Private Terceira Island Full Day Tour with Cocktail & Tapas

Explore Terceira Island with a Private Full-Day Tour in the Azores

This private full-day tour of Terceira Island offers an immersive look into one of Portugal’s most captivating islands. Priced at a fixed rate, it lasts approximately 9 hours, making it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive experience with personalized attention. The tour departs from Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ensuring an easy starting point for visitors staying in the historic town.

What sets this tour apart is its combination of natural landscapes, cultural sites, and exclusive seaside moments. Travelers enjoy visits to iconic locations like the Veredas Viewpoint, the Biscoitos Natural Pools, and Monte Brasil, along with a cocktail and tapas break at Praia da Vitória. The tour features live guides fluent in Portuguese and English, providing engaging commentary throughout the day.

While the Algar do Carvão volcano is temporarily closed as of October 2024, the replacement visit to Furnas do Enxofre promises equally fascinating volcanic landscapes. The tour’s private group setting and flexible pick-up options make for a comfortable and tailored experience, suitable for a variety of travelers including those with mobility considerations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private 9-hour full-day tour exploring the highlights of Terceira Island from Angra do Heroísmo.
• Visit key viewpoints such as Veredas, Monte Brasil, Serra do Cume, and more.
• Natural wonders include Biscoitos Natural Pools and Lagoa das Patas.
• Exclusive seaside stop for a cocktail and tapas at Praia da Vitória.
• Visit to São Sebastião church, the island’s oldest religious site.
• Includes transportation, guide, and special stops; tickets to Algar do Carvão are optional.

Starting Point: Pickup in Angra do Heroísmo

The tour begins with a convenient pickup in Angra do Heroísmo, the historic capital of Terceira. This town, recognized by UNESCO, acts as a perfect base for exploring the island’s sights. The guide greets guests and provides a quick overview before setting off for the day’s adventures.

Transportation is included, and the group size is kept private, ensuring a personalized experience. The flexible pickup policy means travelers outside the central area may incur a small extra fee, but overall, the process is straightforward.

Panoramic Views at Miradouro das Veredas

The first stop in the tour is the Miradouro das Veredas, a photo stop that offers stunning panoramic views across the island. With about 10 minutes here, visitors get a chance to admire the landscape and capture memorable photos of the lush scenery below. This spot is perfect for a quick refresh and spotting the island’s natural beauty from above.

The guide shares insights about the geography of Terceira, setting the tone for a day filled with scenic vistas. This stop is ideal for those eager to take in expansive views right at the start of their exploration.

Natural Pools at Biscoitos

Next, the tour visits the Piscinas Naturais Biscoitos, a natural lava pool formation that offers both scenic beauty and a chance to cool off. The 30-minute stop here allows visitors to walk around and enjoy the calm, crystal-clear waters.

These natural pools are a highlight for their unique lava-formed shapes and tranquil setting. While swimming is optional, the location provides excellent photo opportunities and a sense of serenity. The volcanic origin of these pools makes them a compelling example of the island’s geology.

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Lagoa das Patas: A Peaceful Stop

The Lagoa das Patas is a small, tranquil lagoon where the tour makes a brief 15-minute stop. Visitors can appreciate the peaceful waters and surrounding greenery, perfect for a quick walk or photo. This spot emphasizes the island’s quiet natural corners away from the busier tourist sites.

It offers a relaxed moment during the busy day, with the guide pointing out local flora and fauna. The simplicity of this stop contrasts the more expansive viewpoints, adding variety to the experience.

Doze Ribeiras Viewpoint and São Mateus Village

Following the lagoon, the tour passes the Doze Ribeiras Viewpoint, a 10-minute photo stop where travelers can gaze over the picturesque fishing village of São Mateus. The charming village’s colorful houses and seaside vibe make it a favorite for those seeking authentic local scenery.

While this stop is brief, it provides a glimpse of the island’s traditional life and stunning coastal landscape. The guide highlights stories about the village’s history, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

Viewpoint of Monte Brasil Over Angra

Before lunch, the group stops at the Monte Brasil Viewpoint, offering sweeping views of Angra do Heroísmo and the surrounding bay. This 15-minute stop presents an excellent chance to see almost half of the island, with the historic fortress visible nearby.

This spot is ideal for capturing wide-angle photos of the town and appreciating the natural setting that has protected the harbor for centuries. The vista underscores the strategic importance of Angra across history.

Coastal Views of Salga and Mós Bays

The tour then moves along the southeast coast, passing Salga and Mós bays. While these are pass-by stops, their scenic coastline provides a beautiful backdrop for photos. In particular, the Goat Islets are visible from this stretch, adding a touch of unique maritime character.

Though there’s no extended stop here, the guide points out the geological formations and coastal features, enriching the understanding of the island’s landscape.

Visit to São Sebastião Church

A highlight of the tour is the visit to São Sebastião, the oldest church on the island. Spanning 25 minutes, this visit allows for an appreciation of the architecture and historical significance of this religious site. The church offers insight into local traditions and the island’s cultural heritage.

The guide provides commentary on the church’s history, making this stop both educational and visually enriching. It’s a valuable cultural touchpoint in the midst of natural exploration.

Seaside Cocktail and Tapas at Praia da Vitória

After a busy morning, the tour relaxes at the Praia da Vitória sand beach, where travelers enjoy an exclusive cocktail with tapas. This 25-minute break provides a chance to unwind by the sea, savor local flavors, and take in ocean views.

This experience emphasizes the leisurely side of the Azores, combining culinary delights with stunning seaside scenery. The setting offers a perfect opportunity for photos and socializing before the afternoon’s viewpoints.

Spectacular Views from Serra do Facho and Serra do Cume

The afternoon features visits to Serra do Facho and Serra do Cume viewpoints, with photo stops lasting 10 and 15 minutes respectively. These spots offer breathtaking views of the largest caldera in the Azores and the island’s famous “Patchwork” fields—a patchwork of green and farmland.

The vistas here are among the most celebrated on Terceira, providing sweeping perspectives of the island’s volcanic landscape and agricultural patterns. The guide explains how these natural features shaped the island’s development.

Descend into Furnas do Enxofre (Volcano Caves)

As of October 2024, the Algar do Carvão volcano is temporarily closed. The tour’s replacement is a visit to Furnas do Enxofre, a volcanic site that showcases the island’s geothermal activity. The visit lasts several minutes and offers an up-close look at volcanic gases and geological formations.

This alternative maintains the volcano exploration aspect of the original tour and offers insights into the island’s volcanic activity. It’s an impressive and memorable conclusion to the day’s natural adventures.

Final Return to Angra do Heroísmo

The tour concludes with a return to Angra do Heroísmo, providing a comfortable and scenic end to the day. Travelers arrive back in the historic town, with plenty of time to explore further or relax after a full day of sightseeing.

The experience combines natural beauty, cultural sites, and delicious seaside moments, all delivered through private, guided attention. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a well-rounded, flexible exploration of Terceira Island.

The Sum Up: A Personalized Journey Through Terceira’s Natural and Cultural Gems

This private full-day tour offers a thorough look at Terceira Island’s most iconic viewpoints, natural pools, and cultural sites. The seaside cocktail and tapas break at Praia da Vitória adds a special culinary touch, making the experience more memorable. The guided commentary enhances each stop, providing context and stories that bring the island’s history and landscape to life.

While the temporary closure of Algar do Carvão might disappoint some volcano enthusiasts, the replacement site, Furnas do Enxofre, maintains the volcanic marvel aspect. The private group setting ensures a relaxed pace, with time allocated at each stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

This tour appeals most to travelers who value personalized attention, stunning views, and diverse natural and cultural highlights. It’s especially suitable for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxing seaside moments, and cultural insights—all within a flexible nine-hour window.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it feasible for travelers with mobility considerations.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers visits to key locations, transportation, a guide in Portuguese and English, and the cocktail with tapas at Praia da Vitória.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, tickets to Algar do Carvão are optional at €10 per person. Lunch is not included but free time is available in Angra do Heroísmo for meals.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, especially at viewpoints and natural sites.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with check-in times varying based on availability.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides operate in Portuguese and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from Angra do Heroísmo and returns there at the end of the day.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, it is designed for private groups, making it a comfortable choice for families, friends, or small groups seeking a tailored experience.

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