Mata da Serreta: Terceira’s First Leisure Park
Before any other leisure area existed on Terceira, there was Mata da Serreta — the first to receive infrastructure designed for the island’s population to rest and gather.
The island’s oldest recreation forest
Located in Terceira’s northwest, in the parish of Serreta, this forest reserve was created as a leisure park in 1950, becoming the oldest of its kind on the entire island. Made up mostly of eucalyptus, pine, and metrosideros trees, the humid, densely wooded setting is prized for its coolness, a contrast to the windier climate along the nearby coast.
A fountain that came from a convent
Among the forest’s most curious features is an old carved stone fountain, with an artistic backdrop featuring a dove. The piece was moved to Serreta from the parish of Posto Santo, but its origin traces back to the cloister of the former Convent of Graça, in Angra do Heroísmo — a piece of religious heritage that found new life in a forest park.
Stage for Serreta’s festivities
The forest is especially popular in September, during the parish’s traditional festivities, when pilgrims fulfilling vows to Nossa Senhora dos Milagres stop here to rest on their way to the local church.
Facilities for the whole family
The site has picnic areas equipped with grills, tables, and benches, walking trails, a children’s play area, restrooms, and a shelter house — all designed for family outings, picnics, and weekend walks.
Planning your visit
- Location: Serreta parish, Angra do Heroísmo municipality, about 200 metres above sea level.
- Access: by road, with its own parking area.
- What to see: the historic fountain, Peneireiro Viewpoint, and the playground.
Best time to visit
September, during Serreta’s festivities, brings extra life and energy to the forest.
Nearby highlights
Ponta da Serreta, with its lighthouse, sits at the parish’s western tip.
After Mata da Serreta, head to the parish’s tip to see Serreta Lighthouse and the view over the Atlantic from this westernmost part of the island.
