![]() ![]() Marlin, tuna and shark swirl around the peaks of barely submerged volcanoes. Wrasse, damsel fish and moray eels dwell in the coast’s jade-green bays. The kaleidoscope of species – from yellowmouth barracuda and devil rays to loggerhead turtles and slipper lobsters – arises from the extraordinary range of habitats. Warmed to between 62☏ (17☌) and 75☏ (24☌), the seas truly teem, and visibility reaches to nearly 100 feet (30m) between May and October. This is also what makes the Azores one of, if not the, best diving locations in the Atlantic. Nutrient-rich water welling up from the deep – or rather the life it supports – is what attracts the whales to the Azores. The Whalers’ Museum on Pico and the Whaling Station at Porto Pim on Faial tell the story of the industry and its demise.īlue sharks and other large fish species are regular visitors to the Azores © Pommeyrol Vincent / Shutterstock Diving In one of many ironies, the vigia (watchtowers) once used for hunting these leviathans now help to steer tourist boats to their quarry. Whale hunting – introduced by Americans in the 18th century – played a part in the Azorean economy until as recently as 1987. Not so long ago, of course, people came armed with harpoons rather than cameras. ![]() Hidden islands in europe code#A code of conduct governs how many boats can congregate near a whale, the direction from which they must approach the animals and how long they’re allowed to shadow them. Well-organized tours run from the larger islands and go to great lengths to whale-watch responsibly. Many other species (including blue whales, the largest animal in the history of the planet) pass through on migration routes. Year-round residents include sperm whales, common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins. The archipelago is a pit stop or home for about a third of the world’s cetacean species. The Azores are best known for whale and dolphin watching. She currently lives with her husband and sons in Gloucestershire, UK, and dreams of taking a family vacation to Canada one day soon! Follow their adventures on Instagram.Up to a third of the world's cetaceans can be found in the waters around the Azores, including bottlenose dolphins © James Kay / Lonely Planet Best water activities in the Azores Whale watching Kids are always hungry! Know anywhere to eat nearby?: Take a picnic lunch, as there is only one refreshment bar nearby.Ībout Lisa: She is a mum to two boys, ages three and six. Pack your own!Ĭost: FREE! But you’ll need approx 20 euros for the boat over to the Glenan Islands. Also, there are limited catering facilities on the island, so buying food can get expensive. The return boat ride can be 35 euro per adult and 25 euro per child, so be prepared to bring some spending money for this day trip. Tips & Important Details: Bring plenty of picnic items, refreshments, and beach necessities like sunscreen, umbrellas, and toys. Swim, dive, snorkel, kayak, splash or just sunbathe! The options are endless. There is also a glass-bottom boat tour you can book that takes you around the islands. If you have older children or are comfortable with your younger ones in the water with life vests on, you can rent kayaks, just be sure to book in advance. Hidden islands in europe full#Why It’s Kid-Friendly: The Glenan Islands are full of secluded beaches to explore, white sand to play in, and crystal clear water to go for a swim. The white sandy beaches and crystal clear water are perfect for fun family activities. It’s a brilliant day trip and truly just a stunning place. Why We Love It: It is breathtakingly beautiful! It is honestly like being in the Caribbean, not off the coast of northern France! The Glenan Archipelago is a top place to visit when you’re nearby in Brittany. She wrote in-depth about their visit to the Glenan Islands here. There are a number of boats who can take you there.ĭiscovered by: Lisa, blogger at Travel Loving Family from the UK, discovered this little oasis while on holiday in Brittany. Location: Brittany, France – The Glenan islands are an archipelago a few miles out from Fouesnant, near Concarneau & Benodet. Whether it’s a beach, park, cafe, family-friendly hotel, hiking trail or other, enjoy these best kept secrets and be sure to add them to your list of places to go! Hidden islands in europe series#Our Hidden Gems series will uncover one-of-a-kind places discovered by our readers while traveling or exploring their own city. Enjoy a magical day trip to this archipelago on a warm and sunny day. This week’s hidden gem is an unexpected beach oasis in Western Europe! Discovered by club member Lisa of Travel Loving Familyblog, this gem is the perfect little oasis for a beach-loving family. ![]()
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