3 in 1 Tour from The Mountain to Cave with Wine

Key Points

• Includes visits to viewpoints with sweeping views of Angra do Heroísmo and surrounding islands
• Descend into the ancient, 330-foot-deep Algar do Carvão volcanic cave featuring stalactites and an underground lagoon
• Tastes of volcanic wine with distinct salinity, seaweed, and shells, once exported to Russia and England
• Tour lasts approximately 4 hours with small group sizes limited to 8 participants
• Includes entry tickets to Algar do Carvão, a wine museum visit, and a stop at the Biscoitos village with natural pools
• Offered in Portuguese and English with flexible booking options and hotel pickup

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience the Best of Azores’ Volcanoes and Vineyards in One Tour

This 3 in 1 tour from The Mountain to Cave with Wine offers an engaging way to explore some of Azores’ most fascinating natural and cultural highlights. Priced at $108 per person and lasting around 4 hours, the tour is designed for those eager to see spectacular viewpoints, descend into a deep volcanic cave, and sample distinctive local wines.

Starting from either Praia da Vitória or Angra do Heroísmo, the tour combines scenic beauty, geological marvels, and unique Azorean flavors. It suits travelers looking for a compact, immersive experience that balances nature, adventure, and gastronomy, with the convenience of hotel pickup and small group sizes.

Discover the Panoramic Views from Serra da Ribeirinha

The journey begins with an ascent to the Serra da Ribeirinha, where several viewpoints reveal breathtaking vistas of Angra do Heroísmo and the Monte Brasil volcano. On clear days, you might also catch sight of São Jorge and Pico islands, along with Ilhéu das Cabras, Ilhéu dos Fradinhos, and the south coast.

Expect to take in photo-worthy scenes of green fields, dry stone walls, and grazing cows. The views emphasize the lush landscapes and volcanic origins of Terceira Island, making this a perfect spot for photography and appreciating the island’s natural beauty.

Descend into Algar do Carvão’s Volcanic Depths

The highlight for geology enthusiasts is the visit to Algar do Carvão, an ancient dormant volcano. The tour guides you to descend approximately 330 feet into the cave, where stalactites formed by silicate deposit are unmatched worldwide.

Inside, you’ll find an underground lagoon with crystal-clear waters, a rare sight that illustrates the volcanic activity that shaped the island. The unique stalactites and volcanic formations make the cave a geological treasure, offering insight into the island’s fiery past.

Tasting Volcanic Wines with a Seaweed Twist

After exploring underground, the tour moves on to a local winery where you get to taste the famous volcanic wines of Terceira. These wines are notable for their salinity, sea-inspired aromas, and flavors of seaweed and shells.

Historically, these wines were exported to Russia and England, even reaching the Tsars. The process involves transforming stone into a vessel for wine, creating a drink that captures the essence of the island’s volcanic landscape and proximity to the sea.

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Visiting Biscoitos Village and Natural Swimming Pools

The tour includes a stop at Biscoitos village, known for its natural swimming pools carved into volcanic rock. These pools offer a chance to cool off and enjoy calm waters with scenic surroundings.

This stop provides an authentic taste of local life and a peaceful spot for some leisurely time, whether to take photos or simply enjoy the serenity of the volcanic coastline.

Practical Logistics and Group Size

The tour starts with pick-up options from Praia da Vitória or Angra do Heroísmo, with pickup services at hotels or accommodations provided. The van ride lasts about 1 hour, giving travelers time to settle in before reaching the viewpoints.

The entire experience is conducted in small groups limited to 8 participants, which allows for a more personalized and engaging guide. The tour is led by guides fluent in Portuguese and English, enhancing the storytelling and explanations.

What to Bring for the Tour

Because of the cave visit and outdoor stops, travelers are advised to bring swimwear and towels. The cave’s underground lagoon can be quite cool and wet, so these items help make the experience more comfortable.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and descending into the cave. The tour is not suitable for those with claustrophobia, heart problems, respiratory issues, or mobility restrictions. It also has weight restrictions, being unsuitable for individuals over 264 lbs (120 kg).

The Overall Experience and Value

This 4-hour tour offers a well-rounded experience combining spectacular viewpoints, a geological adventure, and a cultural taste of Azorean wines. The inclusion of entry tickets and a visit to Biscoitos’ pools adds value, making it a comprehensive option for half a day.

The small group size and flexible booking options—including the ability to cancel 24 hours in advance—make it a convenient choice. While it requires some physical activity, the tour is designed to be accessible for most visitors interested in nature, geology, and local flavors.

Unique Aspects that Make this Tour Stand Out

The most distinctive element is the combination of mountain viewpoints, underground volcanic caves, and volcanic wine tasting in one seamless experience. The descend into Algar do Carvão is a rare opportunity, and the sea-infused wines are a local specialty that is hard to find elsewhere.

The views from Serra da Ribeirinha offer some of the best panoramic photos of the island, especially on clear days when São Jorge and Pico appear on the horizon. The visit to Biscoitos adds a peaceful, scenic finish to the tour.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic landscapes, geological wonders, and local gastronomy. It’s particularly suited for those who are comfortable with walking and some physical activity but seek a manageable half-day outing.

People interested in volcanoes, history of wine production, and stunning viewpoints will find this tour especially rewarding. However, those with mobility issues or health restrictions should consider the cave’s physical demands and restrictions beforehand.

Final Thoughts on the 3 in 1 Tour from The Mountain to Cave with Wine

This tour captures the essence of Terceira Island’s volcanic beauty, breathtaking views, and unique wines. With a carefully curated itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and small group intimacy, it offers an authentic and engaging experience for a reasonable price.

While physically active, the tour’s highlights—mountain viewpoints, underground cave, and wine tasting—are genuinely memorable. Travelers seeking a balanced mix of nature, geology, and local culture should find this tour a satisfying half-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off services from designated locations in Praia da Vitória or Angra do Heroísmo.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, including all stops and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and towels for the cave and swimming stop. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for outdoor viewpoints and cave conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with health issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with claustrophobia, heart problems, respiratory issues, or mobility limitations. It also has restrictions for individuals over 120 kg (264 lbs).

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later.

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