Explore the Azores Archipelago: the Footprints of Atlantis

Explore the harbour, once home to sailors crossing the Atlantic; discover the Museu Scrimshaw, where you can see engraved sperm whale teeth; hike the Caldeira for beautiful view of the islands of Pico and Sao Jorge, and traverse the lunar landscape of Capelinhos Volcano, which emerged in 1958 from a spectacular underwater eruption.

Travel to Pico Island and Madalena Harbour aboard a small ferry. The Pico do Fogo Volcano crater, with its impressive imposing presence, is Portugal's highest point, towering above the Atlantic at 7,713ft. Pick up your new rental car and drive to Lajes do Pico, a historic port of the bygone whaling era. Stay for two nights near the village of Prainha, with its welcoming traditional houses which showcase volcanic stone features and rustic woodwork. This authentic aspect is enhanced by the surrounding natural scenery, which combines both the ocean and a lovely rural setting.

Set off on a half-day excursion to see the cetacean marine mammals that live in Pico’s waters in small groups. Keep an eye out for an array of dolphin species, including short-billed dolphins, harbour dolphins and Risso's dolphins, as well as spotted and striped dolphins. If you're lucky, you'll also be able to spot sperm whales, blue whales (especially from early spring to late summer), pilot whales and killer whales.

Fly to Terceira, northeast of Pico. Terceira was once home to Spanish galleons, overflowing with cargos of silk, spices and gold. Today, the island possesses immense natural value, characterised by lush fields, underground caves and centuries-old churches. After picking up your next rental car, drive to Angra do Heroísmo, a colourful old town that has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983. This historic heritage is accompanied by a real cultural vibrancy, through its philharmonic orchestras, cultural centre and theatre troupes, among other attractions. Stay for two nights in an opulent country house by the sea, where old-world charm is combined with impeccable services to create the perfect atmosphere. Modern amenities include a swimming pool, tennis court and gym, along with a beautifully designed living area.

Visits to the volcanic cave of Algar do Carvao, the 'Imperios' (small colourful chapels) of Praia da Vittoria and the natural pools of Biscoitos can also be added into the itinerary.

Head out on a one-day private tour, which offers an introduction to the island's many attractions. Visit some must-see sites such as Monte Brasil, an extinct 3,360ft volcano surrounded by the walls of the Sao Joao Baptista Fortress; Serra do Cume, where you can admire the bay of Praia da Vitoria; the volcanic cave of Algar do Carvao; the volcanic abyss of Enxofre, and the Verdelho Wine Museum.

Fly to Sao Miguel and pick up your next rental car. As the largest island in the archipelago, Sao Miguel provides a wonderful overview of the Azores. The modestly-sized towns of Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande boast forested landscapes and green plains, which have bestowed Sao Miguel with its nickname of ‘Green Island’.

During your three-night stay, visit natural geysers and crater lakes, and take an optional private riding trip through the lush landscape. Stay in a 17th-century manor house, which was once a military fortress, a lookout post for privateers and pirates, as well as an artists’ residence and a tea plantation.

Head to Furnas, famous for its various volcanic manifestations, including hot springs, fumaroles (sulphurous gas vents) and bubbling mud. These geological phenomena have produced two points of pride for the city: the cozido das Furnas - a dish cooked with the natural steam of the volcano - and the Terra Nostra, its botanical garden, which owes its luxuriance to its extremely fertile soil. Stay for two-nights in the heart of the eponymous garden, in a hotel which has inherited a beautiful 1930s Art Deco style and is equipped with a thermal pool. Its central location within Furnas makes it possible to walk everywhere.