P addy Dillon writes direct from the mid-Atlantic Azores. They are easily overlooked, but full of surprises. In the past few months, while you were sleeping, long-distance‘ GR’ trails opened on several islands, making use of centuriesold routes that have been cleared of undergrowth and restored.
Volcanoes abound, including one that has only existed since 1958. Lush green landscapes and waterfalls are the norm. Portuguese legislation allows you to get to the most remote islands for about £ 30, even if it takes three flights. Paddy knows what to do and he was the only passenger on one flight!
Top left: The Caldeirão high on the tiny island of Corvo Top right: Waterfalls at Poço da Ribeira da Ferreiro
Bottom left: Start of the GR1 on Flores from the end of the airport runway Bottom right: The Capelinhos volcano on Faial dates only from 1958