Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island, Azores

The Azores group of islands are a gem. Despite being in the Atlantic the temperature was mile for early November. The beaches have black volcanic sand that felt soothing to the touch. It’s a relatively small island – you can go top to bottom in a day by car.

There’s a natural volcanic spa whose name escapes me. There’s also many pineapple farms to explore. Downtown Ponta Delgada is walkable with a scenic harbour and great restaurants.

And the island is both close to the rest of th Azores and about an hour’s flight to Lisbon.