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gruta das agulhas

6. Gruta das Agulhas

Gruta das Agulhas is a volcanic lava tube in Porto Judeu, on the southern coast of Terceira. It was formed when the lava from the Algar do Carvão volcano reached the sea, where the outer layer cooled and solidified while the interior kept flowing, leaving behind open galleries.


The name comes from the needle-shaped formations that cover the walls and ceiling, which can be seen at various levels of the cave. It was discovered in 1967 by the association "Os Montanheiros" and was prepared for study, but the improvements were damaged over time due to sea erosion. Today access is closed to the public to protect these fragile structures.


Although you can no longer go inside, from the stairs leading down to its entrance you can see it from the outside and also enjoy a beautiful view of the Cabras Islets and the sea.


If you are visiting the southern coast of Terceira, you also can't miss Fajã do Fisher, the Refugo Natural Pool, and the Cruz do Canário Viewpoint and Maria Augusta de Castro Viewpoint, so don't hesitate to include all these spots on the day you visit this area of the island.

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