Topics as diverse as the Azorean cow, sport-fishing and and whale- and dolphin- watching provide a flavour of the culture and heritage of these Portuguese islands. A series of walks taking in the mythical lakes of Sete Cidades, rugged volcanic craters and picturesque villages will guide visitors around the best that these tranquil islands offer.
Note for Azores/1/2 readers:
Walking trails in the Azores
There are marked trails in the Azores, but these are generally poorly maintained. All trails are subject to erosion and change, either from storms and heavy rain, or earth tremors, or just lack of use. Lovely old forest or farm roads suffer from outbreaks of tarmac, so published descriptions can quickly be overtaken by this upgrading. That said, there is little traffic and the routes still takes in wonderful landscapes so should not be abandoned.
On Sao Miguel, the Municipality of Povoacao has taken the initiative and developed and way-marked many charming walks accessible from Furnas and Povoacao, and is committed to maintaining them. This makes either of these villages good walking centres. Sao Jorge and Flores are two other islands with long-established though not well-maintained walks. Plus of course, for strong walkers, there is the ascent of Pico, which should be climbed with a local guide.
Warning The walk on Sao Miguel described on page 100, to Fire Lake or Lagoa do Fogo, should not be attempted via the alternative route from the viewpoint above the lake. This has now become very dangerous, if not impossible. Begin the walk as described from Ribeira da Praia and return the same way, or by the deviation to Agua de Alto.
