We are pleased to announce the publication of our first travel guide dedicated to the Azores. This natural gem, halfway between Europe and North America, perfectly embodies our editorial values by celebrating the authentic and preserved beauty of a destination far from mass tourism.
Edito
The Azores... A name that is at once familiar and nebulous, conjuring up images of faraway lands lost in the middle of the Atlantic. Yet this Portuguese archipelago, halfway between North America and Europe, is a real jewel that has managed to shield itself from the ravages of mass tourism.
The nine islands that make up the Azores archipelago rival each other in beauty. What they also have in common is an exceptional environment that instantly captivates visitors. Repeated volcanic eruptions have sculpted the landscape, creating craggy reliefs, fertile valleys and unique rock formations that have left a deep mark on the land and the way of life of its inhabitants. These islands have a bewitching aura, deriving from land that seems to breathe to the rhythm of calderas, spit hot springs and be laid bare by lunar landscapes. The deep black of the basalt contrasts with the intense blue of the ocean that surrounds it on all sides, and the contrast continues in the verdant meadows, lush forests and vineyards, miraculously flourishing on soil once scorched by ash. Emerald lakes and turquoise natural pools, yellow ginger lily and mauve and blue hydrangeas complete this stunning picture.
A veritable paradise for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts, the Azores boast a multitude of hiking trails that wind their way through extraordinary landscapes, with miradouros offering incredible viewpoints. But the archipelago, with its deep, protected waters, is best known for its marine wildlife, which takes refuge in this sanctuary year round. Whale and dolphin watching trips offer a unique opportunity to see many species up close, while raising visitors' awareness of their conservation.
" The Azores... A name that is at once familiar and nebulous, conjuring up images of faraway lands lost in the middle of the Atlantic. Yet this Portuguese archipelago, halfway between North America and Europe, is a real jewel that has managed to shield itself from the ravages of mass tourism.. "
The Azores have a rich natural and geological history, but a brief human one. Officially discovered by Portuguese navigators in the 14th Century, their strategic position on the route to South America attracted the attention of the Spanish conquistadors. Although briefly under Hispanic rule, the Azores were soon returned to the Portuguese crown, marking the beginning of a golden era. This period left an indelible mark, visible today in the rich and emblematic baroque architecture of Angra do Heroísmo on the island of Terceira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the capital Ponta Delgada, home to the Azores’ public institutions and the heart of modern life.
From this heritage, Catholic culture and traditional festivals have remained firmly rooted in the daily lives of Azoreans; impressive churches and multi-coloured chapels are dotted all over the territory, while religious festivals and musical, bullfighting and maritime traditions punctuate the year.
The simple, rustic atmosphere of this European territory is reassuringly old-fashioned. The people of the Azores, beyond their friendliness, are the guardians of a humble way of life, a quality that is becoming increasingly rare in an age of mass culture, globalisation and over-consumption. Here, agricultural production and animal husbandry are carefully thought out, and food is mainly local: cheese from São Jorge, pineapples from São Miguel, abundant fresh seafood and fish, or the signature “cozido das Furnas”, a stew cooked slowly in the hot volcanic earth, are just a few examples. In terms of shopping, there's little that’s superfluous; you will mainly find local handicrafts and basic stores.
Paradoxically, very contemporary museums, such as Arquipélago in Ribeira Grande, and new, intimate hospitality venues are flourishing, bringing the area into the modern age.
The Azores offer such an idealistic model that they risk becoming increasingly sought after as a destination. It is therefore crucial that the archipelago safeguards its treasures. The challenge is to find the right balance between this new tourist interest and the economic boon it represents for the territory, without compromising its identity. Sustainable tourism must be at the heart of these concerns in order to preserve this dream ecosystem.
We're delighted to devote our first special issue to the Azores, which reflects the values of our editorial line. This publication is a hybrid travel guide, somewhere between a photo book and a directory, giving a lowdown of the archipelago through four islands. Images showcase the soul and uniqueness of São Miguel, Terceira, São Jorge and Pico, complimented by a selection of accommodation and restaurants carefully chosen for their style and principles. We also suggest visits to must-see sights and hidden gems, so you can get to know the archipelago from every angle.
This special issue is an invitation to explore a unique part of the world, guaranteed to appeal to lovers of nature, authenticity and design.
THE BOOK
Summary
Presentation of 4 islands : São Miguel, Terceira, São Jorge et Pico
104 premium adresses : Lifestyle (Accommodation, fooding), Nature (Hiking, sport etc.) and Culture (Art and artcrafts)
Map : all addresses located on each island
Book : presentation of a reference work of art on the Azores
Preview
Details
Pages : 228
Language : english & french
Size : 14.8 x 21 cm
Writing : Laure Chédé
Traduction : Sarah Henshaw
Digital photographs : Laure Chédé + crédits
Layout : Nouvelles Modes
Print : printed in France with FSC® certified paper in an Imprim'Vert® certified printing house
ISBN : 9782959762918
Bonus : A postcard of our favorite photo slipped into the first 100 books!
Delivery expected in February
E-TRAVEL BOOK
Summary
Presentation of 4 islands : São Miguel, Terceira, São Jorge et Pico
104 premium adresses : Lifestyle (Accommodation, fooding), Nature (Hiking, sport etc.) and Culture (Art and artcrafts)
Map : all addresses located on each island
Book : presentation of a reference work of art on the Azores
Preview
Details
Pages : 228
Language : english & french
Writing : Laure Chédé
Traduction : Sarah Henshaw
Digital photoggraphs : Laure Chédé + credits
Layouts : Nouvelles Modes
ISBN : 9782959762901
picture credit © laure chédé - art direction © nouvelles modes
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