The Azores are 9 volcanic islands, most of which remain active. Visit the crater lakes of Sete Cidades and Lago de Fogo, and the hot springs and fumaroles of Furnas on Sao Miguel; climb the towering, active Mount Pico to see evidence of different types of eruption; visit the award-wining visitors centre underneath the Capelinhos volcano on Faial.

Compare the weather between the islands, and the differences between the coastal areas and the interiors. How does the islands’ position dictate the weather they receive? How do the weather systems interact and to what extent is the climate of one island influenced by that of another?

The isolated location of the islands leaves them susceptible to changes in the environment. Prince Albert I of Monaco established a weather observatory on the islands in 1915, one of the world’s first, and today scientists study climate change impacts via measurements of ocean temperatures and the migratory patterns of marine life and birds.

Extensive programmes are in place across the islands to reverse the spread of invasive species and allow endangered endemic flora and fauna to repopulate. Visit Terra Nostra Botanical Park, one of Europe’s most beautiful gardens, or learn more about marine ecosystems on a whale-watching trip with an expert guide.

The Azores feature some truly remarkable coastlines, including natural arches, spectacular beaches, offshore islets and volcanic outcrops. Study coastal processes in a range of landscapes.

Explore the concept of geological time by visiting islands of vastly different ages. Sao Miguel’s central plateau was formed 50,000 years ago, linking land over 4 million years old, whilst Pico is only 300,000 years old. Buildings across the islands and the UNESCO vineyards on Pico demonstrate some of the local uses of rocks.

The position of the Azores creates a bioclimatic environment unique in Europe. You can witness tea plantations and pineapple production, seeing how these islands link their produce into Europe’s food supply. The lush vegetation provides excellent pasture for. Despite their small land area and remote location, the Azores are the largest contributor to Portugal’s dairy industry.

Compare the natural water supply at Lagoa de Fogo with the controlled water flow which services the hydroelectric power plants near Ribeira Grande. Sao Miguel’s water supply comes solely from groundwater. How does the water supply infrastructure differ to that in the UK? What reasons are there for these differences?

Located around 800 miles west of Portugal and lacking in fossil fuels, the islands are reliant on renewable sources of energy and are a global pioneer in renewable energy. The Green Islands Project is the world’s largest experiment in producing viable energy solely from renewable sources. Visit HEP and geo-thermal power stations to see how sustainable energy is produced, and learn how the islands are planning to meet their future energy demands.