Top Things to do in Ribeira Grande
What to do and see in Ribeira Grande, Azores: The Best Things to do
Discover the best top things to do in Ribeira Grande, Portugal including Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre, Salto do Cabrito, Tabaco da Maia Museum, Praia de Santa Barbara, Miradouro de Santa Iria, Bela Vista Viewpoint, Frade Natural Pools, Igreja do Divino Espirito Santo, Ribeira Grande's Bridge, Museu da Emigracao Acoriana.
Restaurants in Ribeira Grande
1. Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,754 reviews
The Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre (CIACV) is a structure dedicated to the promotion of the natural heritage of the Caldeira Velha´s area, which is classified as a Natural Monument. The building has, among other aspects, the main purpose of promoting the particular environmental values, allowing the visitor to discover in loco the particularities of this point of interest and acting as a complementary space of informal education. At the same time offers a wide network of resources and promotes a touristic component. It is also possible to enjoy three thermal pools and a walking trail at the Natural Monument. Concentrated in a space surrounded by natural landscape, the building is noteworthy for being an “object stamped on the landscape”, which adapts to the existing vegetation and rocks, granting it an organic image, consistent with the space.
Reviewed By Matteuzzo - Syracuse, Italy
We came here on a cold January morning, but we didn't want to miss out on this experience. Since a couple of years, this little park asks for an entrance fee (both for visiting and bathing) and there is a ample car park nearby. There are changing booths, WC, showers and a small information center. Recommend to first take a bath in the 24°C pool and waterfall before you head to the 38°C hot springs. It was early morning but already very crowded. Nevertheless an unforgettable experience not to be missed!
2. Salto do Cabrito
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 464 reviews
Reviewed By TheCrazyreyn - London, United Kingdom
We walked from Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande to this spot along the hiking trail, and it's ingenious in the way it uses a giant pipe (which services the hydro electric dam next to the waterfall) as part of the route. The heights on this route by the waterfall are something else! I'd also recommend visiting the abandoned dam at the Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande end of this route, which we almost didn't do but was absolutely worth the 10-15 minute detour.
3. Tabaco da Maia Museum
4. Praia de Santa Barbara
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 303 reviews
Reviewed By MofromMass - Plymouth, United States
Long stretch of beautiful beach. We didn't swim, it was October, but there were lifeguards there, so if it's warmer, go for it! The waves were incredible. One of my favorite lunches of the trip and maybe of all time was at the Tuka Tula bar/restaurant located on the beach. The scenery is unforgettable.
5. Miradouro de Santa Iria
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 280 reviews
Reviewed By ROCruiser - Claremont, United States
An excellent viewpoint on the northern coast of the island. Breathtaking with the cliffs and ocean views for miles around. Kind of reminded me of the Pacific Coast of California and Oregon. Absolutely beautiful!
6. Bela Vista Viewpoint
7. Frade Natural Pools
8. Igreja do Divino Espirito Santo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14 reviews
This church is architecturally rich, with thick pillars that define the three zones, and a rich facade made with carved stone that provides a sensation of harmony and movement. Its construction began in 1796 and ended in 1825. The church has an important treasure in pieces of silver, gold and painting. Among jewels, the most distinguished is a silver monstrance dated to 1618.
Reviewed By cherriesfan_9 - Cheltenham, United Kingdom
Gorgeous little baroque church, just off the town square - watch out for traffic when coming out. Also called the Church of the Miséricorde, it is a stunningly beautiful interior, for such a small building.
