Islands of the Atlantic Ocean Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Islands of the Atlantic Ocean, covering places to visit, food, accommodations, and more!


Islands of the Atlantic Ocean Travel Guide

The Atlantic Ocean plays host to a number of secluded island destinations, each with its unique charm and attractions. From remote, sun-kissed beaches to vibrant cultural festivities, the islands of the Atlantic offer visitors the chance to bask in the islands’ natural beauty and immerse themselves in rich local culture. This travel guide takes you through a comprehensive tour of the islands of the Atlantic, helping you plan your perfect escape.

List of Places to Visit in Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

The islands of the Atlantic Ocean offer a wide range of attractions. From culturally significant landmarks to idyllic natural settings, these islands present a diverse mix of activities and sights for visitors. Here are some must-visit places in the Atlantic islands:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Many of the islands of the Atlantic Ocean house museums and historical sites that offer insight into the islands’ unique past. Here are some important landmarks to add to your itinerary:

  1. The National Museum - the largest museum in the Azores, which hosts an array of exhibits on the islands’ history and culture
  2. The Diana Ship Museum - a fascinating museum in Madeira that showcases the rich history of trade and seafaring in the area
  3. The Santa Maria Island Museum - located in the Azores, tells the story of the island’s founding and the traditional ways of island life

Natural Attractions of Islands of the Atlantic Ocean: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The islands of the Atlantic Ocean offer some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. Here are some of the top natural attractions to explore:

  1. Funchal Botanical Garden[GE1] - this enchanting garden in Madeira is home to over 2,000 plant species from around the world
  2. Lagoa das Sete Cidades - a stunning volcanic lake in the Azores that is considered one of the seven natural wonders in Portugal
  3. Pico Island Vineyard Culture - the largest vineyard in the Azores, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site

Hiking/Biking Routes of Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic islands are a treasure trove of hiking and cycling routes, each offering the perfect opportunity to discover the islands’ unique landscapes and hidden gems. Here are some of the most popular routes on the islands of the Atlantic:

  1. Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Madeira - this trek takes you through elegant gardens with amazing views of Funchal city
  2. Pico Island Trail - a trail that spans the entire mountain range of Pico Island, featuring incredible views of the Atlantic ocean and island landscapes
  3. Sao Miguel Island Biking Tour - a cycling tour of the Azores Island, taking visitors through breathtakingly beautiful locations

Best Things to Do in Islands of the Atlantic Ocean: Activities and Tours

The Atlantic islands offer plenty of exciting activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do on the islands:

  1. Snorkelling and Diving - The island’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it ideal for snorkelling and diving excursions.
  2. Whale and Dolphin Watching - The Atlantic waters around the islands are home to a variety of whale and dolphin species, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to admire these majestic creatures.
  3. Jeep Tours - Many of the islands offer guided jeep tours through scenic landscapes, offering a unique glimpse into the island’s hidden corners.

Week-Long Itinerary for Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

For a perfect week-long itinerary of the Atlantic islands, consider the following:

  • Day 1: Fly to Azores and explore its beauty, including trips to Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Santa Maria Island Museum
  • Day 2: Visit the charming Madeira Island and experience the botanical delights of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and Fascinating Levadas
  • Day 3: Take a dolphin and whale watching tour around Madeira, or join an adventurous jeep tour in Sao Miguel Island
  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Pico Island, the highest mountain in Portugal, where you can go on a vineyard culture tour and wine tasting in Madalena Village.
  • Day 5 and 6: Visit the charming small island of Cies and experience the pristine shores and beautiful scenery.
  • Day 7: Spend the day exploring the city of Ponta Delgada and its many delights.

Food and Drink Scene of Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic islands have a fascinating culinary scene, with unique and mouth-watering dishes that will tantalize any food lover’s taste buds. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cozido - a hearty stew often made from pork, beef, chicken, and vegetables, cooked in volcanic steam holes in Furnas
  2. Bacalhau - a popular fish dish in Portugal made from Atlantic cod, prepared in a variety of ways.
  3. Pastes de Nata - a custard tart dessert unique to Portugal.

Local Beverages

  1. Madeira Wine - The fortified wine from Madeira Island, produced in the unique microclimate, featuring dramatically different flavours.
  2. Ginjinha - a sour cherry liqueur commonly served along the Atlantic coasts

Where to Stay in Islands of the Atlantic Ocean: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Atlantic islands offer a wide range of accommodation options to fit all budgets and travel styles. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Boutique Hotels - Stylish boutique hotels can be found in Madeira, Ponta, and Azores Island, that offer impeccable service and stunning locations.
  2. Guesthouses - provide affordable and cozy accommodations for budget travelers, especially in the Sao Miguel district.
  3. Luxury Resorts - The islands offer some of the most luxurious and exclusive resorts in the world, such as the Belmond Reid’s Palace, Madeira Island.

What to Buy in Islands of the Atlantic Ocean: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The islands of the Atlantic Ocean offer a wide range of unique souvenirs and local products that make for excellent gifts and keepsakes. Some popular items include:

  1. Wicker Products - Madeira Island is famous for its beautiful hand-crafted wicker baskets and furniture.
  2. Azulejos Tiles - The tiles, adorned with intricate designs and patterns, are perfect for home decoration.
  3. Wine Bottles - The wine from Pico Island Vineyard Culture comes in beautiful and uniquely shaped bottles.

Local Culture and Customs of Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

The culture and customs of the Atlantic islands are rich and fascinating. Visitors can experience the local way of life by partaking in the following activities:

  1. Festivals - Many of the Atlantic islands celebrate fascinating cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Carnival in Madeira, where lively processions, parades, and music performances.
  2. Fado Music - Traditional Portuguese music and dance that speaks to the heart.
  3. Religious Festivals - The religious festivals in the Azores, like the Holy Spirit Festivities, are colorful and joyous events that involve traditional food and parades.

Best Time to Visit Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

The best time to visit the islands of the Atlantic depends on the traveler’s preferences. However, generally, the best time to visit is during the summer months, from May to October. These months offer the perfect weather conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic islands have unique customs and social norms that visitors should be aware of. Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Bring sunscreen and appropriate attire for outdoor activities.
  3. Taste the local cuisine

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural environment.
  2. Wear swimwear outside the appropriate areas.
  3. Use drugs and other illegal substances.

Safety and Health

Visitors to the Atlantic islands should follow basic safety and health precautions, such as bringing any prescribed medications and emergency contact details.

Safety in Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

  1. Wear protective gear when participating in high-risk activities.
  2. Avoid solo ventures into unknown areas.
  3. Carry a copy of your passport and important contact numbers.

Health in Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

  1. Make sure to get the necessary vaccinations before visiting.
  2. Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
  3. Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid water-borne diseases.

Getting to Islands of the Atlantic Ocean: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to the Atlantic islands is easy, with a range of flight and ferry options available. Here are some options:

Airports Near Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

Madeira, Terceira, Pico, and Sao Miguel Islands have their airports, with daily international and domestic flights.

Other Options

Ferries from mainland Portugal and Spain are available to sail to the Azores and Madeira Islands.

How to Get Around in Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

Visitors can get around the Atlantic islands via a range of transportation options, including car rental, buses, and taxis. Many islands offer jeep tours, bicycle, and scooter rentals.

Conclusion

The Atlantic islands offer visitors a wealth of unique cultural and natural attractions, making them the perfect destination for adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike. With this travel guide, visitors can plan their itinerary, explore the islands, and take home unforgettable memories.

Sete Cidades twin lakes on São Miguel, Azores Sete Cidades twin lakes on São Miguel, Azores


    Azores
    Madeira
    Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha