Authentic Azores

This winter, Azores Airlines will connect Toronto to the Portuguese Island of Terceira (non-stop weekly service) in addition to four-time-weekly service to Ponta Delgada, writes Rodney Tugwell in this week’s Travel Courier cover story.

Passengers visiting the Azorean Archipelago are able to get to this magnificent destination in just over five hours flight time aboard the new A321neo. The aircraft can transport up to 190 passengers and provides a high level of comfort on the medium-long haul routes. You don’t have to fly half way around the world to be canyoning, cycling, hiking, soaking in natural hot springs, sailing, surfing, diving, golfing, bird watching, tasting amazing typical cuisine or whale watching. Azores Airlines is the first Portuguese airline to connect Canada with Portugal using the A321neo.

Laid out across the Atlantic, the Azores is made up of nine major islands. Flores and Corvo to the west; Graciosa, Terceira, Sao Jorge, Pico and Faial in the centre; and Sao Miguel, and Santa Maria to the east.

The Azores are often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe, or Europe’s Best Kept Secret and are an autonomous Region of Portugal. It is practically impossible to visit the Azores and not be completely amazed by every single thing you lay your eyes on. National Geographic considers this archipelago as one the the most beautiful and sustainable destinations in the world. (www.visitazores.com/en)

Terceira, located in the central group of the Archipelago, is home to the Azores’ oldest city, Angra do Heroismo (population approximately 36,000), a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1983) steeped in history and capital of the archipelago. Located just 15 minutes from the airport this niche place is lined with cobblestone streets, churches, forts and gardens.

For the full story check out this week’s digital edition of Travel Courier.