Praia da Vitória - A beach full of history

Praia da Vitoria

Praia da Vitória was very important for trades in the Azorean archipelago, but its development was brutally stopped by the natural disaster called ‘Caída da Praia’. Big earthquakes caused great damages in town, but Praia regained its glory and now attracts many visitors from all over the world.

About Praia da Vitoria

Praia da Vitória in Terceira island is a pretty coastal town attracting both travelers and locals for a great oceanic getaway. Indeed, the town offers so many outdoor activities thanks to its great natural beauty and cultural events.

The beach is the perfect place to relax during your holidays. Locals go there to enjoy the sun, the clear waters, but also to practice windsurfing. There are bars and restaurants around, ideal to spend more time in this beautiful setting.

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Nature & Geology

In the beginning, Praia da Vitória was only called Praia. The current name was given in 1829 due to the proud victory of locals after a naval battle during the Portuguese civil war. This name is made to honor them.

A bit away from the town, the viewpoint of Facho offers one of the best views over the harbor and over Praia da Vitória. But if you want one of the most typical views of the island, Serra do Cume viewpoint is what you should be looking for. This stunning place is on top of a primitive volcano with a crater of about 15km.

Experiences and Tips

In addition to being beautiful, Praia da Vitória is filled with history. It was one of the first settlements on the island of Terceira back in the 15th century. And since then, so many significant things happened there. A local guide would be ideal to better understand the historical importance of this town.

The harbor has many stories to tell. It was responsible for a great economic development for the island as trading boats would import and export agricultural goods from there. In the 20th century, a new harbor was built as well as a military airport, making Terceira’s economy thriving.

Why Futurismo

Things you must see in Praia da Vitoria

Biscoitos

There, Biscoitos Wine Museum tells the wine story of Terceira, from producing to bottling. Not so far, find a popular natural pool between lava rocks from ancient eruptions. The contrast between the dark rocks and the blue ocean is stunning.

Facho’s viewpoint

This viewpoint offers a great view over Praia da Vitória’s bay. The salty breeze will remind you of good moments spent by the ocean. Facho is a beam. This name comes from a bonfire that was set every night to warn navigators.

Praia da Vitória Beach

Nothing better to relax than the welcoming beach of Praia da Vitória. The warm waters are protected by a wide bay, making it the perfect place to swim in the Atlantic. Enjoy different cafés on this historic and relaxing beach.

Serra do Cume Viewpoint

Serra do Cume is among the most famous images of the Azores. From the top, you can see the geometry of the endless stone walls and hydrangea hedges cutting the pastures of Terceira, making it look like a patchwork blanket.

Azores Adventures – Futurismo