. These pools are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and provide a unique swimming experience. Dip your toes in, snap a few pictures, and enjoy the unique volcanic coastline that makes Terceira so special.
Graciosa Island: The Caldeira and Furna do Enxofre
Graciosa may be one of the lesser-known Azores islands, but its scenic drives will leave you enchanted. A drive to Caldeira da Graciosa is like a journey through a surreal landscape. The caldera is surrounded by lush green hills, and within it lies Furna do Enxofre, an impressive volcanic cave with an underground lake. Make sure to visit the visitor center to learn about the island’s unique geological features.
As you drive around Graciosa, you’ll pass small coastal villages with traditional windmills and whitewashed houses, adding a dash of quaint charm to your journey. Graciosa’s scenic drives feel both peaceful and otherworldly, a hidden gem in the Azores waiting to be explored.
Flores Island: Hidden Waterfalls and Lush Greenery
On Flores Island, you’ll find drives that are like something out of a fairy tale. Start with the Fajã Grande to Ponta Delgada route, which takes you through lush, green landscapes adorned with cascading waterfalls. Flores is one of the greenest islands in the Azores, and this drive offers spectacular views of the rugged coastline and azure waters. Stop at Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, where a short walk will bring you to a lagoon surrounded by dozens of waterfalls—a truly magical sight.
As you continue your drive, take time to explore the quaint villages and enjoy the slow pace of life on this secluded island. Flores’ scenery is wild and pristine, perfect for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Faial-Pico Ferry Drive Combo: The Best of Two Islands
Why limit yourself to one island when you can easily explore two? A Faial-Pico ferry ride opens up an incredible scenic drive combination. Start by driving around Faial, where you can enjoy the bustling marina in Horta and the volcanic landscapes of the island’s interior. Then, hop on the ferry to Pico for more coastal views and a journey around Portugal’s highest peak, Mount Pico.
This combo trip offers flexibility and variety, with contrasting landscapes and unique experiences on each island. Whether you’re gazing at the vineyard landscapes of Pico or taking in the vibrant marina life in Faial, this drive combo provides a rich, two-in-one adventure.
Scenic Stops and Essential Photo Ops on Every Drive
In the Azores, you’ll want to have your camera ready at all times! Throughout each drive, there are scenic stops where you can pull over and take in the view. Look for hydrangea-lined roads on São Miguel, lava-rock coastlines on Pico, and dramatic cliffs on Flores. These photo ops are scattered across each island, so give yourself plenty of time to stop and soak in the beauty.
The Azores isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience meant to be savored slowly. The islands’ natural beauty, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals make each scenic drive a journey through paradise. Take your time, explore every viewpoint, and make unforgettable memories along the way.
Conclusion: Embrace the Azorean Adventure
The Azores’ scenic drives are some of the best in the world, offering a mix of stunning vistas, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. From the volcanic lakes of São Miguel to the rugged coastlines of Flores, each island has its own unique charm and landscapes. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a road trip through paradise. The Azores are waiting to enchant you!
