Joao,
I've never posted here before, so I will introduce myself. I am from the Netherlands, amateur photographer, mainly interested in landscape photography.
I have visited Portugal a number of times (including Coimbra). I also made a most impressing trip to these beautiful islands. I have visited Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge, Terceira, Graciosa, Faial and Pico to study the windmills and watermills (also the reason for my trips to Portugal). Each island has its own character. They all have a lot to offer to landscape photographers.
The islands are of a volcanic origin. In fact they are situated on the same breach line as Iceland. Pico is a volcano, I believe it is the highest mountain of Portugal.
Reading about this beautiful place, or even better, seeing pictures, always gives me a warm feeling.
So, thanks for posting!
Frans Rutten