Beginners Guide: What is an Archipelago?

We are Archipelago Choice, a holiday specialist company. Our specialist team create tailor-made holidays to the following popular archipelago destinations; the Azores, Cape Verde, Madeira and São Tomé and Príncipe.

So, what is an archipelago?

An archipelago (pronounced ark-i-PEL-ə-goh) is a group of islands or landforms closely scattered in a body of water. Usually, this body of water is the ocean and these oceanic islands are called an island arc, however, they can also form in a lake or river. Located in some of the world’s most remote locations, and surrounded by beautiful ocean water, they offer a truly amazing travelling experience.

Where do archipelagoes come from?

Oceanic archipelagoes are often volcanic islands, forming along island arcs created by subduction zones or hotspots, but can also be the result of erosion, deposition, and land elevation. Some still have active volcanoes and will continue to form and change over time. It’s a fascinating insight into geography and geology.

Some great examples are the Azores and Madeira, they are two autonomous regions of Portugal located west in the North Atlantic Ocean. There are great flight connections to the Azores and Madeira from the UK, as well as other parts of Europe, the islands are only a 4-hour flight away.

The Azores

This spectacular group of nine volcanic islands, lie 950 miles west of Lisbon and are often referred to as Europe’s best-kept secret. With a mild climate, geothermal pools, crater lakes and lush green scenery, the islands are a great destination for an active holiday.  The Azores maintains an old world charm that is difficult to find almost anywhere else in Europe.  

Archipelago
A view from one of the volcanoes.

Our Volcanoes and Geology of the Azores holiday gives you the chance to learn about the dramatic island of São Miguel.  Find out how the island was formed by massive submarine explosions and visit the enormous crater of Sete Cidades with its twin lakes. Then take a trip to the most obvious volcanic area on the island; the Furnas crater, with its bubbling mud, boiling pools and outdoor geothermal swimming pool. A specialist geologist will lead you on a geo-tour where you will learn even more about the volcanic features of the islands.

Find out more and check availability

For more amazing holidays to the Azores, take a look at our tailor-made holidays, you can discover the wildlife, the people and the spectacular scenery of this amazing archipelago! Choose from our inspiring range of activities, to name but a few; watersports, whale and dolphin watching, walking, horseriding, mountain biking and jeep tours.

How to book with us?

It’s an exciting opportunity to explore something new and beautiful, these islands are amazing places to escape to. We offer a number of holidays, so visit our website for more information, or contact us directly, and one of our island specialists will get back to you.

We are a member of AITO (the Association of Independent Tour Operators) which encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating. All members must adhere to the AITO Quality Charter.

Get in touch with us today on 01768 721 020.

You can also request a holiday brochure for each of our amazing destinations: Azores holiday brochureMadeira holiday brochureCape Verde holiday brochure and São Tomé holiday brochure.

From the archipelagoes on offer, where would you like to go?

Book a discovery call today by emailing: team@archipelagochoice.com