Azores

Azores

Azores

The Azores islands lie in the middle of Atlantic Ocean about 1500 kilometres or two hours’ flying time from Lisbon.

These unspoiled, garden-like islands are generally thought to have been discovered by the Portuguese in 1427. They prospered during the 19th and 20th centuries with the development of new industries and fisheries. With their year-round moderate-to-warm climate, combined with cheaper flights introduced the 1980s, they have become a regular tourist destination. São Miguel is traditionally the most developed and visited of the nine main islands, although island-hopping air travel has somewhat opened up the others.

Without many beaches, Azores tourism isn’t mass-market and large-scale development hasn’t arrived. Instead, there is an appealing mix of pretty cottages and modern villas, many on sale to investors. Nowadays you’ll find an interesting selection of reasonably priced properties, including stone cottages, bungalows and new-builds for the golfing set.
For those who relish rural charm, unspoiled scenery, fresh air, golf and other outdoor pursuits, the Azores may just be what you’re looking for.