TAKE a look at the winter sunshine spot that’s just two hours from Ireland – with flights from €112.
Ponta Delgada is the stunning capital of the Azores region in Portugal.
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It’s located on Sao Miguel Island off Portugal’s west coast and is a popular cruise ship stop.
The island itself is an inactive volcano that has been lying dormant for thousands of years, giving the beaches there unique black sand.
The spot is known for its stunning beaches, breathtaking natural parks, and historic architecture.
It’s the perfect place for thrill seekers hoping to find some adventure without breaking the bank.
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The easiest way to get to Ponta Delgada is to fly to the island’s airport, Aeroporto Joao Paulo.
Although Ryanair don’t fly directly to the island, holidaygoers can book flights with a quick stopover in Lisbon that will take them there.
Once on the island, a world of opportunity can be found, and visitors can enjoy warm weather even in December and January.
Ponta Delgada enjoys highs of up to 18C in winter, so it’s the perfect way to escape the cold at home.
In fact, one of the city’s main attractions are its beaches, where you can find water sports, relaxing areas, and family spots.
Praia do Populo is one of the city‘s most popular beaches, despite its small size.
It offers everything you could need for a day at the beach including restaurants up and down the sand where you grab a bite to eat.
On calm days, it’s the perfect spot to take a dip in the warm water or sunbathe on the sand.
On windier days, the beach is hugely popular among local surfers who enjoy the huge waves on offer.
The beach is a great spot to try your hand at surfing and there are plenty of local companies in the area who offer rentals and lessons.
Another top sand spot is the Praia das Milicias, a popular family pick with all the necessary facilities.
INCREDIBLE BEACH
It offers plenty of space for sunbathing and picnics, and the water is clean and safe.
There are also restaurants available and shower and changing facilities so an entire day can be spent there hassle free.
One Tripadvisor visitor said: “This beach is incredible!
“Soft sand, warm water, light waves and changing/ shower facilities.
“I absolutely love that there are no rocks in the water, and you can comfortably walk into the water.”
Beyond the beaches, Ponta Delgadas is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and find some adventure.
STUNNING MOUNTAINS
One unique attraction is the Azores whale watching tour, set on a migration route in the Atlantic ocean.
The day trip takes visitors out in a RIB boat and is guided by marine experts who can point out sperm whales and dolphins.
Even without spotting wildlife, the tour is a great way to see the ocean and surrounding islands.
Ore, take a guided tour by jeep or bus into the stunning mountains that surround the city and enjoy breathtaking views.
The green landscape boasts waterfalls, rivers, and beautiful rugged cliffs along the coastline.
MOST BEAUTIFUL BUILDING
Some tours that know special destinations offer swimming in rivers and waterfalls for a truly magical experience.
And for those who don’t want a tour, a trip into the mountains on rented mopeds will allow you to hike and explore the area at your own leisure.
In the city, culture lovers will be sure to enjoy a trip to Santuario Do Senhor Santo Cristo Dos Milagres, a stunning 16th century church.
The building has been called the most beautiful in the city for its awe inspiring interior, which is richly detailed in gold and red.
The church as a long and fascinating history and is associated with many religious miracles, making it a top spot for history and culture lovers.
PERFECT PLACE
And the Portas Da Cidad are a must see spot for all visitors to the city, as they stand proudly at the entrance to the gorgeous Old Town.
The gates sit in the middle of a wide plaza surrounded by restaurants and bars.
It’s the perfect place to take in views of the city and enjoy a drink or some delicious local cuisine.
FIVE MORE WINTER SUNSHINE SPOTS
HERE are five more destinations to soak up the last of the year’s sunshine.
- Gran Canaria is just one of the very many options, boasting a “very mild winter” each year. Located on one of Spain’s Canary Islands, off northwestern Africa, Gran Canaria is well-known for its black lava and white sand beaches.
And steady temps of 22C throughout the winter. - The Cyclades island in the Aegean Sea looks like a place straight out of a fairytale and even has flights for less than €90 from Dublin Airport.
Santorini, located in Greece is calling your name as the peak tourist season comes to an end but the hot sunshine isn’t.
Roam the peaceful black-sand beaches or stroll the streets of one of Santorini’s charming villages. - Tuscany stretches from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Apennines and is located in west-central Italy.
With breathtaking beaches, Mediterranean islands and highs of 23C in October, this European spot has something for everyone. - The island of Sardinia in Italy is home to nearly 2,000km of stunning coastline. With average highs of 23C throughout October this is the prime month to visit and avoid large crowds.
It’s a great time of year to swim in the sea, with the water at an average temperature of 22C. - Cordoba in southern Spain is the capital of the province and the ideal place for an autumn getaway.
The city enjoys temperatures from 18 to 24C even into the month of October, so visitors can soak up the last of the sunshine.
And it’s just three hours from Dublin Airport with Ryanair operating regular flights to the city’s closest airport in Malaga for just €24.99.
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