View of Sete Cidades near Miradouro da Grota do Inferno viewpoint, Sao Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal. Grota do Inferno viewpoint at Sete Cidades on Sao Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal.
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The Azores are an archipelago unlike any other. Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the 9 volcanic islands of the Azores feature surprisingly warm water and a mild climate, the rugged landscape, dreamy beaches, and fascinating culture of the Azores will enchant nature lovers, history buffs, and food and drink enthusiasts alike. The sparsely populated Azores also consistently receive high marks for ecologically sound, sustainable tourism. If you’re searching for a beach vacation with a minimal carbon footprint, the Azores are the ideal place to enjoy nature while also being kind to the planet.
SOLAR BRANCO ECO ESTATE GIN LIBRARY
One would think that the largest gin collection in Europe would be located in England, but it is actually housed at the Solar Branco Eco Estate Gin Library on the island of Sao Miguel. The Gin Library features over 600 varieties of gin. Visitors can taste the gin of the day, sip the best gin and tonic of their lives, and explore a secret gin drinking nook which dates back to the 1800s. Gin enthusiasts who bring a bottle of gin which is not currently on display in The Gin Library are invited to attend a free gin masterclass. After a visit to The Gin Library, visitors who are not nursing a gin-induced headache can explore the breathtaking sights of Sao Miguel Island. No trip to San Miguel is complete without a visit to Sete Cidades Lake which is divided in half by a slim strip of land. Sete Cidades appears blue on one side and green on the other.
FURNAS VALLEY
Panoramic view of the geothermal town Furnas in Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal
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Also located on the island of Sao Miguel, Furnas Valley is a literal hotbed of geothermal activity. Furnas Valley hasn’t had an active volcanic eruption since the 1600s, but there are still plenty of piping hot thermal pools and dramatic puffs of steam seeping from the ground. Some of Furnas Valley’s thermal pools are mineral rich and fit for swimming and soaking. Visitors can also sample Cozido das Furnas which is a meat and vegetable stew that is cooked slowly over a steaming volcanic vent for several hours. The village of Furnas is even home to a Chalet which serves tea that is brewed with geothermal water.
ALGAR DO CARVAO
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