Terceira Island, the lilac island! Just as the name suggests, it was the third (terceira means third in Portuguese) island in the Azores Archipelago to be discovered.
Before even landing, you can catch a glimpse of what looks like a canvas painted in intense green, with vast plains and imposing hills.
This volcanic island constantly offers visitors an infinite landscape of natural beauty.
One of the best ways to explore Terceira Island is by renting a car and creating your own route, visiting each spot at your own pace.
However, we do tours in Terceira Island and will gladly, show you the best kept secrets, among other sites well known. Check our tours page to see if we have a group tour there soon.
The Terceira Island is also one of the islands where you can have connecting flights with SATA to Flores Island, and Corvo Island.
Get ready for a journey to the center of the Earth with this guide to must-visit places!
Starting with a Tour of the Historic of Angra do Heroísmo.
Monte Brasil e Angra do Heroísmo – Terceira
Angra do Heroísmo
Not only is Angra do Heroísmo the capital of Terceira, but it's also the historical capital of the Azores. Founded in 1534, it was the first place in Portugal to be elevated to city status and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In other words, this city is captivating, not only for its history and natural beauty but also for the people who live there.
What to visit in the Historical Center
After arriving in Angra, begin by wandering the streets of the historic center all the way to Angra Beach. Right away, you'll sense the city's mysteries and realize there’s much to uncover.
That being said, start by exploring the Sé Cathedral, the largest religious structure in the Azores archipelago.
Then, head down to the Old Square, which dates back to the Middle Ages and was later rebuilt.
Right next door, you’ll find Duke of Terceira Garden, where you can travel back in time, enjoy a coffee, and admire the garden view.
From there, walk up to São Sebastião fort, also known as "the little castle." This was the first significant maritime fortification to defend Pipas Port and, by extension, the city.
Here, breathe in the magnificent view of the Atlantic Ocean and Monte Brasil—oh, the perfect harmony of blue and green!
Ah! What a beautiful match of colors, the blue and green!
Thereafter, you can walk down to Angra Marinatake a picture with Vasco da Gama and admire the beautiful Misericordia Church. If possible, take some sun baths or actually dive in Prainha de Angra.
Finally, don't miss the Vulcanological Museum and Nossa Senhora do Carmo Church, perched atop a grand staircase.
Above all, enjoy the beauty and history of this enchanting place.
A highlight is the Sanjoaninas Festival, celebrated in mid-June, the largest secular festival in the Azores.
Misericordia Church and the statue of the Navigator Vasco da Gama - Angra do Heroismo
What to visit on the West Side of the Island
Monte Brasil
Beforehand, let us say that is very difficult to describe in words the beauty of this place.
Monte Brasil is an extinct volcano that originated in the sea, defended by Fortress of São João Baptista.
It offers a marked walking trail, with various viewpoints along the way providing panoramic views of the city and bay.
It’s also, a perfect spot for a picnic or a family day out.
Nowadays o Monte Brasil is protected landscape and natural park of the city, contemplating a big diversity of Flora and Fauna
Caldeira do Monte Brasil
Algar do Carvão
Located in the island’s center, this volcanic cone in the Caldeira of Guilherme Moniz is one of Terceira's natural wonders, and also the biggest one in Azores, spawning an astonishing 15km in perimeter.
This volcanic cone, is a must-see in Terceira Island,, and it's a magical and unique place in the world.
One of the many curiosities about this place, is that it is usually used for music concerts, because the acoustic is amazing.
Entering the volcanic cone, we will pass through several tunnels, in where we will constantly amaze with the beauty and size of this volcano. Yet, we can descend almost 100 meters and end it in a beautiful lagoon
Algar do Carvão
Gruta de Natal
Located near Picos Gordos, in the Natural Forest Reserve of Serra de Santa Bárbara and Mistérios Negros
The Gruta do Natal became known by this name after the first Christmas (Natal) mass held there in 1969.
By entering this cave, we have the feeling that we are about to become spieologists, by walking on a 700 meters lava tube. Here you can observe several lava types, geological structures and stalactites
After visiting Gruta de Natal, right in front of it, you will find a small, yet beautifull laggon, called Lagoa de Negro.
Lava Tube and Lagoa do Negro
Furnas de Enxofre
Only 3 km's from Algar do Carvão you will find Furnas de Enxofre.
There is a hiking trail, arround the fumarolas. These fumarolas vulcânicasthese volcanic fumaroles release hot gases and water vapor due to rainwater infiltration. However, in some sites, the trail can become muddy, beeing however, easy to continue. In the same way, it's also possible to see the openings of fumarolas and its colors. fumarolas e as cores interessantes das rochas no seu redor.
Part of the Trail - Furnas de Enxofre
Serra Santa Bárbara
At 1,021 meters, this is the highest point on Terceira. Hence, on clear days, it offers breathtaking views of much of Terceira Island as well as Pico, São Jorge, and Graciosa islands.
Landscapes from Serra de Santa Barbara
What to visit on East Side of Terceira Island
Serra do Cume Viewpoint
From this viewpoint, take in the incredible patchwork of agricultural fields below. If you can go at sunset. You will thank us latter!
Balcony at Serra do Cume
Facho e Praia Vitória Viewpoints
Climb up to Facho Viewpoint and take in the views above Victoria Beach,as well as Povoação Bay and Serra do Cume. After you just need to hike down towards Grande Beach and relax. In the same way, take some time to stroll arround the city center. It's worth it!
View from Victoria Beach and Povoação Bay - Facho Viewpoint
Natural Pools in Terceira Island
In the village of Biscoitos, you’ll find one of the island's most famous swimming spots among black volcanic rocks. Nevertheless, Terceira offers several natural pools—each with unique features—to explore as you journey across the island. Some of them are Silveira, das quatro Ribeiras, das cinco Ribeiras, Porto Martins and S. Sebastião.
Beach zone in Biscoitos
A Feast for the Senses
Certainly, most of times what moves us on a journey is gastronomy. Now, undeniably Terceira Island is no exception! The typical dish is Alcatra, whose base can be meat or fish. This dish is cooked slowly in a clay pot and accompanied by a bread or dough. As a result of this beautiful delicacy, we have intense flavors that you will not forget anytime soon.
In the confectionery, also many options to delight you, however, we highlight the cakes of Dona Amelia made of cane honey, cinnamon, currants and ciders.
The bakery O Forno, in Angra do Heroismo, has its own manufacture of a huge variety of regional sweets.
Make sure to stop by the Queijo da Vaquinha Cheese Factory, in order to watch the cheese making process. Take a seat in the coffee shop and enjoy a savory snack, such as a cheese board.
Therefore, here are a few recommended spots to enjoy local cuisine:
- Ti Choa (Serreta)
- Tasca das Tias (Historical Center in Angra do Heroísmo)
- Caneta (Altares)
- O Raul (Biscoitos)
- Boca Negra (Porto Judeu)
As you will need to fly there, and weather in Azores has its own fame, don't forget to get Travel InsuranceIati seguros
So, are you ready to explore Terceira Island?
Check our Tours page and see if we have a group tour there soon.
Are you ready to Break Free?
