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Cono Pico, Azores

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Things to see and do in Azores

Algar do Carvão

Fascinating caves and tunnels await in Algar do Carvão on Terceira island. The volcanic origins of the archipelago provide interesting material for both amateur and professional speleologists - there are numerous craters and other volcanic phenomena to explore.

Angra do Heroismo

The historic old town of beautifully set Angra do Heroismo on Terceira was founded in the 15th century and developed into a major outpost for the Portuguese and Spanish empires.

Deep-sea fishing

The Azores have charter boats available at many coastal resorts, particularly on Faial and São Miguel, which can be taken out on fishing trips.

Furna de Enxofre

A spiral staircase 80m (270ft) into the earth leads to Furna de Enxofre, a small, warm sulphur lake concealed in a grotto beneath a crater. Graciosa also boasts a subterranean lake (Caldeira) and there are hot springs in Carapacho.

Golf

There are three 18-hole golf courses in the Azores. Two (Furnas and Batalha) are located on São Miguel island; the third is on Terceira. Aside from some winter drizzle, the mild climate allows year-round play.

Marine life

The island has an abundant marine life. Dive centres, like those at Faial and São Miguel, provide easy access to some excellent dive sites.

Ponta Delgada

The idyllic centre of the former fishing village of Ponta Delgada boasts narrow streets, picturesque whitewashed houses and a waterfront promenade.

São Miguel

São Miguel is the largest and arguably most beautiful of the Eastern Islands. It is home to Sete Cidades, a 40-sq-km (15-sq-mile) volcanic crater with two lakes, one deep blue and the other emerald green.

Surfing

The waves off Santa Maria and São Miguel islands are great for surfing. For those who prefer the help of a sail, windsurfing lessons are available at the islands' sailing clubs.

Terceira

Terceira hosts summertime touradas a corda ('bullfight on a rope') when locals test their mettle against a bull running wild through the streets.

Whale and dolphin watching

Some 25 of 90 species of whale and dolphin have been spotted off the Azores, including the giant Sperm whale. The best sightings are from June to September in the waters around Faial, Pico and São Jorge.

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