Coast of the Four Rivers

Category: Nature > Coast

District: Açores > Praia da Vitória > Quatro Ribeiras > Canada Dos Sousas

Location

Situated on the north coast of Terceira Island, the Costa das Quatro Ribeiras is located in the area of Quatro Ribeiras, belonging to the municipality of Praia da Vitória.

This coastal area is characterized by the presence of high cliffs that define the landscape, offering wide views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Volcanic Origin

The landscape of Costa das Quatro Ribeiras has its genesis in the island's volcanic activity. Its rock formations result from solidified lava flows, both basaltic and trachytic in nature, shaped over thousands of years by the constant action of ocean waves.

It is possible to observe various types of volcanic deposits in this area, including materials released by explosive eruptions (pyroclasts) and denser lava flows that reached the coast. Some of these rocks exhibit interesting geometric shapes, such as prismatic jointing, testifying to how the lava cooled and solidified.

Natural Features

The interaction between the volcanic land and the sea has created a series of remarkable natural features. The streams that descend from the interior slopes meet the coast, sometimes forming waterfalls as they reach the ocean.

Among the volcanic rocks, marine erosion has sculpted cavities and indentations that have given rise to natural pools, where seawater accumulates. The coast also includes small sheltered bays, rocky shoals, and the presence of semi-submerged caves and fissures in the cliffs.

Nature and Wildlife

This coastal area, classified for its natural importance, harbors flora adapted to coastal conditions. On the cliffs, it is possible to find endemic Azorean plants, such as the emblematic Vidalia, sometimes referred to as a living fossil due to its rarity.

The vegetation also includes coastal scrub of cedro-do-mato. The Costa das Quatro Ribeiras is also a place of interest for observing seabirds, with species such as Cory's shearwaters and terns often seen in this area.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt