Portugal quickly became one of my favourite countries to photograph. Although my travels have so far focused on its Atlantic islands, the landscapes I experienced in the Azores and Madeira were unlike anywhere else I’ve visited. From volcanic crater lakes and lush green hills to towering mountain peaks, ancient forests and dramatic coastlines, every day brought a completely different landscape to explore.
My journey began on São Miguel Island in the Azores, where I spent several days photographing iconic locations including Sete Cidades, Furnas, Ponta do Sossego, Mosteiros, Arnel Lighthouse, Terra Nostra Park, Pico do Ferro and the island’s winding roads lined with hydrangeas and grazing dairy cattle. The combination of volcanic scenery, changing weather and vibrant green landscapes made São Miguel one of the most rewarding photography destinations I’ve ever visited.
From there, I continued to Madeira, spending ten days exploring the island’s rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs and world-famous hiking trails. Highlights included photographing sunrise from Pico do Arieiro, wandering through the misty Fanal Forest, hiking the São Lourenço Peninsula, visiting Vereda dos Balcões, Santana and Câmara de Lobos, and discovering countless waterfalls, viewpoints and coastal landscapes along the way.
This collection showcases my favourite photographs from both island destinations, capturing Portugal’s incredible natural beauty through landscapes, wildlife, coastlines, forests and mountain scenery. While I’ve only explored the Azores and Madeira so far, they have left me eager to return and discover even more of what Portugal has to offer.
