Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas
Spectacular viewpoint on Monte Brasil offering panoramic vistas of Angra do Heroísmo, historical cannons, and free-roaming wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear views of Angra and the sea
Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas
Best Time
Clear views of Angra and the sea
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Spectacular viewpoint on Monte Brasil offering panoramic vistas of Angra do Heroísmo, historical cannons, and free-roaming wildlife.
"Astonishing view and free to visit, with peacocks and deer roaming around!"
🚗 Drive or Hike Up
Choose between a scenic drive or an invigorating hike up Monte Brasil for stunning views. :hiking_boot:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture postcard-worthy shots of Angra and the coastline from this elevated viewpoint. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views of Angra
Monte Brasil
Soak in breathtaking vistas of Angra do Heroísmo, the historic fortress, and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Historical Cannons
Monte Brasil
Explore remnants of the island's military past with well-preserved artillery pieces.
Padrão do V Centenário
Monte Brasil
Admire this striking stone tower monument commemorating 500 years since the Azores' discovery.
Wildlife Encounters
Monte Brasil
Spot peacocks, deer, and various birds roaming freely in this natural setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Top
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Hike Up
Choose between a scenic drive or an invigorating hike up Monte Brasil for stunning views. :hiking_boot:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture postcard-worthy shots of Angra and the coastline from this elevated viewpoint. :camerawithflash:
🕊️ Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for peacocks and other birds roaming freely around the viewpoint. :bird:
🇵🇹 Basic Portuguese Phrases
While many speak English, knowing a few Portuguese phrases is helpful. :speech_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Hike Up
Choose between a scenic drive or an invigorating hike up Monte Brasil for stunning views. :hiking_boot:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture postcard-worthy shots of Angra and the coastline from this elevated viewpoint. :camerawithflash:
🕊️ Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for peacocks and other birds roaming freely around the viewpoint. :bird:
🇵🇹 Basic Portuguese Phrases
While many speak English, knowing a few Portuguese phrases is helpful. :speech_balloon:
🧺 Picnic Potential
There are picnic areas, making it a great spot for a relaxed lunch with a view. :picnic_table:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Angra do Heroísmo and the surrounding ocean. The accessibility, free entry, and the charming presence of free-roaming peacocks and deer are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some note that while English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing basic Portuguese is beneficial.
"(Note: I write these reviews in part for my own nationwide-USA only-business clients, for travel and activity inspiration. Follow me for more! I’m a financial planner - CFP®️practitioner - with a focus on retirement wealth strategies, primarily serving business women and LGBTQ individuals. #VirtualPlanningCraftedWithCare®️)
This is at Monte Brasil. One of my overall favorite spots to visit. You’ll make your way up the mountain by car or by foot. There’s lots of trails and several sightseeing lookouts. There’s a little area with birds. Another that you can walk down a bit to look onto the valley were they have a shooting range.
You’ll find that most tourist areas are handicap accessible and family friendly. Most are also free! The Azores does an excellent job in making the islands welcoming to tourists. They pride themselves in keeping the islands clean and most things are well marked. Be prepared to know some key phrases in Portuguese as not everyone speaks English, though many do in the most tourist packed areas."
Karen Melo Ticas, CFP
"The tower is the high lookout point to overlook Angra Do Heroísmo and far beyond. There are many canons telling you that it used to be a very important military fort. There are a lot of wildly roaming birds including peacocks and chickens, as well as some beautiful parrots in cages on Monte Brasil. You can either drive up or hike up here for the views. It would also be a great point to watch sunset also. Anyway it’s a place you can’t miss when visiting Terceira Island."
Angela Z-Frace
"Extraordinary... wild and domesticated animals around, barbeque place, toilets and astonishing view! You can drive hee or walk, free."
JarekPL LODZ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas by car, driving up Monte Brasil, or by hiking through its trails. The location is well-marked and accessible for visitors.
Yes, there is parking available at the viewpoint, making it convenient for those arriving by car.
Absolutely! There are hiking trails leading up Monte Brasil, offering a more active way to reach the viewpoint.
Yes, Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas is a free attraction, allowing everyone to enjoy its stunning views.
Monte Brasil is a peninsula and extinct volcano that overlooks Angra do Heroísmo, home to Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas and offering historical sites and natural beauty.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas is completely free to enter. You do not need to purchase any tickets.
The viewpoint is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted, as it's an outdoor natural attraction.
No, there is no admission fee for Monte Brasil or its viewpoints like Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas.
While technically accessible, visiting at night might be less safe and you'll miss the spectacular daytime views of Angra. It's best enjoyed during daylight or sunset.
No booking requirements are necessary for Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas. It's a public space open to all visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday provides clear, bright views of Angra.
You can capture panoramic shots of Angra do Heroísmo, the coastline, historical cannons, the Padrão do V Centenário monument, and the surrounding natural landscape.
While drone usage regulations can vary, the open space and stunning views make it a potentially great spot. Always check local drone laws before flying.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in Angra.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography at Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Enjoy panoramic views, explore historical cannons, see the Padrão do V Centenário monument, and observe free-roaming peacocks and deer. There are also picnic areas and restrooms.
Yes, it's very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy seeing the animals and the open space to explore. The accessibility also makes it easy for strollers.
Yes, restrooms are available at Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas, making it convenient for visitors.
Certainly! There are designated picnic areas, so you can enjoy a meal with a spectacular view.
You might see peacocks, chickens, parrots (in cages), and deer roaming freely around the Monte Brasil area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Monte Brasil
The peninsula served as a crucial military defense point for centuries, evidenced by the numerous historical cannons still visible today. These remnants speak to its strategic importance in protecting the harbor of Angra. At the highest point, you'll find the Padrão do V Centenário, a striking monument erected in 1932 to commemorate 500 years since the discovery of the Azores. It stands as a testament to the island's rich history and its connection to exploration.
Beyond its historical significance, Monte Brasil is a haven for wildlife. Peacocks, deer, and various bird species roam freely, adding a touch of wild charm to the landscape. The Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas itself is a prime spot to observe these animals and to take in the astonishing views over Angra do Heroísmo and the surrounding ocean. The combination of history, nature, and breathtaking scenery makes Monte Brasil a must-visit destination.
The Significance of Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas
This location is not just about the views; it's steeped in history. The strategic elevation made it a vital observation point for military defense. Visitors can still see old artillery cannons scattered around the area, silent witnesses to past conflicts. The Padrão do V Centenário, a prominent stone tower with a cross, further enhances the historical narrative, marking significant milestones in the Azores' discovery and development. The sense of history combined with the natural beauty is palpable here.
For photographers and sightseers, Pico das Cruzinhas is a dream. The expansive scenery is perfect for capturing memorable images, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The presence of wildlife, such as peacocks and deer, adds an element of surprise and delight to the visitor experience. It’s a place where history, nature, and stunning landscapes converge, offering a truly enriching visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit