Terceira is the second most densely populated island in the Azores, but once outside of Angra it’s hard to imagine that. The lush green hills roll into the distance, gridded by the ubiquitous (for the Azores) dry stone fences and studded with serenely grazing cattle.

We were invited to explore Terceira with our new friends and fellow OCC members Garrett and Katrin from S/Y Balena
On the way up to the viewpoint we encountered an Azorean traffic jam
The view of Angra and Monte do Brasil from the viewpoint at Serra da Santa Bárbara

Like its brethren in the archipelago, Terceira is volcanic. In addition to the wide variety of cones and calderas to explore, the island also features a remarkable cave formed when magma was ejected from deep below the island. Part of the cave complex is Gruta do Natal (Christmas Cave), which features a natural altar that was historically used for holiday celebrations.

Heading into the entrance of the lava tube at Gruta do Natal. The lava tube is 2,287′ (697m) in length and a portion can be explored by visitors
Angie and Katrin checking out the lava tube walls
Mike coming through a low spot in the lava tube

Also like its brethren, Terceira is not short on scenic views. Every bend in the road around coast reveals a spectacular new vista, with steep cliffs of black volcanic rock dropping vertically into the bright blue sea.

Mike and Garrett ahead on the trail while hiking near Algar do Carvão
Heading down inside of the Algar do Carvão volcanic vent
Looking up from the inside and out the top of the vent opening
Taking in the view inside Algar do Carvão
The interior pool at the bottom of the cave

One of the highlights of arriving to a new island by boat is the opportunity to meet other sailors. Especially in a place like the Azores, where everyone who arrives by small boat has ticked off a fairly significant offshore passage, it’s easy to find common ground with many of the folks that we have the opportunity to meet.

Hiking up Monte do Brasil, overlooking Angra and the anchorage
Enjoying an afternoon BBQ and birthday celebration with our new friends and fellow OCC members Caroline and Charles from S/Y Caris

We were lucky to meet and get to know Garrett and Katrin – they’re native Germans who’ve lived in Australia for the last 20 years or so and are now sailing part time aboard their beautiful Hallberg-Rassy 53 Balena. And we really enjoyed spending time with Charles and Caroline, who have spent the last year away from their UK home enjoying an extended honeymoon aboard Caris, their trusty Westerly 41. Hopefully, we’ll see them both again!