Terceira Island main highlights

by Arne · Published August 26, 2023 · Updated May 18, 2025

Terceira Island presents an enchanting blend of natural splendor and historical charm. Volcanic caves, rugged coastlines, and rolling hills define its landscape. Venture to Algar do Carvão, a breathtaking lava tube, or explore the colorful streets of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage city. With its captivating scenery and vibrant culture, Terceira offers a truly unique island experience. These are the Terceira Island main highlights:

Terceira Island main highlights:

Algar do Carvão

Terceira Island main highlights - Algar do Carvão The first destination we cover is Algar do Carvão. Algar do Carvão’s underground lake and unique geological features provide a glimpse into the volcanic activity that shaped the island. The otherworldly beauty of the cavern’s interior is a testament to nature’s creative forces.
How to get there: Accessible by car with parking nearby; short walk to entrance.

Other natural highlights include:

Furnas do Enxofre – A geothermal field with bubbling fumaroles and sulfur steam vents.
How to get there: Driveable with a small car park; short walk on a marked trail.
Serra do Cume – Offers panoramic views over patchwork fields and coastline from a high ridge.
How to get there: Easily accessible by car; viewpoint right by the road.
Monte Brasil – An extinct volcano with hiking trails, coastal views, and old fortifications.
How to get there: Drive into Angra do Heroísmo, then hike or drive partway up with parking at trailheads.
Praia da Vitória Bay – A scenic beach with calm waters and views of the town’s colorful buildings.
How to get there: Drive straight to the beach; parking is available nearby.
Misterios Negros Trail – A dense forest trail through lava formations and unique vegetation.
How to get there: Reach the trailhead by car; moderate circular hike required (about 5 km).
Biscoitos Natural Pools – Volcanic rock pools perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
How to get there: Easily accessible by car with nearby parking.

Terceira Island main highlights: our map

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Terceira Island main highlights: Plan your trip

Inspired to see the Terceira Island main highlights for yourself? Find your flight via Skyscanner. We use them all the time to compare flights between different operators.

We always look first on Booking.com for accommmodation. 99% of the the time we end up finding exactly what we want. Airbnb.com has all sorts of accomodations too.

Getting a rental car on the Azores is cheap and that flexibility to get you whenever and wherever you want is just adding so much to your holiday experience. In general, we always start our search at Rentalcars.com to find the best deal from a huge selection of rental agencies.