It's not too late to make your summer vacation plans. If you still don't know where to go to fully enjoy the summer and want to get out of France, Europe offers you great alternatives. Temperatures are ideal during the periods from June to October, because there is very little rain and the sun is often at its peak. Moreover, the Old Continent is particularly rich in small havens of peace. So we stopped in a little-known Portuguese archipelago that includes nine picturesque islands, all just 4 hours from the French capital.
Azores: An archipelago of 9 islands to be as close to nature as possible
To spend wonderful moments surrounded by nature and in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, there is nothing like the Azores. Born from magma, this archipelago contains small, picturesque islands that share the environment with giant ferns, redwoods, pines, banana trees and guava trees. In addition to their lush vegetation, the coasts of these islands are especially appreciated by the whales that you can contemplate up close thanks to the guides and their experience in finding these large marine mammals. Visiting the Azores allows you to enjoy the serenity that prevails in this small piece of Europe.
Guided tour to the Portuguese border
For nature lovers and hikers, there are several trails that take you to Ponta do Pico, at an altitude of 2,351 metres. On the heights of this volcano, whose last eruption dates back to 1720, you can enjoy views of the islands of Faial, Terceira, São Jorge and Graciosa.
In addition to this stop in the middle of volcanic terrain, a short break in the Velha caldera offers a moment of relaxation in a green environment that includes a waterfall. What's more, the water is lukewarm and the scenery is Instagram-worthy. However, there is no shortage of waterfalls in the Azores and the most famous are the Poço do Bacalhau Waterfall on Flores Island, the Aveiro Waterfall on Santa Maria Island as well as the Salto do Cabrito Furnas Waterfall or Velha Caldera on São Miguel Island.
In addition to these gems that nature has to offer, this archipelago can also boast of being one of the largest cetacean sanctuaries in the world. Many agencies offer excursions to enjoy more than 25 different species.
Azores: Some marine and land activities to make the most of nature
It is almost impossible to enjoy a stay in the middle of the ocean without doing some water activities. To enjoy it, the islands of São Miguel, São Jorge and Flores offer excellent paddling routes. This activity provides the pleasure of exploring rivers, valleys and waterfalls in picturesque places.
However, if water exploration does not appeal to you, then you can opt for tours offered on dry land. Note to wine lovers, there are many vineyards in the Azores, such as Pico Island whose vineyards are designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because they are so out of the ordinary. After hiking through this stunning landscape, you'll end your trip with a local wine grower for a tasting.
However, this site is also a real blessing for tea lovers. Indeed, tea has been grown for more than 200 years in the Azores, where the climate is suitable for its cultivation. São Miguel Island invites you to wander among its tea plantations, visit its factories and its small museum. To finish the experience, the site offers a small cup of tea for tasting.
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