São Vicente

Located in the north of the island, São Vicente is a municipality characterised by the green of the abundant forests, the erosion of the slopes and the traces of volcanic forces. However, it is well-known due to Capela de São Vicente, built inside a basalt rock at the stream mouth. The legend tells us that Saint Vincent's body appeared here.

The main attraction of the São Vicente is Grutas and Centro de Vulcanismo, located at the bottom of the valley where the island formation began. Grutas offer a 700 metre walking route through a series of lava tubes, the outcome of an eruption around 890,000 years ago. The Centre, on the other hand, presents you with an educational perspective on this geological wonder.

Here, the best thing to do is to take advantage of the geographical features of the terrain, walking through the numerous pedestrian paths conjugated with water courses. In addition, you can visit Jardim de Plantas Endémicas (Garden of Endemic Plants), as well as an extensive part of the Laurissilva Forest. Finally, take the opportunity to improve your culture at Núcleo Museológico Rota da Cal.