Terceira Island: 8-Hour Wine and Moonshine Tour

If you’re heading to the Azores and want a genuine taste of Terceira’s landscapes, flavors, and hidden corners, this 8-hour Wine and Moonshine Tour offers an engaging way to experience the island beyond typical sightseeing. It combines visits to major landmarks with off-the-beaten-path spots, all topped with local wine, moonshine, and a hearty outdoor lunch.

What we love about this experience is its balance of popular sights and secret locations, plus the opportunity to indulge in authentic local foods and drinks. The small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides make sure you get the most out of your day.

One potential consideration is that the tour might involve some moderate walking or uneven terrain, especially if you opt to visit caves or lesser-known spots. Travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and culinary delights will find this tour particularly rewarding, especially if they’re eager to go beyond typical tourist trails.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experiences: Tasting wines, moonshines, and local delicacies at micro-farms and hidden spots.
• Diverse Sightseeing: Major viewpoints plus lesser-known locations for a well-rounded perspective.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Dora and Antonio bring island culture and history to life.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning island views and scenic drives throughout the interior.
• Value for Money: The comprehensive 8-hour experience includes food, drinks, and transportation.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and pay-later options offer peace of mind.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with pickup from your accommodation on Terceira, the tour kicks off with a promise to show you both the well-known sights and the secret spots most visitors miss. The guides, such as Dora and Antonio, are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate approach—making the experience feel more like a day out with friends who just happen to be locals.

Major Sightseeing Highlights

The tour visits the main sightseeing spots on the island, which might include iconic viewpoints, historic sites, or other well-loved locations. While specific landmarks aren’t named, reviews repeatedly mention the beautiful vistas, especially at hilltop spots with ocean views, which are perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is the discovery of lesser-known places. These might include organic farms, natural dairy and beef processing facilities, or hillside micro-farms. Such stops give visitors a personal glimpse into local life—like the micro-farm with north-facing ocean views where a traditional beef stew and moonshine tasting took place, or the organic coffee bean and banana farm.

Tasting Experiences

A standout part of the tour is the wine, moonshine, and beer tastings. The tour includes four different wines at Materramenta D.O. Biscoitos, a region famous for its wines, along with a moonshine shot. Guests rave about the quality and variety of the drinks, often describing the tastings as generous and enjoyable. Alongside these, you’ll sample local cheeses, olives, honey, and jams—each bite adding depth to the experience.

The Outdoor Lunch

Some reviewers describe lunch as the highlight—a hillside setting with ocean views where you can savor Terceira’s beef stew along with local cheeses and bread. The outdoor setting provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy local flavors, and the food is typically described as delicious and hearty. The inclusion of local delicacies makes this more than just a meal—it’s an authentic taste of island life.

The Interior and Scenery

Beyond the coast, the tour ventures into Terceira’s interior, showcasing stunning landscapes and lush greenery. This part often involves scenic drives and stops that highlight the island’s natural beauty, giving travelers a different perspective than the usual coastal viewpoints.

Transport and Group Size

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, which is a huge convenience, especially on an island where transportation options might be limited. The group size is likely kept small, fostering a more intimate atmosphere where guides can attend to individual interests and questions.

The Value and Practicalities

At $181 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day that covers a lot of ground—sightseeing, tasting, and culture. The price reflects the inclusions: transportation, multiple tastings, and a filling outdoor lunch. Considering what you get—a full day with a local guide, access to hidden spots, and a chance to taste genuinely local products—it’s a good investment for travelers eager for an authentic experience.

The flexibility of free cancellation and pay later options makes booking less stressful, especially if your plans are still flexible. The tour lasts about 8 hours, so it’s best suited for those who want an immersive, full-day exploration rather than just a quick snapshot.

Authenticity and Guides

Reviews consistently praise the guides—like Dora and Antonio—for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to bring the island’s culture to life. One reviewer noted that Antonio was deeply passionate about Terceira, sharing stories that made the landscape come alive, while another appreciated Dora’s efforts to show places beyond the usual tourist spots.

This personal touch is what elevates the experience from a standard tour to a memorable day. Expect stories, local insights, and recommendations that only a true insider can provide.

The Sum Up

This 8-hour Wine and Moonshine Tour on Terceira is perfect for those looking to experience the island like a local—tasting its wines, exploring its hidden corners, and enjoying an outdoor meal with breathtaking views. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate authentic flavors, scenic vistas, and personalized guidance.

While it requires a full day, the value for money is evident in the variety of sites and tastes included. The focus on local foods, drinks, and lesser-known spots makes it a rich, fulfilling way to see Terceira beyond the typical itinerary.

If you love discovering small farms, tasting unique regional drinks, and enjoying scenic drives, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s an authentic, well-rounded experience that captures the true spirit of Terceira—small in size but big in flavor and charm.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, an outdoor lunch featuring local cheeses, bread, and delicacies, as well as wine, moonshine, and beer tastings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with the start time depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a windbreaker are recommended, especially if you plan to visit caves or explore outdoor spots.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring a smooth experience for diverse travelers.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from your accommodation and throughout the day’s stops.

Who is this tour ideal for?
It’s perfect for travelers eager to explore both the major sights and hidden gems of Terceira, especially those interested in local wines, foods, and authentic cultural experiences.