7th edition Sept 2019 304 pages / 34 maps Lying between New York and Lisbon and
sometimes referred to as Europe's best kept secret, the Azores are verdant,
tranquil, diverse, exquisitely beautiful and always welcoming. These nine green
islands are the embodiment of old-world charm and include an elegant capital,
remote villages, glittering blue coastlines and spectacular volcanic landscapes.
Bradt's Azores is the only publication in English that not only provides details
of travel and activities, but also gives in-depth background information about
the archipelago's discovery, settlement and subsequent social history. David
Sayers outlines how the archipelago erupted from beneath the ocean some five
million years ago. Revised throughout, this new edition also includes in-depth
sections on whaling, fishing and agriculture, climate, and geology. There is now
a wide choice of accommodation, from 4-star hotels to small family-run affairs,
simple pensions, rented cottages and B&Bs - all detailed in the guide.
Tourism services have expanded with greater numbers of marked walking trails,
improved opportunities for diving, whale watching and adventurous activities
such as sea kayaking and jeep safaris, and excellent new museums. The islands
remain an outstanding destination for walkers and lovers of nature and the
simple life. Tourism has not been allowed to spoil the archipelago and the
islands retain much of their traditional charm - they are not a beach
destination, and there is little nightlife or commercial entertainment. With
this guide visitors can discover the best walks, tour Europe's westernmost coast
- the island of Flores - visit Europe's only tea plantations or step into the
hot springs and gurgling mud pools of Furnas. Brimming with practical
information this new edition of The Azores is the perfect guide to these
garden-like islands.