7 Best Sights in Terceira, The Azores

Algar do Carvão

Fodor's choice

Climb deep inside an extinct volcano at this 1,804-foot volcanic cave located toward the middle of Terceira. You’ll be guided 148 feet down a set of stairs to the floor of the cavern before descending another 115 feet to a crystal clear lake fed by rainwater (which completely disappears during dry summers). Though the stairs are on the steep side, they have handrails and are not challenging to descend or ascend—just be sure to dress warmly, as the cave becomes colder and wetter the farther down you go. Along the way you’ll see unique stalactites and stalagmites. Opening times vary depending on the season, but are generally limited to a few hours in the afternoons, so check before you go.

Monte Brasil

Fodor's choice

This extinct volcano on the far west side of Angra, which can be seen from all over town, is now a deer-filled nature reserve with many trails winding throughout the area. Whether you drive or walk from town, you’ll first come across the Fortaleza de São João Baptista, a late-16th-century fort that’s still in use by the Portuguese army. You can only enter the fort itself by taking a free tour, which runs nearly every hour and is led by a soldier stationed there. Farther up the mountain, the best lookouts to stop at are Pico das Cruzinhas, Pico do Zimbreiro, and Pico do Facho, the highest point on Monte Brasil. There are picnic tables where you can rest, as well as a children’s play area.

Gruta do Natal

This horizontal lava tube running 2,287 feet is worth a self-guided visit, as long as you wear good footwear and don’t feel claustrophobic in tight spaces. Navigating the sometimes dark, narrow, and low-clearance tube requires some ducking and squatting at times (you will be given a helmet for extra protection). Christmas Mass is held here when possible, hence the name.

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Jardim Duque da Terceira

These clearly labeled urban gardens, first created in 1882, showcase plants from around the world and make for a lovely stroll when wandering Angra’s historical city center. There are a few terraced levels to explore until you reach the highest point, where you’ll find a panoramic view of Angra. You’ll find an organic teahouse about halfway up (or down) if you need a reviving cup. There’s also a playground.

Museu de Angra do Heroísmo

In the former Convent of São Francisco, this interesting museum tells the history of Terceira and its capital city, from the first settlers to the present day. Exhibits cover military history, transportation, furnishings, and artworks, but the wonderful collection of horse-drawn carriages is a definite highlight. Much, though not quite all, of the information is in English as well as Portuguese, and there are always museum staffers available if you have questions. The original chapel contains an 18th-century organ; if you’re lucky, your visit will coincide with a free concert.

Piscinas Naturais da Silveira

Just west of Angra, you’ll find not a beach per se, but rather a former fishing port transformed into a popular swimming area with a large concrete pier jutting out into the ocean. Swimmers can access the water by stairs, by diving in, or by holding a metal handrail as they walk right in. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (free); showers; toilets. Best for: swimming.

Sé Catedral de Angra do Heroísmo

The largest church in the Azores, dating from the late 1500s, is missing much of its baroque interior because it was largely destroyed in Terceira’s 1980 earthquake as well as a fire in 1983. Not all was lost, however. The high altar is decorated in 18th-century silverplate, and the Our Lady of the Angels altar also dates from the 18th century.

Terceira

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