Terceira Island, the Azores travel guide

If you haven’t heard of Terceira, chances are you’ve seen a picture of the Verde and Azul lagoons of São Miguel, the most popular of the nine islands that make up the Azores. Shots of the turquoise water and the surrounding almost-luminous green vegetation are scattered across Instagram, most likely with a few hydrangeas decorating the foreground.

Terceira, the third largest island of the nine, has no shortage of dreamy blue water (the Atlantic Ocean surrounds it, after all), lush foliage and larger-than-life hydrangeas of its own. Along with a rich history and volcanic landscape unlike any other.

It’s a place for foodies, nature lovers, history buffs, and adventurers. Beautiful architecture and ancient festivities reflect an island steeped in culture. You can find delicious food (hello limpets, we see you) and excellent local wine at even the smallest of restaurants. And there are more than enough on-land and off-shore activities to keep those who prefer doing over seeing busy for the entire trip.

During our week-long visit, we opted for A LOT of eating and a decent amount of everything else-all in a setting reminiscent of a Jurassic Park movie. We can confidently say, this Portuguese island did not disappoint.

Where we stayed

We split our time between two hotels in the city of Angra do Heroísmo.

Thomas H. Mitchell / 500pxGetty Images