Where to go in the Azores?

[Howmanysleepstilchristmas]

Only heard of this on another thread, but I like the sound of it! Which island has the most to offer? Any recommendations for places to stay appreciated too!

Who's going? Self catered or hotel?

Me, DH and 4DC aged 5-13. Self catering works best as few hotels can accommodate us together!

We had an apartment in San Miguel, on the outskirts of Ponte Delgardo. It was a little bit out of the main drag (such as it is) but walking distance to Populo beach. I highly recommend hiring a car as, while the island is fairly small, public transport is crap. There is a decent motorway that runs from the top to the bottom of the island and the whole trip takes about 2 hours max.

Furnas was my favourite spot on the island. Inland but tropical. But them I'm a kiwi and it reminded me an awful lot of home. Go to the Funas hotel and pay the money to go into the botanical gardens. The ornamental ponds have hot water piped in, so bring your swimsuits and prepare to get yellow from the suspended minerals.

São Miguel is probably the best for a family holiday. Ponta Delgada, the capital, is a good base for exploring both São Migueland some of the others islands, as island-hopping boats leave from here. This hotel is highly recommended www.booking.com/hotel/pt/quinta-do-carmo.en-gb.html and they have a detached holiday cottage which sleeps 6.