The Autonomous Region of the Azores, or simply Azores (Região Autónoma dos Açores), is an archipelago of Portugal which lies in the mid-Atlantic. The nine islands that compose Azores have in common its volcanic origins.
Azores is a paradise for nature lovers; it offers verdant and dramatic landscapes, with unique topography of cones, craters, caves, hot springs, black sand beaches and high mountains, including Mount Pico, the highest mountain of Portugal. Azores is a famous tourist destination for whale and dolphin watching, scuba diving, hiking, bird watching and geotourism. Azores is also known for its natural underground ovens, heated by volcanic activity.
Population: over 245 thousand inhabitants
Capital cities: Angra do Heroísmo, Horta, Ponta Delgada
Other major cities: Lagoa, Ribeira Grande (island of São Miguel), Praia da Vitória (Terceira), Horta (Faial)
Main attractions: whale and dolphin watching, Lagoa das Sete Cidades (twin crater lake), Caldeira das Sete Cidades, Caldeira Velha, Lagoa do Fogo (crater lake), Algar do Carvão (ancient lave tube), Monte Brasil, Miradouro da Vista do Rei (viewpoint), Terra Nostra Park, Lagoa das Furnas (lake), Lagoa do Congro, Capelinhos, Angra do Heroísmo
Nearest Airports: João Paulo II Airport (PDL - Aeroporto João Paulo II)
