I have been taking my two children, Theo and Lara, to the Azores on family holidays since they were babies. Yes, it’s always ‘work-related’ but we always have a wonderful time and find new things to do.
When they were very young it was a case of swimming in the sea and warm waterfalls, marvelling at the boiling caldeiras and the fishing catches being unloaded at the pretty coastal villages. I remember spending hours with them throwing pumice rocks into lakes and watching them float. Rocks that float – they just couldn’t get over it!! One year, we cycled round Pico with Theo (18 months) in a trailer and I was 6 months pregnant with Lara – my bump caused a lot of hilarity and bemusement among the locals who couldn’t understand why you’d cycle round their island for starters, but with a bump!!?
Now they are 11 and 13, things have moved on to canyoning (see the video below), diving, coasteering, whale watching, swimming with dolphins, sailing (though they weren’t that keen on the swell!) and walking round the craters. Next time we go, I think we’ll have to take our adrenaline junkie son mountain biking on the single track on Sao Miguel and Lara, who is horse mad, will want to go riding again with Christina at Quinta da Terca.
I think, for an active family, you couldn’t find a better family holiday destination. The scenery is a cross between Hawaii and the South Island of New Zealand but just 4 hours away from the UK. The islands have a mild climate, the people are very friendly, love children and speak excellent English, and the range of activities is always growing.
We have several family holiday itineraries on our website but every family is different, so we usually put together holidays tailored to each one.
One thing to bear in mind is that the summer is a busy time in the Azores, so if you’re looking for a family holiday in July or August, the earlier you contact us the more choice you will have. There is limited accommodation on the islands especially for families who are after 2 or 3 bedroom self catering properties.
The Azores Holidays Specialists
At Archipelago Choice, we have a team of Activity Holidays Specialists who know all about family holidays in the Azores. They are ready to answer all your questions…
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 Sarah today to find out more about our family holidays on 01768 721020, request a brochure or make an enquiry online with us.