Azores

The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands located in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean. They are a part of Portugal and are situated about 1,360 km west of the mainland. The archipelago is made up of three main groups: the Eastern Group, consisting of the islands of São Miguel and Santa Maria; the Central Group, consisting of the islands of Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial; and the Western Group, consisting of the islands of Flores and Corvo.

Road network

The Azores have no land borders with any other countries as they are a part of Portugal. However, they do have a maritime border with the neighboring Madeira archipelago, which is also a part of Portugal.

The Azores have a total road network of approximately 1,200 km. The roads are mostly paved and well-maintained, and there are also some expressways that connect the major towns and cities. However, due to the hilly terrain and the fact that the islands are spread out over a large area, there are also many gravel roads and 4×4 tracks that are used to access some of the more remote parts of the islands.

One of the most scenic drives in the Azores is the road that circles the island of São Miguel. This road is approximately 114 km long and offers stunning views of the island’s coastline, volcanic craters, and mountainous terrain. Other notable drives include the road that leads to the top of Pico Mountain on the island of Pico and the road that winds its way through the lush forests of the island of São Jorge.

Overall, the Azores offer a unique and diverse driving experience, with well-maintained roads and stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re exploring the bustling towns and cities or venturing off the beaten track to discover the islands’ hidden gems, the Azores are a must-visit destination for any road trip enthusiast.