PRAIA DA VITORIA
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Praia da Vitoria tour by bicycle
Are you a beginner cyclist or a professional setting record times? It doesn't matter. If you love cycling in nature, discovering historical centers and sights, this is the experience for you. Saddle up, and we're off on the paved roads of Praia da Vitoria, up and down the green trails on the eastern coast of Terceira Island. Stop when you see the waves chasing each other on the shore: Praia beach awaits you, to recharge your batteries!
Main stops
- Cycling in protected areas and a patchwork of cultivated fields
- Praia da Vitoria, with its colorful buildings and super-scenic viewpoints
The programme
At the pier, get on the saddle, grip the handlebar and off you go: Exploration mode activated, to discover the eastern coast of Terceira Island on two wheels. Spoiler alert: This is not the usual Sunday ride.
We sprint along the pointy volcanic cliffs and, with the wind on your face, you take trails that cross incredibly green hills and fertile fields, to inject your adventure with the right amount of “wild”.
Inland, protected areas follow one another. Then, you turn toward the historical center of Praia da Vitoria. Selfie stop? You can't miss out, with those colorful houses.
And bear in mind that… those who dare, win! So, take a deep breath and keep on pedaling to the Facho viewpoint, with a 360° view all over the city and the ocean. A paradise for your eyes and a break for your legs.
And the final prize: Praia beach is the perfect place to lean back in front of the blue water, which is even bluer close to the dark volcanic sand. What are you waiting for - click away! It's a super-Instagrammable combination!
Good to know- Minimum age: 12 years.
- Minimum height: 1.5 meters.
- Bring with you a wind jacket, a waterproof jacket and a small backpack for your personal belongings.
- Wear appropriate sports shoes and clothing for the trail.
- We'll take care of the bicycle, helmet, energy bar and water bottle.
- The trail may be wet and muddy.
- We'll be crossing main public roads, official hiking trails, farm access routes and protected landscapes. So, we ask you to respect our environment and behave responsibly to guarantee its preservation.
- This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, guests with reduced mobility and with joint problems.
- The tour is dependent on weather conditions and may be canceled or postponed if conditions are not good.
TREKKING AND BIRDWATCHING IN THE LUSH NATURE OF TERCEIRA
What better than a trek to discover the nature and unique species present on the island of Terceira, one of the most peculiar destinations in the Azores archipelago? An ideal excursion to admire a unique habitat and observe the local vegetation and animals up close. It is impossible not to let ourselves be thrilled by the unique volcanic scenery and bays on the northern coast of Terceira, the sight of which alone will immediately make us forget our effort.
Main stops
- Pico dos Loiros hill
- Grota da Lagoa
- Fajãzinha with its lush vegetation and unmissable viewpoint
- Ancient vines in Terceira
- Volcanic beach in Baía das Pombas, an unmissable birdwatching destination
- Breathtaking Ponta do Mistério coast with colourful lake
The programme
- We leave the port behind us on a coach headed to the village ofAgualva and, more precisely, to Pico dos Loiros hill, the starting point for this simple trek to discover the island’s vegetation and volcanic scenery.
- We start with the Grota da Lagoa stream.
- We then continue towards Fajãzinha and its unmissable viewpoint by tackling a climb up a path surrounded by typical coastal vegetation featuring unique local species such as heather and fescue. Once at the top, we stop to take a few amazing photos and capture this unique landscape forever.
- We take a shortcut through the ancient vineyards thus paying homage to the original local wine culture and admire the exuberance of the typical coastal vegetation.
- The path takes us to Baía das Pombas that welcomes us with its cliffs and typical volcanic scenery. It is an unmissable destination for birdwatching enthusiasts so, with a bit of luck, we can observe some of the species nesting in the Azores such as the common tern, Scopoli's shearwater and the local wood pigeon.
- From here, we continue on our way to Ponta do Mistério, one of the most admired coastlines on the island where we can admire a lovely lake boasting unique views and colours hidden among the rocks.
- The last part of our excursion winds through meadows and cliffs that once again leave us enchanted in front of the unique plant varieties on the island including pine trees, heather and pittosporum ondulatum.
- The excursion ends with a well-deserved coach ride back to the port and the ship.
- Minimum age: 12 years old.
- Guests must be in good physical shape to take part in the excursion.
- The itinerary may be altered on the spot depending on weather conditions, morning fog and soil humidity.
- The walk lasts about 2.5-3 hours and covers approximately 4 km.
- You must wear footwear suited to unpaved, uneven and wet ground when trekking.
- We recommend wearing suitable clothing and bringing a light jacket, water, snacks suitable for trekking, a backpack, sun lotion and a hat with you.
- Respect the surrounding environment and nature and refrain from throwing litter or plastic bottles on the ground.
- A trekking guide will accompany us on the excursion.
4X4 EXCURSION ON TERCEIRA ISLAND
The ideal excursion for adventure seekers who can experience moments of pure adrenaline as they drive around the island on a Jeep to discover its unspoilt nature. A unique original way to experience Terceira Island away from the classic tourist itineraries.
Main stops
- Jeep excursion to discover Terceira Island
- Drive on minor roads surrounded by nature
- Stops to admire the wild hill scenery
The programme
- We leave the port behind us and get on a comfortable Jeep equipped with everything necessary to discover the island of Terceira on an itinerary off the beaten track.
- We drive along minor roads mostly used by farmers and flanked by hydrangeas, trees and stone walls through green pastures to observe breathtaking landscapes.
- Along the way, we make various stops to admire the island’s nature in all its magic.
- The excursion is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with back problems.
- This excursion is not available to wheelchair users.
- Guests must be able to go on short walks on uneven and cobbled ground.
- We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes and clothes and bring a jacket, hat, sun lotion and water.
- Minimum age: 6 years old.
TO ANGRA DO HEROISMO WITH COSTA GOROUND. 1 ROUND-TRIP TICKET TO THE CITY CENTER
With our simple transfer you can discover the secrets of Angra do Heroísmo, an architectural gem that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. The free time available will give us the chance to discover the peculiar aspects of this incredible city.
The programme
Its historic city center declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, due to its strategic location along the trade routes of the Portuguese East Indies. Let our imagination run wild at the trough of the many caravels and galleons that were welcomed into the port over the centuries.
You have the possibility to discover the lush Jardim Duque da Terceira, an unmissable destination for plant lovers, the evocative Palacio dos Capitaes Generais and continue towards one of the main buildings Sé Catedral de Angra.
Increasingly fascinated by the local history, we can walk towards Câmara Municipal, the City Hall offering unique views of the square, or Palácio Bettencourt, an extraordinary Baroque building now home to the public library and one of the most important historic archives in Portugal.
Our free time will also give us the chance to wander around the charming city center and discover some of the local specialties such as massa sovada sweet bread or the typical embroideries.
Good to knowThe tour is a transfer, does not include a guide.
WHALEWATCHING IN THE AZORES
A thrilling boat excursion to discover one of the most important whale and dolphin sanctuaries in the world. As we sail along the coast, we get the unique chance to admire the giants of the sea up close but also to contribute to protecting these fascinating cetaceans and their unique habitat. A high-adrenalin adventure that rewards us with simply unforgettable memories (and snaps).
Main stops
- Rib boat excursion
- Whale and dolphin spotting
- Spectacular photos
The programme
- Our adventure starts with a short coach transfer to the jetty from where our sighting rib boats set off.
- We board one of the boats bound off of Praia da Vitória in the hope of spotting majestic whales and entertaining dolphins in their natural habitat.
- The Azores boast a unique ecosystem and its waters are teeming with fish: it is no surprise that whale hunting used to be a main activity in the past. Nowadays, however, the archipelago has transformed itself into one of the most important whale sanctuaries in the world.
- Among resident and migratory, common or rare species, the incredible respect paid to these animals makes it possible to spot as many as 24 different species - a truly impressive number!
- We keep our eyes peeled and our cameras at the ready as we survey the waters looking for these majestic ocean inhabitants, and the blue whales in particular. But let us not forget to enjoy the incredible view of the coast from the sea!
- Minimum age: 7 years old.
- Minimum height: 140 cm.
- Minimum weight: 30 kg.
- Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed as the species described live freely in the wild.
- Sightings depend on countless factors beyond our control, such as the fact that the animals may or may not swim near the coast during the excursion.
- The excursion is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with back problems.
- Participants will be handed out waterproof jacket and trousers and a life jacket.
- We recommend wearing suitable clothing and comfortable shoes and bringing a waterproof jacket, hat, sun lotion and water with you.
- During the visit it is essential to respect the animals and their habitat and to follow the instructions provided by the guide.
INCREDIBLE LANDSCAPES AND UNIQUE SCENERY ON TERCEIRA ISLAND
Incredible panoramas, breathtaking natural settings and traces of a unique history: Terceira is a gem where the natural beauty of the volcanic island meets the patient work of man. We set off to discover the island’s unique landscapes such as the Biscoitos natural pools and the unique greenery of Pico da Bagacinha and much more: we venture to explore the charming city centre of Angra do Heroísmo and surrender to the call of the local culinary tradition.
Main stops
- Serra do Cume viewpoint overlooking Lajes and the ocean
- Biscoitos Natural pools
- Unique natural scenery of Pico da Bagacinha and Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz
- Monte Brasil
- Angra do Heroísmo and its historic city centre, UNESCO World Heritage Site
The programme
- We start the excursion by leaving the port and heading to the Serra do Cume viewpoint, the ideal place for a short stop to admire Lajes and the ocean.
- We then move on to Biscoitos on the northern coast. Here, a 15-minute break enables us to admire the natural pools created by the lava of ancient volcanic eruptions.
- We set off on our coach again headed towards Angra do Heroísmo and, along the way, we have the chance to be astounded by the lush greenery of Pico da Bagacinha and by the unique scenery of the most enormous crater present in the archipelago, i.e. Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz.
- Once there, we stop in Monte Brasil, a nature reserve and urban park, to appreciate unique views over the city and surroundings. We are then taken on a pleasant walk to discover the historic city centre, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- At this point, the time has come to delight our palate with a delicious lunch in one of Angra’s leading hotels.
- On the way back to the port and the ship, we admire Ribeirinha and São Sebastião, enchanting picturesque villages where nature and history coexist.
- Visibility from the viewpoints is subject to weather conditions.
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.
- All visits to Angra do Heroísmo are outside.
- This excursion includes an English speaking guide and rep.
- Guests must be able to walk for approximately 1.7 km on asphalted and cobbled terrain with slopes and steps.
DISCOVER THE ARCHITECTURAL GEMS AND NATURAL TREASURES OF ANGRA DO HEROISMO
A half-day coach excursion to discover the island of Terceira and its gems. From history to lush nature, we explore some of the most evocative scenery on the island and much more. Angra do Heroísmo welcomes us to its historic city centre, a World Heritage Site that opens its doors to a charming Garden and Cathedral. On the way back, we cannot but remain enchanted by the timeless charm of the villages of Ribeirinha and São Sebastião.
Main stops
- Serra do Cume viewpoint
- Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz, the vastest crater on the island
- Monte Brasil
- Angra do Heroísmo and its historical city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Jardim Duque da Terceira and its countless plants
- Beautiful Sé Catedral de Angra
- Villages of Ribeirinha and São Sebastião with their enchanted streets
The programme
- Our excursion to discover the city of Angra do Heroísmo starts even before we reach the capital of the Terceira island thanks to a stop at the evocative viewpoint ofSerra do Cume where we can enjoy breathtaking views over the bay and the entire island.
- After driving through the most enormous crater present in the archipelago, Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz with its large maquis of wild heather, we head towards the island’s capital.
- First of all, we start with Monte Brasil, the lush natural reserve and city park in the area of an extinct volcano. A short stop enables us to take some photos and capture some extraordinary snaps of the city and the ocean.
- We continue exploring as we venture among the architectural gems of the city centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and remain speechless in front of the many plant varieties found in Jardim Duque da Terceira.
- We continue with the Gothic cathedral, the Azores’ Mother Church dating back to the 16th century - Sé Catedral de Angra features many treasures waiting to be discovered.
- On the way back to the ship, we are charmed by Ribeirinha and São Sebastião, two enchanting picturesque villages where time seems to have stood still.
- Visibility from the viewpoints is subject to weather conditions.
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.
- All visits to Angra do Heroísmo are outside.
- This excursion includes an English speaking guide and rep.
- Guests must be able to walk for approximately 1.3 km on asphalted and cobbled terrain with slopes and steps.
CULTURE, HISTORY AND SCENERY OF ANGRA DO HEROÍSMO
A magnificent cultural excursion to discover the secrets of Angra do Heroísmo, an architectural gem that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. A short panoramic tour precedes a truly full immersion into the historic streets of the island’s main city accompanied by our guide to learn more about all the events that have led to it becoming what it is today. The free time available will give us the chance to discover the local culinary tradition as well as other peculiar aspects of this incredible city.
Main stops
- Cultural visit to Angra do Heroísmo and its city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Pico da Memória viewpoint
- Jardim Duque da Terceira with its countless plants
- Palacio dos Capitaes Generais (external visit) and Sé Catedral de Angra, two of the most important buildings in town.
- The City Hall, Câmara Municipal in Portuguese, with its lovely view of the square
- Palácio Bettencourt, a Baroque building now public library and one of the most important historic archives in the whole of Portugal
- Free time to discover the city and its local delicacies
The programme
- Our cultural visit to discover Angra do Heroísmo, the most important city on the island of Terceira, starts with panoramic tour by coach.
- During the 15th century, the city's progress and its historic city centre declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, was due to its strategic location along the trade routes of the Portuguese East Indies. We cannot but let our imagination run wild at the though of the many caravels and galleons that were welcomed into the port over the centuries.
- First of all, we head to the amazing Pico da Memória viewpoint to admire the city from above.
- We continue our tour with the lush Jardim Duque da Terceira, an unmissable destination for plant lovers as well as one of the best known and appreciated gardens in the entire archipelago.
- We venture towards the suggestive Palacio dos Capitaes Generais to discover, with the precious help of our guide, the fundamental stories of the city's past and then continue towards one of the main monuments, the Sé Catedral de Angra.
- Increasingly fascinated by the local history, we continue to walk towards Câmara Municipal, the City Hall offering unique views of the square.
- After our cultural itinerary, we move on to Palácio Bettencourt, an extraordinary Baroque building now home to the public library and one of the most important historic archives in Portugal.
- Before returning to the ship, we have some free time available to wander around the charming city centre and discover some of the local specialities such as massa sovada sweet bread or the typical embroideries.
- This excursion includes walking on mainly flat terrain. There may be steps or gravel paths.
- Guests with mobility problems may take part in the tour, but they may have to wait for the rest of the group rather walking during some stretches.
- Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended.