The Azores

São Jorge Island

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The Brown Island

São Jorge may be small, but its scenery is dramatic, shouldered with mountains that tumble into deep ravines, rocky cliffs, crater lakes and characteristic fajãs (plains formed by lava flow). The fertile brown soil and dark rock striations lend it its nickname, and the island is a favorite among outdoor and adventure enthusiasts — you can do everything from mountain biking to canyoning, hiking, canoeing and spelunking. Of course, no visit to São Jorge is complete without a stop at the island’s cheese factory where they produce the famed Queijo São Jorge, a robust, aged cheese characterized by its spicy, tangy flavor.