Torres Cave

Gruta das Torres is the largest lava tube in the Azores and one of the most extensive in the world, with about 5 kilometres in length, formed during a volcanic eruption approximately 1,500 years ago on the island of Pico.

Lava tubes form when the surface of a lava flow cools and solidifies while the interior remains molten and continues to flow, gradually emptying the interior and creating an underground gallery. In the case of Gruta das Torres, this process produced a cavity of extraordinary dimensions, with sections up to 15 metres high and 15 metres wide, decorated with rare geological formations such as lava stalactites, lava ropes and level marks on the walls.

The visit is compulsory guided, with reduced groups and defined schedules. The tourist route covers about 500 metres of the total grotto, with treated flooring and installed lighting, making it accessible to visitors without speleological experience. The interior temperature hovers around 15°C throughout the year, so it is advisable to bring a jacket even in summer. Closed and non-slip footwear is mandatory. The ticket includes the guided visit and access to the adjacent interpretation centre, which explains the formation of lava tubes in the context of Azorean volcanism. Gruta das Torres perfectly complements a visit to Pico volcano and is one of the most impressive underground experiences in the entire archipelago.