Essential to any visit to this city, the Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande are a fine example of thermal activity with smoke issuing from vents in the earth before disappearing into the verdant green of the trees and vegetation.

It is easy to forget the scattering of residences and the former thermal building and lose oneself in the primal beauty of these surroundings. A little further on, the Vale das Lombadas features a vibrant show of lush vegetation.

Another interesting feature of life in Ribeira Grande is the ‘Cavalhadas de São Pedro’ (Knights of St.

Peter). One by one, the knights in white smocks, a black, flower-decorated hat and scarlet cloak and sash, meet in front of the Mafoma manor house in Ribeira Seca. They then set out on procession led in front by the "king" or "mayor", with his black, waxed beard.

Throughout centuries, on June 29th, St. Peter’s day, to strident cornets, this colourful cortege sets off to proclaim popular sayings in a unique form of religious celebration.

These are just a few details to a visit that is certain to feature so much more.