Ep 9. The Azores

Beyond Your Backyard is a travel adventure series, and in season 2 episode 9, the team travels to the mystical and exotic Azores. The Azores are a cluster of Portugal's islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and are renowned for their diverse landscapes, natural beauty, and stunning crystal-clear waters.

In this episode, host Erik Hastings and his team take viewers on a journey to this stunning destination. They explore the islands' culture, history, and natural wonders, showcasing a mix of unique and diverse experiences that make this region a must-visit for any traveler.

The team begins their exploration by heading to the island of Sao Miguel, where they visit the charming Portuguese-inspired town of Ponta Delgada. They explore the town's streets, shops, and restaurants, giving viewers a taste of the local lifestyle and culture. They also explore the town's rich history, visiting the 16th-century Fort of Sao Bras, which once served as a defensive structure against potential invaders.

The team then journeys to the stunning Sete Cidades, a volcanic crater that houses two stunning lakes, one blue and one green, which legend attributes to a pair of star-crossed lovers decades ago. They explore the crater by hiking and biking on the scenic trails surrounding the lakes and take in the stunning picturesque views.

Next, the team travels to the island of Pico, where they visit UNESCO's World Heritage Site, the Pico Island Vineyard Culture. This region is renowned for its unique style of wine production, utilizing the region's unique volcanic soil to produce award-winning wines that are famous worldwide. Here the team tastes the unique local wine, explored the vineyard's lush landscapes, and learned about the wine production process.

The team then travels to Faial and explores the island's majestic Atlantic coastline, where they witness the power of the ocean's waves crashing against the rocky coastal cliffs. They explore the Capelinhos Volcano and Interpretation Center, which offers striking views of the volcanic formations and a unique understanding of the region's volcanic geology.

Finally, the team visits the stunning Poca da Dona Beija, a thermal spa that features eight thermal pools, surrounded by lush greenery and operating at different temperatures ranging between 30°C to 39°C. They soak and relax in the thermal waters, taking in the stunning views and experiencing the therapeutic effects.

Overall, Beyond Your Backyard season 2, episode 9, The Azores, is a must-watch show for any traveler seeking to add this stunning destination to their bucket list. The team showcases the unique culture, history, and natural wonders of this region, providing viewers with a captivating and informative journey.