On Terceira island, enjoy the most beautiful views at Miradouro Serra do Cume. From up there, you will have a panoramic view over the agricultural lands of the Southeastern part of the lilac island.
A great feeling of tranquillity will invade your soul as you look at this infinite patchwork of green fields. Between the greenery, the walls of lava stone separating the lands, the colourful flowers and the ocean in the background, this is a good place to start your trip to Terceira.
Discover everything about this wonderful place in the middle of the Atlantic with this complete guide to Miradouro Serra do Cume.
What is Miradouro Serra do Cume?
Miradouro Serra do Cume is an incredible viewpoint. Undeniably one of the most popular attractions of Terceira island, in the central group of the Azores archipelago. It is located on top of the result of an old volcanic eruption by the largest volcano on the island with a diameter of 15 kilometres. This eruption even enlarged the island’s shores for a few more kilometres into the ocean.
Serra do Cume offers the most spectacular view of the island. On the spot, they built a wooden bridge to create perfect pictures. It officially opened in 2008. However, it was used much before! In fact, during World War 2, military installations were placed there to watch the island and avoid invasions thanks to its good visibility.
From one side, at 545 meters above sea level, you can see the southeast region of Terceira to the ocean. The lands in the shape of squares are divided by lava rock walls or hydrangea hedges, creating a natural ‘patchwork’. This makes great pictures. What you will be looking at is the largest milk production area of the Azores. You will also observe some volcanic domes created by former eruptions.
From the other side of the viewpoint, at 542 meters above sea level, you can see the region of Santa Cruz. If the weather is good, you will have a beautiful view of Praia da Vitória and its enclosed bay. Also on the same side, the Air Base of Lajes is right beside the town.
Plan Your Visit To Miradouro Serra do Cume
How To Get To Miradouro Serra do Cume
Miradouro Serra do Cume is very easily accessible by car, taxi or guided tour. You can also reach it by foot if you have more time available.
It is located at Rua Nossa Senhora da Saúde 23, Praia da Vitória. It is only 20 minutes away by car from Angra do Heroísmo or 15 minutes from Praia da Vitória.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Miradouro Serra do Cume is the golden hour. A few hours after sunrise or before sunset are just great for photographs. However, sunset is also a great time to go! Plus, there won’t be as many people if you go late in the day.
If you want to go early for the sunrise, it is also very good as there are two sides to the mirador. Indeed, you can be oriented towards the south-west or the north-east.
Pro Tips
When coming to Serra do Cume, as it is in altitude, there might be some clouds. If that is the case when you are up there, just be patient for a little while (if there is not so much cloud coverage and if the clouds are not too thick). In the Azores, the weather can change very quickly. You might be rewarded with the best view if you arm yourself with patience.
What To Do Around Miradouro Serra do Cume
Explore Algar do Carvão
Algar do Carvão is an 80-metre-deep volcanic chimney with a crystal-clear lake inside. Admire the most beautiful opal stalactites and stalagmites.
This site is a must-visit due to its international relevance and scientific and tourist interest. To access this underground wonder, you’ll have to go down the 338 stairs and through the tunnel into Algar do Carvão.
Once inside Algar do Carvão, nothing feels like our world; it’s like walking on another planet. Impressive stalactites and evidence of the eruption gave rise to the cave.
Look inside the cave. You will find magnificent whitish walls with red veins. The rocks are rich in iron and silica minerals, and there are also some layers of basalt.
Visit Praia da Vitória
Praia da Vitória on Terceira island is a beautiful coastal town that attracts travellers and locals alike for a great ocean getaway. The town offers many outdoor activities thanks to its great natural beauty and cultural events. The beach is the ideal place to relax during your holiday.
Locals go there to enjoy the sun and the clear waters, but also to windsurf. There are bars and restaurants nearby, ideal for spending more time in this beautiful setting.
As well as being beautiful, Praia da Vitória is steeped in history. It was one of the first settlements on Terceira Island in the 15th century. Since then, many significant things have happened there.
The harbour, for example, has many stories to tell. It was responsible for the great economic development of the island, as commercial boats imported and exported agricultural products from there. In the 20th century, a new harbour and a military airport were built, boosting Terceira’s economy.
Did you know
In the beginning, Praia da Vitória was just called Praia. The current name was given in 1829 due to the proud victory of the locals after a naval battle during the Portuguese Civil War. This name was created to honour them.
Go To the Beach at Praia da Riviera
Located on the East coast of Terceira, in Praia da Vitória, Praia da Riviera is usually less crowded than the others, but certainly not for being less beautiful.
On this still-wild beach, you can see migratory birds nesting, especially quails.
Angra do Heroísmo
Angra do Heroísmo, the largest city in Terceira, captivates visitors with its picturesque setting. Just behind the city, the iconic green peninsula of Monte Brasil rises, offering breathtaking views. Narrow streets and colorful houses further enhance its unique charm. In 1983, Angra was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city is perfect for a stroll. Monuments and museums allow visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history. The Volcano Speleological Museum, owned by the Montanheiros Association, is a must-visit for those interested in geology and volcanology.
Among the city’s most iconic spots are Praça Velha and Rua da Sé. Beautifully paved streets, cafés, restaurants, traditional shops, and historical landmarks fill these areas. They truly capture the soul of Angra do Heroísmo.
Complementary Information
Useful Tools and Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so using some apps is helpful before visiting the islands. Spotazores offers live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, letting you check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru to plan your days. They provide the most reliable predictions.
How to Get to Terceira Island
Terceira Island is easily accessible and has numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights to Lajes Airport available. To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms allow you to compare prices and schedules from different airlines in one place. For more details on how to get to the Azores, look at our guide. Once you find the perfect flight, book it! You’ll reach one of the world’s most beautiful island groups in a few hours.
Cultural Agenda on The Island of Terceira
The island of Terceira offers many cultural events throughout the year. The full list of events is on the cultural agenda!
Video of Miradouro Serra do Cume
Conclusion
Miradouro Serra do Cume is a great example of how nature and human intervention can work perfectly together, creating a unique landscape worthy of postcards and award-winning photographs.
Among all islands, this viewpoint is one of the top 10 things to see in the Azores. This is without any doubt a stop you should add to your itinerary to the Azores islands if you plan on going to Terceira for some days.
