Geological Tours

Geological Tours

ALGAR DO CARVÃO | FURNAS DO ENXOFRE | GRUTA DO NATAL

The genesis of the Azores is imprinted in 1766 volcanoes, nine of which are still placidly active. In the subsoil, there are almost three hundred known volcanic cavities, in the form of caves, algares and crevices. In the landscape, dry calderas, crater lakes, fumarolic fields and hot springs. The remains of volcanic activity assume in Terceira Island peculiar, spectacular and easily visited forms. In the underground world, the highlight is the “Algar do Carvão”, remnants of an old volcanic conduct that dazzles by its spacial immensity. From its vaulted ceiling hang remarkable silica stalactites, the largest in the world. The “Gruta do Natal”, a lava tube marvels with the succession of narrow and long corridors and the different shapes and colors that take over the walls, floor and ceiling, transforming the cave into a mystical place. On the surface, the “Furnas do Enxofre” (Sulphur Pits) are the eloquent testimony of the power of the Azorean volcanism: the landscape is dominated by fumaroles surrounded by reddish-colored terrain, which contrasts with the green of the mosses and other vegetation. The atmosphere is hot and with a peculiar smell … of sulphur.