Active Travel

Azores files application for the UNESCO European Geoparks Network

Sunday, 11 December 2011 00:00

The official application of the Azores Geopark for the European Geoparks Network has been sent to the National Commission for UNESCO. The aim is to enhance the connection between geology, volcanic landscape, biodiversity and cultural values. “9 Islands – 1 Geopark” is the application's motto, referring to the nine islands of the Azores. The international relevance of the region's geological heritage, its scientific, scenic and educational value, as well as the islands' vast biodiversity and cultural heritage, count as valid reasons for the Region to be part of the European Geoparks Network. Given the location of the Azores, right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, a few hours from Europe, the US and Canada, the archipelago is considered a bridge between two continents and it is certainly a destination not to miss. There is a unique historic, architectural and gastronomic heritage in every one of the nine islands. The landscape is equally impressive and that is why the Azores have become a popular destination. But nature in the Azores is not just for contemplating; there are many activities that allow visitors to interact with it. Diving, walking trails, geotourism, playing golf or whale watching are just a few examples of what you should experienced in the region. But if you prefer health and wellness, you will also find a wide and diversified offer on it in the Azores. For more information please visit www.visitazores.com.

Nazaré makes history entering into the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards 2012

Sunday, 04 December 2011 00:00

Nazaré makes surf history with the largest waves ever ridden in Portugal. Garrett McNamara’s wave has been entered into the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards 2012, considered the “Oscars” of big wave ridding. This is the first time that a wave from Portugal has been entered into the competition. On October 17th, 2011 Garrett was towing with CJ Macias, from Florida, on the first big swell of the project. The swell had been building since Sunday and peaked on Monday. McNamara towed into the biggest wave ridden this year, the biggest wave of the three-day swell. On this same day, the largest wave paddled into this year was caught as well. It was also the largest wave ever paddled into in Portugal. The two were towing when McNamara decided to paddle into a few with his trusted 11’1 Rusty Waimea Gun. “This beach is so challenging. You really need to make sure you are in the right spot. I did my best to position myself and then just went for it. I had no idea how big the wave was, I was just so excited to finally paddle into a wave at Praia do Norte. Can’t wait for the next swell so we can go for it again,” said Garrett. CJ Macias caught the biggest waves of his life during this three-day swell. It was the first big swell for Macias. He went from 2 foot Florida waves to 40 footers in Praia do Norte. The pictures from Portuguese photographer Wilson Ribeiro are already at the site of the event at http://www.billabongxxl.com/biggest_wave/index.html , in the “Biggest Wave” category. Miguel Sousinha, president of Nazaré Qualifica, said: “It’s an honor to be selected to this award. It’s the recognition of the uniqueness of Praia do Norte and it’s one more step in the way for the consolidation of the communication strategy of Praia do Norte as a destiny of excellence for sports waves.” The “Nazaré Canyon”, that creates the massive swells, is a rare geographical phenomenon. The canyon is the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world, which can be explained as a gap on the continental plate with 170 kilometers of length and 5 kilometers of depth. The “Nazaré Canyon”, that is located right in front of Praia do Norte, receives the swells from the Atlantic Ocean and creates waves with abnormal size, compared to the rest of the Portuguese coast.

Cycling Europe's West Coast with Blue Coast Bikes’ “Essence of the Coast”

Thursday, 24 November 2011 00:00

Atlantic Bike 8 days/7 nights tour - Departure dates: May 5-12, June 16-23 and October 20-27, 2012

The beauty of the Portuguese coast should be enjoyed out of doors, not restricted through the windows of an automobile. Blue Coast Bikes offers just that and includes accommodations in 4-5 star luxury Hotels & Inns, Wine Tastings, Panoramic Atlantic Vistas, Galleon Coast, trek bikes, bi-lingual guides, fine local dining and traditional hospitality.

Like a feast for your senses, this signature route takes you along breathtaking shores and surrounds you with the crystal blue essence of the Costa Azul. Ride through the expansive Arrábida Natural Park by day and indulge on tantalizing seafood dishes and savory wines by night. Each day brings a new wave of adventure to tease your senses and awaken your inner explorer. Soak up the sun as you coast along the sand dunes of the Costa Vicentina, encountering the well-preserved Roman site of Mirobriga, watch the windmills turning in the Atlantic breeze, and mingle with delightful fishermen mending their nets over time-weathered hands.

Feel free to dismount along the way and take in the sights of each tiny cove and fishing village, and allow your toes the well-deserved caress of invigorating surf. This luxury bike tour of the maritime region will give you an intimate look into the culture of Portugal, at a pace that is right for you. Give in to your desires to ‘live coastal’ and allow your senses to guide you through what will indeed be a very memorable journey. Blue Coast Bikes also offers a variety of guided and self-guided tours, from 3-day sampler tours for those just browsing seaside towns, to the 6 and 7-day tour packages that take riders throughout Portugal.  For more information please click here.

Graciosa Island, Azores | by Portugal Diving

Wednesday, 16 November 2011 00:00

It is common to say that for every week you stay in Graciosa, you add an extra year to your life. Graciosa is relaxed and tranquil and people are friendly and real. The island owns itself, is small but powerful in its emotion. Be ready to feel differently while staying in Graciosa and to leave a teardrop of "saudade" at the airport when you say goodbye.