An autonomous region of Portugal, the Azores are located in the Atlantic Ocean. With an array of breath-taking multi-coloured lakes, and miles upon miles of picturesque forests, you’ll forget you’re still in Europe.
Why choose Zest Car Rental?
Zest Car Rental provides a fresh approach to hiring a car in the Azores. Our booking process is simple and hassle-free because we know when you’re planning your trip, the last thing you want to worry about is the small print. Also, unlike other companies, we don’t charge any amendment or credit card fees.
We work with carefully selected and trusted car rental providers in the Azores who care as much about customer service as we do. Our UK based head office is open 6 days a week and we also operate a 24/7 emergency phone service to help with any problems you may have when you’re on the road.
For those rare occasions when the unexpected happens, we give you total peace of mind with breakdown assistance throughout Portugal. We also offer top-up insurance to ensure you’re completely covered.
Getting there & exploring
No matter where in the Azores you start your holiday, we’ll never be far away.
São Miguel
Land at Ponta Delgada Airport on São Miguel and you’re just a short drive from the National Park of Caldeira Velha. Here you’ll find a warm waterfall fed by hot springs rich in minerals. Take a swim in the hot pools or stroll through the lush forest.
Then there’s Ponta Delgada’s harbour where the 16th century Forte de Sao Bras fought off pirate attacks many centuries ago. Alternatively, head to the huge Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Lagoon of the Seven Cities). This famous twin-lake is situated in the crater of a dormant volcano and is surrounded by the huge cliffs off the crater’s edge.
Travel to Lagoa and you’ll find yourself close to the wonderful Furnas Valley. Due to its location in the crater of an active volcano, hot thermal springs and soothing mud pools can be found here. For something a little different, visit one of the Azores’ pineapple plantations – you can even sample freshly made pineapple liqueur.
Faial
The most recent part of the Azores to see any volcanic activity, Faial is home to a population of around 15,000 and is known as the Blue Island. Its quiet, sheltered beaches are perfect for families and visiting yachts. If you’re a bit of a horticulturist, Faial boasts magnificent hydrangeas and you should certainly head to Caldeira or the Botanic Gardens. Alternatively, naturalists can make the most of numerous whale and dolphin tours and should seek out the Fábrica da Baleia de Porto Pim whaling museum.
Pico
One of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago, Pico’s landscape is dominated by Mount Pico which towers to 2,351m. A popular location with hikers, the summit can be reached in 2-4 hours depending on your experience. If you’re looking for swimming holes, the best can be found at Santo Antonio and Madalena. Madalena is also the place to go if you want to try some of the local wines from the surrounding areas of Lajido and Cabrito.
Terceira
The second most inhabited island in the Azores, Terceira is home to some wonderful Baroque architecture, the striking Castelinho, and the extinct Monte Brasil volcano. The Praia da Vitória is perhaps the most popular beach on the island and well worth a visit before making a trip to the excellent wine museum. Alternatively, head to the western side of Terceira to explore majestic cliffs and headlands formed from ancient lava flows. The Ponta do Raminho or the Ponta do Queimado are perhaps the two best examples and provide a great opportunity for stunning photos.
