The Azores

The Azores are nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. They belong to the country of Portugal. The islands were formed by volcanoes. They are famous for being green, mild, and very beautiful. Many people call the Azores one of the prettiest places in Europe.

Volcanoes and Lakes

All nine islands of the Azores were born from volcanoes. Some of the volcanoes formed big craters that filled up with water. These crater lakes are bright blue and green. The most famous is Sete Cidades, which has two different colored lakes side by side. Hot springs bubble up from underground on some of the islands. People can swim in the warm water.

Sea Life

The waters around the Azores are full of sea animals. Whales and dolphins swim nearby all year long. Sperm whales, blue whales, and humpback whales can all be seen. Long ago, people hunted whales for their oil. Today, visitors come on boats to watch the whales safely. Sea turtles and many kinds of fish also live in the deep blue waters.

Fun Facts

• The Azores are about 850 miles west of mainland Portugal.
• The highest mountain in Portugal, Mount Pico, is on one of the Azores islands.
• The islands have more than 20 types of whales and dolphins.

Did You Know?

The Azores are sitting right where three giant pieces of the Earth's crust meet, which is why they have so many volcanoes.