Top Things to do in Ribeira Grande
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Things to do in Ribeira Grande, Azores: The Best Nature & Parks
Discover the best top things to do in Ribeira Grande, Portugal including Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre, Salto do Cabrito, Praia de Santa Barbara, Praia Calhau D'Areia, Frade Natural Pools, Trilho da Fonte Santa - Praia da Viola, Trilho do Pico Queimado, Pedra Queimada - Lajinha - Degredo, Valley of Lombadas, Mata Dr. Fraga.
Restaurants in Ribeira Grande
1. Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,754 reviews
The Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre (CIACV) is a structure dedicated to the promotion of the natural heritage of the Caldeira Velha´s area, which is classified as a Natural Monument. The building has, among other aspects, the main purpose of promoting the particular environmental values, allowing the visitor to discover in loco the particularities of this point of interest and acting as a complementary space of informal education. At the same time offers a wide network of resources and promotes a touristic component. It is also possible to enjoy three thermal pools and a walking trail at the Natural Monument. Concentrated in a space surrounded by natural landscape, the building is noteworthy for being an “object stamped on the landscape”, which adapts to the existing vegetation and rocks, granting it an organic image, consistent with the space.
Reviewed By Matteuzzo - Syracuse, Italy
We came here on a cold January morning, but we didn't want to miss out on this experience. Since a couple of years, this little park asks for an entrance fee (both for visiting and bathing) and there is a ample car park nearby. There are changing booths, WC, showers and a small information center. Recommend to first take a bath in the 24°C pool and waterfall before you head to the 38°C hot springs. It was early morning but already very crowded. Nevertheless an unforgettable experience not to be missed!
2. Salto do Cabrito
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 464 reviews
Reviewed By TheCrazyreyn - London, United Kingdom
We walked from Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande to this spot along the hiking trail, and it's ingenious in the way it uses a giant pipe (which services the hydro electric dam next to the waterfall) as part of the route. The heights on this route by the waterfall are something else! I'd also recommend visiting the abandoned dam at the Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande end of this route, which we almost didn't do but was absolutely worth the 10-15 minute detour.
3. Praia de Santa Barbara
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 303 reviews
Reviewed By MofromMass - Plymouth, United States
Long stretch of beautiful beach. We didn't swim, it was October, but there were lifeguards there, so if it's warmer, go for it! The waves were incredible. One of my favorite lunches of the trip and maybe of all time was at the Tuka Tula bar/restaurant located on the beach. The scenery is unforgettable.
4. Praia Calhau D'Areia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Perfect place to enjoy the sun and the sea with your family.
5. Frade Natural Pools
6. Trilho da Fonte Santa - Praia da Viola
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
With 5km of extension, this trail begins in the parish of Maia, county of Ribeira Grande. Along the route you will find a traditional cloth washing area, grass-lined paths, old watermills, vineyards, mulberry trees, a beautiful wild deserted beach and waterfalls! Visit us and discover the unique landscapes of the north coast of São Miguel island!
7. Trilho do Pico Queimado
8. Pedra Queimada - Lajinha - Degredo
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 6 reviews
Trail Info This circular route begins in Largo de Santo Antonio, in the village of Maia. Head South along a dirt road known as Pedra Queimada and follow the waymarks until you reach the regional road.
9. Valley of Lombadas
10. Mata Dr. Fraga
Overall Ratings
2.5 based on 2 reviews
Some say it was here that the Kings D. Carlos and D. Amelia were received, when they visited S. Miguel island, in 1901. The Dr. Fraga Garden is a place of leisure and environmental education, offering a lake, a parking area and excellent sanitary facilities.
