Angra do Heroísmo is a fantastic place for wine tours, not just because of its scenic beauty but because of its deep connection to unique volcanic wines. The island of Terceira offers a variety of experiences that blend wine tasting with island exploration, making it ideal for those who want to learn about local flavors while soaking in the sights. We especially enjoy tours that combine cultural highlights with wine immersion, like the Wines and Moonshines of Terceira, which offers a full day of sightseeing paired with unlimited beer and wine, topped with a barbecue lunch. This tour showcases the island’s best views and its distilling traditions in one smooth package.
Whether you prefer a quick half-day experience or a more in-depth exploration of volcanic terroirs, Angra do Heroísmo has a lot to offer. The list below covers guided tours, private excursions, and experiences focused on volcanic wines and geological wonders, giving you a well-rounded idea of what’s possible on this charming island.
1. Wines and Moonshines of Terceira
This tour is the perfect all-day adventure—combining island sightseeing with tastings of local wines and moonshines. Starting with hotel pickup, the guide takes you through major and hidden sites that average tours might overlook, including gardens and beekeeping spots. You’ll visit multiple sites over approximately 8 hours, enjoying unlimited beer and wine along the way. A highlight is the included barbecue lunch at a scenic spot, making it a satisfying experience for food and wine lovers alike.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless blend of sightseeing and tasting, plus the knowledgeable guide, Dora, who gets top reviews for her friendliness and insight. The itinerary includes visits to key sights and lesser-known gems, ensuring you get a full picture of the island’s beauty and flavor. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t waste time figuring out transport. Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, fun day with plenty of drinks and stunning views.
Bottom line: This tour is great for families or groups wanting a comprehensive, laid-back exploration with plenty of tastings and a delicious lunch. It’s a good value considering the full-day itinerary and inclusive drinks.
2. Azorean volcanic wine tour from Angra do Heroísmo
For around $130, this half-day guided experience dives deep into the volcanic soils that give Azorean wines their distinctive character. The tour kicks off with a visit to the wine museum in Biscoitos, where you tour the winery and taste local wines directly from the cellar. If the museum is closed, the guide will find an equally authentic alternative, like a nearby winery or a picnic area with wine tastings.
The tour emphasizes the terroir of Biscoitos, walking through the volcanic land that shapes the grapes’ flavor. Visitors also get to explore the nearby natural ocean pools, adding a splash of local beauty to the day. Later, the experience moves to a garden setting where a local family hosts a tasting of at least three volcanic wines, paired with island snacks, creating a relaxed and personal atmosphere. The final stop is the Miradouro Do Facho, offering panoramic views that are perfect for photos and reflection.
This tour’s small group size—capped at eight—means a personalized experience, with a guide who shares insights into Azorean wine culture and geology. Reviews highlight the engaging guide and the chance to sample multiple wines in a scenic setting, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: This half-day tour offers an excellent balance of wine exploration and island scenery, perfect for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of volcanic wines in a friendly, small-group setting.
3. Private Terceira Island Caves: Lava Route – entradas & wine
This private four-hour tour is tailored for those intrigued by Terceira’s volcanic geology. It includes visits to majestic calderas, lava tubes, and the Algar do Carvão volcano, known for its impressive stalactites and underground chambers. The tour also features natural pools formed by basaltic lava flows, adding a scenic contrast to the underground exploration.
Participants descend into the Algar do Carvão, an ancient dormant volcano, and explore caves and lava tubes that showcase the island’s fiery past. The tour also includes a visit to a local winery where you taste volcanic wines, known for their minerality and unique flavor profiles. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized, making it perfect for curious travelers who want a focused, personalized experience.
Though only two reviews are available, both praise the knowledgeable guide Ana and the tour’s well-organized stops, especially the caves and volcanic pools. This tour is ideal if you want to combine geology and wine in one compact outing.
Bottom line: If geological wonders and volcanic wines fascinate you, this tour offers a compelling, immersive experience that reveals Terceira’s fiery soul.
4. 3 in 1 Tour from The Mountain to Cave with Wine
At just over $113, this half-day tour is a great option for those who want a bit of everything—mountain views, volcanic caves, and wine tasting. The journey begins with a drive to Serra da Ribeirinha, where you can enjoy sweeping views of Angra do Heroísmo, Monte Brasil, and the islands of São Jorge and Pico if weather permits. The tour continues with a visit to Algar do Carvão, where you descend into the dormant volcano’s depths.
The highlight is the visit to Furnas do Enxofre, a natural sulfuric area with striking geothermal features, followed by a walk through natural pools formed by lava flows. The tour rounds out with a wine tasting at a local winery, where you sample volcanic wines that reflect the island’s fiery heritage. The tour is praised for its clear itinerary and the scenic beauty along the viewpoints and caves.
This tour suits travelers who want an efficient overview of Terceira’s volcanic landscape and wine, all in just four hours. The reviews appreciate the informative guide and the varied stops, making it ideal for those short on time yet eager to see the highlights.
Bottom line: For those seeking a compact but comprehensive volcanic and wine experience, this tour hits the mark.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a full day with plenty of tastings and sightseeing, the Wines and Moonshines of Terceira is a top pick, especially if you appreciate a laid-back atmosphere. For a more intimate and geology-focused experience, the Private Lava Route offers a personalized look at caves and volcanic wines.
The Azorean volcanic wine tour is perfect for wine lovers who want a guided, half-day exploration with tastings in a cozy setting. Meanwhile, the 3 in 1 Tour from the Mountain to Cave with Wine is great if you prefer a quick but scenic overview of the island’s volcanic features combined with wine.
Consider your budget, preferred pace, and whether you want a group or private experience. Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Angra do Heroísmo offers a surprising variety of wine tours that blend geology, scenery, and local flavors. For a full-day adventure with unlimited drinks and sightseeing, the Wines and Moonshines of Terceira is a standout. If you’re more interested in volcanic wines and geological marvels, the Lava Route or small-group wine tour are excellent choices.
For travelers short on time but wanting a well-rounded experience, the 3 in 1 Tour offers a quick yet comprehensive look at the island’s natural and vinicultural highlights. No matter which you choose, these tours promise a memorable taste of Terceira’s volcanic soul and scenic beauty. Be sure to book ahead to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
