Terceira Island Azores: Whales, Volcanoes, and the Spirit of the Azores

Three unforgettable days in the heart of island tradition and wild nature

We travelled from São Miguel Island to Terceira Island with SATA Airways, a quick 40-minute hop that felt like jumping between worlds. Touching down near Angra do Heroísmo, the island’s historic capital, we were greeted by the warmth and rhythm of island life.

For our three-night stay, we booked the Azoris Angra Garden Hotel, a charming 4-star spot right across from the Town Hall. At around €99 per night, it was a great find - especially with the warm welcome waiting for us: a bottle of local red wine, a platter of fruit and cheese, and chilled spring water. Small gestures, big smiles. 🍷🧀

The Azoris Angra Garden sits at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by lush gardens and historic architecture. Its design blends tradition with comfort - perfect for unwinding after long days of exploring. There’s something about the hotel’s calm atmosphere that makes you slow down and soak in every moment.

The Pulse of Terceira: Culture and Celebration

Our first evening was pure island magic. The sound of local music and the rhythm of traditional Terceiran dance filled the air, spilling into the streets. Terceira is deeply rooted in its Catholic traditions, and the island’s countless festivals and religious processions are proof of how lovingly its people preserve their heritage. Watching the locals celebrate with such joy and devotion was the perfect introduction to the island’s soul.

A Morning with Dolphins

The next morning came early - and a bit groggy - but the excitement of our swimming with dolphins adventure quickly woke us up. The experience, led by Azores Adventure Futurismo, turned out to be one of the most moving moments of our trip.

We set out at 8 a.m. with a small group of six people and two passionate guides. Soon, we were surrounded by the open Atlantic - and then, the magic happened. Dozens of dolphins and whales appeared, gliding effortlessly beside us, leaping in groups of what seemed like fifty or more. It was surreal. Three hours later, we returned to shore buzzing with energy and gratitude. 🐬

What impressed us most was the company’s commitment to responsible tourism. Every guide is a marine biologist, trained not only to lead tours but to protect the animals they love. In 2024, Futurismo made the inspiring decision to stop offering dolphin swimming tours altogether, shifting focus to education, research, and conservation - proof that meaningful travel and sustainability can truly go hand in hand.🌍

Underground Wonders: Algar do Carvão

After lunch and a well-earned rest, we ventured inland to explore one of Terceira’s most otherworldly sites - the Algar do Carvão, a volcanic cave unlike anything we’ve seen before. Walking through the lava tube, surrounded by dripping stalactites and moss-covered stone, felt like stepping inside the earth’s beating heart. It was humbling, mystical, and unforgettable.

Evenings in Angra do Heroísmo

As the sun began to set, we wandered through the cobbled streets of Angra do Heroísmo. The city glowed in shades of gold and coral, its old buildings - some centuries old - casting long shadows against the sky. From our hotel balcony, we watched as the city lights flickered on, one by one, reflecting off the sea below. It was one of those rare, peaceful moments that feel like the closing scene of a perfect day.

The Island’s Heartbeat: Nature’s Sanctuary

The next morning, we drove inland toward the island’s forested core - drawn by an unspoken pull to reconnect with the earth itself. The landscape shifted as we climbed: green pastures gave way to thick forests, where ancient trees stood tall and proud, their roots tangled deep in volcanic soil.

We walked in silence, listening to the whisper of leaves and the distant murmur of birds. The forest was alive - glowing in filtered light, fragrant with damp moss and wildflowers. Time seemed to slow. Surrounded by this living cathedral of green, we felt an overwhelming sense of calm, as if nature herself had wrapped us in an embrace. 🌿

Our pursuit of a profound earth connection brought us to the very core of Terceira, where the forest unveiled itself as the ultimate refuge, a place where the boundaries between the physical realm and the spiritual world blurred, and we were reminded of our role in the intricate tapestry of existence.

A View from Above

Our last stop was the Miradouro da Serra do Cume, one of Terceira’s most breathtaking viewpoints. From up there, you can see the entire island unfolding in front of you - rolling green hills divided by stone walls, dotted with cows, all under a vast, ever-changing sky.

And just as we were taking it all in, the weather shifted. Clear blue skies turned to mist in minutes, wrapping the landscape in a mysterious fog. It felt like Terceira was giving us one last secret - a reminder of how quickly nature can transform, and how alive this island truly is.

Until Next Time

Of all the islands we’ve visited in the Azores, Terceira might just be my favorite - full of contrast, character, and authenticity. It’s a place where tradition and wild nature coexist beautifully, where you can dance in the streets one night and explore volcanic caves the next.

We left with full hearts, a little sea salt in our hair, and a deep sense of gratitude for this island that feels both ancient and timeless. 💙