Fortress of St. John of Monte Brasil

(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 was my favorite sightseeing location in Terceira. Because I love historic spots, especially old forts. Apparently this is the largest in the Azores. It’s free to visit and you could take hours walking around the park here. There are long walking paths, picnic areas and various seating. You can’t beat the view from the top.

A general note about Terceira: it’s LGBTQ friendly! You’ll find gender neutral restrooms in many places. (Marked WC for wash closet). Some places are marked at the door with a pride flag so you know it’s particularly welcoming or gay-owned, though I doubt you need to look for that to feel safe here. All of it is welcoming to anyone who’s friendly and respectful.

Great mountain for a hike up, cycle or drive up. The views are great. Do t forget to take corn for the birds and carrots for deer.

O forte é o ponto mais bonito da ilha de Berlengas, valendo a pena visitar para boas fotos. A vista dele a partir do mar ou da trilha é mais bonita do que a vista que se tem a partir do forte. Para visitar as instalações paga-se 1 euro por pessoa o que dá acesso à torre e que permite ver algo do hotel que lá funciona - bastante simples e com pouca infra estrutura - e do bar/ restaurante que quando fomos (em outubro) quase não tinha opções para servir. A ilha como um todo vale a visita pelas belezas naturais, sem esperar por serviços de qualidade. Leve snacks!

Children friendly introduction:

This giant stone fortress was built by the Spanish in the 1500s to protect the island from pirates and enemies. It’s the biggest fortress in the Azores—and it worked! No one ever managed to break in.

It’s shaped like a star with thick walls and tunnels inside. Soldiers used to live here with cannons, animals, and even a small church! Later, it was also used as a prison.

Fun fact: During a long battle for freedom (the Liberal Wars), local fighters trapped the enemy soldiers inside the castle for over a year!

Nice wievs and lovely nature around. Perfect for a short walk