Terceira Island, located in the Central Group, is the third largest island in the Azores Archipelago. It is one of the most beautiful of the nine Azorean islands. It is there that the first place in the Azores elevated to the category of city is located, the capital of the island, Angra do Heroísmo.
Angra do Heroísmo, the capital of Terceira Island
Terceira Island is full of natural charms featuring beautiful and impressive volcanic landscapes and places of geological interest. It has a very diversified offer and, therefore, is currently one of the main tourist destinations in the Archipelago. Its capital, Angra do Heroísmo, was classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983. It is considered the jewel in the island's crown. In fact, it is one of the most charming and enchanting cities of the others in the Archipelago.
The historic center
Strolling through its cobbled streets is a true journey into the past. In its historic centre, it is possible to observe all the architectural heritage left by the former settlers. There are several churches, monuments and palaces that date back to those times and that, nowadays, are well preserved. Jardim Duque da Ilha Terceira, also located in the historic center of the city, is one of the most beautiful classic gardens in the Azores. The viewpoints of Alto da Memória and Monte Brasil are obligatory points of visit, as they represent the stopping places of the maritime routes for the discoveries of the 15th and 16th centuries
Breathtaking landscapes
One of the most beautiful landscapes on the island is the Caldeira dos Cinco Picos, a volcanic caldera, about seven kilometers in diameter. It is located between Serra do Cume and Serra da Ribeirinha. It's a phenomenal sight! Another place of interest is the Algar do Carvão, inside the Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz. This constitutes an impressive lava tunnel. Its unique shape, together with the stunning vegetation, makes this a special place, which a lot of trail lovers look for.
For beach and sea lovers, the island has fantastic natural pools formed between the volcanic rocks. These are to be found in the famous Biscoitos bathing area. Here you can also enjoy the natural beauty contrasts of the landscape between the basalt and the blue tones of the ocean. It is in the civil parish of Biscoitos that the famous Verdelho wine of the Azores is also produced.
What to do
On Terceira Island you can carry out activities in nature and enjoy every moment on land or at sea. On land, bike rides, trails and excursions through caves and craters, for example, are frequent. At sea, whale watching boat trips are a fun way to venture into the Azores sea.
Lilac Island, as it is known, is a true pearl of the Atlantic. There you can feel the pure nature of the Azores and simply relax.
Discover the sea of the Azores with us through the Whale Watching activity here. here.