The Azores, with their rugged volcanic landscapes, rolling green hills, and stunning coastlines, offer some of the best cycling opportunities in Europe. Whether you’re an avid cyclist seeking an adrenaline-pumping challenge or a family looking for a scenic ride through tranquil countryside, the nine islands of the Azores provide a unique adventure at every turn. In this essay, we’ll explore the best places to cycle across the islands, offering tips on the top routes for all skill levels, including some lesser-known and off-the-beaten-path gems that promise unforgettable experiences.

São Miguel: The Island of Lagoons and Volcanic Landscapes

São Miguel, the largest of the Azores islands, is ideal for cyclists of all abilities. Families with kids will love the gentle ride around Lagoa das Furnas, a serene crater lake surrounded by lush green hills and steaming volcanic vents. The mostly flat, 10-kilometer circuit is perfect for beginners, offering easy terrain, stunning views, and plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic or to explore the geothermal wonders along the way. Make sure to visit the nearby Furnas Hot Springs, where you can relax in natural thermal pools after your ride.

Another family-friendly option is cycling around Lagoa das Sete Cidades, one of São Miguel’s most iconic landscapes. The route is relatively flat and paved, making it ideal for families with younger children. With breathtaking views of the twin lakes (one green and one blue) nestled in a volcanic caldera, this route offers an unforgettable day out in nature. You can stop at various scenic viewpoints or even take a dip in the lakes to cool off.

For more experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, São Miguel offers numerous mountain biking trails that will test your endurance and technical skills. The Pico da Vara route, which leads to the island’s highest peak, is a demanding climb that rewards you with panoramic views of the entire island. The trail weaves through lush forests, steep hills, and rocky paths, providing a thrilling ride for those up to the challenge.

Another option is the Lagoa do Fogo loop, a tough but rewarding ride that takes you through São Miguel’s dramatic volcanic terrain. The ascent to Lagoa do Fogo is challenging, but the views from the top—a crystal-clear lake surrounded by mountains—are worth every pedal stroke. The descent offers exhilarating downhill sections, with sweeping views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.

Pico Island: Cycling Through Wine Country and Volcanic Terrain

Pico Island, famous for its towering volcano and UNESCO-protected vineyards, offers unique cycling experiences. Families can enjoy a leisurely ride through the island’s Lajido Wine Culture Landscape, where you’ll cycle past rows of grapevines growing in volcanic rock walls. The flat terrain and scenic views make this an easy and enjoyable ride for families. Along the way, stop to explore local wineries and taste Pico’s famous Verdelho wine (parents, of course!).

For an easy coastal ride, the Madalena to Lajes do Pico route is a great option. This scenic ride takes you along the island’s southern coastline, offering stunning views of the Atlantic and the nearby island of Faial. The route is mostly flat and paved, making it suitable for families, and there are plenty of picturesque villages and cafes along the way to stop for a break.

For more daring cyclists, tackling the Pico Volcano by bike is an epic adventure. While not for the faint of heart, experienced mountain bikers can ride part of the way up Portugal’s highest peak before continuing on foot to the summit. The trail is steep and rocky, but the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking views from the top make this an unforgettable experience.

Pico’s rugged terrain also offers numerous off-road mountain biking trails, such as the Pico-Cachorro Circuit, which winds through volcanic fields, dense forests, and coastal cliffs. With challenging climbs and thrilling descents, this is the perfect route for those who want to explore the island’s wild, untamed beauty on two wheels.

Terceira: A Blend of History and Nature

Terceira is known for its rich history and charming towns, making it a great destination for families who want to combine cycling with cultural exploration. The Angra do Heroísmo to Praia da Vitória coastal route is a family-friendly ride that takes you along the island’s scenic coastline, with views of the Atlantic and rolling green pastures. The route is mostly flat and paved, making it suitable for kids, and you can stop in the historic town of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore its cobblestone streets and colorful architecture.

For a short, easy ride, head to the Serra do Cume viewpoint, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Terceira’s patchwork fields stretching out towards the ocean. The ride is relatively flat, and the viewpoint is a great spot for a family picnic.

Experienced cyclists can take on the Monte Brasil loop, a more challenging route that circles the ancient volcanic crater that forms part of the island’s capital, Angra do Heroísmo. The route involves steep climbs and sharp descents, but the views over the city and coastline are spectacular. You’ll cycle through dense forests, old military forts, and coastal paths, making it a ride full of variety and surprises.

Faial: The Blue Island with Scenic Coastal Rides

Faial is famous for its picturesque coastal scenery and charming villages, offering families a delightful cycling experience. One of the best family-friendly rides is the Capelinhos Volcano route, which takes you through the lunar-like landscape of Faial’s most recent volcanic eruption. The terrain is mostly flat, and the ride is short enough for kids to handle, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the volcanic visitor center along the way.

For those seeking a more challenging ride, Faial’s Caldeira Circuit offers a thrilling mountain biking adventure. This route takes you around the rim of the island’s massive volcanic crater, offering dramatic views into the caldeira and out towards the ocean. The trail is rugged and requires a good level of fitness, but the sense of isolation and the stunning views make it a rewarding ride for adventurous cyclists.

Flores: The Island of Waterfalls and Wild Beauty

Flores, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes, offers peaceful cycling routes that are perfect for families. The Fajãzinha to Fajã Grande route is a gentle coastal ride that takes you through remote villages, past cascading waterfalls, and along scenic cliffside paths. The terrain is mostly flat, making it suitable for families, and the views are simply stunning. Kids will love the chance to see waterfalls up close, and the peaceful nature of the island makes it a perfect spot for a family cycling adventure.

For those looking for a more demanding ride, the Santa Cruz das Flores to Ponta Delgada route offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. The route takes you through Flores’ dramatic landscapes, with steep climbs, rugged paths, and sweeping views of the island’s coastline. The ride is tough, but the sense of isolation and the unspoiled beauty of Flores make it an unforgettable adventure for experienced cyclists.

Graciosa: Quiet Roads and Hidden Paths

Graciosa is one of the lesser-known islands in the Azores, making it perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path cycling experiences. The island’s quiet roads and gentle rolling hills offer an easy, peaceful ride through a landscape dotted with windmills, vineyards, and small villages. Families will enjoy cycling around the Caldeira da Graciosa, a scenic route that takes you through the island’s volcanic crater and past its famous sulfur cave, Furna do Enxofre.

For experienced cyclists, Graciosa’s Serra Branca offers a more demanding ride with steep ascents and rewarding views across the island and out to sea.

Best Time to Cycle the Azores

The Azores offer a mild climate year-round, but the best time for cycling is between April and October, when the weather is most predictable. Spring is especially beautiful, with flowers blooming and the landscape lush and green. For those looking to avoid the summer crowds, September and October are excellent months to visit, with fewer tourists and ideal cycling conditions.

Tips for Cycling in the Azores

• Choose the Right Bike: Depending on your route, you may need a road bike or a mountain bike. For families, hybrid bikes are a good option.

• Pack for All Weather: The weather in the Azores can be unpredictable. Always bring a waterproof jacket and layers.

• Hydration & Snacks: Many routes are remote, so bring plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks.

• Guided Tours: If you’re unsure of the terrain, consider booking a guided cycling tour for added safety and local knowledge.

• Respect the Environment: The Azores are a pristine natural paradise. Stay on marked trails and take all rubbish with you.

Whether you're exploring the volcanic landscapes of Pico, cruising through the lush forests of São Miguel, or venturing off the beaten path in Flores, cycling in the Azores offers an adventure like no other. From gentle family rides to heart-pumping mountain trails, these islands promise unforgettable experiences for cyclists of all levels who are looking to pedal through paradise!