visit flores island azores

A miniature version of Ireland or Switzerland. This is one of the most frequent combinations that can be found when describing Flores , one of the nine islands that make up the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores , inhabited by just under 4000 people.

In fact, the characteristics, the landscapes and the sceneries offered by this marvelous island are very reminiscent of those of Ireland and Switzerland: it is enough to think about the green hills, the uncontaminated lagoons and the numerous inlets of transparent water which flow into lakes or into the Atlantic Ocean .

The island of Flores is the westernmost territory of the Azores and of all Europe. It boasts beautiful landscapes, and forms together with the nearby Corvo the western group of the archipelago.

Like the other Azores, Flores is of volcanic origin , and presents a mountainous territory furrowed by deep valleys. Its highest peak, 914 meters, is the Morro Alto . The short water courses form numerous waterfalls, and its coasts are characterized by very high cliffs.

The hinterland of Flores, on the other hand, is sprinkled with craters that today take the form of lakes. Among these, the most famous is “Caldeira Funda “, among laurel forests and hydrangea plants. The island is a captivating place also thanks to the quiet life that its inhabitants lead, which reminds us of ancient times.

Visiting Flores means entering a calm and peaceful world, light years away from the chaos of cities and hectic life, made of walks, nature and breathtaking landscapes.

What to see in Flores

Getting around the island of Flores is very easy, given its small size. A boat tour gives the opportunity to admire closely the rock formations of the coast, including the Arch of Santa Cruz das Flores and the islet of Maria Vaz . Do not miss the sea caves visible only from the water: they are the Gruta dos Enxaréus and the Gruta do Galo .

Divers and diving lovers will love the bay of Alagoa , formed by islets and reefs at water level, while to observe closely the brown grouper it is necessary to go to the islet of Garajau.

In Santa Cruz das Flo res and near Lajes das Flores there are the beautiful natural pools of the island. Those who are looking for more authentic experiences will have to head towards the pools of water that form at the base of the waterfalls, such as those of Ribeira Grande , 300 meters high, and Poço do Bacalhau , 90 meters high.

Volcanic Craters

In the central area of Flores you can admire 7 volcanic craters, transformed into lakes with the advance of time. The landscape is truly magnificent and unusual, especially that of Lagoa Funda , the best known of these formations. Do not miss the panoramic view from Morro Alto, the highest point of the island.

Rocha dos Bordões

One of the most famous panoramas of Flores and of all the Azores is the Rocha dos Bordões , basaltic columns born as a result of a volcanic eruption, located as if by magic on top of a hill.

It is a true wonder of nature, and is covered with mosses and lichens whose colors change during the day, as the inclination of the sun rays gives the whole different shades and nuances.

Santa Cruz das Flores

In Santa Cruz das Flores the most impressive monument is the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição , a church that stands out from the other buildings for its large facade, but it is also interesting to walk through the Praça do Marquês do Pombal , the main square of the city.

Do not miss a visit to the Igreja de São Boaventura , and the Museu Regional das Flores which in turn includes the Museu Etnográfico and the Casa Museu Pimentel de Mesquita.

Finally, as a souvenir of the trip it is possible to buy in Santa Cruz das Flores lace, embroidery, blankets woven with ancient looms and hydrangea pith flowers.

Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida

These are two practically adjacent lakes , located in the highlands of the island of Flores, at an altitude of about 600 meters. The first one is characterized by its impressive depth, which in some places reaches one hundred meters; moreover, from Lagoa Negra you can immediately notice a beautiful waterfall that ends right in the other lake, the Comprida.

Natural Reserve of Morro Alto

Flores preserves in its ‘heart’, or in its central point, the beautiful nature reserve of Morro Alto , from which you can enjoy what is perhaps the best view of the island. How to do it is simple: it will be enough to reach the Pico dos Sete Pes , where among other things there is also a very pretty waterfall, through a small road that goes right in the middle of the mountains.

Poco do Bacalhau

It will not happen again so easily to admire a waterfall of 90 meters: Poco do Bacalhau is located near the village of Faja Grande , and it’s mostly visited by swimming enthusiasts, although the waters are really frozen!

Coast and beaches

The entire coast of the island of Flores is composed of many cliffs, which make the landscape more unique than rare. Impossible not to go to the Rocha dos Bordoes , an impressive rock formation that is located just a step away from the Ocean.

The most striking part is undoubtedly the northern one: not far from here there is the Corvo Island , easily reachable, with a breathtaking view and a small village, the only one on this piece of land, that you can admire entirely in one day.

What to do in Flores

There are several interesting and engaging things to do in Flores, such as long hikes or boat rides. But that’s not all: here’s a list of the best activities to undertake on the island, for a vacation dedicated to nature and tradition.

Scuba diving

Scuba diving is one of the favorite hobbies of tourists who go on vacation to Flores. Following what has already been done on other islands of the archipelago, also in Flores there will soon be an underwater park to visit, which will allow to discover the shipwreck of the English steamboat Slavonia , destroyed in the early 1900s.

Whale and dolphin spotting

To tell the truth, Flores is not the top island for whale watching , although the event is not so rare. Much easier, however, come across many dolphins , which are always cheerful and playful.

Cuisine and typical dishes

Without a shadow of a doubt, the combination of the volcanic soil and the ocean breeze give the local products a unique taste. Many recipes on the island of Flores are based on Taro root and sweet potatoes.

The islanders are very creative and resourceful when it comes to creating dishes using what they have on hand. One of the most popular local dishes is seaweed breadcrumbs , a kind of veggie burger made with eggs and seaweed. You don’t throw anything away!

Participate in local festivals

In every village on Flores Island, a Stations of the Cross procession is held on Good Friday. The island also celebrates the patronal feast of Nossa Senhora das Flores and the Festa do Emigrante , which is celebrated on the third Monday of July when the island is at the peak of flower bloom.

It is a long festival with various recreational activities for which, every year, many emigrants return home.

Where to stay in Flores

A stone cottage in an abandoned village brought back to life or a guesthouse in the westernmost point of Europe? The beauty of Flores is also reflected in the accommodations offered to visitors.

Our favorite area in Flores is on the west coast of the island, particularly in Faja Grande , a small village with all the essential services and a few restaurants. Arriving at the end of the village, where there is the Igreja de Nossa Senhora Do Carmo, the road ends and you really realize that you are in the westernmost point of Europe: looking at the sea you can’t help but think that the next closest land is Canada!

Also on the west coast, just south of Faja Grande, is the beautiful village of Cuada , located on a small plateau near the coast and almost abandoned during the ’60s, when many of the inhabitants emigrated to the United States, leaving Cauda to become a ghost town. But today many of the houses have been recovered and modernized, while still maintaining a traditional style, and the village provides a very peaceful stay. Cuada has no driveways between the houses and the parking lot is about 2-3 minutes away, along a winding path: for this reason, luggage is sometimes delivered to its destination by ATVs.

Lajes Das Flores is the most popular place for tourists living on the island. It is located on the south coast and here is the town hall, several stores and services and the port of the island, from which ferries depart to the rest of the archipelago.

It is also interesting to stay along the east coast , if only because this is where the airport of Flores is located, so it is a good destination for those who want to reach their accommodation immediately after landing the plane.

Recommended accommodations

How to get to the island of flores.

The easiest and most convenient way to reach Flores is by plane, thanks to one of the daily flights operated by Sata from the others of Faial, Ponta Delgada and Terceira.

There is also another way, rather alternative and adventurous, to land in this enchanting corner of the Azores: AtlanticoLine in fact allows you to get to Flores by ferry. It departs from Faial or Sao Miguel, but we warn you that the journey is very long and often the sea is rough.

How to get around

In Flores you can use different means of transport . There are public transport, but often do not meet the needs of tourists because during the weekends have reduced schedules, not to mention that do not connect all the places of interest.

Surely the cheapest option is to rent a bike , but to make this decision you need to be well trained, especially if you decide to turn the island completely, which although small has ups and downs quite challenging.

Finally, it is possible to rent a car or a scooter . There are several local companies that offer this service such as Autatlantis, Ilha Verde and Euroçor, in addition to the ubiquitous international rental companies.

Where is located Flores

Islands around.

• Airport transfers
• Airport parking

Travel Blog

Flores island (Azores): a guide to visit the island [with map] on your own (things to do, where to eat and sleep)…

The days on Flores island are of constant amazement . It starts from the moment you get in the car and want to stop every few minutes to enjoy the green and flowery roads (yes, Flores – flowers in portuguese – lives up to its name) and continues when you get into some part of that green and you expect a tyrannosaurus rex to appear anywhere. If we tell you that Flores is the Portuguese Jurassic Park , we would not be completely honest because it is all that together with natural pools with turquoise waters where you can greet fish of a thousand colors with imposing waterfalls in the background, colorful lagoons surrounded by a thousand shades of green and orange sunsets with an Azorean gin&tonic in hand saying goodbye to the sun in the sea.

The island of Flores has given us days full of sun, salt, and lots of nature. For all these reasons, it earned the position of our favorite Azorean island after spending two months visiting the nine islands of the archipelago . Nature in its purest form, a crystal-clear sea, excellent gastronomy and charming people. What more enjoyable ingredients do you want to enjoy your well-deserved vacation?

In this guide we try to reflect all that Flores has to offer with practical tips, itineraries from 2 to 7 days , where to stay and the best restaurants so that your trip through this “Portuguese Jurassic Park” is as incredible as ours was.

Basic facts for traveling to Flores

When to visit flores, how to get to flores, how many days to spend in flores, map of flores, poço ribeira do ferreiro (poço da alagoinha): spectacle of nature, poço do bacalhau waterfall, fajã grande and its natural pools: the place to be, aldeia da cuada: special rural tourism, fajãzinha: the cheeses, the waterfall and the best sunset, miradouro do portal, miradouro craveiro lopes, rocha dos bordões, lajedo: viewpoints and calderas, lagoa funda (deep lagoon) and lagoa rasa (flat lagoon), lagoa negra (black lagoon) and lagoa comprida (long lagoon), lagoa seca (dry lagoon), lagoa branca (white lagoon), lagoa da lomba (hill lagoon), fajã de lopo vaz and its trail, lajes das flores, natural pools and poça das salemas, boat to corvo, miradouros (viewpoints), queijaria val da fazenda, miradouro da caveira and fajã do conde, baía de alagoa, museu do machado and miradouro do ilhéu furado, turfeiras and cedros-ponta delgada road, ponta delgada, albarnaz and baía de além lighthouse, visiting the neighboring island of corvo, the best hiking trails in flores, where to dive in flores, where to stay in fajã grande and surroundings, where to stay in fajãzinha, where to stay in santa cruz das flores, where to stay in lajes das flores, best restaurants in flores, things to do in flores in 2-3 days (a weekend), things to do in flores in 4-5 days, things to do in flores in one week (7 days), transportation: rent a car in flores, how much does it cost to travel to flores, useful apps for traveling to flores, recommendations to enjoy flores, checklist: what to take in your backpack/suitcase for flores.

Flores is one of the nine islands of the Azores archipelago (Portugal) that are part of the Macaronesia (like Madeira, the Canary Islands and Cape Verde) and, along with Corvo and Graciosa, is included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of UNESCO since 2009. It hides the largest “turfeira ” in the Atlantic and the best preserved, a unique ecosystem that is a real water reserve, capable of retaining up to 20 times its weight in water, essential for the water balance of the island and for its incredible landscape of riverbanks and waterfalls . When it was named, back in the fifteenth century, it was covered with “ cubres “, yellow flowers that today have lost their prominence compared to others. Apart from being beautiful, it is the westernmost territory of Europe (more specifically its islet, the ilhéu of Monchique) so when you are enjoying the sunset in Flores, you will know that you are the last person in Europe to do so (along with those who accompany you on the island). Although geographically you will be in Europe, geologically you will be in America since both Flores and neighboring Corvo sit on the American tectonic plate .

Currency : Euro

Language : Portuguese

Population : 3,429 (in 2021)

Daily budget : From 80€/day per person (approx.) for a one week trip with a rented car and the cheapest options of private accommodation for 2 persons. More budget information here

Weather : Undoubtedly the best time to visit Flores is during summer (trying to avoid July and August because of the crowds) due to better air and water temperatures and less chance of rain, although winter is not very cold (but it tends to rain more). Find out more about when to go here .

Accommodation : Ideally you should stay in Fajã Grande or nearby to be close to some of the most beautiful attractions of the island, the best restaurants and the best accommodations: Aldeia da Cuada or Sítio da Assomada are good options, we give you more options here . Other places to stay on the island are the capital, Santa Cruz , or Lajes das Flores . More information about the best places to stay here.

Duration : Minimum 3 days, recommended 5 days and ideally one week. More info here .

Flights : There are no direct flights to the island of Flores so to get there you will have to fly first to one of the main islands of the Azorean archipelago from Lisbon (to São Miguel , Terceira , Pico or Faial), from Porto (to São Miguel or Terceira) or from any other airport in Europe or US that has connections to the islands (normally with São Miguel). Once in the archipelago, you will fly with SATA (the Azorean airline) to Santa Cruz das Flores. We recommend you to use flight comparators like Skyscanner and Kiwi and be flexible with dates. More info on how to get to Flores here

Transportation : The best option is to rent a car. We did it with Autatlantis and we loved it: new cars and the best franchising policy. More info here

Time zone : UTC +0. The time in the Azores archipelago (Portugal) is one hour behind the Portuguese mainland and the UK and two hours behind the Spanish mainland.

The best months to visit Flores are from May to October , trying to avoid July and August (peak season). June and September tend to be the best months, with good weather, nice temperature waters and fewer people. Tourism to the island has grown a lot in recent years, so if you are traveling in July/August, book accommodation and car rentals well in advance, as they are limited and sell out very quickly (or go up and get absurd prices).

In terms of climate, summer is undoubtedly the best time , with higher temperatures, less chance of rain and the possibility to enjoy more of its beaches and natural pools. In any case, the weather in Flores (and in the Azores in general) is very unstable so there are no guarantees at any time of the year (it is often said that you can have the 4 seasons in one day). It is also said that June is the month of clouds, although the truth is that it depends on each year.

If, in addition, you want to coincide with the island’s festivities, these are some of the key dates:

• May/June: Festas do Espírito
• 3rd weekend of July: Festa do Emigrante (Emigrant’s Festival)

There are no direct flights to Flores from outside the archipelago so it can only be reached by flying from other islands. There are several flights from Portugal and also some options from other european countries and from the US and Canada

• From Lisbon to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), to Lajes (Terceira), to Pico or to Horta (Faial)
• From Oporto to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and Lajes (Terceira)
• From Madrid to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) but, for the moment, only in summer.
• From Barcelona to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) but, for the moment, only in summer.
• From Boston (US) to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel)
• From Toronto (CA) to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel)
• From London (UK) to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel)
• From Paris (FR) to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel)

The cheapest flights are usually Ryanair flights from Lisbon/Porto to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) or Lajes (Terceira) but to get the best price you should be flexible with dates and use price comparators such as Skyscanner and Kiwi.com .

Once in the archipelago, you will have to fly to Flores from one of these airports with SATA, the Azorean airline . Buy your ticket as soon as possible as the planes are small and the limited seats get sold out quickly

If there are no flights to the Azores archipelago from your country, our suggestion is to make a short getaway of a couple of days to Lisbon and Porto , and fly from there to the Azores.

We recommend a minimum of 3 days , although ideally you should spend between 5 days and a week : this way you can include a visit of 1 or 2 nights to the neighboring island of Corvo and/or leave some days of margin in case the weather is not good (something highly recommended since Flores is an island to enjoy with good weather). For this reason we propose different types of itinerarie which you can see here .

Things to see and do in Flores

Following is summary of the places of interest to visit in Flores , and below you have the map and specific information of each place.

• Contemplate some of the most beautiful waterfalls and lagoons in Portugal.
• Swim in natural pools of turquoise blue water
• Enjoy viewpoints with cliffs dressed in fluffy green.
• Drive on roads that look like Jurassic Park.
• Watch the sunset at the westernmost point of Europe

Here you can see all the things to see and do in Flores that we talk about in this guide on a Google Maps map that you can carry with you on your smartphone to check at any time. The places are divided into South+West (Green) and North+East (Blue).

Here is also a tourist map with the roads of Flores ( click on the image to download it in larger size and resolution ).

South and West of the island: Waterfalls, Lagoons and the best sunset

Welcome to Jurassic Park; sorry, to Flores. The Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro (also known as Poço da Alagoinha or Lagoa das Patas) is one of the most dazzling landscapes we have ever seen in our travels around the world so we think we can sat that by visiting this place you will be visiting one of the most beautiful places in Portugal . The imposing lagoon surrounded by the green cliff of about 200 meters high dotted by ten or twenty waterfalls leaves no one indifferent and, in fact, when you can close your mouth you will be expectant to see if a tyrannosaurus rex appears out of nowhere. The mirror of water reflects and duplicates the beauty of these waterfalls.

The 800-meter trail through the forest to get there ( you can park here , and the trail starts here ) is not very difficult, just take it easy and pay attention to the slippery terrain and the loose stones (change your flip-flops for sneakers if you just took a dip in Fajã Grande or in the Poço do Bacalhau waterfall). Here is the route on Wikiloc .

The water flows down 95 meters until it reaches a natural pool ideal for removing the salt from the body after the dips you have taken in the neighboring Fajã Grande. In fact, the waterfall Poço do Bacalhau has much of the blame for the beauty of Fajã Grande since it is the protagonist of the background that we see when we enter the sea.

We liked this waterfall so much that we went there three times. One day we enjoyed it alone in the morning. Another day, a swim in the afternoon to remove the salt from our bodies and to receive a natural hydromassage from the water that fell with force from those 90 meters. And finally, the third, before dinner, to see if we could see the rainbow that, as we were told, usually appears here at the end of the afternoon . The rainbow did not appear and we are sure that it is a trick of the waterfall to make us come back again, in a next trip.

To get there, you can park on the side of this road and walk a few minutes to this beautiful Florentine corner.

By the way, you can wake up next to this same waterfall in the accommodation Moinho da Cascata (from 70€/night, up to 6 people). Seems like an an idyllic place if you come in a group.

The natural pools of Fajã Grande are undoubtedly one of the most dazzling landscapes of the island where, once again, the protagonists are them, the waterfalls . But here we contemplate the fine white lines of water flowing down the green cliffs from the sea and, in fact, bathing in the sea, in case you visit the island during the summer. By the way, they say that in Fajã Grande it is always a few degrees warmer and the sea is a bit calmer.

Fajã Grande is an spectacle of nature composed, on one hand, by a succession of waterfalls descending from an imposing cliff to enjoy with a dip or beer in hand (the most spectacular one being Poço do Bacalhau) and, on the other hand, the endless Atlantic Ocean , as we are in the westernmost island of the European continent. Well, sorry, actually the westernmost territory is its islet, ilhéu of Monchique which we can see from here.

If you approach Ponta da Fajã , following the road that passes right in front of the Poço do Bacalhau waterfall (Estrada da Ponta), you will find a small and beautiful church, the Igreja da Nossa Senhora do Carmo . Apparently only six very brave families live here given the proximity of the cliff where there were landslides in 1987 and 2009.

It is precisely here, at Ponta da Fajã, that one of the most beautiful – and hardest – trails on the island begins: the 13+ km trail from Fajã Grande to Ponta Delgada , at the northern tip of the island. Read more about it in the best hiking trails in Flores section. Something much shorter you can do to enjoy the views on this side of Fajã Grande is to climb the 100 meters to the Miradouro da Cruz :

All paradises have a “but” and in this is not an exception. Keep an eye before entering the sea of Fajã Grande because, especially in summer, not only little fish and people like to swim here, but also some dangerous jellyfishes (aguasvivas ) or, worse, some carabela portuguesa (“Portuguese man’o war, whose sting is painful and dangerous). It is not that it happens every day, but be warned, just as they did with us. We tell you more about what to do in case you get stung in Recommendations to enjoy Flores .

It is also in Fajã Grande where you will find the best accommodations, the best restaurants and where it is ideal to stay to enjoy the sunset at the end of a fay full of activities. We don’t need to say anything else, do we? If you can, don’t hesitate and book your accommodation in this area .

The best known accommodation to stay here is the Aldeia da Cuada (from 70€/night) but you have other options like the Sítio da Assomada ( 75€/night). Find more accommodations in Fajã Grande here and more options in the Where to stay in Flores section.

When you get hungry, the best thing to do is to go early to find a table on the terrace of the Papadiamandis or, if it’s cold, find a table inside (don’t worry, you won’t lose the view of the sea and the waterfalls, but of course, it’s not that cool). If it coincides with the sunset, even better, but beware that, at least in high season, its excellent value for money is known and fills up quickly. By the way, the name of one of the westernmost restaurants in Europe comes from the shipwreck of the Liberian ship Papadiamandis here, in Fajã Grande, when it was traveling from New Orleans to Hamburg, in 1965.

If it’s a special occasion (isn’t it every day in Flores an special occasion?), go to Maresía . More than a restaurant, Maresía is an experience : there is no menu and not many tables. Jorge Brilhante, the host, welcomes you as if you were in the living room of his house, tells you what is he cooking that day and how long it takes. If it’s okay with you, you’re welcome to sit. You can also go one day just to enjoy the sunset with a drink. We went there almost every day on the island just to enjoy Jorge’s company (who, by the way, as a curiosity, was the official photographer of the Presidency of the Portuguese Republic between 1993 and 2006), the soundtrack of his collection of more than 800 vinyls, the sea view and a good Rocha Negra (Azorean gin). Looking forward to come back.

As always, in all restaurants in Flores, book well in advance .

Probably the most famous accommodation in the whole island of Flores, Aldeia da Cuada is an incredible rural complex . An old village abandoned in the 60’s (when most of its residents emigrated to the USA), and recovered by a Florentine couple, the parents of Carlota, current manager of the project together with her husband Silvio.

Aldeia da Cuada (from 70€/night) has 17 stone houses (some larger than others, depending on the number of guests, there are houses with 1, 2, 4 or 6 rooms) with garden overlooking the sea, each with the name of the last person who lived in the house. It also has a restaurant (it’s delicious) and even a colorful chapel for religious travelers. All this in a labyrinthine green-sponge, common in Flores. Here they try to preserve the spirit of yesteryear and this is visible both in the decoration of the houses and in the lack of tv or wi-fi. If you want one of these “modernities” and to connect to something more than nature, you will have to go to the reception or to the restaurant.

To stay here book as soon as possible because the beautiful stone houses get sold out quickly. If you do not arrive in time to get one or your budget is looking for something cheaper, do not miss at least its restaurant and try it one of the days.

Book your cottage in Aldeia da Cuada here .

The diminutive of Fajãzinha, nestled between cliffs and waterfalls, is quite explanatory: if above is “Fajã Grande”, (big Fajã) below is “Fajãzinha” (the tiny Gajã). And to see the sunset, nothing better than the Sunset. No, I was not mistaken, “Pôr-do-Sol ” (Sunset, in Portuguese) is the name of the restaurant with a terrace that has one of the best views (for some people, the best ones) of the island to say goodbye to the sun in the sea .

The terrace and the typical Florentine gastronomy of this family restaurant (but above all, the terrace) are the reason why most travelers come to Fajãzinha . The most popular dishes to try at the Pôr-do-Sol are the sausages, especially the black pudding and sausage, but if you are more of a veggie person, be sure to try the cakes of erva-patinha (or Atlantic nori ), a local seaweed with a delicious smoky flavor. There is no chance of getting your order wrong: when you arrive, they give you a multiple-choice test. Relax, you haven’t gone back a few years to your school desk or back to work, it’s simply the menu where you just have to tick the boxes of what you want to eat and drink.

Beware cheese lovers! Beyond the restaurant and the views of Fajãzinha you can also taste and buy island cheeses at Queijaria Pico Redondo . Of course, the cheeses of Ilda Henriques are not cured for a long time , a minimum of 15 days and a maximum of three months, so they are softer and less intense than what you are probably used to in the Azores. By the way, Ilda had a pastry shop and the cheeses began simply to take advantage of the milk from her cows, until word of mouth was such that now she dedicates herself exclusively to it and produces not only for the whole island, but also for the other Azorean islands, for the Portuguese mainland and even for the United States!

But it is not only because of eating and drinking that Fajãzinha is worth a visit. If you want to visit an old-fashioned water mill in full operation , you can do so at the Moinho da Fajãzinha or Moinho da Alagoa (because it is moved by the forces of the waters of the Alagoa river) free of charge. The miller Fátima Serpa is already used to people wanting to gossip about her work and explains how the milling of corn works in this 1862 mill up to the distribution of the flour in several points of the island. Just show up between 1 pm and 5 pm on weekdays.

Apart from Fátima’s explanation, as a bonus track you get the beautiful view from the mill to the impressive 110-meter waterfall of Ribeira Grande .

If you want to stay in Fajãzinha and enjoy its beautiful sunset from home, check out the Fajãzinha Cottage . More options in Where to stay in Flores .

Our favorite viewpoint on the island . We went twice, as the first time the fog decreased the visibility, we decided to repeat the visit on a sunny day to contemplate the view without any shyness.

From the Miradouro do Portal we can see Fajãzinha and the breathtaking waterfall of Ribeira Grande, Fajã Grande and its succession of waterfalls, the green Florentine sponge that surrounds everything and the endless blue Atlantic Ocean. Undoubtedly, the ideal background to take some pictures.

We were motivated to visit Mosteiro because of two reasons: a cemetery where a pirate is buried and an abandoned village in the caldera of a volcano .

About the first motivation that attracted us to Mosteiro, related to its church and cemetery, there is a dark story that crosses seas from the East to Flores and ships with the flag of a skull. Apparently, a Florentine named António Freitas born in Fajãzinha in 1792, was a pirate! This is something that, according to what we read in the Museum of Flores , has not been correctly proven but it is highly suspected and you will understand when you see his mysterious grave . It is said that when he settled in Macao he dedicated himself (and prospered) to opium trafficking and ended up in jail. When he managed to escape from prison, he fulfilled his promise: to return to his native island, Flores, and to build a church ( Mosteiro church ) dedicated to Santa Filomena. At the back of the church, in the cemetery, there is a mausoleum that stands out from the rest… No more spoilers but if you like pirate stories, here is a real and visitable story on the island of Flores.

About the abandoned village in the caldera of Mosteiro , our motivation was to know and walk through an authentic Florentine village and approach the daily life of yesteryear. Although you will currently see the ruins of what used to be the houses of the village, a rural tourism project is underway to rehabilitate it and bring it back to life. In addition, just for the views from this place of Mosteiro, it is worth the visit.

Considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the island , it is worth approaching the miradouro Craveiro Lopes to get a panoramic view of the green cliffs of the west coast, a different (and distant) view of the impressive waterfalls of Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, over Fajã Grande and even Aldeia da Cuada.

We went in the morning and the fog robbed us of some of the splendor but we have been told that the sunset from here is spectacular.

You will spot this imposing rock reminiscent of a pipe organ from the road, until you decide to go to see it closer on purpose. Spoiler: it’s worth it. To contemplate the organ, sorry, the rock, park at this viewpoint . It is a 570 thousand year old geological formation resulting from the rapid cooling of basaltic rock in vertical columns of about 20 meters high.

Apart from contemplating the most curious geological phenomenon of the island , look carefully along the road because you will also pass by a waterfall, Cascata da Ribeira do Fundão , next to the road, about 500 meters away.

After contemplating the Rocha dos Bordões, we keep going to the south along the coast to enjoy the views. One of the best things to do in Flores is to simply enjoy the views from the road. Of course, it is essential to stop from time to time to soak up the Florentine panoramic views.

On this road, we recommend stopping at Miradouro do Cartário and Miradouro da Baía do Mosteiro .

If you feel like hiking and you want to earn a dip, there is a trail from Lajedo that goes to Fajã Grande (13.5 km). More information in The Best Hiking Routes in Flores .

Further south, on the coast, you can find the only hot water spring on the island . We didn’t get to go there but the small calderas , known as Aguas Quentes , are here if you want to take a dip in the natural hot water. Here is the details of the trail .

A follower who made the trail to Aguas Quentes (2023) comments the following: “The only suggestion is that you please update the part referring to the hot water area in the Lajedo area, Aguas Quentes. Today we tried to do it and it is very risky, it is quite slippery and there is a section at the end of the climb that is quite hard where you have to go between sharp stones. In the end, once you get to the bottom it is a tiny pool with a lot of waves, so we haven’t even been able to take a swim. It is definitely not worth the effort and risk for what it represents, and not even on the sign itself the warning is clear enough.”

The 7 Lagoas (lagoons) of Flores

One of the attractions of the island of Flores is its 7 lagoons installed in the calderas of inactive volcanoes . What has caught our attention, apart from their beauty, is how descriptive their names are.

Towards the south of the island, closer to Lajes das Flores, Funda (deep) and Rasa (flat) lagoons have a particularity: although they are next to each other, they are at different altitudes: Lagoa Funda is at 360 meters and Lagoa Rasa at 530 meters. You can see both of them by parking at this viewpoint .

Lagoa Funda is our favorite . Delimited by a lush green that is reflected in the lagoon itself, watching the clouds dance from its viewpoint was a real spectacle. This lagoon has a maximum depth in its caldera of 35 meters .

The Lagoa Rasa just in front, is also very beautiful but, in our opinion, it is somewhat overshadowed by its neighbor. Although it is at a higher altitude, it has, as its name indicates, less depth: about 16 meters of maximum depth .

In the center of the island, the Negra and Comprida lagoons are located next to each other and boast the best panoramic view of the lagoons of Flores. You can see both lagoons from this viewpoint .

Lagoa Comprida (long lagoon): because it is indeed longer although it is actually darker than Laguna Negra. It is surrounded by endemic flora, more specifically cedro-do-mato , which resemble something like giant bonsais .

Lagoa Negra (black lagoon): next to Lagoa Comprida, although it is currently more greenish. It is the deepest lagoon of all the lagoons of the Azorean archipelago (yes, deeper than Lagoa Funda) with its 113 meters deep . It is estimated that its water volume exceeds seven million cubic meters.

There is a trail that connects these two lagoons – Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida – with the impressive Poço do Bacalhau waterfall . We didn’t do it but it is 7 km long and worth it for the breathtaking scenery. More info in The Best Hiking Routes in Flores .

Also located in the Planalto Central, its name (Lagoa Seca , dry lagoon) is so illustrative that it needs no explanation, right? Well, it is the only one of the seven that does not have permanent water: only rainwater accumulates in its perimeter. You can see Lagoa Seca from this viewpoint .

We read two theories as to why this one is called the “whitest” of the lagoons : one theory says that its name comes from the fact that this lagoon especially reflects the sky and when this happens it gains a lighter color. The other theory, and the one that we think makes more sense, says that its name comes from the “tufos calcários ” (a light-colored volcanic rock) that surrounds it, although the truth is that we have not been able to appreciate these “tufos”…

In the southeast of the island, Lagoa da Lomba (literal translation: Lagoon of the Hill) is apparently so called because it is located on the hill of a mountain. Or it may also be simply because it is near a village called Lomba. Or maybe the village is also called that way because of where it is located…. It is the only lagoon of the seven that does not belong to the list of geosites of national interest. In addition, as on the day we went there, the fog often complicated the views . It is the one that we can approach more easily on foot, but beware, dips are forbidden!

As a bonus track in the Florentine lagoon-hopping, you have the incredible roads and landscapes that surround the lagoons:

This trail takes you down to a “fajã” ( terrain created by lava flows or by landslides ) with a tropical microclimate so it is possible that when you arrive you will find a different climate than in other places on the island. In addition, the Fajã de Lopo Vaz was most probably the first place on the island to be inhabited . Its name “Lopo Vaz” is, in fact, the name of one of the first settlers of Flores.

The trail is 3.4 km long and, although it is short, it is very steep. The path is linear, so if you go down…then you will have to climb it back. Of course, the path will give you breathtaking panoramic views and a refreshing dip when you arrive (be careful with the currents, when we went the waves were very strong here) but they say that the water is warmer than in the rest of the island and the truth is that the temperature was splendid.

Randomtripper scale difficult : Medium . It is a short but steep trail, slippery (sometimes there are rock falls) and on rainy days we imagine it will be complicated. Trekking boots/sneakers are essential to do the trail.

Apart from plenty of water, bring some wetshoes (like these Cressi ones , for example) for the beach since, like most of the beaches in the Azores, the beach is not sandy, it is rocky. We have read (without being able to verify the veracity) that hammerhead sharks have been sighted on this beach!

We were amazed because in such a wild environment, where you least expect it… there you have three fresh water showers , in the middle of nature. It was a pleasure to wash the salt off our bodies and refill our water bottles…. In fact, we learned later that there was always a spring of drinking water here that was used since the early days of the island’s population.

Be careful, there is no cell coverage on this trail so it is ideal for disconnecting, but keep in mind, download the route on maps.me before starting it.

Being the island of Flores the westernmost island of Europe, and Lajes being the westernmost municipality of Flores, Lajes das Flores is, therefore, the westernmost municipality of Europe :

We went to Lajes for a well-deserved coffee and to stretch our legs after the Fajã Lopo Vaz trail and were delighted to find the beautiful terrace of Bar O’Trancador overlooking the harbor beach . If you feel like a dip, this is the moment.

By the way, the port of Lajes was destroyed in 2019 , due to Hurricane Lorenzo, leaving the island with supply problems temporarily. It is currently being rebuilt and is expected to be ready in 2025.

We also visited the lighthouse , the Farol das Lajes (a 1910 lighthouse rehabilitated in 2008) because we always like to gossip the views offered by lighthouses.

Although it is not the first option we would recommend for staying in Flores (Fajã Grande is best option in our opinion ), everything on the island is really close (except for the northern tip of Ponta Delgada), so from Lajes das Flores you can move in a short time to the main points of the island, offering good accommodation options . Staying here has a great advantage: its gastronomic offer .

In this area, we highlight the Casa das Pedras Brancas ( from 62€/night); the Casa dos Morros ( from 65€/night); the Vivenda Joaquim (from 70€/night); or the Casa das Flores (from 110€/night). Find more options in Lajes by clicking here . More options in Where to sleep in Flores .

Near Lajes you will find the famous O Forno Transmontano (typical dishes of the Trás-os-Montes portuguese region in Flores); the Casa do Rei (dishes made with organic products); the Cana Roca (to taste the best pizzas of the island) and Pastelaria Rosa (Rosa’s Pastry shop, where you can taste the typical sweet of the island, Queijadas Florentinas , created by Rosa). More about restaurants in Lajes or nearby in Where to Eat in Flores .

North and East of the island: natural pools with turquoise waters, viewpoints and lighthouses.

Santa cruz das flores.

If you have come this far, you have already realized that not only with its greenery and freshwater lagoons Flores captures us, but also with its natural pools! And these ones are special. The natural pools of Santa Cruz das Flores were the first ones we went to on the island and they were the best appetizer for the dips in Flores. In addition to the crystal clear waters and not being cold at all (it is difficult to put a downside to this island, but even the water is not very cold, at least when we went in July), these natural pools overlook the neighboring island of Corvo , which we visited later.

These beautiful natural pools of volcanic origin are located next to the promenade of the island’s capital, have easy access with stairs and even a bar with a terrace where you can have a drink after bathing . In our opinion, it is essential to bring goggles and snorkel to greet the many colorful fish that are found there.

Be careful, the sea does not live by fish alone and, especially in summer, you have to watch out for jellyfish and Portuguese man o’ war , whose sting is more painful and dangerous. We tell you more about it and what to do if you get stung in Recommendations to enjoy Flores .

Close to these natural pools you will find another one, Poça das Salemas . To enjoy this Florentine paradise just go down the wooden stairs first, then the metal ones and swim, float, watch the marine life. Enjoy!

Not only for being close to these incredible natural pools but also for the good gastronomic offer, the island’s capital is another good option to stay on the island. Take a look at Casa da Cruz (62€/night); Casas da Quinta (from 75€/night) or Casa Vicente (from 120€/night up to 5 people). More options in Santa Cruz das Flores here and more info in Where to sleep in Flores: best areas .

Museu das Flores : The museum is located in the beautiful Convento de São Boaventura (also known as Igreja de São Francisco) and offers a tour of the most significant moments in the history of the island of Flores. It was here that we learned more about the French presence on the island of Flores (the French Military Base, or rather, the Telemetry Station operated between 1964 and 1993 on the island) through a documentary that portrays how this presence influenced the way of life of the Florentine people (in terms of fashion, behaviors, etc). It was also in this museum that we learned more about the history of António Freitas, the pirate buried in Mosteiro , and understood how people lived and sustained themselves in Flores through a set of artifacts.

Fábrica da Baleia do Boqueirão : We didn’t get to go to this museum but here you can find several multimedia contents and an exhibition of boats and utensils used during whaling on the island of Flores . The “ baleação ” (whaling) was a very important economic activity in the Azores – especially on the island of Pico – for about 50 years and the numbers are shocking: between 1896 and 1949 about 12 thousand whales were hunted. The activity was happily banned when Portugal joined the then European Economic Community (EEC) in 1986. On the same theme, on the island of Flores, there is also the Baleeiro Museum in Lajes das Flores but we were told it is smaller and humbler.

Auditório/Museu Municipal : Its avant-garde architecture will catch your attention because it stands out from the rest, after all, you are on a remote island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. This auditorium is something like the cultural epicenter of the island; exhibitions, concerts and conferences are held here.

It was at Cais das Poças in Santa Cruz das Flores that we experienced the most suspenseful moment of the whole trip. After a few great days on the island, the morning we had the boat to go to Corvo, it started to rain a lot and here, in this Cais, we were told that the boat would probably not leave, neither that day nor the next ones… Something very common in the Azores and that you have to get used to is that the weather can be unstable and unpredictable and can disrupt your plans . Finally a “window of opportunity” ( “janela de oportunidade ” something you will hear quite a lot around here) came up and we went, in a rather bumpy 40 minutes trip, to the neighboring island of Corvo. You can experience this adventure in our Corvo Featured Stories on our Instagram: Corvo .

Near the Florentine capital there are some viewpoints that deserve a stop:

Miradouro da Costa Nordeste : near Fábrica da Baleia, from this viewpoint you can see the cliffs of the northeast coast of Flores.

Miradouro do Monte das Cruzes : view from the top of Santa Cruz das Flores and the airport (good place to see planes taking off or landing).

Miradouro Pico da Casinha : we went on the first day, as soon as we arrived. It overlooks the island of Corvo and some of the hills of Flores.

Miradouro Arcos Ribeira da Cruz : an ideal viewpoint to understand why Flores is called the sponge-island. The panoramic view shows the hills dressed in lustrous green with the ocean as a backdrop.

Near Santa Cruz das Flores, in the Fazenda (farm) of Santa Cruz, you will find Queijaria Val da Fazenda or, as it is known locally, the “Queijaria das Anas” since two Anas, mother and daughter, run this business from home. They live right there but unfortunately when we went there was nobody and we were left without tasting the famous cheese . And I say famous because – thanks to Jorge Brilhante who will ring a bell from the Maresía restaurant in Fajã Grande – their cheese is even sold in the specialized store “ Queijaria ” in Lisbon. Apart from fresh cheeses, there are also cured cheeses , with curing periods ranging from two to four months.

The legend of Miradouro da Caveira (skull viewpoint) tells that a castaway named Demetrio appeared one day and lived in the area for several years. He was loved by the whole village despite having something that distanced him from the others: he was not a believer and lived heretically. For this reason, legend has it that when Demetrio died, an illuminated skull began to appear at night in this very place where the viewpoint is located. The population believed that this was because Demetrio’s tormented soul, having lived heretically during his lifetime, was unable to enter purgatory. They decided, therefore, to start saying masses in Demetrio’s name until the skull disappeared. The viewpoint is still called “Miradouro da Caveira” (skull viewpoint) to this day.

One of the things we were looking forward to do was a boat trip around the coast of Flores – talk to Carlos Mendes of Extremocidente via email [email protected] if that sounds good to you too – and on this coast there is something interesting. The Gruta dos Enxaréus is a volcanic cavity 50 meters long and 25 meters wide that can be entered by boat (small of course, it’s not very high). Apparently, it was used for centuries as a hideout for pirates and corsairs and today it is one of the interesting points of the island for scuba diving.

Very close to the Miradouro da Caveira you will find the viewpoint of Fajã do Conde , from which we can see from above this fajã and part of the east coast of the island of Flores.

The beautiful bay of Alagoa can be seen from above and explored from below .

To contemplate the bay of Alagoa from above there are two viewpoints that we love: the Miradouro dos Caimbros and the Miradouro dos Cedros .

From these viewpoints you can see how the sea entangles the rocks and the various islets such as the islet of Garajau, the islet of Alagoa or the islet of Alvaro Rodrigues , which was cultivated until the mid-twentieth century.

From below, the best thing to do is to enjoy Alagoa Beach with a good dip (wet shoes are a must, of course) in waters that rarely drop below 20º due to the Gulf Stream. The road down is not shown on Google Maps, but you can get there by car (the detour is at this point, included in our map ), although be careful because the parking space below is limited (3-4 cars) and the last stretch is a bit steep. Around here you will find the Alagoa Park , one of the places of excellence for camping (free) on the island of Flores or spend a nice day with family or friends: views, beach and a communal barbecue , something common in Azores: where there is a good view, there will be a barbecue.

Nearby you will also find the Miradouro Fajã dos Cedros , from which there are views full of shades of green of the Cedros area.

A little further north is Ponta Ruiva, one of the most isolated places on the island that hides a museum and a viewpoint that attracts travelers. The Museo do Machado , or Casa do Machado, is a sort of unofficial museum about the life in Flores in the past , a house that invites you to travel back in time. Mr. José Fortuna decided to exhibit some pieces he has collected and kept over time that illustrate the modus vivendi of those times when being born in the westernmost tip of Europe was a choice between emigrating or surviving. In this dark little room there is a whole display of objects from the chair of the man who was for years the only barber on the island to old photographs on top of an old mattress of corn husks.

The Miradouro do Ilhéu Furado is located right in front of the Casa do Machado and offers breathtaking views of the northeast coast of the island.

We can say that in Flores we have known another “sponge mode” , much greener and healthier, and the road that connects Cedros with Ponta Delgada is the best example of this. There are walls of the Florentine island, visible especially on this route, that are dressed in a green so lustrous and so wet that do justice to being known as the sponge-island and that only make you want to throw yourself on it. This is due to the “turfeiras ” or “musgão “, as the locals call them (Sphagngnum spp. for botanists).

The turfeiras are a very particular ecosystem as they are authentic water reservoirs . They act as sponges of mosses and vegetation that have accumulated over thousands of years without decomposing completely, in an environment saturated with water. The Turfeira of the island of Flores, which is located in these high and humid areas of the Planalto Central , is nothing less than the largest and best preserved in Europe . It is essential to the island’s water balance and to its unique landscape of waterfalls and riverbanks, with a water retention capacity of up to 20 times its weight.

You won’t be surprised if we tell you that we have passed this road four times and in all of them we have stopped at the Miradouro da Pedrinha , at this other viewpoint and at the Miradouro de Ponta Delgada , not only to enjoy the views but above all to appreciate those turfeiras .

Flores also has a Ponta Delgada, namesake of the capital of the island of São Miguel , which does justice to its name. The Florentine Ponta Delgada is like a tongue of plain that enters from the sea inland , at the northern end of the island.

We recommend you to go to this viewpoint to get the best views not only over the bay of Ponta Delgada and its port but also of the neighboring island of Corvo. The viewpoint is called Miradouro sobre o Porto e Baía de Ponta Delgada and if you enter the link we leave you the exact location on Google Maps.

As a curiosity, it was here in Ponta Delgada where the French Military Base , or rather, the Telemetry Station of the island of Flores, operated between 1964 and 1993. The function of this station was to detect and study the trajectories of medium range ballistic missiles (about 3,000 kilometers) fired from the Centre d’Essais des Landes , in Biscarosse (France), or from submarines or ships sailing in British waters , with trajectories over the Atlantic Ocean.

Also here begins one of the most beautiful trails of the island of Flores, the one that connects Ponta Delgada with Fajã Grande along 13 km. We didn’t trek this trail which can be done both ways but we have been told that it is actually better to do it from north to south, i.e. start here and go down to Fajã Grande to avoid one of the most difficult climbs. Read more about it in the section of the best hiking trails in Flores .

In Ponta Delgada there is also a free campsite with all amenities (toilet, water, shower, barbecue area…) and views to the neighboring island of Corvo.

At the other end of the northern tip of the island you will find the imposing Farol de Albarnaz , a photogenic lighthouse surrounded by green pastures and little cows eating, relaxing. When we went there it was very foggy and windy but on clear days it is said to be one of the best views of Corvo Island.

A little further down is the Miradouro da Baía de Além and its views of the Maria Vaz islet (to get there, park here ). Come here to absorb the vastness of the Atlantic and think that, straight ahead, 2000 miles or so, you are in the United States of America.

If you want to do the trail we talked about in the previous point up to Fajã Grande (about 13 km), you should know that it is precisely here, near Baía do Além, that it is recommended to start, to avoid part of the road, specifically at this point on the map .

Morro Alto is the highest point of the island of Flores, with 914 meters above sea level. It can be reached by a dirt road (you can go by car, slowly and calmly, appreciating the landscape) and, if the day is clear, have a beautiful panoramic view of the entire island and even the neighboring island, Corvo.

The smallest island of the archipelago, Corvo, was also one of the most special in our two-month trip in the Azores. Corvo is much more than its Caldeirão (the impressive caldera of its volcano that forms one of the most spectacular landscapes in Portugal) and is worth spending at least one or two nights there. If you do not have time for it, you can get to know the island on a day tour from Flores:

Book here the day tour to Corvo Island

To go to Corvo or to get to know Flores by boat, you can contact Carlos from Extremocidente by email at [email protected] . Carlos Mendes is the sympathy, professionalism and adventure in person. In addition, he does an important work of environmental awareness to those who enter his boat.

In this trip through the nine islands of the Azores we promised ourselves to do, at least, one trail per island and Flores was not going to be the exception. In fact, we had planned to do two but due to the weather conditions, we were finally able to do only one.

• Fajã Lopo Vaz (PRC04 FLO): 3.5 km round trip, and the reward of a dip in the beach where they say the water is warmer than the rest of the island. If you only have time to do one trail around the island, we would recommend this one. It won’t take up the whole day, the scenery is incredible and it includes a dip. What else do you want? More info and official brochure
• From Ponta Delgada to Ponta da Fajã (Fajã Grande) (PR01 FLO): 13km linear trail. We have been told that it is best to do this trail from North to South, i.e. from Ponta Delgada to Fajã Grande and that, in fact, it is best to start it specifically here , near Baía do Além, to avoid a stretch of road in Ponta Delgada. More info and official brochure

Recently we were told that to take the Fajã Grande-Ponta Delgada trail, you can take the bus but the timetables and connections are limited (in this link you can find the bus timetables ). The other option is to take a taxi ( here is the official list of taxi drivers on the island with their phone numbers ) and the price, according to this route on Wikiloc , is €35, in case the reference is useful to you, but the It is always best to confirm with the taxi driver.

• Grande Rota das Flores (GR01 FLO): the previous trail is included in this, the largest on the island. It is 47 kilometers long between Santa Cruz das Flores and Lajedo, at the southern tip of the island, covering much of the coastline on foot. More info and official brochure
• From Lajedo to Fajã Grande (PR02 FLO): 13.5 km also part of the Grande Rota das Flores. More info and official brochure
• From the viewpoint of Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida to the Poço do Bacalhau waterfall (PR03 FLO): 7.3 km demanding through the breathtaking landscapes of the Planalto Central . More info and official brochure

Although in Flores we did not test their waters with a bottle, only by swimming, we were recommended to try with Longitude 31 for its professionalism, quality of equipment and fun. In fact, they not only organize dives here, but also snorkeling trips, so even if you don’t dive, you can try some of their other activities.

It is already known that the islets tend to swirl a lot of life around them, so it won’t be a surprise if we tell you that among the best dive sites on the island you will find:

• Ilhéu do Garajau , about 400 meters away from the Florentine coastline
• Ilhéu de Monchique , the westernmost territory of the entire European continent, is located about 1,600 meters from the coast.
• Fajã Grande : if you are a beginner or if you have never dived before, this is one of the most beautiful areas of the island where diving baptisms are usually done in Flores.
• Gruta do Galo , about 15 minutes by boat from the Port of Santa Cruz.
• Parque Arqueológico Subacuático da Slavónia : an ocean liner wrecked in Lajedo (south of the island) in 1909.

Where to stay in Flores: best areas

The ideal place to stay in Flores Fajã Grande or nearby, where you will find not only some of the most beautiful spots on the island (Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro, Poço do Bacalhau, Fajã Grande itself) but also some of the best restaurants and accommodations.

If, like us, you can’t find accommodation in Fajã Grande due to lack of availability, remember that everything in Flores is about half an hour away by car , so it’s ok. We finally stayed in the capital of the island, Santa Cruz , very close to the amazing Piscinas Naturales and Poça das Salemas, and we loved it.

Lajes das Flores is another very good option to stay, with excellent restaurants nearby. The point that seems to us to be more remote for you to look for accommodation on the island of Flores is Ponta Delgada.

• Residencia Mateus (50€/night): Simple and comfortable rooms overlooking the impressive Poço do Bacalhau waterfall.
• Palheiro da Assomada (55€/night) : A very cozy house with one bedroom and a sofa-bed in the living room with a plus: Flower butter and homemade jam for breakfast.
• Aldeia da Cuada (from 70€/night): Rural tourism in stone houses of different sizes (depending on the number of guests there are houses with 1, 2, 4 or 6 rooms). Each cottage has its own kitchen and outdoor space. Of course, the goal is to connect as much as possible with nature and disconnect from the rest, so there is no TV or WiFi, for that you will have to go to the reception or to the (very good) restaurant of the complex. It is undoubtedly the most famous accommodation on the island and you have to book well in advance .
• Moinho da Cascata (from 70€/night): a cottage right next to the Poço do Bacalhau waterfall, the most beautiful on the island. It can accommodate up to 6 people

• Sítio da Assomada (75€/night): A wooden cottage for a couple or family with children, idyllic, with garden

• Casa Via d’Água (from 80€/night): A 2-bedroom house that accommodates up to 6 people. The garden with hammocks is ideal for relaxing during the day and stargazing at night.

• Alojamentos Flores Island (from 80€/night): Houses from 1 to 3 bedrooms in the village of Fajã Grande. Unbeatable service
• Casa Atlántida (from 85€/night): 1 to 4 bedroom houses facing the Atlantic Ocean, direct access to the sea, barbecue and private parking.

More options where to stay in Fajã Grande here

• Casa da Queijaria (65€/night) : Are you familiar with Queijaria Pico Redondo ? This 2-bedroom house (where up to 5 people can stay), kitchen and sea view is managed by Mrs. Ilda Helriques, the cheese maker. Do you know what that means? Delicious fresh cheese for breakfast and, who knows, a little farewell gift?
• Fajãzinha Cottage (70€/night): A house for 2 people in front of the sea, ideal to enjoy the sunset.
• Casa da Cruz (62€/night): House with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen and terrace (barbecue) with sea views.
• Casas da Quinta (from 75€/night): remodeled one-bedroom houses and one apartment with sea views

Inatel (from 100€/night): small hotel with double rooms with minimalist decoration overlooking the sea and the island of Corvo.

Casa Vicente (from 120€/night): aA spacious house overlooking the Atlantic. Accommodates up to 5 people.

More options in Santa Cruz das Flores here .

Everything on the island of Flores is really close (with the exception of the northern tip of Ponta Delgada, where we do not recommend staying), so from Lajes das Flores you can move in a short time to the main points of the island, offering good accommodation options. Staying here has a great advantage: its gastronomic offer.

• Casa das Pedras Brancas (from 62€/night): A one-bedroom house with a terrace and incredible views, 100 meters from Praia da Calheta.

• Casa dos Morros (from 65€/night): A one-bedroom house (and sofa bed in the living room), terrace and everything you need, washing machine included.
• Vivenda Joaquim (from 70€/night): One-bedroom house with a terrace with hammocks and sea views, and a vegetable garden from which, with luck, you will be able to taste some vegetables.

• Casa das Flores (from 110€/night): A one-bedroom apartment with kitchen, living room and terrace overlooking the sea.

Where to eat in Fajã Grande

• Papadiamandis . Its location in the heart of the Fajã Grande with privileged views of the waterfalls and the imposing Atlantic Ocean and its excellent value for money makes it fill up quickly. It is one of the two most western restaurants in Europe (we will tell you about the other one soon) and its name comes from the shipwreck of the Liberian ship Papadiamandis when it was traveling from New Orleans to Hamburg in 1965. What to eat? We tried the fish but we have the feeling that everything is tasty. Main courses are around 15€/person, an imperial (beer) 1,20€ and a bottle of Azorean wine (white, from Pico) 15€.
• Maresía . Our favorite restaurant/bar/terrace on the island. Actually more than a restaurant, Maresía is an experience: there is no menu and not many tables. Jorge welcomes you as if you were in his living room, he tells you what dish he is cookingthat day and how long it takes. If it’s okay with you, you are welcome to sit. When we went we tried the prawn curry once and the octopus the other time, both spectacular. You can also go just to enjoy the sunset and Jorge’s company, his collection of over 800 vinyls, the view of the sea, and a good Rocha Negra Azorean gin. Of course, here we had dinner our first and last night on the island. Looking forward to go back!. The main courses cost between 15 and 25€, the appetizers about 7€, a glass of wine 4€ and the azorean gin 7€.
• Aldeia da Cuada . Since we were too late to stay there (if you don’t book in advance, the stone houses sold out quickly), we went to eat at the restaurant and loved it. Delicious food. Starters cost between 4 and 12€, main courses between 15 and 25€ and a glass of wine 3,5€.

Where to eat in Fajãzinha

• Pôr-do-Sol . Ideal to enjoy typical products of Florentine gastronomy (such as the erva-patinha seaweed ) on a terrace with the best sunset. Take a pen because you will need it for the multiple choice test: here nobody will make a mistake in your order because you will choose between boxes. Starters cost between 5 and 15€, main courses between 12 and 25€ and a glass of wine 3,5€.
• Queijaria Pico Redondo . Taste and buy fresh or lightly cured cheeses.

Where to eat in Lajes das Flores

• Casa do Rei : the small restaurant on the farm of a German couple who fell in love with Flores and stayed, uses only organic products, mostly from their garden, and even sells them to you. We loved the fish with almonds, the chutney and the service (they even offered us some lulos for free!). No credit cards, only cash. Main courses between 10 and 15€.
• O Forno Transmontano : Typical dishes from the Trás-os-Montes region of the Portuguese mainland, sausages from the same area but also very fresh Florentine fish. All washed down with Douro wines, of course. Be careful, they only serve by order so it is essential to make a reservation and decide beforehand what you are going to eat.
• Cana Roca : people say they have the best pizzas on the island, but since we didn’t get to try them, we can’t say for sure. If you have a craving for pizza and you go, let us know in comments.
• Bar O’Trancador : ideal for a snack or a drink overlooking the sea.
• Pastelería Rosa and the Queijadas Florentinas: the best queijadas on the island. After a long time unemployed, Rosa took two entrepreneurship courses, had access to a microcredit line and opened her own bakery of homemade sweets and biscuits. Right there, she created the typical sweet of the island (Flores still did not have a typical sweet): the queijadas florentinas , made with the fresh cheese of Flores. When we arrived the mythical queijadas – the queijadas florentinas – were not ready but the ones we tasted were delicious.

Where to eat in Santa Cruz das Flores

• O Moreão : was recommended to us as one of the best places to eat fresh fish in the Florentine capital. On the menu there is what Hélder has caught that day and the famous “sopa de peixe” (fish soup). For dessert, if you are lucky, you listen to a fado sung by Elisabete, if she feels like singing on the day you go.
• Sereia : the other option to eat fresh fish in the capital city
• Fora d’horas in Portuguese means “Out of hours”. And here you will get a good plate of homemade food or a snack to take away, with a smile and friendliness. If your accommodation in Santa Cruz does not include breakfast, this is a good option as well.
• Queijaria Val da Fazenda : Fresh and cured cheeses
• Hotel Servi-Flor : a hotel that has not been touched since the 60’s according to Jorge from Maresia, who recommended it to us for lunch.

Important: Avoid improvisation and book in advance in all the restaurants . It seems unbelievable that at Randomtrip, whose motto is improvisation, we are telling you this but on the island of Flores (and in the Azores in general) it is essential to do so, especially in high season, due to the small supply and high demand.

Flores Itineraries

As you will have seen if you have read our entire guide, Flores has many incredible places to visit , so to see everything you need at least a week .

As we do not always have so much time to enjoy the island, we leave you several suggestions of itineraries for 3, 5 and 7 days .

A weekend may be enough to run around and try to see as much of the island of Flores as possible (weather permitting), but it won’t leave you time to relax and enjoy its natural pools or a drink with a view.

3-day (one weekend) itinerary in Flores

• Day 1: Arrival in Flores in the morning, visit to Santa Cruz and whatever time there is between Santa Cruz and Ponta Delgada in the afternoon.
• Day 2: Tour of the 7 lagoons of the island in the morning, and visit to Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro and Poço do Bacalhau in the afternoon, before sunset.
• Day 3: Visit to the points that give time before the flight in the south-west zone (Lajes, Mosteiro, Lajedo…)

4 or 5 days seems to us the ideal amount if the weather is good (as you have seen, most of the plans in Flores are outdoors, so if it is very cloudy and/or raining the options are quite reduced), and here we leave you our proposed itinerary.

5-day itinerary in Flores

• Day 1: arrival and relaxation at the natural pools of Santa Cruz, sunset at Fajã Grande
• Day 2: Tour of the 7 lagoons of the island in the morning, and visit to Poço da Ribeira do Ferriro and Poço do Bacalhau in the afternoon, before sunset.
• Day 3: Road between Santa Cruz and Ponta Delgada, stopping at different viewpoints in the morning, trail to Fajã de Lopo Vaz in the afternoon.
• Day 4: Trail between Ponta Delgada and Fajã Grande, relax after at the natural pool of Fajã Grande
• Day 5: Visit to the points that give time before the flight in the south-west zone (Lajes, Mosteiro, Lajedo…)

If you don’t travel to Flores in the summer and/or want to add Corvo to your visit (which we highly recommend), a week is the perfect amount of days.

One-week itinerary in Flores

• Day 5: Visit to the points of the south-west zone (Lajes, Mosteiro, Lajedo…)
• Days 6 and 7: Visit to Corvo Island (overnight stay)

As in all the islands of the Azores, in Flores we consider it essential to rent a car to make the most of the island, take advantage of the time, and visit all the places recommended in this guide at your own pace. Especially in Flores, driving is a pleasure, with little traffic, breathtaking views all the time and viewpoints every few meters. Find the best price for your car rental in Flores with DiscoverCars.

We rented the car with Autatlantis and everything was perfect: the attention on arrival was fast and effective, the car (an Opel Corsa) was almost new and we had no problems at all. Practically all the companies include an excess in the insurance, and Autatlantis is one of the ones with the lowest excess (700€, compared to 1300-1500€ of other companies).

The prices of rental cars on the island of Flores rarely go below 25€ per day and, especially in summer, we recommend booking well in advance to avoid running out of vehicles or that the few that are available have crazy prices (in the summer the cars can reach 100€ per day and we know several people who did not manage to rent a car because they left it to the last minute).

There is also the option to move around by public transport: there is only one bus company (UTC) that connects some of the points of the island, you can see the schedules here . Connections and frequencies are quite limited, but if you are traveling on a low budget it can be a valid option to visit some of the main points of the island.

If you don’t have a driving license, can’t rent a car or don’t feel like driving, you also have the option of hiring tours to get to know the island better:

• A full day tour around the island passing through Alagoa, Portal viewpoint, Lajes, the impressive Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro and the incredible waterfall Ribeira do Bacalhau: see details and price here .
• A 4-hour tour of the Flores Lagoons: see tour details and price here
• A 4-hour tour of the most beautiful viewpoints: see tour and price here
• A hiking route, there are four to choose from (or you can do them all), with a guide and duration of 4 hours: see all the routes here
• For those with a sweet tooth, a tour that concentrates the best of Florentine gastronomy in one day: see the best day tour for the palate here .

As always, giving a generic budget is very difficult as it depends greatly on your style of travel and the season. What we can do is to give you an orientation of prices and you calculate your budget with them:

• Flights: with low cost companies like Ryanair you can find flights for 50€ round trip to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), Lajes (Terceira) or Horta (Faial), from Lisbon or Porto, although it depends on how far in advance you book. Afterwards, flying with SATA (the Azorean airline) to Santa Cruz das Flores costs at least 100€ per person.
• Car rental: from 25€/30€ per day the cheapest car (depending on the company and the number of days). In summer prices go up and it can be very difficult to find a car at short notice.
• Accommodation: from 50€/night for a room with private bathroom or apartment with kitchen.
• Restaurant meals : between €15 and €25 per person

In total, as a guideline, a one-week trip to Flores with a rented car can cost between 450 and 750€ per person (with the cheapest options of car, accommodation and restaurants), that is, from 65€/person per day.

We recommend some applications that will be useful for your trip to Flores:

• SpotAzores (Android / iOS / Web ): here you can see all the existing webcams in different points of the islands to see how the weather is. Because the weather is very changeable and it can be raining in one area of the island and sunny in another, this app is the fastest way to make sure and avoid unnecessary trips.
• Windy (Android / iOS / Web ): essential app in our trips, even more so in the Azores. It allows you to see forecasts for rain, clouds, wind, etc. to help you plan your days based on the weather (as there are places that lose a lot depending on the weather). Obviously the forecasts are not 100% reliable. It also shows the available webcams
• Google Maps (Android / iOS ): is the one we use to save / classify all the places we want to go / have gone and as GPS in rental cars. You can see other people’s opinions of the places, photos, restaurant menus, telephone numbers to contact them, etc.
• Maps.me (Android / iOS ): application similar to Google Maps but that works online (although Google Maps can also work online) and in many cases has information that Google Maps does not have, especially trails. Useful whenever you are going to do a trail, to orient yourself, download the route from the official Azores trails website (click on Downloads->GPS), etc.

• If you visit the island in summer and enjoy its incredible crystalline sea, remember that sometimes you may encounter a jellyfish (aguaviva ) or, worse, portuguese man o’war whose sting is painful and dangerous. The good thing is that these last ones float and are easily detectable, but in case you see one, get out of the water immediately and warn other people of their presence. In case you have been stung by either of them, it is very important that you follow these official recommendations : do not scratch the area of the sting (to prevent the venom from spreading); do not clean with fresh water or alcohol, clean only with sea water and very carefully; and in case the sting is from a Portuguese Man O’war , seek medical attention as soon as possible.
• Do not allow the disturbance, pollution and destruction of the nesting habitats of seabirds. The “cagarros” (shearwaters) are a migratory bird that nests in the Azores that will part of the soundtrack on your trip (more appreciated by some than by others, especially in the middle of the night) for its particular sound of “awa awa” as if they were singing the chorus of the song Video Killed the Radio Star . In order to avoid situations of capture or runover of young shearwaters on the road, the Government of the Azores annually promotes the SOS Cagarro Campaign which we advise you to read when you arrive in the archipelago.

• Never try to touch or feed an animal – don’t be an accomplice to animal abuse!
• Do not buy handicrafts made from sea animals or extracted from the sea (e.g. dolphin teeth, turtle shells, shark jaws, sperm whale ivory, …). The ivory trade, currently the only valuable product of the sperm whale, is still an argument for hunters to keep doing it. Buy local handicrafts made from alternative materials such as wood, stone or vegetable ivory.
• Respect other people and the island : don’t play your music loudly on the beach (if you want to listen to music, wear headphones), don’t leave trash, don’t throw cigarette butts, etc. Leave the beach better than you found it (if you find plastic, pick it up).
• In some areas bathing can be dangerous due to strong currents . Don’t be brave.
• Always travel with travel insurance : medical expenses, theft or problems with your plane on a trip can mean a lot of money, so the ideal is to take out travel insurance. We always use IATI and recommend it. If you purchase your insurance through this link you have a 5% discount.

Here is a list of must-haves you can’t forget to take with you on your trip to the island:

• Wet shoes like these from Cressi (transparent, comfortable and dry quickly) or these, if you prefer another material that fits better . Keep in mind that in the Azores (except the island of Santa Maria ) you will not find sandy beaches but natural volcanic rock pools or pebble beaches mostly so you will want to carry your booties always in your backpack.
• Snorkel kit/glasses to see the little fishes in the natural pools. Here is a kit for less than 20€.
• Reef friendly sunscreen , i.e. free of coral damaging chemicals, oxybenzone free, and not tested on animals, like this one .
• Cap , the sun is very strong
• Trekking shoes because the best way to get to know the Azores is by hiking trails. We have these from Columbia .
• A water bottle like one of these to always carry water with you, you are on the island of waterfalls and great water! Take advantage of it! In addition, you will avoid using single-use plastic.
• A neck warmer like one of these to protect you from the wind/cold .
• Long sleeve lycra T-shirt with UV protection that we wear to protect us from cold water or the sun when snorkeling, such as one of these .
• Watertight bag , to keep your electronic devices safe on boats, for example on the semi-rigid to the neighboring island of Corvo. This one for example costs 12€.
• Microfiber towel , which occupies little and you will use for the beach. If you don’t have one, you can buy the typical ones from Decathlon or these ones on Amazon
• Camera to record Azorean adventures. We carry a Sony A5100 and a GoPro for underwater images.
• Power bank : with so many photos you will spend a lot of battery, so it always comes in handy to carry a good power bank. We travel with these 2 (Xiaomi and Anker ), which allow us to charge our smartphones, camera and GoPro.
• First-aid kit : our first-aid kit should include a medicine against seasickness (such as biodramine for seasickness on boats), antibiotics, antidiarrheals (and a probiotic to recover more quickly), antihistamines, painkillers and antipyretics.

Obrigada Flores. When we said goodbye to you we were already counting with the calendar thinking about coming back so…. Até já!

Disclaimer: Autatlantis helped us explore Flores with one of their vehicles but all opinions and information expressed in this post are our own.

All photos and contents are copyrighted by Randomtrip (except those that clearly state their source) and all rights are reserved.

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Join the conversation.

Thank you so much. Your blog is so detailed and so complete! It is being very helpful!!

Hi Jasmin! Thank you for your comment, glad you liked our Flores guide. Hope it’s useful and that you enjoy your trip to Azores!

What a great website! My question to you is, which is the better time to visit: early Mary or late September? I’m guessing the latter, correct?

Hi Marlene and thanks for your comment! It’s impossible to say, as the weather can be difficult to predict in Flores. We would say that yes, September should be better than May, but last year for example there was a lot of rain in one of the weeks of September, so luck will play a role there.

Either month should be ok, just pick the one that suits you better and try to have enough days to change plans according to the weather if necessary.

Enjoy the paradise!

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Flores Island, Azores: An Insider Guide

This is an insider guide for anyone seeking to explore Flores island, in Azores. I compiled tips for the main sights, food, and logistics on this piece of paradise in the middle of the Atlantic.

Did you know Europe begins (or ends, depends on the point of view!) with a majestic island garden?

Explore Flores , one of the most beautiful islands in the Azores, with its lakes, sea cliffs, laurissilva forests, viewpoints, natural swimming pools, fajãs , and waterfalls.

Despite its tiny size, there’s a lot of things to see and do here , this article will help you plan your trip to this remote paradise.

The essential of Flores Island, Azores

Flores is one of the remotest islands of the remote archipelago of Azores. Together with Corvo , it forms the western group of the Azores islands and is the westernmost point in Europe. Fun fact: it’s actually part of the North American tectonic plate!

Around 4,000 people live in this remote piece of paradise, which has landscapes of extreme natural beauty.

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island is a haven for sustainable and eco-tourism and a stunning place for hiking, top-notch canyoning or just doing nothing and contemplate nature.

• Language | Some locals speak English (especially the younger generations), but I suggest learning a few words of Portuguese.
• Money | Euro. Note cash is still used in most places and ATMs are not common: you can find a few in Santa Cruz , one in Fajã Grande and another one in Ponta Delgada .
• Weather | Flores has a humid subtropical climate, which means apart from consistent mild temperatures, anything can happen. The weather is ever-changing and you can have all four seasons on the same day. Winters can be rough in Flores.

Where to stay in Flores Island

Start your search with this list of the highest-rated places to stay in the best area of Flores.

The Azores have been consecutively named one of the top sustainable destinations worldwide. Don’t spoil what has been unspoilt for centuries. 💚

When you’re in the islands, please try to minimize your impact at all times. Be careful with any activities thay may cause visual, noise, and physical pollution. This includes avoiding playing loud music on phones and obviously taking ALL the trash with you until you find a bin, especially plastic!

🌤️ When is the best time to visit Flores?

The best time to visit Flores is definitely during summertime, between July and September. It’s also when everyone will visit, but it will give you a higher chance of warm temperatures and sunnier days.

I’d avoid coming between November and February when heavy rains and strong gasps of wind hit the island quite often. Locals told me more than 50% of the flights get cancelled in winter months!

Important: in the Azores, the weather is up to the gods to decide . You may get lucky with a sunny warm day in February or a storm in August. Who knows, right?

📅 How many days to visit Flores?

If you are pressed for time and just want to tour the essential sights by car, you’ll need one day and a half as a bare minimum to visit Flores.

However I recommend staying at least 4 full days to give you time to:

• do some hiking
• wait to see the lakes and waterfalls with decent weather
• accommodate for any extreme weather conditions
• go to Corvo island

Getting around Flores

Getting to flores.

The most convenient way to get to Flores is by plane. SATA has flights connecting the airport at Santa Cruz das Flores to Corvo, Terceira, Faial and São Miguel islands.

If you’re traveling in summer, taking a ferry is another option to get to Flores. You can get to Lajes from Horta (Faial) using the yellow line of Atlântico Line .

Driving in Flores

Like in all the remaining islands, I HIGHLY recommend renting a car to move around . It gives you freedom and independence to explore the island at your own pace. There are Autatlantis and Ilha Verde desks at the airport.

You might be wondering: Will I die if I drive in Flores? No. Actually driving around is very straightforward. The roads are in good shape (albeit with many curves) and apart from the main road that goes around the island, there are only a few secondary ones. Watch out for the wild rabbits on the higher grounds 🐰.

Public transportation in Flores

If driving is not an option, you’ll need some extra planning to book independent tours or get around using the UTC bus network that connects the major villages in Flores. EDIT: due to pandemic reasons, please check if this service is still available.

What to do in Flores

I’ve listed 10 of my favorite things to do in Flores or just continue down for an overview of what to expect in the island.

Even though its name literally translates as “flowers”, for me Flores is the island of water . Gorgeous lakes, creeks snaking through the hills, and towering waterfalls cascading into lakes or plunging down into the Ocean – all of this give me Avatar vibes.

One of the best spots to see waterfalls is Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro (also known as Poço da Alagoinha or Lagoa das Patas). Here, more than a dozen waterfalls stream down the vibrant green mountains and converge on the same lake.

Also look out for the nearby impressive Cascata da Ribeira Grande and for the 90-meter high Poço do Bacalhau , in Fajã Grande.

Fajã Grande

By far my favorite place in Flores, Fajã Grande is tucked away between lush green cliffs and the Atlantic ocean. The ocean sunsets and the waterfalls as a backdrop make it seem like a true fairyland.

There is something quite recomforting on being on the edge of a continent. The feeling of knowing there’s nothing between you and the next piece of land, but the wild Atlantic. For me, this is beauty in its purest and rawest form.

Finally, there are plenty of swimming spots in Fajã Grande : the “beach”, the port, the natural pools or even go for a swim at Poço do Bacalhau , the only swimmable waterfall in the island.

The 7 Lagoons

There are 7 main lagoons (former volcano craters) in Flores but all fairly close to each other which makes the activity of lagoon-hopping easier.

If you are on a tight schedule and have to prioritize, visit Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa Funda which are side-by-side, but at different heights creating a cool visual effect. Also, don’t miss my favorites Negra and Comprida, also side-by-side.

We reserved the day with clearest skies to see all the lagoons, but even so, there were some clouds and fog up there. Locals say it’s rare to have a completely cloudless day so the only thing you can do is to be patient. The good news is that the skies can clear up in just a few minutes (literally).

• Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa Funda (side-by-side)
• Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida (side-by-side)
• Lagoa da Lomba
• Lagoa Branca

Unique geological formations

I’m not a geology enthusiast and Flores got me excited, so I can only imagine what it can do to experts. The volcanic origin of the island is omnipresent, from underwater caves to towering rock formations and islets.

Flores’ most iconic poscard is Rocha dos Bordões , a one-of-a-kind rock formation that boasts 20-meter vertical basaltic pipes. You can’t miss it from the road road between Mosteiro and Lajedo .

But there’s a lot more. If you happen to do a day trip to Corvo in a semi-rigid boat, the tour will navigate around some other amazing not-accessible-by-land structures in the northwestern coast of the island, including caves and islets. My favorite was the cave the tour guide named “cathedral”, a stunning tall cave right by the ocean. I couldn’t find the official name of it, sorry!

• Rocha dos Bordões – towering rock formation with 20-meter basaltic pipes
• Caves – Gruta do Galo, Gruta dos Enxaréus
• Islets – Ilhéu de Monchique, Ilhéu dos Abrões, Ilhéu Maria Vaz, Ilhéu de Álvaro Rodrigues

Note: I’ve marked the major geological formations on this map .

Ok so I’m far from being a canyoning expert – the heights terrify me – but I do know Flores is one of the places in the world to do this sport. Considering the hundreds of creeks, streams, and waterfalls, I’m not surprised.

The activity ranges in difficulty levels, and it can include 200-meter waterfalls. Check this beautiful yet terrifying video to see what I’m talking about.

Viewpointing

Just made up this verb. The point is: the island of Flores is ridiculously photogenic.

Virtually any place where you stop the car will be an improvised spot to take in all the beautiful natural landscapes, but there are almost 20 official viewpoints in the island.

Here are some of my favorites.

• Miradouro Craveiro Lopes (Fajãzinha)
• Miradouro da Rocha dos Bordões (Mosteiro)
• Miradouro das Lagoas Rasa e Funda (Morro Alto)
• Miradouro das Lagoas Negra e Comprida (Lajedo)
• Miradouro do Portal (Fajãzinha)

Note: I’ve marked the major viewpoints on this map .

Coming to the Azores without doing a hiking trail is simply unacceptable. It’s the best way to get a sense of adventure going and indulge in the nature around you.

There are 5 official (and marked) hiking trails in Flores .

In Flores, due to the rugged landscape, the difficulty level is either medium or hard. The 22-km hike between Fajã Grande and Ponta Delgada is particularly difficult and reserved for experienced hikers only.

Natural Pools & Beaches

Sorry to disappoint you, but contrarily to other azorean islands , Flores is not a beach destination.

The pebbled beaches in Fajã Grande and Lajes are the closest, but the piscinas naturais (natural pools) in Santa Cruz and Fajã Grande can be superior swimming spots in my humble opinion.

Note: I’ve marked the major swimming spots in Flores on this map .

Corvo day trip

Corvo is the smallest island in the Azores and together with Flores, it forms the most western group of islands in the archipelago (and in the whole Europe, for that matter).

You can go to Corvo island via Atlântico Line ferry. But that’s boring. A much more interesting experience is to hop on a boat tour, where you can see the wonders of the northwestern coast of Flores. This includes waterfalls and caves only accessible by sea. The boat trip doubles as a dolphin-watching tour, as you’ll also stop to see dolphins or other interesting fauna on the way to Corvo.

Once you get to Corvo, don’t miss the Caldeirão , the gorgeous volcano crater on the top of the island.

Out of the few options available, I went with Extremocidente company. The owner Carlos Mendes which was recommended by my host. Simply call him one or two days in advance to reserve a spot.

I traveled next to him (standing up) and could see Carlos is VERY experienced driving his boat between the many islets and cliffs and navigating narrow caves. The trip to Corvo took 1h20 and about 45 minutes on the return.

Where to stay in Flores

Best areas to stay in Flores

I strongly suggest staying in Fajã Grande . Firstly, the majority of sights are closer to Fajã Grande than anywhere else in the island.

But being able to wake up everyday with the majestic luscious hills as a backdrop and go sleep at night under a starred sky is priceless.

Accommodation in Flores

Aldeia da Cuada (the ecotourism village) was my first option but was already booked for my dates. Honestly, I was glad because I then visited the place and was a bit unimpressed with the infrastructure. Not worth the premium price in my humble opinion.

I ended up staying at Casa Via D’Água , in the heart of Fajã Grande. This wasn’t a bad option at all: beautiful setting, huge areas and outdoor spaces, but some (minor) stuff needed some maintenance so overall it felt a bit overpriced.

I think in Fajã Grande , you’re better off staying at a country house or in Sítio da Assumada .

For other options, you can start your search with my shortlist of top-rated places in Flores or explore the map below.

Flores Itinerary

Here’s a sample itinerary you can use to tour the island. As I mentioned before, I recommend 4 full days: 2 to visit the island, one to visit Corvo as a day trip and another one as a buffer in case the weather plays a trick on you. If it doesn’t, use that day to relax, go to the beach, do a hike, or revisit some of your favorite spots in the island.

Flores Island Map

To help you visualize and better plan your trip, I’ve put all the main natural wonders of Flores, Azores on this map and added pins for swimming spots, viewpoints, and restaurants.

Food in Flores

There are a few good restaurants in Flores, mostly catering for tourists as locals tend to eat out only on special occasions.

Food is typically Azorean, so you can expect dishes based on fresh fish and locally sourced meat. Very limited vegetarian options.

Stop by Queijaria Val de Fazenda for a delicious cheese & jam tasting. The garlic cheese took me to heaven and when I got back, we purchased two bags of goodies to bring back home.

As for unique ingredients, seek araçá , a fruit from Flores, and erva-patinha , a seaweed used by locals in scrambled eggs or as a side dish.

Places to eat in Flores, Azores

• Papadiamandis – great place for seafood in Fajã Grande, right by the ocean. The restaurant is named after the cargo ship that wrecked nearby and it has delicious lapas and grilled tuna.
• O Transmontano – when you call to book a table, the owner will ask you what you want to eat. I’ve had the baked goraz fish: simple and delicious.
• Maresia – only one dish per day is cooked here. Even though the roasted lamb melted in my mouth and the restaurant has a gorgeous sunset view, I found it a bit too expensive for my taste. Maybe it was the €147 wine bottle on the menu?
• Cana Roca – I wasn’t expecting to come to Flores to eat pizza, but hey, you never say no to pizza. And guess what – it was a surprisingly tasty and affordable lunch.

Apart from these, we’ve scouted other restaurants.

We’ve discarded Aldeia da Cuada (the menu seemed too expensive and uninteresting tbh) and A Casa da Vigia (lost the interesting when hearing the chef puts cheese on the pad thai ), but please let me know if you try Pôr-Do-Sol in Fajãzinha or A Sereia in Santa Cruz das Flores.

Other useful resources to plan your trip to Flores

• Atlântico Line – the ferry company in Azores
• Extremocidente – Corvo tours by boat
• SATA/Azores Airlines – the regional airline company
• Visit Azores – official tourism board

Have you been to Flores Island, Azores? What other tips would you add to this guide? Share your suggestions below in the comments! 👇

Destinations🌎

Ultimate Guide to Flores Island Azores

by Charlotte Walton | Azores , Portugal

To start I’d just like to say how jealous I am that you are planning a trip to this incredible island. We stayed in Flores for 10 days and it wasn’t enough. I didn’t want to leave, but my poor planning meant I had to. I don’t want the same to happen to you so I’ve written the ultimate guide to Flores island Azores.

If you’ve read my blog Visiting Azores: What You Need to Know you’ll have seen that my number #1 tip is book your accommodation and car in advance!

Flores is a very small island with approximately 4000 inhabitants. For most of the year, they don’t see any tourists and so they are not equipped for the tourism during the summer months.

Accommodation is rarely available, the campsites are full, there are no cars and even the restaurants are fully booked.

If you are looking for a car, you can check out Azores Car Rentals.

Where to Stay

If have the option to stay in Santa Cruz, I highly recommend doing so. There are a handful of restaurants in the area, the natural swimming pools are great for swimming in, and the boat to Corvo island also leaves from there.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in Santa Cruz, Flores – give Pedro a call. He is one of the nicest people I have ever met and will be sure to look after you! His property is called Santa Cruz Villas and this is his phone number +351 965 292 921

If he doesn’t have any availability, he knows pretty much everyone in Santa Cruz so he’ll be able to ask around for you.

If you’re struggling to find accommodation, there are a few campsites around the area that have toilets and showers. The campsite at Alagoa is on the East side of the island, around a 1 hour walk from Santa Cruz. This is a beautiful spot, which overlooks the bay below and if you like waking up for the sunrise, you’re in for a treat.

Where to Eat

There are a number of good restaurants in Flores. I have chosen a few that are in different parts of the island to give you a varied selection. As it’s a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean there is a lot of available fresh fish. One of the best places to eat fish is a restaurant called O Moreao.

Papadiamandis, Faja Grande.

Local. Live music. Good vibes. Outdoor terrace seating.

Restaurante Por-do-sol, Lajes das Flores

Beautiful sunset spot near the ocean. Outdoor dining in the garden. The ribs are really tasty and this is also a good place to try the local yemen (similar to a sweet potato).

O Moreao, Santa Cruz

Fresh seafood. Fish restaurant. There is a wide variety of fish and the owner is extremely knowledge and fun! She started singing in the middle of the restaurant when we were there.

Restaurante Sereia, Santa Cruz

The best steak on the island. Honestly, I tried 3 different steaks and this one was by far the best! The french fries are also homemade and are delicious.

Best places to See in Flores

Flores island has to be one of the most beautiful islands I’ve ever visited – you are in for an absolute treat!

My favourite place on the island, which I’m sure you’ve already seen a picture of is…

#1 Poco Da Ribeira do Ferreiro

This place is actually the reason why I came to the Azores islands! I saw a picture of this wall of waterfalls, with the lake below creating the most perfect reflections and knew I had to come.

I tell you something, it’s even more spectacular in real life!

It is a 15 minute walk from the carpark to get to this spot. Make sure you wear trainers as the way there is slippy!

#2 Cascata do Poco do Bacalhau

Apparently in winter this waterfall is inaccessible as the amount of rain water increases making it too powerful to swim in.

However, during the summer months, it’s a beautiful natural swimming hole!

As you walk up towards the waterfall you will see a shimmering rainbow and will be completely memerized by its beauty.

The water temperature is great, but be careful getting in as it can be a bit slippy. If you have water shoes, they’d come in handy.

#3 Miradouro de Craveiro Lopes

This was hands down my favourite viewpoint on the island. As I walked towards the edge I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with emotions. I was truly gobsmacked at the views beneath me.

The best part is that this viewpoint is on the west of the island, so you can watch the sunset from here. If you catch yourself a good one, you’ll see the cliffs light up during the golden hour and it’s truly magical.

I cannot recommend this place enough.

#4 Miradouro da Baia de Alem

Another great place to enjoy golden hour and the sunset is at Miradouro da Baia de Alem.

The colour of the water here is incredible, pair that with the green cliffs and the sun going down and you have yourself a great spot!

There is also a lighthouse nearby that you can check out.

Someone told me that if you go on Wednesday’s the lighthouse keeper will show you around!

I’m not sure how true that is, but if you happen to go on a Wednesday, it may be worth knocking on the door and finding out 😛 (let me know if you do so others can go too!)

#5 Day trip to Corvo island

Corvo is the smallest island in the Azores with only 400 inhabitants. You may have seen a photo of the crater, which is what the island is famous for. However, the downside is that the crater tends to be covered in thick fog for a lot of the time.

From Flores you can actually see the cloud covering the top of the island, and it doesn’t seem to move.

If you get lucky, you’re in for an absolute treat.

We unfortunately didn’t see ANYTHING. It was cold and wet once we arrived at the crater. One thing though, the boat ride there made up for it!

We booked a ticket with Carlos Mendez from Extremocidente boat trips. It was spectacular! I was so happy by the time that we arrived on Corvo that I wasn’t even fussed that it was cloudy.

Carlos takes you around the bottom of the cliffs and through the caves on the North West of Flores.

You see lots of waterfalls falling into the sea which is a unique experience! This part of the island is said to be the most beautiful by all of the locals.

Plus, I’ve been on a lot of boats in my time and this one is SO STURDY. You sit on the seat in a similar way that you would to a horse and so you fly over the waves and it’s incredibly fun but feels so secure.

The boat trip costs 35e return. The way there takes 1 hour and the way home approximately 40 minutes. If however, you get lucky like we did, you’ll stop to see the whales and dolphins!

One thing I LOVED about this trip was that Carlos and his crew really cared about us having the best time. On the way home they spotted water shooting through a whales’ blowhole in the distance and made a 10 minute detour out to sea.

We spent around 20 minutes admiring the whales and then made our way back to the harbour. This added on time to our trip, but they didn’t care.

One of my favourite places to see in Flores was Alagoa.

Here you will find a pebble stoned beach, crystal clear water and a small waterfall that meets the ocean.

There are 3 rocks (standing rock, sitting rock & laying rock 😂) & they are very popular among the birds.

In fact, this area is deemed a bird sanctuary and so is protected 🥰

P.S. If you are struggling to find a place to stay on the island, Alagoa has a campsite! Can you imagine waking up to this view every morning? 

#7 Santa Cruz Natural Swimming Pools

The natural swimming pools in Santa Cruz are the perfect spot to spend the afternoon. There is concrete down there which makes it more comfortable to sit at, however I don’t love that they’ve done that. Anyway, it’s a great place for swim and the locals love it too.

The colour of the water is crazy and there are lots of fish to see.

If you found this Ultimate Guide to Flores Island Azores blog post helpful I’d love to know! Leave me a comment below or send me a DM on Instagram 🙂

Do you have an email other contact info for Carlos? We will be staying on Flores and want to hike on Corvo for a day. We need to make reservations for the one hour boat ride.

My name is Do. My email is [email protected] Thank you.

Hi Do, I have his Instragram account ( https://www.instagram.com/extremocidente_azores/ ). Another way to find his company would be to walk down to the port in Santa Cruz and talk to someone there. His boat is the red one, called Extremocidente. I hope this helps 😀

7 Awesome Things to Do in Flores Island, Azores, Portugal @tripprblog

Flores Island, one of the nine in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores, is often described as a smaller version of Ireland or Switzerland . The luscious green hills, the eight untouched lagoons, and the hundreds of clear-water creeks cascading into lakes or falling vertiginously into the Atlantic Ocean call for a kind of description that one, often, can’t come up with on the spur of the moment. In the presence of such magnificent, still intact, natural beauty, it’s easier to compare it with something everyone has seen before.

With a population of under four thousand and an area of 143.11 square kilometers (55 square miles), Flores Island has been a well-kept secret, an offbeat destination that travelers used to find through word-of-mouth.

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A haven for eco-tourism, even before it was popular, and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, mass tourism will unlikely hit the island.

For better chances to enjoy good weather and take part in local events and festivities, the best time to visit is from June to September.

Table of Contents

How to Reach

The easiest and most comfortable way to reach is by plane, in one of the regular daily flights operated by Azores Airlines from Portugal (Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal). There are big communities of Azorean immigrants in the US and Canada, so there are also regular flights to São Miguel from North American cities. You can then take the connecting flight to Flores.

For budget travelers traveling in Europe, you can book a low-cost Ryanair or EasyJet flight to Ponta Delgada (the main city in the biggest island of the Azores, São Miguel) from Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal. Then from Ponta Delgada, you request a free inter-island connecting flight to Flores.

In the Summer, if you’re willing to endure a long journey to island hopping in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, there are regular boat trips operated by AtlanticoLine.

Visa Information

The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal and, therefore, part of the Schengen Agreement. The same entry and exit requirements apply.

The Weather (and What to Pack)

There is a weather myth that perpetuates the idea of constant rain in the Azores. Although cloudy skies and rain are often forecast for the islands, including Flores, in reality, islanders enjoy days and sometimes weeks of warm and sunny weather in the summer.

Weather conditions that shift quickly – you are indeed on a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean – are simply part of the experience and a way to experience the islanders’ “let it go” lifestyle.

Pack for a temperate climate (the average high temperature is 19.9°C/67.8°F and the low is 14.9°C/58.8°F, with slight variations throughout the year) and don’t forget to include hiking shoes and a light jacket for the rain.

Experience the Islander Lifestyle with these 7 Awesome Things to do in Flores Island, Azores,  Portugal

Take a hike.

With four official hiking trails, going for long walks among nature is one of the tourists’ favorite activities in Flores island. The great thing about it is that there is one path suitable for everyone, even if you don’t think you’re much of a hiker.

The official tourism board website, Azores Trails shows you the paths available on the island, and you can find a trail by difficulty, length, or shape. The island is known for its peaks and plunging cliffs, so the difficulty level is either medium or hard.

It’s free, it’s perfectly safe to do it on your own, and includes some breathtaking views along the way.

Take a Boat Tour of the Island’s Coast

To get the feel of what Flores island it’s like, you have to see it from every angle. Observe it from the air before landing, explore hills, lagoons, and strange volcanic formations on land, and uncover secret nooks from the sea.

An island coast tour is an absolute must, preferably if you do it with a local business owner and experienced sailor, like Carlos Mendes.  He knows all of the islands like the back of his hand, he’s highly skilled in anticipating sudden changes in weather to guarantee safety (extremely important there), and he tells the stories of each cave, waterfall, and rock formation like no one else.

Be Adventurous with These Recommended Activities

The island’s signature steep cliffs and waterfalls make Flores one of the recommended destinations for canyoning in the Azores.

Scuba diving is also very high on visitors’ must-do lists, given the diversity of underwater species. Following what has been done in other islands, there will soon be an underwater park to visit and dive through the shipwreck of the English steamboat Slavonia, wrecked in the early 1900’s.

Unlike other islands in the Azores, like Faial and Pico, Flores is not the preferred location for whale watching although some of them might surprise you on a trip by boat to Corvo, which means they are probably of course. You are most likely to be greeted by playful dolphins and random flying fishes.

Test Your Tastebuds with Unique Local Cuisine

Upon discovery in the 15th Century, the island was populated with a small community from Flanders (in Belgium), at first, and Portuguese mainlanders later. The cultural diversity still shapes the customs and the cuisine until this day.

The combination of volcanic soil and the salty breeze from the ocean gives the local produce a different taste. Taro root, an unattractive brownish tuber that people often mistake for yam, and sweet potatoes are abundant and the side dish of choice for most of the recipes.

Cows roam free in large green pastures, eating nothing but grass, and pigs are fed, mostly, with household scraps and leftovers. You’ll know the true meaning of organic meat here.

The local dairy products factory obeys the EU mandatory rules on health and safety but follows the old recipes, producing a bright-yellow, slightly spicy cheese.

The Islanders have a love and hate relationship with the ocean and the winter storms, but they also are creative and resourceful when it comes to creating dishes with what they have. One of the local favorites is the algae patties, a sort of veggie hamburger made with eggs and the algae that are usually attached to limpets. Nothing is wasted.

All seafood is caught in the wild, so at restaurants, the fish is always fresh and meaty and best savored grilled with a simple dressing of olive oil, onion, and parsley.

Grilled limpets (or raw, if you have the courage), octopus stew, and sausages with taro roots are some of the must-have dishes. Head over to the restaurant on the South side of the island, Por do Sol (Sunset, in Portuguese), to try all these dishes while enjoying the sunset.

Learn More about the Whale Hunting Industry

Extinct since the mid-1980’s, whale hunting was one of the most important means of subsistence in the Azores islands. The adverse weather conditions would jeopardize crops at times, so the locals turned to the sea to hunt whales, process them, and export its oil, bones, and teeth. Whales are now a protected species, and whale hunters became whale watchers, adjusting to the new business opportunities as the Islanders will often do.

At the old whale factory in Santa Cruz, the island’s main town, a well-curated museum guides you through the timeline of over forty years of the whale hunting industry. Take some time to sit through the one-hour French documentary that follows the daily routine of a whale hunter. Discretion is advised since some of the images may be considered as violent.

Immerse Yourself in the Local Religious Culture at the Holy Ghost Festivities

The relationship between people and the divine has a different meaning here. It’s a fact that the islanders are mainly Catholics, as are the rest of the Portuguese, but I think the religious connection comes more from the need of having hope that the next day will come than the idea of God.

Nevertheless, religious events are frequent and attended by the majority of the population. From June to September, people gather every weekend for the Holy Ghost festivities happening throughout the island. The origins of these religious celebrations aren’t clear, but they are often linked to Isabel, the Spanish-Portuguese queen in the mid-1300’s, originally from Aragon.

In the Azores, it’s part of the local cultural identity and each small town has their unique variation of the tradition. One thing is common, though, the free meal of soup (a kind of rich meat broth, served with a slice of bread soaked in) and roasted beef that the hosting town serves for lunch on Sunday.

During the weekend, people gather for music concerts and to try their luck at improvised bazaars selling raffles.

Take a Day Trip to the Neighboring Island of Corvo

With the neighboring island of Corvo, just a 45-minute boat ride away, it’s almost unthinkable to not plan a day trip there. Both the islands are the most isolated in the archipelago, so the local communities are very close and supportive of one another.

Corvo is the smallest island with 17.1 square kilometers (6.6 square miles) and a population of under four hundred people who live off part-time farming, jobs at the local public offices, and tourism in the summers.

The island is so unique and the lives of locals so intriguing to outsiders, that Corvo (and its population) has been featured in a Coca-Cola ad during the Soccer World Cup in 2014 and a documentary by Portuguese film director Gonçalo Tocha in 2011.

One day is enough to get to know the small (and only) town, the local folklore tales of Pirate invasions, the History of the island at the Environmental and Cultural Interpretation Center of Corvo, and the volcano-crater-turned-lagoon Caldeirão.

Find accommodation in Flores Island, Azores

Where to stay in flores island, azores,  portugal.

Luxury Location at Budget Prices –  Hotel Ocidental  

At the family-owned Hotel Ocidental, all rooms face the ocean so you can wake up inspired to explore the island every day.

Before breakfast, take a dip in the natural swimming pools right across the street.

Ask the front desk for the extra activities organized by the hotel, from diving expeditions to boat trips.

Comfort Close to the Center of Town –   Flores Hotel

The only chain hotel in the island, Inatel’s Flores Hotel is located near the island’s airport, right across the old whale processing factory, and with a spectacular view of the São Pedro Bay.

It’s the perfect accommodation for visitors who prefer hotels over rural tourism lodging, and who’d rather stay within walking distance of the main town for easy access to supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, and shops.

High-End Farm Life at a Once Abandoned Village –  Aldeia da Cuada

The first eco-tourism type of accommodation in the island, Aldeia da Cuada is located in an old isolated village, completely abandoned in the 1960’s when the immigration wave to the United States began.

Family-owned and carefully restored over the years, each one of the 17 independent houses are named after their former owners and decorated in the style of the old farm houses in Flores island.

All modern commodities are available, from free Wi-Fi to an ATM at the premises, but the overall atmosphere invites visitors to enjoy silence and nature, as well as the hearty breakfast of locally sourced products.

Extra Tip: Check out Plumguide for the best holiday homes and vacation rentals in Portugal .

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14 thoughts on “ 7 Awesome Things to Do in Flores Island, Azores, Portugal @tripprblog ”

It might be a very nice report, but can’t enjoy it, because of the advertising overload. I’ve never seen something similar in a blog, sorry.

It’s Clarence again. Sorry. I suddenly got interrupted. But as I was saying. In the course of my research . I found out that you were one of the people I should talk to, if I was interested in traveling to the Island. Which I am. As As I’m sure you know from watching the news and reading all the headlines around the world. America is undergoing serious racial upheaval at the moment. More than any time in its history. And quite frankly, I am looking to get away from it all. And I don’t mean in the usual or ordinary sense like in the form a vacation. Clarence Unfortunately, I’m

Hello there Ms. Sandra,

I apologize for disturbing what I’m sure must otherwise be, a very hectic and busy day for you. At any rate. My name is Clarence Blevins. And I am a 50 year health African-American Man currently residing in Boston, Massachusetts. During the course of my research concerning the Azores, (Flores Island more specifically) I came across your name as someone

Hi Sandra, we are visiting Flores in September and I was wondering if I need to rent a car to get around and explore the island? What do you suggest?

My great-grandfather immigrated to Rhode Island from the island of Flores in 1881. Are there resources on the island to research ones ancestry? By the way, my great-grandfather’s last name was Henriques. I don’t know how common that name is on the island but I noticed it was also your middle name.

Hi Sandra, I am planning a visit in Summer 2018. Do you have any info on the boat trips between the islands? In particular how rough the crossings are? Many thanks, Adam

Hi, Sandra!

We are planning to do Flores coastal tour and we would prefer a local business owner. You mentioned Carlos Mendes. Do you have any contact information?

Best regards Ilona

Hi Sandra, Do you know if its possible to rent bicycles on Flores? thanks very much, Chip

Hello You say that there’s free airplane connections between islands? I’m taking Sata from Canada to Ponta Delgada, will I be able to connect free of charge to Terceira and then to Fail and back to Ponta?

Hi, Stephanie! Sandra here (the post writer). Unfortunately, the free connections are only available if your flight starts in one of the Portuguese airports (Lisbon, Porto, Faro, or Funchal). The option is not available if you’re coming in from outside Portugal, I’m afraid.

I have always been intrigued by the Azores … thanks for a detailed look at this special part of the world!

You’re welcome Brittany 🙂 are you planning to visit Azores anytime soon? 🙂

Hi Sandra, nice tips thanks for sharing!

In behalf of Sandra, it’s good to know that you liked it. 🙂

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Flores Island Azores Travel Guide

Flores island azores travel​ guide.

If I had to pick one of the most beautiful places that I’ve ever visited, it would be probably Flores Island in Azores, Portugal. That’s why I want to share with you my Flores Island Azores Travel Guide and hopefully inspire you to visit this amazing island.

Flores Island is located in Azores, a Portuguese archipelago with nine islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that has been considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

Flores, together with Corvo Island that belongs to the Western Group of Azores, is the westernmost territory in Europe. It is part of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and it has some of the most beautiful and untouched natural landscapes I’ve ever seen.

If you are looking for a getaway with unspoiled nature and vegetation, lush forests, fairytale lakes and waterfalls, mountains, natural pools and a rugged but beautiful coastline, Flores is the right place to go.

You can get to Flores by plane. Most international flights go to São Miguel or Terceira Islands in Azores, from where you can take a short regional flight. So it’s a very good idea to combine Flores with other islands in Azores. That’s exactly what I’ve done and I also visited São Miguel and Terceira.

When in Flores, the easiest way to explore the island is driving, so you can rent a car at the airport for the time of your stay. Flores is a small island but it has much to offer to visitors, so I recommend staying at least 3 or 4 days. You can also take the opportunity to take a day trip by boat to Corvo, the smallest island in Azores that has also beautiful natural landscapes and it is a great place for birdwatching.

Where to stay in Flores? There are only a few small hotels and local accommodation options. I recommend to stay in Fajã Grande, nearby many of the biggest natural attractions in the island. Some really nice places to stay there are Aldeia da Cuada, Moínho da Cascata, Villas do Mar or Sítio da Assumada.

My biggest advice when you start planning your trip to Flores is that you book everything way in advance! And I really mean it! As the island is quite small and it doesn’t have many options in terms of accommodation, tours or rental cars, everything gets fully booked quite early. For my trip to Flores in July, I booked accommodation and rented a car in January. And some places were already not available.

You can travel to Flores all year round, but when planning my trip I’ve read some of the best months are July and August. The weather usually is quite nice at that time of the year. In July I had warm and long days and I even spent some time sunbathing at  natural pools. This is also the best time to see the typical and beautiful hydrangeas that covers Azores Islands in Summer. In fact Flores means “flowers” and it is named like this due to the abundance of flowers that you can find all around, especially the famous hydrangeas.

I hope you like my Flores Island Azores Travel Guide and you enjoy as much as I did to visit this Portuguese island. I’ll share with you now my top places to visit in Flores.

Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro

This is probably the most epic location in Flores Island. In fact I felt in love with Flores much time before visiting it when I saw pictures of this place.

Imagine a magical lagoon bordered by a cliff with 20 waterfalls falling down the green vegetation in the mist. It’s like a dream come true and you can actually find it in Azores!

Also known as Poço das Alagoinhas, this is definitely the main postcard in the island and it is a must visit place. You will feel like you are back to ancient ages in a Jurassic Park like landscape.

Located near Fajã Grande at the western part of the island, you will have to do a 20 minutes hike through a forest trail. Just be aware that most of the trail is in stones that can become slippery when it rains, so bring proper shoes like sneakers or hiking shoes (not flip flops).

Poço do Bacalhau

Another idyllic location not to miss in Flores is Poço do Bacalhau in Fajã Grande area. This stunning waterfall with 90 meters high falls down to some natural pools that are a great spot to refresh in Summer.

All the surrounding area is very beautiful and you can quite easily get there taking a very well conserved trail and pathway. In your way to the waterfall, you will see some typical stone houses and a watermill.

Fajã Grande

Fajã Grande is probably my favourite area in Flores. Not only because many Flores attractions are nearby, but also due to the fact that it is a small typical and authentic coastal village with amazing sea views.

It’s worth to take some time to walk by the sea promenade and to finish your day at the natural pools. If you take a late afternoon swim, you will be delighted by the best sunset in the island.

Portal Viewpoint

Flores Island has many amazing viewpoints, but one of the most scenic is Miradouro do Portal – Portal Viewpoint. You will see stunning views to the Atlantic Ocean, Fajã Grande area and the mountains where Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro is located.

Lagoa Comprida and Lagoa Negra

Did you know that Flores lagoons are formed by volcanic craters originated by the eruptions that gave rise to the island?

Another mandatory place to visit in Flores is the viewpoint to Lagoa Comprida and Lagoa Negra, two of the seven existing lagoons located at the heart of the island. 

Those two lagoons are close to each other, divided by a hill with lush vegetation. Their names Lagoa Comprida and Lagoa Negra mean “long lagoon” and “dark lagoon”. But a nice curiosity is that Lagoa Comprida is the darker one.

Caldeira Rasa e Funda Viewpoint

If you love scenic viewpoints, Flores is the right place to visit. Also at the heart of the island, I recommend to visit the viewpoint to Caldeira Rasa e Funda, two other volcanic lagoons.

The day that I visited this place, the horizon was covered in mist bringing a mystical atmosphere to the landscape. I stopped the car in an empty road to see the natural spectacle of fog covering the lagoon. When the sun finally broke through the fog, it created an amazing green lights show in the water – like northern lights dancing in the lagoon surface!

Rocha dos Bordões

This is a geological monument with more than 500 thousands of history, showcasing perfect columns of about 20 meters. Unfortunately I couldn’t see it well because when I visited the viewpoint it was foggy. But I saw pictures of it and it definitely deserves to be seen.

Fajã de Lopo Vaz

At the South of the island near Lajes das Flores village, Fajã de Lopo Vaz is another beautiful viewpoint to the sea. From this point starts a 3km round trip trail down to a black sand beach.

A historical curiosity about this location – this was one of the first places in the island to be settled and it was named Lopo Vaz because he was one of the first settlers in Flores.

Drive the Scenic ER 2 Road

Regional Road 2 (ER2) crosses the island from East to West and it’s a beautiful and scenic road to drive in the island.

It will take you less than half an hour to drive from one side of Flores to the other, but throughout that road there are amazing natural landscapes, viewpoints and the paths to some of the spots I mentioned before.

If you visit Flores in Summertime, you will see this road beautifully framed with hydrangeas.

Santa Cruz das Flores

Capital of the island, Santa Cruz das Flores is a small city located by the sea in the Eastern side of Flores. It is also where the regional airport is located, so this will be probably the first place that you visit when arriving to the island.

Take some time to walk by this traditional village and eat in one of the amazing restaurants with traditional Azorean food characterized by fish and seafood.

Some of the places to visit in the city are Flores Museum, a sea cave Gruta dos Enxareus and Fajã do Conde viewpoint. If you visit in Summertime, don’t miss Santa Cruz das Flores natural pools for a great day by the sea.

Eastern Cost

Drive the Eastern coast of the island from Santa Cruz das Flores to Ponta Delgada and you will be rewarded by beautiful sea views framed by the hydrangeas. Most likely you will also see the typical cattle from Azores peacefully grazing.

There are some viewpoints in the road where it’s worth to stop like Miradouro das Pedrinhas or Miradouro do Ilheu Furado.

Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is the northernmost village of Flores and it offers also some scenic places to visit, like Albarnaz lighthouse or Baía de Além viewpoint.

For more travel inspiration about Portuguese islands, check my blog posts “ Pico Island Azores Travel Guide, the Lost Paradise ” and “ Porto Santo in Madeira Travel Guide “.

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Flores, Azores 21 Things You MUST Do

05/19/2023 by Kristin Addis Leave a Comment

Flores island in the Azores is one of few places that had me questioning if I were in some version of the Truman Show . It was almost too perfect and pristine to be real. It felt like a movie set.

But Flores IS real. It’s remote, rugged, full of waterfalls, brimming with greenery, and though a small island, one could easily spend a week or more exploring.

We had the pleasure of visiting for four days. Here’s everything to NOT MISS the Island of Flores:

Table of Contents

1. Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro

This is the waterfall that makes Flores famous, though there are MANY stunning waterfalls all throughout the island.

It’s easy to see why this is so loved, with its 11 (or so?) distinct falls that cascade down into a dreamy lake with fish, white birds flying by, and calla lilies growing along the shore. It felt to me as though I’d stepped into a dream.

The hike to this waterfall less than half a mile from the parking lot, though I recommend wearing shoes with good tread as the volcanic rock path can be slippery.

2. Cascata da Ribeira Grande

Just next door to Ribeira do Ferreiro sits Ribiera Grande, an even bigger waterfall that you can also hike to. The trail will begin as a wide dirt road. Keep to the right when it forks and follow the rock cairns. The path takes about 30 minutes and ends with a stunning view.

3. Miradouro Craveiro Lopes

Want to see both waterfalls at the same time? The Craveiro Lopes overlook provides a sweeping view of the whole area. On a clear day you can see all the way to the village below. The Spot Azores webcam is located here, which is a good resource for checking fog on the island before heading out to chase waterfalls.

4. Stay in Moinho da Cascata

Have you ever imagined living back in the olden days, but with your own waterfall mill converted into a comfortable vacation rental? Me too, and it exists in Flores.

The Moinho da Cascata was built in the 1700s, but now has electricity, Wi-Fi, an induction stove, and four beds to choose from. It still very much feels like an old home, but with modern comforts. This one books out far in advance. Book your stay here.

If this one is full, I still highly recommend staying in the Faja Grande area for at least part of your Flores visit. It’s a charming town that’s close to the waterfalls and caldera lakes, and a great jumping off point for hikes (more on those below).

5. Visit the Natural Pools at the Westernmost Point in Europe

It doesn’t get any more westerly than Flores island for Europe! Looking at a map, this is no surpise – Flores and Corvo are out there .

We didn’t have a bright, sunny day on Flores, but if you do, the natural swimming pools here look delightful. Catch the sunset from them!

6. Fajã Grande

This town has charm written all over it. It’s small, quaint, and dripping with waterfalls. Plus, on a clear day, it’s a great spot to watch sunset. As mentioned above, I recommend spending at least a couple of days staying here.

When the weather is rough, it can really hit the western side hard. We had sideways rain for most of our stay here, but still, it was worth the experience of staying in such a lush area. I’d love to go back!

-Read Next –

Azores When to Go and Weather

7. Hike from Fajã Grande to Ponta Delgada

There are five main/official hikes on Flores, one of which I have my eye on for a future visit when the weather is clearer – the 12km point to point trail that goes from Fajã Grande to Ponta Delgada. The waterfalls, sea, an undulating mountain views would be incredible. Here are the other hikes:

• Fajã de Lopo Vaz – 3.4km loop
• Lajedo to Fajã Grande – 13km point-to-point
• Miradouro das Lagoas to Poço do Bacalhau – 7.3km point-to-point
• The Great Route Flores – 47 km point-to-point, however the first section is currently closed

Read more about them here.

8. Miradouro Lagoa Negra e Lagoa Comprida

These are two of the famous seven volcanic crater lagoons in the area that sit high in the mountains of the island. They’re all located fairly close to each other, and can be visited within a few minutes of each other as well.

Check the Fajã Grande webcam before heading out to be sure you’ll see the lakes, as they can often be in the clouds.

9. Miradouro Caldiera Rasa e Funda (Lago Lajes and Funda View)

These two lagoons are an interesting contrast to the ones mentioned above, with Funda displaying an emerald green hue. This lookout gives you a nice view of each lake individually, whereas the one mentioned next is located a bit higher with a gorgeous overlook view of both.

10. Miradouro Lagoas Rasa e Funda

We would have loved to continue onwards to this overlook, but as you can see above, the clouds were sitting pretty low on the lake and we wouldn’t have been able to see much. On a clear day, be sure to check it out as you can see both lakes at once from higher up!

11. Fajã de Lopo Vaz

One of few beaches on the island, this black sand, volcanic beach is gorgeous even if only for the view. It requires a somewhat steep and rocky climb down, and be sure to scan for Portuguese man-of-wars (and strong current) before jumping into the water.

12. Lunch at Bar O’Trancador

Heading south on the island, this lunch spot on the water has a personality, with baked goods, coffee, beers, and some of the best veggie burgers we had on the island. The patties were clearly home-made, and the owner was lovely.

13. Piscinas naturais de Santa Cruz

These natural pools in Santa Cruz, the largest town on the island (which isn’t saying much considering the island population is only 3500), are the biggest we saw and were accessible with steps down to the water and ladders going into the pools. We saw fish, sea grass, and various other animals swimming through. it’s essentially like snorkeling in a giant tide pool. I’d love to experience it on a sunny summer day!

14. Miradouro dos Caimbros

Heading north from Santa Cruz, you’re in for a treat with overlooks all along the green, rugged coastline. Most of them, including this one, are quick roadside pit stops with room for a couple of cars. Be on the lookout or you could easily pass it (map with all the stops plotted below).

15. Miradouro dos Cedros

Next you’ll see Miradouro dos Cedros on the right side of the road with this lovely overlook. It’s a view clear to the town of Santa Cruz with several dramatic rock formations dotting the coastline along the way.

Between these two overlooks there’s also a campsite with a short walk to the pointy rock pictured above, if you fancy some exploration on foot.

( Yellow Jacket linked here – I highly recommend a rain jacket!)

16. Miradouro do Ilhéu Furado

You’ll turn right down a short peninsula, fringed with green cow enclosures on the way and a few quaint homes. This was one of my favorite overlooks, with this circular-shaped rock that seemed out of a Dr. Seuss book. There’s also a small museum nearby with some old trinkets that’s maintained by a friendly local man. Bring a few coins as a thank you if you stop in.

17. Miradouro de Ponta Delgada

There are several miradors you may pass on the way to Ponta Delgada – stop at as many as you wish. We enjoyed this one with a view of the town and cows eating grass all the way down. The town itself doesn’t have a lot going on – a couple of small bars and snack shops and a campground at the point – but it’s lovely from above.

18. Miradouro da Baía de Além and Farol de Albarnaz

After driving through Ponta Delgada, follow the road onwards to this northwestern lookout that took my breath away. Can you see the waterfalls in the distance? It was just SO dreamy. The blooming wild flowers only added to the magic of the experience.

You’ll park just in front of the lighthouse and carefully walk along the coast to the left to access this one.

(By the way, I rented most of my wardrobe for this trip – here’s how you can rent designer vacay clothes , too)

19. Miradouro Pico da Casinha

Located closer to the middle of the island, this mirador has a stunning view of the taller mountain peaks on the island. This can be another one that comes down to weather and timing, depending on if you get lucky with the clouds that day.

20. Miradouro do Vale da Fazenda

If you choose to head west from the Ponta Delgada area, you’ll pass by the viewpoint that gives you the pico view mentioned above from a different perspective. It was too foggy to see when we went, but on a clear day looks incredible.

21. Day trip to Corvo Island

Corvo island is the most remote in the Azores (just after Flores), and also the smallest, which makes for the perfect day trip. Not only will you see Flores from the sea as you depart, but you’ll get a chance to visit this tiny island (only 17km2!). Only 430 people live there in the town of Vila do Corvo, and the main draws are the bird watching and caldera view. Take the public ferry or a day trip. Make sure it’s a calm day, though, as the boat ride takes place in a large zodiac.

Here’s a map with all of the stops + accommodation mentioned above:

When to Go and Weather

As you may have noticed, I referenced fog and weather a few times throughout my post, and that’s because we encountered a lot of it on Flores! We were also visiting in early May, and summer will typically be less rainy and cloudy. That said, Flores seems to experience more weather than São Miguel, so give it all the time you can just in case a few days are gloomy or rainy.

Staying Connected

I relied on Google Maps to get around the islands that we visited, including the remote Flores. The connection was pretty good through my Nomad eSim (use the code “KRIS56JB” for $3 off!), which connected to the local Vodafone network. The rentals we had all had apple car play, which made it easy to display the map and get directions as we drove.

Nomad is running summer promotions starting until the end of July, with all of their 10GB plans on sale for 10% off. If you purchase their Europe single country plans, you will get an additional 5% off (promotion ends May 23)! You can purchase data plans from Nomad eSIM app on IOS, Android and online Webstore.

Flores was the cherry on top of our Azores trip, which also included a week road tripping around São Miguel staying in some truly wonderful places. I can already tell you the Azores are like nothing I’ve ever seen and I’m already planning my next trip back.

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Magic happens when the adventure begins

Azores , Flores , Nature · May 21, 2016

The most beautiful places you must see in Flores, Azores

Flores is my absolute favorite from the three Azorean islands I visited. As soon as I spotted the first rock formations, caves and waterfalls at the coastline, while the plane was descending, I fell in love. I instantly knew this island would be absolute paradise and it was! Never have I seen so many idyllic places in such a small area (143 km²). Because it is such a small island, it is hard to miss out on the most beautiful sights, but I’m going to share them anyway!

Flores’ most beautiful places you must see:

1. lagoa negra & lagoa comprida.

Two different colored lakes laying side by side at an altitude of about 600 meters in the highlands of Flores. The green one is Lagoa Negra (which I thought was very confusing because it means black lake) and the black one is Lagoa Comprida (which means long lake). Lagoa Negra is about 100 meter deep and a waterfall flows right into the Lagoa Comprida. You can hike along Lagoa Comprida but make sure to wear good hiking shoes, because the ground is very moist.

2. Poço do Bacalhau

This 90 meter high waterfall can be found near Faja Grande and is a popular swimming attraction, even though the water coming from the mountains is freezing cold!

3. Lagoa Rasa & Lagoa Funda

The sight of these two crater lakes situated at different altitude is surreal. You can spot them from the road in the hills (there are no miradouros, but you can stop on the road) and drive in between them to get a closer look.

4. Poço da Alagoinha

You can find this dreamy lagoon formed by 20 breath taking waterfalls near Fajazinha. Silence rules this places (except for the sound of the waterfalls, the birds and the wind through the trees). I sat here for more than an hour every day that I spent in Flores. Not only to rest after the steep and rather difficult hike, but to admire the incredible sight.

5. Rocha dos Bordoes

6. Reserva Florestal Natural do Morro Alto e Pico da Sé

The center of Flores consists of a road through the mountains that leads to the North of the island. There is just one miradouro on the way but what a sight of the Pico dos Sete Pés! And of course, again, a beautiful waterfall!

7. Northern coastline

Flores has a very impressive coastline, especially in the North. The sight of Corvo makes it even more spectacular. Don’t forget to stop at every miradouro you pass. The views are always worth it!

Soon more about the Azores so stay tuned and don’t forget to subscribe or like the Facebook page !

If you like my pictures I suggest to follow my Instagram account where you can find a lot more!

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November 27, 2016 at 3:21 PM

Hi , when did you go to the Azores it looks lovely and green ?

November 30, 2016 at 8:03 PM

Hi, I’ve been there in September. But the Azores are always green 🙂

December 31, 2016 at 12:57 AM

Ik zag je reactie bij Visit Portugal n.a.v. mijn blog. Mooie foto’s van jou ook inderdaad!

December 31, 2016 at 11:55 AM

Hi Denise! Thanks! 🙂 Happy 2017!

March 19, 2017 at 12:33 PM

You have discovered the one of the two world of the Flores island, the land paradise… Do you want discovery the other, an underwater paradise?! I’m available to receive you…

March 19, 2017 at 12:35 PM

I have a spot, that you end the dive under the waterfall…

March 19, 2017 at 1:00 PM

Maybe one day when I return 🙂

July 10, 2017 at 5:36 PM

Thanks for this wonderful post. I am planning a trip to Flores and there are not so many webs (nor travel guides!) where you can find information about this island. This was very useful.

July 11, 2017 at 8:15 PM

thanks for your nice comment! Have a great trip!

March 18, 2018 at 9:27 PM

Hi Joelle, thanks for this post. How did you get around to see all those beautiful places? By car or bus? Or walking?

March 18, 2018 at 10:48 PM

I rented a car (Watch my videos on YouTube to discover more)

July 15, 2018 at 2:34 AM

Hi Joelle, I’m glad that you liked Flores Island. I’ve been there and in Corvo Island for a few years ago, so I’m Azorean from São Miguel Island. When you will came back to Flores and Corvo Island?

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The island of Flores is 16.6 km long and has 12.2 km at its maximum width, which translates into a surface of 141.4 sq. km.

The island of Flores is 16.6 km long and has 12.2 km at its maximum width, which translates into a surface of 141.4 sq. km. Together with the island of Corvo, which is 17.9 km away, it forms the Western Group of the Azores Archipelago. The European Continent has its westernmost point on this piece of land where 3 793 people live (2011 data). At an altitude of 911 metres, the Morro Alto is the island’s highest point and is located at 39°27’48’’ latitude north and 31°13’13’’ west.

The Portuguese discovery of the islands that form the western group probably took place sometime in 1452. It is believed that Diogo de Teive was the navigator responsible for the finding of this “far away” land. The name Flores (Flowers) is believed to be associated to the abundance of natural flowers that the island showcased as soon as the 1470s. It was not an easy task to try and populated the island. Actually, the geographical uniqueness of the Western Group is mirrored in its political structure, because unlike the other islands, Flores and Corvo constituted a single fiefdom that King Afonso V handed in 1453 to his uncle D. Afonso, Duke of Bragança and Count of Barcelos.

The first efforts to settle Flores were also carried out by the Flemish, namely by Willem van der Haghen, who had initially settled on the island of São Jorge and then tried to settle on a land located further to the west around 1480. Whether it was the disappointment with the island’s economic potential or its isolation from the rest of the archipelago, the truth is that the experience failed and the Flemish returned to São Jorge. The island of Flores was abandoned for many years, and there is only evidence of a successful settlement in 1508 thanks to the efforts of the Fonseca family. Despite the late settlement, there was a sustained demographic growth. Lajes das Flores was granted a town charter in 1515, with Santa Cruz das Flores obtaining it in 1548. From the late 16th century, the activity of the Mascarenhas will further boost the demographic development of Flores.

In a similar fashion to the rest of the archipelago, the economy was based on cereals for about two centuries, as well as on sheep breeding, the production of cloth and fishing.

During the 16th and the 17th centuries, the island lived in tranquillity and isolation, a condition that was threatened by the frequent and unwelcomed visits of privateers. As Europe’s westernmost point, Flores had a highly relevant tactical position and functioned as a strategic location for the logistic support that the Crown provided to ships arriving from the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Consequently the island was closely watched by privateers and pirates, whilst they quietly awaited the passing of Spanish galleons filled with precious metals from the Americas and Portuguese carracks from the East.

In the 19th century, Lord Alfred Tennyson perpetuated in the poem The Revenge this bygone time of sea adventures and pillages. “At Flores in the Azores Sir Richard Grenville lay” opens the description of the heroic defeat, at the hands of the Spanish fleet, of the ship captained by Sir Richard Grenville, an English privateer. By the mid 18th century, Flores became a safe harbour for the English and North-American whaling fleets, looking for supplies and sailors. This external influence required the construction of bases for the hunting of sperm whales at Lajes das Flores and Santa Cruz das Flores. There are still vestiges of these premises, which were then built for the extraction of oil from the whales.

The opening of the airport in 1972 and the construction of modern ports led to a greater integration of the Western Group in the Azores Archipelago. The services sector now supports the island’s economy, employing about 60% of the local workforce, with tourism playing an increasingly larger role.

The undulating central massif of volcanic origin dominates the whole landscape. Cones with smooth slopes rise from the top of this plateau, where craters with sharp, rocky walls have been transformed in lakes. These are the remains of a once rebellious Nature that now welcomes visitors with kindness. From the summit of the hill Morro Alto, one can see an intense green ocean where the native laurissilva forest is still present. Among the intense greens of the vegetation, there are outstanding waterfalls and streams that water a natural garden of colourful flowers, where the pink of the azaleas and hydrangeas stands out.

Craters, lakes and streams dot the landscape of Flores. The water of the streams flows either lazily at the surface in the central plateau or quickly at the waterfalls and along the long, deep valleys. And before reaching the ocean, it is still powerful enough to move the turbines at the island’s several hydroelectric power stations.

The island features seven volcanic craters that have changed into beautiful lakes. Despite being very close to each other, the Caldeira Rasa and the Caldeira Funda, slightly to the south, are located at different heights. The luxuriant vegetation and the bunches of flowers on the slopes are the natural setting of the island. Nearly at the island’s centre, there are the craters: Caldeira Branca, Caldeira Seca, Caldeira Comprida, and Caldeira Negra (or Funda), the latter with a depth of 105 metres and a special shade of blue. Isolated from the others, the Caldeira da Lomba is surrounded by a small hill and hydrangeas.

One of the most famous monuments of the Azores, the rock Rocha dos Bordões is made up by a large set of vertical basalt columns. The prismatic or columnar jointing resembles a pipe organ and stands out at the top of a hill. Covered by moss, lichen and other vegetation, the basaltic rock changes its colour throughout the day as if requesting our eternal return to this site.

More geological formations with peculiar shapes can also be seen at the hill Morro dos Frades, where some see on the rock the shadows of a friar and a nun. Even more symbolic, the Monchique Islet represents the westernmost piece of land of the European Continent. Seen from Vigia da Ponta Negra, close to the Albarnaz Lighthouse, this black rock puts a full stop to Europe and serves as a foreword for the discovery of an island and of an archipelago.

The area between Fajãzinha and Fajã Grande is one of the most beautiful coastlines of the Azores. Through the long green wall that borders this area, there are almost twenty waterfalls, with the one named Ribeira Grande standing out given its 300 metres height. At the foot of the cliff, there are several permanent puddles, such as the Poço do Bacalhau and the Poço da Alagoinha, which is also known as Lagoa dos Patos. A walk to the cliff provides you with the opportunity of enjoying from a close distance the waterfalls and the scenery that Nature has carved out, which is an invitation to contemplation and to a reinvigorating swim. There is the dark grey colour of the rock, the green of the luxuriant vegetation, the white from the foam and the crystal blue of the water that come together to offer a most prodigious view.

Countless islets, headlands, shoals, inlets, coastal caves, prismatic jointing, waterfalls, and impressive valleys are some of the particularities that the coastline of Flores has to offer. Adorning the high cliffs of the south coast, Fajã Nova at the Ponta da Rocha Alta and Fajã de Lopo Vaz can be reached through a walking trail carved along the cliff.

On the island’s north coast, the low and linear coastal cliff between Ponta Delgada and Ponta do Albarnaz gives way to the insurmountable terrain of the island’s northwest coast, which can only be crossed through walking trails, such as the one between the lighthouse at the Ponta do Albarnaz and the Ponta da Fajã. It is a difficult trail but it affords breathtaking views.

On the other hand, at the lava fajãs of Santa Cruz, Lajes and Fajã Grande, the sea softly embraces the low rocky tips of black lava, and on calm days, it highlights a glittering seafloor titillating with life.

Throughout the island there are various churches that stand out for the white of their walls surrounded by the predominant and unavoidable grey of the stonework. The Nossa Senhora de Lurdes Church, built in the 20th century, is special because it takes advantage of a hill in order to be seen and, simultaneously, it works as a lookout over the surrounding fields and trees. It is equally from a lookout over Fajãzinha that one can see all of the parish’s houses lost in the middle of a green plain.

In Santa Cruz das Flores, the Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church stands out from the other buildings because of its grand façade, and the narrow streets of the town are a reminder of the past. The central Marquês do Pombal Square features a colourful Império (Holy Ghost Chapel) and a walk down to the harbour provides new chromatic experiences given the colourful fishing boats. From the lookout at the hill Monte das Cruzes, the whole town can be seen.

In Lajes das Flores, the Nossa Senhora do Rosário Church stands out. It was built in the 18th century, with its façade being subsequently covered with tiles. From the church square, surrounded by araucarias, there is a view over the port and part of the town, and it can be the starting point of your discovery of the impérios (small Holy Ghost chapels), of the basaltic stone houses and of the bridge, dating back to 1743, over the stream at Ribeira dos Morros.

The flower arrangements made from the pith of hydrangeas are a delicate work that requires firm and skilled hands. The tradition of the island also includes flower arrangements made from fish scales, objects made out of shells, embroideries and crochet. The wood miniatures resemble farming tools.

Located in a section of the old São Francisco Convent in Santa Cruz, the Flores Museum documents the relations of the people with the land and the sea. There are collections on the exploitation of farms, scrimshaw and maritime tools, along with tools used in carpentry, steel works, cotton and wool textiles. The collection recovered from the Slavonia, a ship wrecked on the coast of Flores in 1909, is quite curious.

The Festival of the Emigrant is celebrated to pay homage to those who left the island looking for a better life, but who come back to their homeland every year. The popular festivities and the meetings of old friends are the tune played during the month of July. In the previous month, on the 24 June, the locals also celebrate the São João Festival. The devotion to this patron saint goes back to the time of the settlers who came from the island of Terceira, and it has been kept alive and strong throughout the centuries. In a similar fashion to the rest of the archipelago, the Holy Ghost Festivals take place from May to September. This cult is especially and colourfully celebrated at Santa Cruz given the arches of flowers that decorate the streets.

The islands of the western group remained isolated for centuries, given their distance to the other islands of the archipelago and the inclement weather that sometimes hit them. As such, the inhabitants learned to rely on the local production for their staple diet.

During the winter months, when the fishing boats could not go fishing in the abundant sea, a lot of pork was eaten. Pork dishes remain as witnesses of those times. The salted pork meat is cooked and served with potatoes and cabbage. Taro root with sausage and water-cress soup can also be included in the most traditional recipes of Flores. The dried cheese produced on the island features a soft paste with a firm texture.

The surrounding sea is generous and stimulates the food imagination of the local people. The tarts tortas de erva patinha bring together the concept of an omelette served with algae that grows on the shores. Fish is part of the cuisine heritage of the island and is served in recipes such as roasted tuna and stewed conger eel.

In some localities, the microclimate favours the growth of exotic fruits. From the guava tree, yellow, red and purple fruits are picked to make a local dessert. The honey is imbibed with the aroma of the thousands of flowers that embellish this island.

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Flores (Ilha das Flores)

With a rugged coastline the lush island of Flores , 17 km by 12 km (10 miles by 7 miles), abounds in evergreens, crater lakes and steep mountain waterfalls.

Together with Corvo, Flores forms the western group (Grupo Ocidental) of islands of the Azores archipelago . The main settlements are Santa Cruz and Lajes . These islands are some of the remotest of the remote places in Portugal.

The island's name "Flowers" derives from the thousands of hydrangeas that thrive in the warm, moist climate.

The island of Flores was one of the last in the Azores chain to be settled during the Age of Discovery under the overall direction of Henry the Navigator . It was discovered by Diogo de Teive in 1452.

Immigrants came mostly from other islands in the Azores as well as from the areas of northern Portugal. Flemish settlers, as in the other islands, were also prime movers in the development of the island in particular Willem Van der Haegen.

The early economy was based on wheat and woad.

Whaling off the coast was a major industry on the island until whaling was finally abolished in 1986.

Nowadays tourism is the major source of income with the island offering a range of eco-tourism activities such as hiking, canyoning and boat tours to see Corvo from the sea.

Santa Cruz & Lajes

The main towns are Santa Cruz on the north coast and Lajes on the east coast.

Santa Cruz is the larger of the two with a population of around 2,200 people whereas Lajes is home to approximately 1,800 inhabitants. The entire population of Flores numbers just over 4,000 and is contained in these two municipalities.

Both towns have the majority of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses and holiday homes as well as some good restaurants and cafes.

Smaller settlements are scattered around the coast and include the third largest settlement of Ponta Delgada on the northern tip of the island.

Fajã Grande is the westernmost village in Europe.

Museums on Flores include the Fábrica da Baleia do Boqueirão a former whaling factory now dedicated to the island's history and culture of whaling. On display are traditional whaling boats and their equipment as well as the knives and tools used in rendering the sperm whales caught in the surrounding seas. The factory was in operation from 1944 to 1981.

The exhibits have explanations in both English and Portuguese and include audiovisual displays. These include a 1970s' documentary on the island's whaling industry by a French director.

The nearby Museu das Flores in the former Convent of São Boaventura has exhibits on a variety of subjects including ethnology, history and culture as well as a collection of scrimshaw.

A church was one of the first things the early settlers would build in their settlement in the Azores. It became the center of each community and remains so to this day. Some churches of note on Flores include the following.

The  Igreja de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios  in Fajãzinha is an 18th-century church built in the Revivalist style. The structure has three naves and a bell tower.

The  Igreja Paroquial de Lajes das Flores  aka Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário is another 18th-century church on Flores. It has two rectangular bell towers, a single nave and a sacristy in an annex.

The  Church of São Pedro  is located in Ponta Delgada on the northern coast of the island. It dates from the 16th century but was rebuilt in the 18th century. The church has a single nave and lateral bell tower. Ponta Delgada is the third largest settlement on the island after Santa Cruz and Lajes.

The large  Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição  in Santa Cruz das Flores dates from the 18th century but was not consecrated until 1859. The church has three naves, a belfry and bell towers on either side of the facade. The decorative interior is rich in gilded and painted woodwork. The retable (area above and behind the altar) and ceiling are painted with figurative panels.

As with all the islands in the Azores archipelago, Flores suffered attacks from pirates. Forts were built on the coasts but now are mainly ruins used as viewpoints (miradouro).

Beaches are not the island's major attraction but that is not to say there is nowhere to enjoy getting in the sea. Swimming is possible at Fajã Grande and Lajes, both pebble beaches. There are also natural volcanic pools ( piscinas naturais ) at Fajã Grande and Santa Cruz.

The island is volcanic in nature like the rest of the Azores. Poço Ribeira Do Ferreiro  with its multiple waterfalls is an incredible sight. Many tourists choose to stay in guesthouses nearby. Near Poço Ribeira are several crater lakes also of great loveliness.

The whole island is indeed classified as a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and it is easy to see why.

Waterfalls, lakes and caves dot the pristine landscape of the island. There are around 20 waterfalls on Flores some of them cascading directly into the sea from steep cliffs. Cascata do Poço do Bacalhau and Cascata da Ribeira do Fundão are two fabulous falls of note.

The offshore islands are also important habitats for a variety of seabirds.

The tiny island Corvo (' cormorant ' in Portuguese) is only 6 km by 3 km (4 miles by 2 miles) and is reached by daily boat from Flores or on tours. With around 300 inhabitants in the solitary village of  Vila Nova , the island is a haven of tranquility and a center for bird-watching in its crater lakes.

The Festival of the Emigrant is an important festival on Flores and celebrates those who have left the island for other places but return annually in July to catch up with family and friends.

Other local festivals include the São João Festival in July and the Festas do Espírito Santo (Festivals of the Holy Spirit), which is so important in the Azores.

Flores Tourist Office

Santa Cruz : Posto de Turismo das Flores 9580 Santa Cruz das Flores Tel: 292 523 69

Getting to + around Flores

Flores Airport (FLW) has connecting flights to Porta Delgada Airport for onward connections to Lisbon Airport and elsewhere.

Flores Airport (Aeroporto das Flores) connects with other islands in the Azores namely Ponta Delgada, Faial, Terceira and Corvo on flights operated by SATA Air Açores.

The airport is a good place to rent a car on the island.

Flights to Porta Delgada

There are direct flights to Porta Delgada Airport from Lisbon and other European cities including London (Heathrow) with TAP.

Air Azores (part of the SATA Group) flies to many European cities including direct flights to London (Gatwick), Zurich, Munich, Frankfurt, Madrid and many other destinations in Europe. These include Manchester in the UK via Lisbon , Porto , Faro and Funchal .

There are also direct flights to Boston (about 5 hours flying time), Oakland and Providence, Rhode Island in the USA. In addition there are also flights to the Azores from Toronto in Canada.

All the islands of the Azores have air connections from Porta Delgada with SATA Air Azores.

There are no ferries from continental Portugal to the Azores. You will have to fly. Ferries do connect the various groups of islands in the Azores, however.

Sailings are subject to the weather and the season, being less frequent in winter when the seas can be rough.

The boats are operated by  Atlânticoline  ( atlanticoline.pt ).

Car ferries between the eastern group of islands  São Miguel and  Santa Maria  take 3 hours.

Ferries also connect the central group of islands: São Jorge, Graciosa , Pico , Terceira and Faial.

Faial (Horta) to São Jorge (Velas) takes 2 hours; Faial (Horta) to Pico (São Roque) takes 1 hour, 10 minutes; Faial (Horta) to Pico (Madalena) takes 30 minutes; Pico (Madalena) to São Jorge (Velas) takes 1 hour, 20 minutes; Pico (São Roque) to São Jorge (Velas) is 50 minutes.

The western group of islands Flores and Corvo are connected by a small passenger only ferry (40 minutes).

The ferry terminal on Flores is in Lajes.

*All journey times are dependent on sea conditions.

Bus travel in Portugal

Bus transport is intermittent on the island but local buses operated by UTC do operate. Buses run from Santa Cruz to Ponta Delgada, Santa Cruz to Lajes, Lajes to Fajã Grande, Santa Cruz to Sai da Fajãzinha and Santa Cruz to Fajã Grande.

You can find a timetable here: ( utc.pt/horario-flores )

Car Travel in Portugal

Car or taxi rental are good options for exploring the island. Indeed, car rental is really a must if you want to get the most out of your vacation on Flores and visit some of the more remote spots. If you hire a taxi agree a time and place with your driver to pick up you if you go walking or sightseeing.

Search and Book Car Rental in Flores

From the Airport

Flores Airport is virtually downtown in Santa Cruz.

Portugal Hotel & Hostel Accommodation

Featured Hotel

Aldeia da Cuada - Fajã Grande, 9960-070 Fajã Grande, Portugal. Book this hotel

Accommodation on Flores mainly consists of lodges, rental homes and guesthouses.

Some well-liked properties to choose from include the Residencia Mateus and the Casa Atlantida both on the west coast close to Poço Ribeira Do Ferreiro.

Elsewhere on the island try the Casa da Guida in Lajes on the southeast coast or the nearby Casa Boa Onda , a holiday home with kitchen, a lounge, dining area and satellite flat-screen TV.

See a full listing of available accommodation in Flores .

Book Hotel Accommodation in Pico & The Azores

Royal Garden Hotel Ponta Delgada

Hotels in Portugal - Booking.com

Hotels in Portugal - Agoda

Hostels in Portugal - Booking.com

A Flores specialty is salted pork which was eaten when the fishing boats couldn't go out in the rough winter seas. Seafood dishes include stewed conger and tuna. Tortas de erva patinha are an unusual dessert flavored with marine algae. The island's honey is also outstanding.

Restaurante Casa Do Rei in Lajes das Flores is ever popular and a good place to try the local cuisine .

Also recommended are Restaurante Sereia for great seafood and wine and Restaurante O Moreao virtually next door in Santa Cruz near the museums. Papadiamandis on Rua do Porto in Fajã Grande is great if you are staying nearby. Cana Roca has its fans for its excellent pizza.

The Azores produces its own good quality wine , from mostly American grape varieties. The best wines come from Graciosa, Pico and Biscoitos in the north of Terceira .

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Flores has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with hot summers and very mild, moist and often windy winters. many flights are canceled as the result of strong winds in the winter months. Get more weather information for Portugal

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What to visit in Flores island Azores

If you are planning a visit to the Azores, you should include in your plan the island of Flores, which has been one of our favourite islands in the archipelago. Find below the places you should not miss when you visit the island of Flores. Also the experiences you can have while staying on the island.

Since 2009, Flores Island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a classification that allows the unique characteristics of the region to remain untouched, such as vegetation, flora and fauna.

1. Hike to the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro

(also known as Poço da Alagoinha or Lagoa das Patas)

This lake can easily become your favourite spot on the island. It is located in the parish of Fajã Grande and is only a few kilometres away from the municipality, being quite easily reachable. What makes this place incredible is the green cliff from which the waters of several waterfalls flow out. This vertical wall is totally covered in intense vegetation, that turns this place into a unique natural wonder. This Poço (lake) is part of the Morro Alto Forest Reserve Zone, an environment protected area.

Useful info:

• Access through a 700 metres path / 10 minute walk from the main road
• Start: near the bridge over the Ferreiro stream
• Visit in the afternoon to have the sun on the cliff and waterfalls
• You can (and should) combine this Poço with the Poço do Bacalhau in a fabulous hike (see below)
• Location: Google/Maps

2. Visit the Poço do Bacalhau

The Poço do Bacalhau is again a combination of an impressive waterfall that drops from a high cliff to create a small lake at its bottom. The ninety-metre drop is not only impressive because of its height, but also because of its location, in the bucolic surroundings of Fajã Grande. The clear and fresh waters of the waterfall create a pool, ideal for a quick swim after the hike.

• Access through a trail and walkway / 5 minute walk from the main road
• Start: near the coast, 700 metres from the port
• You can combine this Poço with the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreira in a fabulous hike (see below).

3. Hike to the Seven Lagoons district

There are at least seven lakes (Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa Funda, Lagoa Seca, Lagoa Branca and Lagoa da Lomba) that are worth a visit and they are all quite close to each other. It is possible to visit them while touring the island by car (unfortunately there is no public transport servicing the lakes) and some of the hikes pass through some of the lakes.

• Check our article about the lagoons from the Seven Lagoons District

4. Don’t miss the waterfalls

There is no shortage of waterfalls on the island of Flores. The reason for that is the abundance of rain, but in summer you should not get a lot of rainy days. We stayed 10 days in May and only got one rainy day. You can try to find them on your own, but you will need a car to go from one to the other. Some of the waterfalls are really hidden gems and we only found them because we were with a local guide.

Useful info: 

• Check our article with some of the most beautiful  waterfalls in Flores 
• Take a local guide at  Experience OC . Try their Extreme Waterfalls Experience.

5. Stay at Fajã Grande

Fajã Grande has a small population of about 200 inhabitants only, but has got a good amount of waterfalls, and some of them rank amongst the most beautiful in Europe. It is also known for being the westernmost village in all of Europe. It’s a quiet village, whose inhabitants make a living out of fishing and, more recently, tourism.

• Don’t be scared of the weird screams you will hear at night, if you are sleeping near the coast. These are no ghosts nor witches screaming. These are the sounds made by the Cory’s Shearwater. Strange at first but when we got used to it, we looked forward to the evening to listen to these birds’ songs.
• There’s a free camping site with very good infra-structures in Fajã Grande (check below).

6. Walk up until the whalers’ lookout

Just in the outskirts of Fajã Grande, near the restaurant  Casa do Vigia , there is a trail that leads to Fajãzinha. A few metres into the trail, there’s another path to the right that leads upwards to the old whalers’ lookout. It is worth to make the detour and walk the rough path for incredible views over Fajã Grande.

7. Enjoy the views over Fajãzinha

The best way to fully appreciate the beauty of Fajãzinha is from one of the outlooks from above the hamlet. But don’t forget to drive down the deep descent to the centre of the hamlet, or to include it in one of your hikes for a feel of a truly rural place.

• Try the hike that starts at Fajã Grande and goes through Fajãzinha and Aldeia da Cuada. A good part of it follows along the coast (see below).

8. Stay at Aldeia da Cuada

Today, the Aldeia da Cuada is a tourist resort with sustainable lodgings. It used to be a hamlet which was set up in 1676 and later abandoned, in the 1960’s, when the population emigrated to North America. During its most prosperous period, there lived 122 inhabitants at Cuada, housed in twenty stone houses. Teotónia and Carlos Silva have bought all the houses of the hamlet and restored them, while keeping the original architecture, where stone is the main character.

• Book your room at Aldeia da Cuada

9. Enjoy Santa Cruz das Flores

Santa Cruz is the capital and largest village in Flores. You will most certainly arrive here, because that’s where the airport is located. Here you will find most of the accommodations on offer and a few nice restaurants. But the village has its own attractions to keep you busy for a couple of days.

• There’s a camping site next to the natural pools (Closed at the time of our visit).

10. Swim at the natural pools of Santa Cruz das Flores

The natural pools of Santa Cruz das Flores are located next to the camping site, and are accessible via a structure of concrete stairs. Below, there are a few pools with clear ocean water, and many places to hang out while sunbathing. The perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing moment.

• Location: Google Maps

11. Visit the whale museum in the old Fábrica da Baleia do Boqueirão (Santa Cruz)

The whale museum is located in the old whale factory, an industry that hunted and transformed sperm whales and that worked until 1986. The museum is well presented with many explanations in English and is worth a visit to learn about this industry which was once so important to this island and to the Azores in general.

• Entry: 3 EUR
• Opening Hours: High season (June-September) – Monday to Sunday: 9.00 – 17.30.                                            Low season (October – May) – Monday to Saturday: 09.00 – 17.00
• Read more about the old whale hunting industry in the Azores .

12. Don’t miss the church of our Lady of Lourdes (in Fazenda de Santa Cruz)

From all the churches in Flores, for us, this one is the most beautifully located! It is only two kilometres northwards of Santa Cruz das Flores, on the road to Ponta Delgada. Were it not for the typical Portuguese architecture, we could almost imagine we were somewhere in Switzerland.

13. Camp in the Alagoa Bay

Alagoa is one of the hidden gems of the island. It is an excellent spot to see the sun rise. The bay has privileged views over the Ilhéu dos Moinhos (The Mills Islets), which is home to the biggest colony of roseate terns. The place is also a weekend favourite for locals who come here to grill and spend the night.

• There’s a free camping site with gorgeous views and some basic infra-structures (i.e. no warm showers).

14. Drive until Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is a tiny village (and the third oldest after Lajes and Santa Cruz das Flores) in the northernmost end of the island. Before starting the deep descent into the village, stop at one of the miradouros (outlooks) for amazing views of the village from above.

15. Don’t miss Ponta do Albernaz

This is a natural rock cliff located in the western portion of Ponta Delgada. You can drive all the way along the coast for incredible views over the cliffs. Or you can come here along one of the trails that passes here. The lighthouse is located just next to them. Beware! Winds can be very strong here!

16. Look for the lighthouse at Ponta do Albernaz

Ponta do Albernaz Lighthouse has the singularity of being the westernmost lighthouse in the Azores archipelago and also in Europe. Apart from that, it is 15-metre high and its light signal ranges 41 kilometres. Its position is strategic, on a high cliff on the west coast, allowing the signal to be seen from the coast of Corvo Island and all over the northwest coast of Flores. Ponta do Albernaz Lighthouse is the most powerful lighthouse in the Azores.

• Located in the parish of Ponta Delgada
• Visits possible on Wednesdays
• The Lighthouse is the first point of arrival of migratory birds to the island of Flores. As it is a coastal location to the north, it is where they stop first. Thus, it is an important place for the observation of seabirds

17. Stop at the Bordões Rock

The Bordões rock is a large set of vertical basalt columns that resemble a pipe organ. Its 20-metre high columns turn this rock bigger than the famous Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. There are a few outlooks from Mosteiros to Lajedo that provide good views of this natural phenomenon. According to science, this rock was created 570,000 years ago with the solidification of volcanic lava.

18. Visit Lajedo

The small village of Lajedo is accessible through the road, that twists down the valley. It is a really small hamlet, with a nice church and narrow streets. It also has this high rock standing all by itself, which gives a special charm to the place.

19. Stop at the many miradouros (outlooks)

There are 20 official lookouts spread throughout the island. All of the lookouts have parking lots allocated to them, so there is no need to park on the road for great views. These are some of our favourite lookouts:

• Miradouro Craveiro Lopes for views over Fajãzinha
• Miradouro da Pedrinha for views over Ponta Delgada
• Miradouro Arcos Ribeira Cruz for views over Ribeira da Cruz
• Vigia da Baleia for views over Fajã Grande

20. Try the delicious limpets ( lapas ), a local speciality

Almost every restaurant in Flores serves limpets as a starter. They are usually grilled with a lot of garlic and lemon juice. In order to be well prepared the limpets need to be soft, if the limpet is very chewy, it means it was over cooked. Enjoy!

21. Have a glimpse over the Island of Corvo

During our stay in Flores, we didn’t always see the neighbour island Corvo. Sometimes Corvo gets  a lenticular cloud  over its summit that covers the entire island. If you are patient, wait for the cloud to become smaller or to dissipate in order to have a superb glimpse of it.

22. Have a boat tour around the island

You should not miss the opportunity to have a boat tour around the island, or at least, a boat tour along the northeast coast. There are several caves, and very interesting rock formations along the coast, which are better seen from the sea.

• It is better to combine a boat trip to Corvo with a visit off the coast of Flores. There are several companies offering that service (Corvo+Flores coast on a day tour). The price of a ticket costs around 35 EUR.

23. Have a car tour around the island

Although it is possible to drive around the island in one single day, we strongly advise you against it! Why should you hurry, when you can rent a car for a couple of days, and go from one lookout to the other, all spread around the island. If you plan to visit the island and not hike any trails, nor take any swimming breaks, then one to two days should be enough for that. But we stayed ten days and feel we had a good grasp, with a good combination of hiking, swimming, visiting the villages and going to one museum.

• We rented a car with Autatlantis and can only recommend them. Prices and service were very good.

24. Try the delicious fresh tuna steak

Almost every single restaurant will have its own variation of tuna fish. Our preferred way was grilled and served with a sesame sauce. Portions in Flores are generous, therefore make sure you do not over order! These three steaks were actually on one dish for one person only! Do you see what we mean?

25. Be attentive to the fields to spot new born calves

One day, while we were driving towards the top of the island, we noticed two men close to a cow that was lying down. As we were driving slowly, we noticed the very small calf next to the cow. We stopped the car and spoke to the men who told us the cow had just delivered. We were happy to see the small calf giving its first steps, a very touching moment, that one can only experience in a place like Flores!

26. Stay at the camping sites

There are five Camping sites on the island. We have tried some of them and were quite impressed that some could be used for free and, despite that, had very good facilities, including hot showers. The five camping sites are located in:

• Fajã Grande (free, hot showers), located next to the snack-bar Barraca Q’abana, whose owners keep an eye on the site. For this reason you should try to have your meals there, for courtesy, the best sunsets, and good food.
• Alagoa (free, without hot showers), located a few metres above the bay, it is one of the best spots of the island to watch the sun rise.
• Santa Cruz Das Flores (with hot showers, located next to the natural swimming pools).
• Ponta Delgada

It is possible to hike around the island, next to the coast (GR1) and sleep in the different camping sites, strategically located next to the coast. We would love to try this on our next visit to Flores Island.

27. Try the local Caldeirada de Peixe (fish stew)

This is another traditional dish, which you will find in restaurants. This one was prepared for us at the private home of Senhor Marcolino, who invited us for dinner, so we could taste his caldeirada . It was definitely one of the best meals we had in the island.

28. Hike in Flores Island

Flores is the haven for hikers, offering many possibilities to hike, from smaller to bigger hikes. You can choose to have long hikes (marked as GR) or smaller trails (signed as PR). For some of the most beautiful and popular hikes in the island, read our article about Hikes and Trails in Flores Island .

29. Stay in Lajes das Flores

Lajes is another lovely village in Flores Island, and has also got a beautiful lighthouse. With a handful of places to overnight, Lajes is an alternative base to Santa Cruz and Fajã Grande.

Tips to help you plan your visit to Flores island Azores

• Free Flight Routing Service to a Second Island

SATA Air Açores provides a free routing service to passengers travelling within the Azores, and to or from Mainland Portugal or Funchal. In practice this means that if you want to visit, let’s say, Flores, you only need to have a ticket to Terceira or São Miguel (the archipelago’s gateways), and do not need to buy another ticket to continue to Flores. You get a free routing to Flores (certain conditions apply, though).

• Transport during your Visit to Flores Island

Unfortunately, public transport will not allow you to visit the entire island, because there are few bus routes, and the ones that exist make few journeys per day. Only the main villages are connected and often the schedule is reduced to one or two trips in the morning and another one or two in the afternoon. We did use the bus to travel from Santa Cruz Das Flores to Fajã Grande, but had to leave with the only bus in the morning. To travel back from Fajã Grande there were more trips (because kids come to school in Santa Cruz).

For travellers interested in seeing different villages, stopping at lookouts, having a break for a swim, the easiest solution is to rent a car or bike. There are some car rentals in Flores (but not many), so it is better to have this organised before arrival, to make sure you get a car. In the high season, the island can get busier.

OUR PICK: We rented our car with Autatlantis and recommend the experience.

• Useful Websites – Spotazores

Weather changes very quickly in the Azores. Locals usually say that sometimes the weather is so capricious that the four seasons show up in only one day. Also, sometimes it is raining on one side of the island, and the other side has a bright sunshine. In order to help you search for the best weather, there is a website and app (Spotazores) that features live webcams located in different places of the island. It makes it easier to decide which way to go if you are seeking for good weather or running away from fog. Here is the link to spot Azores .

• Where to stay when you visit Flores Island

– Camping sites : As we said above, the island is well served with camping sites. If you would like to have a closer contact with nature (hike or bike and camp), the island is well prepared for that.

– Local accommodation : There are a few local stays, and as people are beginning to open their homes to tourism, this could well increase in the next couple of years.

– Hotels : There is a small but very nice selection of hotels in the island. Most of the hotels are located in Santa Cruz, Fajã Grande and Lajes.

• In Santa Cruz das Flores we recommend the Hotel Aquamarine
• In Fajã Grande we recommend Aldeia da Cuada
• In Lajes we recommend  A Barraka

If you are planning to visit Flores Island in the Azores, you should not miss our articles below:

• The Most Incredible Waterfalls in Flores, Azores
• The Seven Lagoons in Flores
• Hikes and Trails in Flores, Azores

Going to the other islands in the Azores? Don’t miss these articles:

• What to Visit in Pico, Azores
• What to Visit in Faial, Azores
• What to visit in Corvo, Azores
• Pico Volcano, Summit Hike
• From Whale Hunting to Whale Watching in the Azores
• What to visit in São Jorge, Azores
• What to visit in Terceira, Azores
• What to visit in São Miguel, Azores

Fantastic trip through the Cape Verde islands

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Thanks for the informative post! Do you happen to know whether you can stay at one of the campsites if you don’t have your own tent or camper? I’m staying at the island, but there are no hotels or rooms free at that period.

Hi Yara, unfortunately I dont think so! These campsites were all very tiny, and they did not look like they offered that option. Have you tried private rooms? You should try to contact the people at the small hotel A barraka. They are not on booking, so perhaps they are not sold out. Here is their link: https://www.abarraka.com/Home

Interesting article! Is there the possibility of electricity in the campsites?

Hi Gerardo, thanks for the feedback, we appreciate it! I don’t really recall the electricity factor, but if you have dinner (or lunch) in the café/restaurant next to the camping in Fajã Grande, I am sure they will let you charge things. In the camping in Santa Cruz, which belongs to the city hall, I am convinced they have electricity. For the other options, I think there was no electricity around, better to bring some kind of battery for cameras and phone. Hope you enjoy your time in Flores!

Hi, Thank you for the great article! Would you be able to provide any additional information on the free flight routing service to a second island? Do you know if that’s still available? Thank you.

Hi Joanna Thanks for your message and feedback, we appreciate it. I am afraid I do not know if tourists can still take advantage of the free flight routing service. I believe it was a special promotion, but to be sure I advise you to contact SATA Airlines. Good luck and so glad toknow you are considering to visit Flores. It was one of the most beautiful islands we have ever visited!

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3 Days in Flores Island, Azores: What To Visit?

Ultimate 3-day guide to flores island, azores: must-see attractions.

Nestled in the heart of the Azores, Flores Island is often lauded as a natural masterpiece. This untouched Eden is brimming with breathtaking waterfalls that cascade into emerald pools, creating a spectacle that is both dazzling and enchanting. Aptly named 'Flowers', Flores Island more than lives up to its name, serving as nature's own meticulously curated garden. So, let's embark on an adventure and explore the myriad attractions this island has to offer during your vacation in the Azores. From its verdant landscapes to the crystalline waters, each corner of Flores Island offers a unique experience, promising an unforgettable journey amid nature's grandeur.

Day 1: Discovering the Natural Wonders of Flores Island, Azores

- city streets of santa cruz das flores.

Take a leisurely walk through the enchanting historical heart of Flores Island's main city and immerse yourself in the captivating blend of old-world architecture and the vibrant rhythms of local daily life. Explore the charming streets and alleys, where centuries of history come to life through the timeless buildings and bustling streets. Discover the stories and traditions that have shaped this remarkable place, as you witness the locals going about their daily routines amidst this picturesque backdrop.

- Natural swimming pools of Santa Cruz das Flores

This set of natural pools is heavenly and the photos leave no doubts regarding it. The natural swimming pools of Santa Cruz das Flores are one of the most coveted swimming places on the whole island for visitors and locals alike.

- Alagoa Bay in Flores Island, Azores

This is one of the most surprising places you’ll visit on Flores Island. This islet landscape seems to be taken out from “Game of Thrones”, but it is here away before that. If you get the chance to hop on a boat trip to Corvo, one of the highlights of the trip will be seeing these islets from the sea -- even more magical. Tip: set a picnic in the park on the site and enjoy the pretty ocean views.

- Port of Ponta Delgada in Flores Island, Azores

On the northern tip of Flores there’s the city of Ponta Delgada (there is also a Ponta Delgada in São Miguel Island, its capital and the economic center of the Azores archipelago). This small fishing village dazzles with the beauty of its coastline. Head to the port for this amazing view that shows that the beauty of Flores goes a lot further than the waterfalls.

- Poço do Bacalhau in Fajã Grande, Flores Island, Azores

The main natural attractions of the island are located on the northwest side. Head to Fajã Grande, where heaven touches the sea and mystic waterfalls find their way back to land. Start by appreciating the calm and crystal waters of the Fajã Grande bathing area, overlooking the tall shore with waterfalls.

Then, make your way to Poço do Bacalhau to set a meeting with a 90-meter-high waterfall that creates a lovely lake at the base, inviting for refreshing swimming in those clear waters. Insider tip: you’re at the right place to assist in the sunset. As the sun starts to set, its last rays lighten up the mountains and the scenario gets even more beautiful. 

Day 2: Delving Deeper into the Beauty of Flores Island

- the lakes of flores island, azores.

The 7 lakes of Flores form the “route of lakes” of the island. The most famous are the Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida and the Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa Funda , but the other 3 are worth a stop as well. The viewpoint of Lagoa Negra and Comprida is one of the most famous spots on the whole island. 

- “Reta” of Flores Island, Azores

Cross the island's heart with a drive through its longest straightaway road and stop along the way at the several viewpoints on the side to take a deep look at Flores's wild forest. 

- Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro in Flores Island, Azores

The main postcard of the island is Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, also known as Poço das Alagoinhas . A short hike will take you to one of the most beautiful places on Earth, a scenario created by more than 20 waterfalls fading into a small lake. The peace, the smells, and the sounds, everything is amazing about this spot.

- Ribeira Grande Waterfall in Flores Island, Azores 

Though this waterfall is not very easy to reach, the bird's eye view brought to us from drone shots shows its extreme beauty.

- Rocha dos Bordões in Flores Island, Azores

A geological monument with approximately 570,000 years of history with perfect columns of about 20 meters. The magic of the place increases tenfold when the hydrangeas bloom in the warm seasons and fill the landscape. It can be easily spotted from the car, but stop at the Rocha dos Bordões viewpoint for a more scenic view of this natural monument. 

- Morro dos Frades in Flores Island, Azores

Rocha dos Frades stands taller than the other geological formations! Blink an eye and you’ll miss it and you won’t want to! It is very easy to drive around Flores Island, but if you don’t feel like doing it make sure you book your guided tour here.

Day 3 in Flores Island: Unveiling Nature's Masterpiece

- boat trip to corvo island & caves of flores island.

Corvo Island is the smallest of the Azores and one of Europe’s smallest communities with only inhabitants. Few guests opt to spend the night there, but it would be a great opportunity if you’re curious to know what it is like to live in such a small community -- the inhabitants are like a big family. Once in Corvo, but bear in mind that there’s plenty of hiking to do on this small island. The higher part of the island is only accessible on foot. Book your boat tour with included transfers to Corvo Island here!

Are you already in love with the Azores? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip! 

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Great route flores (stage 2 closed).

The Great Route of Flores travels along the coastal landscape of the island, connecting the main village Santa Cruz to the civil parish of Lajedo, located on the southwest coast, through a linear route with high difficulty level. Some parts of the trail have steep descents, such as the one in the Rocha do Risco, therefore this section is forbidden for people with vertigo.  

• Read more about Great Route Flores (Stage 2 closed)

WestCanyon Turismo Aventura

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Location and Climate

The island Flores (occidental group), accounts for the most western landmark of Europe.

With an area of 143.11 km 2 , a length of 17 km and a width of 12.5 km.

Position: 31º59' W and 39º25' N.

The climate is that of a mild sea climate as on the other islands, influenced by the Gulf stream, with an average temperature of 17º C (63º F).

• Read more about Flores

Fajã de Lopo Vaz

This round trip linear route begins near the viewpoint/picnic area of Fajã de Lopo Vaz, probably one of the first places to be settled and the name Lopo Vaz comes from one of the first settlers of the island.

Classified as Geosite integrated in Ponta da Rocha Alta and Fajã de Lopo Vaz, these detritic plataforms occur by collapsing cliffs, resulting in areas with microclimates and fertile soils.

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Miradouro das Lagoas - Poço do Bacalhau

This linear route goes from the interior of the island until Fajã Grande along a length of 7,3 km. Along the trail and whenever necessary to cross a gate, always leave it closed.

Begin the walk at the viewpoint between the lakes Funda and Comprida, near the Regional Road 2-2. Following the markings, go right around the lake Comprida among the endemic flora like Buckthorn ( Frangula azorica ), Azores Juniper ( Juniperus brevifolia ) and the cosmopolitan Peat Moss ( Sphagnum spp. )

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Lajedo - Fajã Grande

This linear route of around 13 km length connects the village of Lajedo to Fajã Grande. There are some sections where the stone ground may be slippery, being advisable caution and the wear of proper footwear.

Begin the stage at the village center and follow the markings along the road until the viewpoint. Continue on a cobblestone road towards North, passing by a viewpoint on your left with a view over the islets of Mosteiro village and Rocha dos Bordões on your right, a geological formation known by its huge vertical basaltic columns.

• Read more about Lajedo - Fajã Grande

Ponta Delgada - Fajã Grande

This linear route connects the villages of Ponta Delgada to Fajã Grande. Along the trail, whenever necessary to cross a gate, always leave it closed. There are some sections where the stone ground may be slippery, being advisable caution and the wear of proper footwear. After some days of heavy rain, cross the streams with extreme caution due to the increase of the water flow.

• Read more about Ponta Delgada - Fajã Grande

The pink island

The island of Flores is 16.6 km long and has 12.2 km at its maximum width, which translates into a surface of 141.4 sq. km. Together with the island of Corvo, which is 17.9 km away, it forms the Western Group of the Azores Archipelago. The European Continent has its westernmost point on this piece of land where 3 793 people live (2011 data). At an altitude of 911 metres, the Morro Alto is the island’s highest point and is located at 39°27’48’’ latitude north and 31°13’13’’ west.

How to island-hop around the Azores

Apr 24, 2024 • 5 min read

You'll need to hire a car (or organise a taxi for the day) to watch the sunset over Sete Cidades on São Miguel Island © Maya Karkalicheva / Getty Images

The Azoreans travel frequently between islands all year, so the archipelago has a reasonable network of inter-island flights and ferry routes, making it easy to navigate all nine islands. Weather is the only thing that might cause a sudden change of plans, but as locals put it, that's just a part of the Azorean experience.

On the islands of the Azores , buses are not the most reliable option, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is often the better alternative – except in Corvo where the island is so small you can walk everywhere.

Explore the Azores on your own time by driving

Renting a car is the most practical way to travel around the Azores at your own pace – signs for major sights are clear, the traffic is often low and most of the main roads are well-maintained.

However, during peak season, especially in smaller islands with fewer resources, a scarcity of cars sees an increase in prices, and parking spaces can be hard to find near restaurants, top attractions, and beaches. 

Some rural roads are so narrow they appear to be one-lane when, in fact, they're two-way streets – unless a traffic sign states otherwise, always expect cars coming in the opposite direction. And it’s not a myth that most of the countryside traffic jams are caused by farmers leading herds of cows between grasslands. Get as close to the side of the road as possible, turn off your engine, and wait it out.

Want to explore the Azores without hiring a car? Find out how to do it .

Non-drivers can hire a taxi to visit must-see attractions

For non-drivers, or if you couldn’t rent a car due to peak season scarcity, hiring a taxi to cover the highlights is a practical way of getting around in the Azores. Taxis aren’t metered, so they’ll either charge a fixed fee based on the area or destinations you want to cover, or charge you by the hour (plan for around €20 per hour). 

Taxi drivers often speak English, although sometimes only well enough for basic communication. Those who are a little more fluent will be happy to answer your questions about the island and the sights to the best of their knowledge. Also expect no-strings-attached local tips on where to eat and must-sees, especially on the smaller islands. 

 Finding a cab that offers round-the-island tours or sightseeing trips is as easy as asking the person driving the taxi from the airport to the hotel – it's typically a service they offer, and if they don't, they'll know someone who does. 

Negotiation is usually between you and the driver, but prices generally don’t vary much between taxi companies. Prices are usually quoted as a fixed fees per trip, rather than per passenger, but always check before agreeing to a rate.

Island-hop comfortably by flying

Government-owned SATA Air Açores is the only airline operating all inter-island flights and locals use it pretty much like a bus system, travelling between islands for shopping, doctor's appointments, and business trips. That said, not all routes are convenient, and for neighbouring islands, it's usually easier to take the ferry.

Keep in mind, especially when travelling with small children, that flying between islands is sometimes an exercise in patience. Some flights will make one or two stops before you reach your final destination, which means disembarking for every layover even if it’s no longer than 15 or 20 minutes – this is very common when flying from São Miguel to smaller islands in the Central and West groups.

Some planes are small, with limited space in the overhead compartment and under the front seat. Most passengers only discover which plane they're boarding at the gate or on the tarmac. If the flight is full, you can ask the crew if they can accommodate your luggage in the cargo hold.

See more islands for the price of one by taking the ferry

One ferry ride between close islands can take up to 60 minutes – making it faster, cheaper, and more convenient than a flight. Islanders use it frequently, especially between Faial and Pico, to commute to work. Purchase tickets online, at the Atlântico Line website, or before your trip at the boat station.

The routes with the most frequent trips are the Blue Line, which connects Pico and Faial (a 30-minute ride) and the Green Line, which goes all the way to São Jorge (close to a one-hour ride). The Pink Line connects Flores and Corvo twice a day (40-minute trip), from two times a week in the winter to six days a week in the peak season.

From June to September, the ferry company increases the trips' frequency with three seasonal routes operating two to three days a week. The Orange Line connects Pico and São Jorge at least twice a day, travellers on the White Line can visit all five islands in the Central Group (twice a week), and the Purple Line connects Terceira to São Jorge, Pico, and Faial two times a week. 

A local’s tip for riding the ferry

Take it from a local with motion sickness, ferry trips between the “triangle islands” (Faial, Pico, and São Jorge) are a breeze in the summer and a little rougher in the winter but not impossible to make it with the help of preventive motion sickness medication. Ferries are big and stable, and the weather is usually good enough for passengers to sit outside on the top tier. Between Flores and Corvo, though, frequent choppy waters and a small boat can make trips a bit more uncomfortable. 

The Azores transportation FAQs and things to consider 

Is uber in the azores .

A few years ago, there was a short-lived attempt at implementing ride-share services on the larger island of São Miguel, but it never truly took off. For the time being, Uber is not available in the Azores.

Is the public transport in the Azores reliable?

Each island (except Corvo) has its own public bus system, but schedules and frequency are not the most reliable for travellers. Typically, there's one bus in the morning and another at the end of the day, mainly serving schools and workplaces. São Miguel is the island with the best options to travel by bus to top sites, but it takes some planning and flexibility.  

Accessible travel in the Azores

Unfortunately, regarding accessibility, the Azores have not quite hit the mark yet. For now, only Azores For All, a São Miguel-based private tour operator, has transportation options for travellers living with a disability.  

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Move over Hawaii, The Azores Islands also bring vibrant beauty (with fewer crowds)

Destinations can be too crowded. Discover the antidote to overcrowded and overpriced vacation spots in " Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations " by National Geographic. The guide unveils imaginative and budget-friendly locales sure to inspire your next adventure, curated by longtime travel writer Andrew Nelson .

If you're looking for warmth, culture and beauty, try The Azores in Portugal instead of Hawaii.

What’s the perfect island chain? The default has always been Hawaii: Its eight principal islands rising from the Pacific’s deep are verdant and vibrant. But if you switch your gaze to the Atlantic, you will find a nine-island archipelago that’s equally lush, with flowering landscapes, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and marine wildlife refuges swarming with animals. Like the Aloha State, the Portuguese Azores are islands where the locals both nurture and protect their unique culture, determined to keep the natural beauty safe from overdevelopment.

And there’s a lot in the Azores worth protecting. The islands are located in the North Atlantic, 2,390 miles (3,850 km) east of Boston and 870 miles (1,400 km) west of Lisbon. Colonized by Portugal in the early 15th century (the Vikings were rumored to have stopped by, too), today the Azores are an autonomous territory with a population of 242,796 (about two-thirds that of Honolulu). Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream and the archipelago’s latitude, the temperature is usually mild throughout the year, ranging in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (midteens to 20s Celsius), though it does rain. The islands’ many volcanoes are active, but so far fairly quiet this century. The last big eruption occurred in 1958.

Like in Hawaii, each of the islands of the Azores offers a distinct experience.

◾ The eastern part of the chain is home to Santa Maria, with its numerous vineyards and white-sand beaches. São Miguel is equivalent to the Big Island. Like the island of Hawaii, it exerts a strong influence over the rest of the archipelago and is a dynamic and geologically active place. Its landscape features geysers, volcanic lakes and thermal hot springs.

◾ The central Azores consist of the islands of Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and Graciosa. Terceira is home to the oldest city in the Azores, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its fertile soil supports numerous vineyards. On Faial, visitors can hike to the extinct Capelinhos volcano. São Jorge is celebrated for its cheese. Rugged, rough-hewn Pico Island is home to the highest mountain in Portugal, 7,713-foot-tall (2,351 m) Mount Pico. Graciosa is known for its iconic star-shaped pastries and red-peaked, Flemish-style windmills, brought by immigrants from Belgium.

◾ The western islands are Flores and Corvo. The former, known as the Island of Flowers, offers a rugged coastline, high cliffs marked by waterfalls (Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro (Alagoinha) being the most famous to see), and seven crater lakes. Flores’s dramatic, verdant landscape and the surrounding turquoise waters often spark comparisons to Kauai.

As more travelers discover the Azores’ allure, the future looks both bright and worrying. Luckily the islands have begun the task to ensure their biodiversity will be safeguarded for the future. In 2019 the Azores became the world’s first archipelago to be named a sustainable tourism destination by EarthCheck, an Australia-based international advisory board. Four of the islands – Flores, Corvo, Gracioso, and São Jorge – are UNESCO biosphere reserves, and the government has established several marine reserves to protect seabirds, fish, sea turtles, whales, and dolphins. The fight to protect paradise is only just getting started.

The Amazing Flora of the Azores

Indigenous or imported, the flowering plants of the Azores play an important role in giving the islands their iconic Instagrammable look. Being one of the world’s most isolated archipelagos, the Azores harbor many unique species, including one of the world’s rarest flowers, Myosotis azorica. Called não-meesqueças , or forget-me-nots, the purple flowers were considered extinct before a cluster of plants was discovered growing on Corvo, the Azores’ smallest island, in 2014. Despite Corvo being a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve, these tiny flowers remain endangered thanks to the appetites of the island’s insatiable goats and sheep.

 In contrast, colorful hydrangeas are not native to the island chain. They are an invasive species believed to have been brought to the island by the Japanese in the late 19th century as decorative plants. Though they’re imported, the flowers have become a symbol of the Azores and grow throughout the archipelago. Faial Island is often called the Blue Island for the azure hydrangeas that blanket its fields and roadsides. Their hue is due to the island’s acidic soil, which deepens the hydrangeas’ rich color. Volcanic eruptions in 1957 and 1958 only added to the fertility. It was Azorean immigrants to the United States who are credited with popularizing the flower in America, especially in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where many of these immigrants settled in the mid-20th century.

This is an excerpt from “ Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations ,”   published on April 2 by Disney Publishing Group. Author Andrew Nelson is an award-winning writer and editor for National Geographic Traveler, who has roamed all 50 states as well as numerous countries for the magazine and website, based in Washington, D.C.