9. São Sebastião Forts

In the southeast of Terceira, several remnants of ancient coastal fortifications built between the 16th and 17th centuries are preserved, constructed to defend the island from attacks by sea. They are known as the São Sebastião Forts and were part of the defensive system that protected strategic points, such as the port of Pipas.

The most representative is the Castelo de São Sebastião, a 16th-century fortress situated by the sea, which marked a new concept of coastal defense on the island. But it is not the only one. All along this stretch of coastline you can find small military structures that reflect the strategic importance of Terceira in the Atlantic.

The best way to discover them is by hiking the PR05TER São Sebastião Forts Trail, a circular route of 8.7 km combining rural scenery, coastline, and historical heritage. Along the way, you'll come across several of these fortifications while enjoying open views of the ocean and protected areas such as Ponta das Contendas. We genuinely believe this is the most interesting way to explore these structures, and we can assure you that you won't regret it. It is one of our favorite trails on Terceira.

And if you're not up for the full route, we at least recommend driving along the road that runs along this part of the coast and enjoying the views. You can also stop by the Salga Natural Pools, very close by, where you'll find the Forte das Caravelas — another example of the fortifications that protect this stretch of coastline.

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