Sunvil offers an extensive range of itineraries in the Azores

The North of England opens up to the Azores this summer –

Flights from Manchester on Thursdays from June to September 2018.

Those wishing to explore the nine captivating islands of the Azores can fly direct from Manchester to Ponta Delgada, on São Miguel (the main island) to experience the many delights of this unique archipelago from June 2018 with Sunvil.

Until now, direct flights have only been available from London Gatwick.  With the new Ryanair route, visitors from the North of England can jet off with ease and start enjoying the islands’ many highlights within four hours’ flying time. On offer are experiences including whale and dolphin watching, self-guided nature walks, fascinating UNESCO sites, dark sand beaches, geothermally-heated pools, glorious gardens (both wild and cultivated), local speciality dish cozido (lowered into volcanic steam vents to cook for six hours), and excellent local wines and cheeses.

Sunvil offers an extensive range of itineraries in the Azores, from family holidays to whale-watching, self-guided volcano tours and the grand 14-night Azores tour, taking in all nine islands.

With a thriving street-art scene, sustainable living and marine life galore – here are the top reasons to fly to the Azores in 2018…

It’s one of the world’s leading sustainable destinations
Since 1990 Sunvil has been promoting the Azores as a sustainable tourism destination, and the archipelago was the first QualityCoast Platinum Award winner for its efforts in global sustainable tourism. With only 5% of Azorean land being built on, the islands’ identity, culture and historical heritage is well-preserved. Marine life is well protected too, with dolphins, sperm whales and great whales, marine turtles and birds, pelagic fish and cold-water corals happily thriving – all of which can be experienced through well-regulated snorkelling, diving and whale-watching trips.

The Street Art in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
Public urban art can be seen all over the city’s walls, buildings and public spaces, inspired by the landscape and marine life on the islands. What began as spray-painted graffiti has matured into works of art that are supported by both local government and communities. The Walk & Talk Festival takes place in Ponta Delgada in July and celebrates this emerging street art culture by turning the whole city into a work of public art, and features guest artists, large-scale murals and sculptures, installations and video creations.

Connect with our blue planet – swimming with dolphins
Embrace nature by swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat in the Atlantic Sea. Available on the islands of Faial and São Miguel, guests can spot the Common, Bottlenose, Risso and Atlantic Spotted dolphin, among others, in the company of expert guides. Price from £66 pp, including activity equipment and the services of an instructor or guide.

Where to stay in São Miguel…

Santa Bárbara Eco Beach Resort, Ribeira Grande
Recently opened, this stunning, contemporary resort features spacious Scandinavian-style chalets, with natural furnishings throughout. Set between the mountains and the sea, it features a beautiful outdoor pool with decked area overlooking the sea, as well as a bar and restaurant featuring a sushi corner.
From £991 pp based on two sharing, including return flights from Manchester, seven nights’ self-catering accommodation and car hire.

Do Colégio Hotel, Ponta Delgada
Located in the historical centre of Ponta Delgada, this 19th century building and four-star hotel is home to contemporary restaurant A Colmeia, one of the most sought-after places to eat on São Miguel.
From £630 pp based on two sharing, including return flights from Manchester, seven nights’ B&B accommodation and transfers.

Caloura Hotel, Caloura
This charming four-star hotel, located at the edge of the picturesque fishing harbour of Caloura, overlooks the sea and is set against a background of small fields and vineyards.
From £905 pp based on two sharing, including return flights from Manchester, seven nights’ B&B accommodation and car hire.

For more information, to speak to an expert or to book, call Sunvil on 020 8758 4722 (www.sunvil.co.uk/azores).