One of the smallest and dryest islands of the Azores, Santa Maria is catering for both the hiker and the beach lover. Thanks to its old geological age and erosion, the island has real beaches and resorts. The western part is probably the driest spot you can find in the Azores. The eastern part of the island is made up of a patchwork of fields and forests.

The hills in the centre are humid and green. Highest point is 590 m, covered in forest. Even if this island has little traces of volcanism, it offers an interesting topography. And like on the other islands of the Azores, many trails have been marked and described.

Check the list of all nine Azores islands.