Azores Bradt Guide

Product Description

Bradt`s Azores guidebook is the only comprehensive guidebook to the nine-island archipelago, a nature-lovers` wilderness perched at the western extremity of Europe in the mid-Atlantic, & one of the best places in the world for whale watching. This new edition continues to provide the strong geological & botanical information that is so integral to the islands & essential for all nature lovers, but it also has an expanded focus taking in the l&- & sea-based activities which have become a significant part of the Azores tourism offering in the past few years. Also included is all of the practical information needed to make the most of these new opportunities, plus a full update on the accommodation upgrades that have taken place in recent times to cater for the influx of new visitors. Green, & with a mild climate throughout the year thanks to the Gulf Stream, each island has its own attractions & identity. Safe & welcoming, the islands are drawing in a whole new group of visitors, mainly from Europe & the USA, attracted by the diversity of outdoor activities, easier accessibility & improvements to the visitor infrastructure. The Azores volcanic origin make for a rugged, diverse landscape, a suitable backdrop for excellent walking, mountain-biking & canyoning, while whale-watching, kayaking, windsurfing & fishing provide off-shore opportunities for independent travellers & adventurous families alike. The islands` 500 year history is well-documented in a host of museums, allowing visitors to learn about the fluctuating fortunes & strategic importance of the archipelago across the centuries. Attractive architecture, carefully preserved festivals, three islands with UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, an interesting range of flora & many botanical gardens are all covered in this guide.