Flores Island

Classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Flores Island is the westernmost point of Europe and one of the best-kept secrets of the Azores. With an area of 143 km², this stunning island measures approximately 17 km in length and 12.5 km in width, offering a unique experience of contact with nature in its purest form.

Geography and Impressive Terrain

Despite its modest size, the island is marked by a rugged and striking topography. The steep cliffs in the northwest can reach up to 600 meters in height, creating dramatic landscapes that look like scenes from a movie.
The northeastern coast is carved by deep valleys, crystal-clear streams, and imposing waterfalls that descend directly from the mountains into the ocean.

Morro Alto and the Volcanic Lakes

The highest point on the island is Morro Alto, standing at 914 meters, located on the central plateau — an elevated area rising between 500 and 600 meters in altitude.
Here lie the ancient volcanic calderas, now transformed into seven volcanic-origin lakes, which not only offer breathtaking scenery but also serve as natural freshwater reservoirs that are vital to the local ecosystem.

 

Climate and Environment

Thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream, the island enjoys a temperate and humid climate year-round, with average temperatures around 17ºC.
The high rainfall, combined with the island’s orography, contributes to lush vegetation, earning it the nickname “the suspended garden of the Atlantic.”

Population and Local Culture

Flores Island consists of two municipalities: Santa Cruz das Flores and Lajes das Flores. Together, they are home to a population of around 4,000 inhabitants, known for their hospitality and strong ties to Azorean traditions.
Life on the island unfolds peacefully, in harmony with nature’s rhythms, offering visitors a true return to the essentials.

Untouched Nature and Unique Experiences

Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the island offers breathtaking hiking trails, swimming in pristine waters, bird and whale watching, as well as a cuisine rich in local flavors.
Here, time slows down, and every landscape invites contemplation and rest.

Visiting Flores Island is much more than discovering a destination — it is an experience of connection with the land, the sea, and oneself.