I'm flying out to Horta on Friday but we expect to be leaving almost straight away.

Things to see:

At Horta Peter's Cafe Sport is essential. Go up to the caldera at the top of the island and to the old lighthouse at the far end where you can see the new volcano at Capelinhos. A tour of any of the islands at this time of year when the hydrangeas are in flower.

Tours of Sao Jorge and Pico, by taxi or hire car, are worthwhile.

And of course don't forget to do a wall painting at Horta or you'll have bad luck for the rest of your trip