Months before our week-long vacation in Sao Miguel, the largest island of the Azores, I researched shoes. The Azores are an archipelago composed of nine volcanic islands in the Macaronesia region of the North Atlantic Ocean, about 870 miles west of Lisbon. The volcanic island of Sao Miguel is rocky and even the beaches can be treacherous.
With its unique terrain, from steep cliffs to rugged trails, the Azores require a sturdy pair of shoes that can withstand the elements. Hiking sandals are perfect for exploring the diverse terrain of the Azores, which are known for their rugged and sometimes challenging landscapes from steep cliffs to volcanic rock formations.
Hiking sandals are designed to handle wet conditions, making them perfect for exploring the Azores' lush forests and beautiful waterfalls. Many hiking sandals are water-resistant or quick-drying, meaning that you can wear them even in the rain and still keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Finally, hiking sandals are lightweight and easy to pack, making them the perfect shoe for traveling to the Azores. When you're traveling, it's important to pack light and only bring the essentials. Hiking sandals are perfect because they're lightweight and you can easily slip them into your backpack or carry-on bag.
When choosing hiking sandals for your trip to the Azores, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for sandals with sturdy soles and excellent grip. The Azores' rugged terrain requires a shoe that can provide maximum traction and stability. Second, make sure the sandals have good arch support and cushioning. You'll be spending a lot of time on your feet, so you want a shoe that will keep your feet comfortable and supported.
I researched major brands – Merrell, Teva, Columbia, Keen and Land’s End – searching for a pretty shoe that didn’t look like a fishing sandal. Several years ago, my two-year old niece was wearing a pair of Keen tie-dye sandals. I thought to myself, “I wish those were available for adults.” Well, they are. I bought them and they were the best investment for my trip to the Azores. The tie-dye color came in several models and I ended up choosing the Keen Whisper closed toe sandal because it was not only beautiful but also lightweight. They were comfortable from the moment I put them on and I wore them for hiking, into the rocky ocean, to Sao Miguel’s many hot springs and even out to dinner.
Although I did bring a pair of sneakers, I ended up wearing my Keen sandals almost every day. Whether you're hiking through the Azorean countryside, exploring the beautiful coastlines, or strolling through the charming towns, or going out to dinner, a pair of pretty hiking sandals are the perfect shoe for all your outdoor adventures.
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