While none of the Azores islands see large numbers of tourists, most visitors spend their time in Sao Miguel. However, the other eight islands have a lot to offer, including Terceira.
90 miles northwest of Sao Miguel, it is one of the largest islands in the archipelago and has its own international airport. With planes arriving from North America and mainland Portugal, as well as inter-island flights, it’s surprisingly easy to visit, and makes a logical stopover between the United States and Europe.
With sandy beaches, dozens of stunning viewpoints, and even the ability to explore inside an extinct volcano, we recommend at least three full days on the island. Here are the top 12 things to do while you’re there.
Sunbathing in Prainha da Praia da Vitória
Close to the airport, the attractive town of Praia da Vitória is known for its colorful buildings, the remains of its ancient walls, and a sandy beach next to the marina. Expect to share it with many other sun worshipers during the summer, but you will have the beach mostly to yourself at other times of the year.
Changing rooms and a bar / restaurant are available in the warmer months, and while the Atlantic waters will be chilly no matter when you’re there, Terceira’s mild climate provides opportunities for sunbathing for much of the year.
Enjoy the view from Miradouro do Facho
The Miradouro do Facho hill viewpoint is located just outside Praia da Vitória, and is the perfect place to take photos of the city, the port, and the surrounding countryside. Easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking, or there’s a long, steep staircase that starts on the outskirts of town if you’re feeling energetic.
Once used as a lighthouse, with a fire lit every night to warn passing ships away from the rocky shoreline, there is now a large statue of the Virgin Mary on top. As with many high points on the island, expect a lot of wind, even if it is relatively quiet below.
Take a road trip around the island
As with other parts of the Azores, Terceira has the best experience with his own wheelset. Public transportation is limited and catered to the needs of the locals, so it’s unlikely to work when or where you want it.
A well paved road surrounds the island, making it easy to access between the main cities and many points of interest. Other roads tend to be narrower and more winding, especially towards the mountains, but are generally still in good condition.
Several companies rent cars to visitors, like much of Europe, small cars with a manual transmission (stick) are the standard option. Check in advance if you prefer one with an automatic gearbox.
If you’re comfortable on two wheels, the short distances and winding roads are ideal for exploring by motorbike, with scooter rentals readily available.
Hike in Monte Brasil
Leaving the ocean outside of Angra do Heroísmo, most of the Monte Brasil peninsula has been designated as a nature reserve.
The remains of a long-extinct volcano, the peninsula is covered in thick forest that is full of flowers in spring, and has a hiking trail that leads to the summit and viewpoint. You can also drive there if it’s muddy underfoot or you didn’t pack your walking shoes.
At the top, you’ll find stunning views, along with a large commemorative cross commemorating the island’s discovery in 1432, and some dismantled artillery pieces courtesy of the nearby São João Baptista fort.
The fort is still occupied by the Portuguese army, as it has been since the early 17th century, and you can see the interior by joining one of the guided tours that usually take place every hour.
Walk inside an extinct volcano
Probably the highlight of a visit to Terceira is the Algar do Carvão, a lava tube in the middle of the island.
With a 150-foot vertical drop from the cavern’s mouth to its floor, and an additional 150-foot drop into the rain-fed lagoon that marks its deepest point, it’s a rare opportunity to hike inside an extinct volcano. It is a must-see for most visitors.
Opening hours vary by time of year, operating daily during the summer months, so check the website for up-to-date information when planning your visit. Tickets cost 6 to 9 euros per adult to visit one or two caves, and accompanying children under 12 are admitted free
Climb the Serra de Santa Bárbara
At 3,350 feet high, the summit of the Serra de Santa Bárbara in western Terceira is the highest point on the island. On clear days, visiting the lookout guarantees breathtaking views in all directions, and if you’re lucky, you might even be able to see some of the other islands in the Azores.
However, as with other viewpoints, there is no point visiting if the top is covered in clouds. There is a small interpretation center just before the main access road, which offers guided tours and a lot of useful information about the mountain and its surroundings.
While most visitors drive to the viewpoint, it is also possible to walk; Look for signs that indicate the way to the tourist trilho in the town of Santa Bárbara. The climb is quite strenuous, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring warm, waterproof clothing, even in summer. You will be on the mountain for at least 3-4 hours, and conditions change rapidly.
Explore the colorful city center of Angra do Heroísmo
Angra do Heroísmo is the capital and the largest city of Terceira, and where most of the visitors are. The city center was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, and spending a few minutes exploring the beautiful brightly colored buildings makes it easy to see why.
If the weather is not good, there are many museums, galleries and other indoor attractions worth your attention, but when the sun is out, simply wandering the cobbled squares and down the narrow streets without a particular plan is very rewarding.
Relax in the Duque da Terceira garden
If you’ve been walking around Angra do Heroísmo for a while and your feet need a break from the cobblestone streets, relax for a bit on a bench in the Duque da Terceira garden. This small but attractive botanical garden in the center of the city is full of trees, flowers and shrubs from all over the world.
There is a small cafe at the eastern end of the garden, and several other places to eat and drink on the outskirts. Once you regain your energy, follow the path to the stairs behind the garden that lead to Alto da Memória, a viewpoint with fantastic views over the city, the beach and the port area.
Head to the top of the Serra do Cume
In the east of the island, and rising steeply from the surrounding countryside, the top of the Serra do Cume is 1800 feet above sea level. A couple of observation decks provide really spectacular views over the villages and farmlands of much of Terceira, at least on clear days, make sure you get to see the top before deciding to drive there, as otherwise! you will see very little!
While several wind turbines are dotted around the mountainside, they don’t obstruct the best photo opportunities. Don’t be surprised if you share the experience with some friendly cows as they are often found grazing along the access road.
View the frescoes inside the Church of San Sebastian
The distinctive churches in Terceira, and indeed throughout the Azores archipelago, are one of the island’s most notable features. The oldest example can be found in the center of São Sebastião: this small chapel was first built around 1455 and subsequently rebuilt several times over the centuries.
It was made particularly interesting by the remains of several medieval frescoes adorning the side walls, and while not many of the artworks remain, some are still largely intact, and preservation efforts pay dividends.
Visit the lighthouse in Ponta das Contendas
Just at the southeastern tip of Terceira is Farol das Contendas, a lighthouse that has been in continuous operation there since 1934. The views from its secluded location are breathtaking, over the rocky cliffs and coastline and out to the vast ocean beyond.
The M509 road leading to the lighthouse is a more scenic alternative to the main route between the cities of Porto Judeu and São Sebastiã, with several small bays and viewpoints to stop along the way.
Learn about local wine
Perhaps surprisingly for a chain of islands in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores have a thriving local wine scene due to its fertile rocky volcanic soil and mild climate. The best place to taste and learn more about the wines in Terceira is at the Museu do Vinho in Biscoitos.
This family-run vineyard has been in operation since 1900, with the small museum stocking various items of traditional wine-making equipment. Tours typically last around 25 minutes, explaining the history of wine in the area, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample what’s open and buy a bottle or two to take home.
