Portugal’s northern autonomous set of nine volcanic islands, the Azores, sit between Europe and North America. São Miguel welcomes most visitors to the Azores and is sometimes coined the “Cold Maui of Europe.” Cooler temperatures, cold Atlantic waters, rolling farms, and thermal spas delight families visiting.

Other islands in the Azores include Terveira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores, and Corvo vary greatly in their topography and landscapes.  Enjoy volcanic craters, soaking in hot springs, whale watching, sampling cozido das furnas (meat and vegetable stew cooked in volcanic steam), and incredible hiking await visitors.