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What to see

Azores

The nine islands all have their individual character and culture and each of them offers some special attractions. Highlights include the following:

  • The beach Praia Formosa and the fishing village Anjos (visited by Columbus) at Santa Maria.
  • The Furnas do Enxofre lava caves, the windmills, and sleepy villages of Graciosa.
  • The city of Angra do Heroísmo (Unesco World Heritage), the lava caves and the vineyards of the island of Terceira.
  • The recent Capelinhos lava field of the island of Faial, the Caldeira, and the cosmopolitian atmosphere of the island’s capital Horta.
  • The island of Pico with its whaling villages, prized wines, and the possibility of climbing Portugal’s highest mountains.
  • The coastal plains (Fajas) and the rugged terrains of São Jorge which are also famous for their cheeses.
  • The lush vegetation of the island of Flores with plenty of walking possibilities.
  • The island of Corvo with its caldera.
  • And last but not least the many treasures to be explored on the island of São Miguel.

Further information can be obtained at the website of the Official Tourist Information of the Azores.

São Miguel

The largest island of the archipelago offers a cornucopia of attractions and activities. Recommended destinations for visits include the following:

  • The crater of Sete Cidades with its blue and green lake and the famous view: "Vista do Rei".
  • The city of Ribeire Grande with its museums (Emigrant museum, Casa de Arcano).
  • The crater lake Lagoa de Fogo.
  • The northern coast with the tea plantations at Gorreana.
  • The eastern coast of the island.
  • The island capital Ponta Delgada.

Although some of these sights will be visited during our excursions, it is wise to plan some spare time for sightseeing before and after the conference.

Some time to burn in Ponta Delgada

The airport is very close to the city centre (2 km), so if you can spend some time in the city it can be accomplished quite easily. Top attractions include the following:

  • The lava cave Grota de Carvão (not to be confused with the Algar do Carvão on Terceira). It is situated somewhat outside the city on the circular road. With a rented car, it is easy to stop by. If you plan a visit from the airport, it is wise to take a taxi and ask the driver to fetch you again after your visit. Guided tours usually at 10:30, 11:30, 14.30, 15:30, and 16:30. Not as impressive as the caves on Terceira, but worth a visit. Information can be found here.
  • The pineapple greenhouses. They are situated to the east of the city in Faja de Baixo. One of them Ananases San Antonio (Rua José Manuel Bernardo Cabral 1) can be reached easily by the minibus line B. Open 09:00–19:30. Another one, Ananases Arruda is situated further outside.
  • The Museu Carlos Machado consists of three parts, the Sacred Arts Centre in the Jesuit college church, the Convento de Sto. André, and the Santa Barbara Arts Centre.
  • The cathedral (Igreja Matriz) with its blue tiles (azulejos).
  • The synagogue Force of the Heavens, Rua do Brum 16, open Mon–Fri 10:00–16:30.
  • Really worthwhile is a visit to one of the gardens. The three main ones are close to each other, so they can be visited effortlessly on one afternoon:
    • Jardim Jose do Canto: botanical garden with a lot of native and exotic plants. Café and (not recommendable) hotel inside. Entry €4. Open 09:00–19:00.
    • Sant' Ana Garden: located at the Presidential Garden. Open Mon–Fri 09:30–12:00 and 14:00–16:30. Entry €2. Important: proof of Identity requested.
    • Antonio Borges Garden. Interesting garden at different altitude levels. Open 09:00–20:00. Free entry.