Terceira: 7-Day Authentic Rural Experience

Welcome to the Azores, Terceira Island! Let’s explore together: Pick up your car rental on arrival and get ready for adventure. 

* Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

Suggestion for the day:

It’s time to unwind on the beautiful island of Terceira! Today is dedicated to relaxation, rejuvenation, and savoring the local flavors of the island.

• Relax at Your Hotel: Take advantage of your hotel's amenities. Luxuriate by the pool, soak up the sunshine, or indulge in a pampering spa treatment  – let go of any lingering adventuring aches!
• Feeling slightly recharged? Venture outside your hotel and explore the nearby area. Stroll down charming streets, discover local shops, or perhaps visit a nearby park or viewpoint for some light sightseeing.
• Alcatra Feast: As the afternoon progresses, prepare for a culinary adventure! Tonight's dinner features the renowned "alcatra," a traditional Terceiran dish featuring tender beef cooked to perfection in a clay pot. The rich flavors and aromas will tantalize your taste buds – a perfect way to experience the island's culinary heritage.

Suggestion for the first part of your day: Explore Angra do Heroísmo

Start your Terceira discovery through the heart of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant city boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Terceirenses people. Let Angra do Heroísmo steal your heart with its beauty and resilience!

Don’t Miss:

• Sé Cathedral (16th century): Admire the magnificent Sé Cathedral, a landmark of Angra do Heroísmo and a masterpiece of Mannerist architecture. Don't miss the intricately carved portal and the lavish interior adorned with gold leaf and Azorean cedar wood.
• Capitães-Generais Palace (18th century): Step back in time at the opulent Capitães-Generais Palace, the former seat of power for the Captain-General of the Azores.
• Garden Duque de Bragança (19th century): Find tranquility amidst the lush greenery and colorful blooms of the Garden Duque de Bragança. This romantic garden boasts a network of pathways, grottos, and fountains, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
• Alto da Memória Viewpoint (19th century): Ascend to the Alto da Memória Viewpoint, a former military fort offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and Mount Brasil. Capture stunning photos and appreciate the city's layout, with its central praça (square) and radiating streets.
• Misericórdia Church (16th century): Explore the beautiful Misericórdia Church, known for its intricate stone carvings and historical significance. This church once served the Santa Casa da Misericórdia, a charitable brotherhood that provided aid to the poor and sick. Notice the Manueline-style portal and the peaceful interior adorned with religious art.
• Duque de Bragança Farmers Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Duque de Bragança Farmers Market, a bustling hub of local life. Here, you will find fresh-caught fish and locally grown fruits and vegetables, and don't miss the chance to try the island's renowned queijo da Ilha (island cheese) made from cow's milk.

Then, attend your included Dinner with a Local Family from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM

Unleash your inner chef and immerse yourself in the heart of Azorean cuisine! This unique experience offers a hands-on journey into traditional cooking techniques using a wood-fired oven crafted from lava stones – a taste of how our ancestors prepared their meals.

What to expect:

• A Culinary Immersion: Learn to cook authentic Azorean dishes guided by local expertise.
• A Taste of Tradition: Savor the unique flavors of food prepared in a traditional oven, a method rarely found in restaurants.
• Wine Pairing: Discover the perfect local wines to complement your culinary creations.
• Cultural Connection: Share a meal with us and learn about Azorean culture and island life.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of food, wine, and warm Azorean hospitality.

From 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, enjoy your included Arts & Crafts Experience

Embark on a captivating journey through the traditional arts and crafts of the Azores, where you’ll not only witness the creation of beautiful works in clay, embroidery, and ceramics but also get hands-on with the creative process. This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to craft your own memories while gaining a deeper appreciation for local artisanship.

Your adventure begins with a visit to the Pottery of São Bento, where you'll enjoy a guided tour and observe the artistry behind locally produced pieces. Among the highlights is the iconic "pot" used to prepare the famous Azorean beef stew, Alcatra. Next, we dive into the intricate world of Azorean embroidery—an age-old tradition that blends artistry and craft, once regarded as both a profession and a cherished pastime.

To conclude the tour, we visit a small ceramics workshop where you’ll have the chance to create your own masterpiece. Paint your own tile, a perfect keepsake to take home, representing a truly personal and unforgettable memory of your time in the Azores.

This is more than just a tour—it's a hands-on experience that connects you with the rich heritage of the islands!

Suggestion for the rest of your day: Explore the Highlights of Terceira

Let yourself be guided through Terceira's captivating highlights on this adventure day! Explore volcanic landscapes, immerse yourself in rich history, and savor delicious local cuisine. From panoramic viewpoints to a unique volcanic cave, this tour unveils the essence of this amazing island. 

Don’t Miss:

• Monte Brasil: Ascend this extinct volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of Angra do Heroísmo and the surrounding landscapes. Explore historical sites like the 16th-century Fortaleza de São João Baptista, a testament to the island's rich past.
• Baía da Salga: Immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural bay on Terceira's north shore.
• Miradouro da Serra do Cume: A view you won’t forget! Be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing the city of Angra do Heroísmo, the majestic Monte Brasil volcano, and the sparkling Baía da Salga bay.
• São Sebastião Church: Step back in time at this magnificent 16th-century church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the stunning Baroque architecture and explore the collection of artworks within.
• Praia da Vitória: Discover the vibrant city of Praia da Vitória, a haven for sunbathers and swimmers. Explore the charming city, known for its colorful impérios (religious brotherhood houses) and its historical significance.