Third Island Caves: the Lava Route With Entrances & Wine

Descend into a world forged by fire and sculpted by time. Journey through the Third Island Caves, where lava flows have carved a captivating labyrinth of geological marvels. Venture beyond the entrance, and discover nature’s hidden artistry – from the awe-inspiring Gruta Natal to the cavernous Algar do Carvão. But this adventure is more than just rock and stone. Indulge in the region’s finest volcanic wines, savoring each sip as you soak in the stunning vistas. Are you prepared to uncover the secrets of this lava-sculpted landscape?

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Wine Tours in Angra Do Heroismo.

Good To Know

• This 4-hour guided tour explores the volcanic landscapes of the Third Island, including natural pools, lava caves, and a wine tasting experience.
• Highlights include the Miradouro das Veredas scenic viewpoint, the Lagoa das Patas natural lake, and the iconic Piscinas Naturais Biscoitos lava pools.
• The tour provides guided explorations of the Gruta Natal and Algar do Carvão caves, showcasing the island’s geological formations like lava tubes and volcanic ash.
• The wine tasting session at the local Wine Museum allows participants to discover the unique terroir-driven wines produced from the volcanic soil.
• The tour is suitable for ages 5-99 and requires a moderate level of physical ability, with exclusions for those with back issues, mobility problems, or claustrophobia.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Third Island Caves: The Lava Route with Entrances & Wine promises an exhilarating adventure, whisking visitors through a geological wonderland with captivating stops at natural pools, a wine museum, and two remarkable cave systems.

Priced at just $69.86 per person, this 4-hour tour offers exceptional value, with the flexibility of multiple pickup and drop-off points across the island.

Adventurers can choose between English and Portuguese guides, and the tour’s liberal cancellation policy ensures peace of mind.

Whether you’re seeking an immersive volcanic experience or simply a delightful day of sightseeing and wine tasting, this tour delivers an unforgettable taste of the Azores’ natural and cultural riches.

Itinerary Highlights

Commencing the tour, visitors are treated to a picturesque drive past the Miradouro das Veredas overlook, offering breathtaking vistas of the island’s rugged terrain.

Soon after, they’ll spend 15 minutes exploring the serene Lagoa das Patas, a natural lake nestled within the volcanic landscape.

Continuing the adventure, the group will venture to the Piscinas Naturais Biscoitos, where they can enjoy the island’s iconic natural pools formed by ancient lava flows for 25 minutes.

Next, the tour delves into the island’s winemaking heritage with a 25-minute tasting session at the renowned Wine Museum, allowing participants to savor the region’s exquisite volcanic wines.

The journey then takes an intriguing turn as the group embarks on guided tours of the captivating Gruta Natal and Algar do Carvão, offering a window into the island’s geological wonders.

Geological Exploration

Venturing deeper into Third Island’s captivating geological features, explorers embark on a journey to uncover the island’s volcanic wonders. From majestic calderas to the intricate lava tubes, the tour guides visitors through the island’s dynamic and ever-evolving landscapes, offering a glimpse into the region’s dynamic geological past.

Volcanic Wonders	Description
Calderas	Vast, bowl-shaped depressions formed by the collapse or explosion of a volcano’s magma chamber.
Lava Tubes	Underground tunnels carved by the flow of molten lava, revealing the island’s fiery origins.
Basaltic Lava Flows	Solidified rivers of black, basaltic lava that have sculpted the coastline and formed natural pools.
Volcanic Ash	Fine-grained volcanic material that has been scattered across the landscape, testament to the region’s explosive past.
Fumaroles	Vents where steam and volcanic gases are emitted, a reminder of the island’s ongoing geothermal activity.

Natural Pools

Carved by the relentless flow of ancient lava, Third Island’s natural pools beckon visitors to enjoy their crystalline waters, offering a refreshing respite from the day’s discoveries. Nestled along the rocky coastline, these captivating pools invite exploration, their depths shimmering with hues that range from emerald to sapphire.

Framed by dramatic cliffs and volcanic rock formations, the pools provide a serene oasis where travelers can float, swim, and soak in the island’s natural beauty.

Fed by the rhythmic ebb and flow of the tides, the pools maintain a pleasant temperature, making them an ideal spot to escape the midday heat.

Snorkeling in these tranquil waters offers a unique glimpse into the underwater world, where vibrant marine life dances amidst the volcanic landscape.

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Wine Tasting

Nestled amidst the island’s volcanic landscape, the Third Island Caves experience offers visitors a tantalizing opportunity to indulge in the region’s renowned volcanic wines, elevating the adventure with flavors as bold and captivating as the geological wonders themselves.

After exploring the lava-sculpted caves and natural pools, guests are treated to a guided wine tasting at the local Wine Museum. Here, they’ll savor the unique terroir-driven vintages, which draw their distinctive character from the island’s volcanic soil and temperate maritime climate.

From crisp, mineral-driven whites to robust, full-bodied reds, each sip transports the palate on a journey that seamlessly complements the tour’s geological discoveries, creating a harmonious fusion of nature’s bounty.

Algar Do Carvão

Amidst the captivating volcanic landscape, the Third Island Caves tour culminates with a visit to the remarkable Algar do Carvão, one of the few visitable volcanoes in the world.

Descending into its cavernous depths, visitors are treated to a spellbinding journey through the Earth’s geological wonders, where the mysteries of the past unfold before their eyes.

The guided exploration delves into:

• The volcanic formation’s unique structure, showcasing its intricate layers and dramatic features.

• The fascinating history and scientific significance of this rare volcanic marvel.

• The opportunity to witness the interplay of light and shadow within the awe-inspiring cavern, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Participant Eligibility

The Third Island Caves tour caters to a diverse range of participants, welcoming adults, youths, and even young children on its captivating journey through the volcanic landscapes of the Azores.

Explorers aged 11 to 99 can embark on this thrilling expedition, while those aged 6 to 10 are invited to join the adventure. Even the littlest adventurers, aged 5 and under, are welcome to discover the wonders of the lava tubes and natural pools.

However, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with back problems, mobility issues, or claustrophobia, as some of the cave exploration requires a moderate level of physical ability.

Regardless, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for those eager to enjoy the geological marvels of the Azores.

Customer Feedback

Travelers from near and far have extolled the virtues of this captivating tour, with one enthusiastic explorer from Germany heaping praise upon its sublime blend of natural wonders and cultural delights.

Reviewers have unanimously bestowed a perfect 5/5 rating, reveling in the tour’s exceptional variety – from the breathtaking vistas of volcanic calderas to the delectable indulgence of the region’s renowned wines.

Guests revel in the knowledgeable guidance, which effortlessly weaves together the geological and oenological highlights of the Azorean landscape.

The tour’s seamless integration of activities, from the serene natural pools to the captivating subterranean caverns, leaves visitors with a profound appreciation for the island’s raw, untamed beauty.

Reviewers consistently highlight the tour’s excellent value, making it an irresistible choice for those seeking an immersive and unforgettable Azorean adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size, allowing adventurers to explore the island’s volcanic wonders and savor the region’s epicurean delights without feeling crowded or constrained. The flexible group size ensures a personalized, immersive experience for all.

Do Participants Need to Bring Their Own Snacks/Water?

Thrill-seekers needn’t lug along snacks and water – the tour provides all the refreshing treats to keep explorers energized as they enjoy the island’s volcanic wonders and indulge in the region’s celebrated wines.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Caves?

Adventurers can capture stunning shots as they explore the caves’ captivating interiors. The tour grants ample photo opportunities, letting guests immortalize the otherworldly landscapes sculpted by lava’s primal forces. Just mind any posted restrictions to preserve the fragile environment.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Wine Tasting?

The wine tasting experience is open to all ages, though participants must be old enough to legally consume alcohol. Adventurous souls will savor the rich, volcanic flavors and picturesque setting, making it an epicurean delight for the senses.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour may not be wheelchair-friendly, as it involves navigating volcanic caves and natural pools. However, the alluring wine tastings and stunning geological wonders make it an enthralling adventure for able-bodied explorers seeking an epicurean island experience.

The Sum Up

Explore the captivating Azores with the ‘Third Island Caves: The Lava Route with Entrances & Wine’ tour.

Enjoy breathtaking volcanic landscapes, discover natural pools, and indulge in exquisite volcanic wines.

This unforgettable adventure caters to all ages, offering a perfect blend of geological wonders, natural beauty, and culinary delights – a true feast for the senses.

You can check if your dates are available here: