Discovered in the 15th century by navigators en route to the New World, the Portuguese islands of the Azores are an archipelago of nine beautiful islands set in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1,400 km from Portugal's capital city, Lisbon and 3,900 km from the east coast of North America.

The volcanic origin of these islands has produced outstanding natural beauty and to capture this unique landscape on canvas would require great skill and an extensive palette to have any hope of portraying the vast green valleys, vibrant blue lakes and eye catching black cliffs that rise up from the ocean. The hot mineral springs and geysers add a glorious tranquillity to the scene, whcih is nearly impossible to find anywhere else in the world.

Our programme is based on the island of São Miguel, also known as the "Green Island", which is around 65 km long and 16 km broad at the widest point. Supporting a population of 132,000 inhabitants São Miguel is the largest of the archipelago, covering an area of approximately 760 square km.

The picturesque capital city of Ponta Delgada, which is situated to the west of the island provides both character and amenities as historical buildings and narrow cobbled streets combine with cafes, bars and restaurants. Just a short drive away from the town of Sete Cidades is well worth visiting for its extinct volcano crater within which there are two lakes that are emerald green and dark blue in colour.

The most beautiful gardens in São Miguel are to be found in the village of Provoação on the southeast side of the island. The nearbly spa village of Furnas is blessed with what is believed to be one of the largest thermal water sources in the world as well as a spectacular lake bordered with azaleas and the most beautiful botanical garden in the archipelago.

To the north lies one of the most importanat towns on the island, Ribeira Grande, which is surrounded by fertile land that yields a variety of produce including the famous tea; the Azores is the only place where tea is grown in Europe. Further along the awesome "Lake of Fire" is not to be missed and the mountains provide at truly dramatic backdrop to the enormous "Lagoa do Fogo" which was formed from an ancient volcanic eruption. Some of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island can be found here.

The towns of Lagoa and Vila Franca do Campo can be found lying to the south; both of which are surrounded by large plantations of pineapples, oranges and bananas and bordered by cliffs that recede into the sea.

The pace of life in the Azores has changed very little over the decades and farming and fishing remain the principal livelihood for the Azoreans. With the exception of tourism very little industry is evident, making these islands one of the very few unspoilt destinations in Europe where peace and relaxation in an unpolluted enviroment is guaranteed.

Although our programme is based on the island of São Miguel, day trips to some of the other islands can be arranged through our local representatives.