Ribeira Grande is one of the larger towns of Sao Miguel Island in the Azores. It has a picturesque center, and in its vicinity there are volcanic landscapes, including volcanic calderas with fumaroles, i.e. places where volcanic fumes still emerge.
The city was founded at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries, and its name means "Great River". Indeed, a river flows through the center, which is one of the main attractions of Ribeira Grande for the inhabitants. On its shore there is a large park with recreational and picnic areas and a decorative garden.
Tourists can visit the oldest part of Ribeira Grande with numerous preserved baroque churches and low, white buildings decorated with volcanic, dark stone. The old town is not big, but very charming, and the local restaurants and bars invite you to rest and try local specialties.
In addition to the city itself, many attractions are also located in the vicinity of Ribeira Grande. One of them is a black beach, covered with volcanic sand. Although beautiful, it is not very often used for sunbathing. Lovers of relaxation by the water head rather to the complex of swimming pools and artificial beaches, where you can safely bathe under the care of lifeguards. There are also calderas around Ribeira Grande, such as Caldeira Velha, where volcanic fumes known as fumaroles emerge.
