Guest Blog by: Galyna Rogovska
Portugal has many islands besides beautiful cities with many cultural, historical, and architectural monuments. Life on Portuguese islands in the ocean is associated with complete relaxation, carefreeness, adventure, the gentle sound of the surf, and the absence of haste and fuss.
Below is the list of islands to create your impression of Portugal
1. Terceira
The island is called the gateway to the Azores. Together with Graciosa, Sao Jorge, Pico, and Faial it forms the central group of the archipelago.
Terceira is a volcanic island that combines natural beauty with the historical values of the capital, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Angra Bay is a critical intercontinental ship port and a commercial, regional product source.
Travel tip: Visit the natural pools of Biscoitos (Piscinas Naturais dos Biscoitos) on the northeast coast of Terceira. Picturesque pools between the rocks arose several centuries ago because of volcanic eruptions. Here, you can relax your soul and body.
2. Sao Miguel
It’s hard not to love San Miguel with its turquoise lakes, hot thermal pools and nature trails.
In Ponta Delgada’s capital, you can discover the historical heritage of its charming black and white churches Down at the pier, tourists can enjoy a swim or take a boat to watch the dolphins and whales that pass by.
Travel tip: During your visit, take advantage of the Boca do Inferno viewing platform (Miradouro da Boca do Inferno). You can see most of the lagoon’s islands and breathtaking landscapes in pleasant weather.
3. Madeira
The paradise island of Madeira, located in the Atlantic Ocean, is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful places on earth. It is a unique natural botanical garden home to clear lakes, clean beaches, and a variety of flora and fauna.
These are the locations of pre-glacial forests with relict trees, which are today part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The local wine, Madera, has become the island’s hallmark in many ways. If you are lucky enough to visit here, do not miss the opportunity to try this aromatic fortified wine, which is amber and has an unforgettable aroma of nuts and caramel.
Travel tip: While in Madeira, visit Laurisilva, a tract of laurel trees, a showcase of the Mediterranean flora that once dominated the European continent. Today, Laurisilva is a rare forest species that has practically disappeared from the face of the earth.
4. Ilha da Tavira
Tavira is a long island running along the mainland south of Portugal. Although several beaches are here, the entire southern coast is one large white sand beach. Ferries run here.
The island has an interesting topography and unique nature. Wooden bridges are everywhere, making it convenient to move around. In addition, on the island of Tavira, there are white sandy beaches: Praia de Tavira, Terra Estreit, and Barril that leave few tourists indifferent.
Travel tip: Visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park and, of course, explore the Algarve coast with its famous red-orange, bizarrely shaped rocks.
5. Flores
Flores Island is a garden floating in the ocean. Here, you will find water mills next to crystal clear streams, colorful thickets of hydrangeas, white houses on green slopes, lava rivers and picturesque lakes.
Today, the island of Flores is a paradise for fishermen and scuba diving enthusiasts. It also offers excellent conditions for sailing and windsurfing.
There are many tourist routes around the island. In 2009, it was included in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves list.
Travel tip: Be sure to see the island from above. The Miradouro do Portal platform offers beautiful views of the valley, including the village of Fajazinha, the ocean, mountains, and waterfalls.
Summarize
Portuguese islands in the Atlantic Ocean attract visitors mainly because of their remoteness from the continent and their originality. Tourists visit the islands because of the unforgettable nature: geothermal springs, wild forests and lakes, unusual plants and animals.
Many choose destinations because they are open to tourists, especially in winter. Each island is unique and deserves close attention.
by: Galyna Rogovska
Galyna Rogovska is a travel expert with extensive experience in content creation. She is an enthusiastic globetrotter, who visited 25+ countries, and an explorer with a passion for adventure. Currently, she is a freelance writer at One Day Tours Portugal.
