Gay Travel Azores
The wonder, beauty, and diversity of the expansive landscapes in the Azores eluded worldly gay travelers for many years; but now, the cat is officially out of the bag! Year after year, the nine islands of the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal and the westernmost European outpost, continue to blossom into a top destination for those in search of pure, unspoiled scenery, and a wealth of fascinating ecotourism opportunities.
Though it’s a remote archipelago flung far into the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are easily accessible for US East Coasters (direct flights from US such as Boston and New York). The Azores have cultural ties to Portugal while holding on to many of its own traditions (and unique Portuguese dialect!), developed through years of isolation from mainland Europe.
In terms of landscape, we best heard it described as "if Hawaii and Ireland had a baby, it would look like the Azores." There’s a dizzying list of incredible natural sites to behold, from the rigid peaks of volcanoes and black sand beaches to fertile, green pastureland, to eerie lunar topography. In fact, the islands are home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and three biospheres. This diversity in geology and climate make for a wide range of plant species that are unique to the islands, a fact that also influences the Azores’ distinctive cuisine.
Azores Gay Scene
Portugal was the sixth European country to legalize same-sex marriage when it did so in 2010. The Catholic archipelago is somewhat conservative; however, locals are friendly and welcoming to all as we observed everywhere we explored. While we were not in the Azores on May 17th for The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia Day, we saw signs in the streets that it was celebrated among the locals!
LGBTQ travelers are part of the culture. Back in 2011, the Azores hosted its first Pride Festival, though it’s been on hiatus for the last few years.
São Miguel Island and Ponta Delgada - Your Starting Point
First-timers to the Azores would be wise to choose the island of São Miguel as a base for their gay vacations since it offers a taste of everything the region has to offer, all on one accessible island (we advise renting a car to make it easier to get around and see the sights).
Upon arrival, make Azore Hotel your home base for at least two days -- not just because it is a mere 10-minute ride from the airport -- but also because its location will allow you to quickly immerse yourself within the region's capital and largest city, Ponta Delgada. The Azore Hotel's proximity to the main square means you can walk out the front door and head straight down the seascape mosaic sidewalks to the main square where you will find outdoor cafés, beautiful architecture, and a marina where you can catch whale-watching boats.
World-Class Whale and Dolphin Watching
The Azores are considered to be among the top destinations for whale-watching and are known best for spotting Blue Whales (the world's largest mammal), Sperm Whales (the whale that American Herman Melville wrote about in his classic Moby Dick), and many other rare types of whales and dolphins. The optimal time for viewing these magnificnet sea creatures is April - October.
From the Ocean to the Gardens...
Next, we suggest renting a car and driving the pristine Northern or Southern route to Furnas which will make you wish all roads lead to the Azores! The ride is magnificent in both directions (to and from Ponta Delgada to Furnas) so be sure to take both routes while you are there. Upon arriving in Furnas, you will feel you have discovered the actual Garden of Eden! For a true immersive experience, stay at Furnas Boutique Hotel, and you will find that you never want to leave! The dreamlike setting, the warm and welcoming staff, the spa and thermal waters, and the authentic Azorean cuisine such as Cozido das Furnas (a delicious stew of meats and vegetables that are cooked in a traditional way within volcanic steam), will all keep you in a state of bliss and utter amazement.
If you are able to ply yourself away from Furnas, you should make every effort to explore the rest of the island where you will be treated to more of nature’s wonders, such as black-sand beaches, hot springs, and hiking trails. Nothing beats the stunning greenery surrounding Sete Cicades Lake, one of São Miguel’s most popular treasures. No matter where you go, you’re sure to spot blue hydrangeas, whose growth is so widespread the blooms have become a symbol of the region.
Other Recomended Islands in the Azores
Terceira is home to the region’s second largest population, not to mention wide-open pastureland and flower-specked meadows. It’s popular for divers because of its collection of shipwrecks, while those in search of culture and dining head to the port city of Angra do Heroismo, with its distinctive rust-colored roofs.
Pico draws adventure types thanks to its famous Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portuguese territory, though travelers also come for the vineyards, the whale-watching, and the volcanic caves.
Those in search of sunny beach vacations are typically out of luck when it comes to most islands in the Azores, with the exception of Santa Maria, blessed with golden-sand stretches, crystal clear waters, and the warmest weather of all the islands.
Thermal spas, lakes, waterfalls, bird-watching, paragliding, diving, snorkeling, and surfing are just a few activities and attractions enjoyed in the smaller or lesser-explored islands of Graciosa, São Jorge, Faial, Formigas, and Flores.
Dining and Nightlife
As the largest city in the region, Ponta Delgada is the best place to find a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars. Below are a few we recommend:
A favorite among travelers intent on trying Portuguese cuisine, this restaurant features a homey, rustic interior and a menu focused on seafood. Diners rave about the octopus salad and the pineapple cake.
This is arguably the best spot for sampling local cuisine, especially fried sardines, the bistro’s signature dish. The restaurant is nearly always packed, so plan on sharing a table with other diners.
Boasting beautiful sea views, this restaurant and bar offers seafood and beer in on a patio with red chairs and umbrellas.
The place to see and be seen in Ponta Delgada is Bar Do Pi, thanks to its expansive, brightly lit patio and convivial atmosphere, especially at night.
If you make a stop through Terceira, Angra do Heroismo offers a selection of local bistros and bars, including Beira Mar Sao Mateus, a top spot for seafood; Birou Bar, with vegetarian and vegan options; Tasca das Tias, an upscale spot serving European fare, and Havanna Club, a bay-view hangout serving cheap drinks.
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