This is the perfect opportunity to discover why Sete Cidades was chosen as one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal, while also exploring the impressive power of nature at the Fogo volcano, which currently generates approximately 40% of the energy consumed on the island of São Miguel.
Rediscover with us the legend that transformed Sete Cidades into a fascinating natural wonder, the setting of a legendary story of forbidden love between a princess and a shepherd.
This love, forbidden by the king, led the two lovers to shed tears that, according to the legend, formed the two lakes nestled within the volcanic crater of Sete Cidades: Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, reflecting the colors of the lovers’ eyes.
Beyond the lakes, the crater is home to the quiet village of Sete Cidades, with its 800 inhabitants—a place that preserves the magic of this story and the natural beauty of the Azores.
Itinerary
The first stop on this full-day tour will be at the Pico do Carvão viewpoint. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of both the northern coast, with Ribeira Grande, and the southern coast, with Ponta Delgada, both set on the beautiful island of São Miguel. In the background, a vast stretch of volcanic cones extends between the impressive Sete Cidades Volcano and the majestic Fogo Volcano, which rises to 900 meters, creating a breathtaking landscape.
Next, we’ll continue to one of the most iconic and emblematic viewpoints on the island of São Miguel, in the Azores: the Vista do Rei. This site was named in honor of the historic visit by King D. Carlos and Queen D. Amélia on July 6, 1901. From this viewpoint, you can admire the stunning panoramic view of the Sete Cidades Lakes, with their blue and green waters contrasting beautifully with the surrounding vegetation. Vista do Rei is not only a site of remarkable natural beauty but also a place of historical and cultural significance, offering visitors a true immersion into the majesty and charm of the Azores.
It’s time to continue your incredible full-day tour toward the vast volcanic interior of Sete Cidades, one of the most impressive sites on the island of São Miguel, in the Azores. The journey takes you along epic paths and slopes covered in blooming hydrangeas, creating a unique and captivating landscape.
Get ready to marvel at Lagoa de Santiago, located in Serra Devassa at the base of a volcanic crater within the Sete Cidades massif. This lake is surrounded by lush, mountainous cliffs, offering a scene of rare beauty. The area is a true sanctuary of biodiversity, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna that enhances the experience of immersion in the untouched nature of the Azores.
If you’ve never experienced the sensation of standing inside a volcanic crater, this is an unmissable reason to book this incredible full-day guided tour through Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Take in the unique beauty of Lagoa das Sete Cidades with a must-stop at the iconic bridge that divides the lake, right in the heart of the vast volcanic crater.Breathe in the pure, untouched nature in the peaceful village of Sete Cidades, where you can visit the charming Church of São Nicolau, nestled within a serene and welcoming landscape.
With your spirit refreshed by nature, we head toward the Escalvado viewpoint, located on a striking pyroclastic cliff. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to admire the breathtaking view over Mosteiros and Ferraria, impressive formations shaped by the region’s intense volcanic activity. This is a perfect moment to appreciate the grandeur of nature and immerse yourself in the unique geological history of the Azores.
Lunch is included and will be served at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy a full meal with everything included.
The menu features appetizers, a main course, beverages, dessert, and coffee (illustrative image), offering a pleasant break to savor the region’s traditional cuisine. This complete lunch provides an authentic experience, allowing you to enjoy the local flavors in a welcoming, traditional setting.
It’s time to head toward the second-highest point on the island of São Miguel, situated at 900 meters above sea level: the Pico da Barrosa viewpoint. From this prime vantage point, you can take in the northern coast with the city of Ribeira Grande and the southern coast with Ponta Delgada. Additionally, you’ll be treated to an impressive view of the entire crater of Lagoa do Fogo, a spectacular landscape that combines the beauty of the mountains, the deep blue waters, and the island’s vast, untouched nature.
The next stop will be at the Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Center, where we will explore this unique and educational space. (Entry not included, optional and at the customer’s expense).
Afterward, we’ll visit the Historic Center of Ribeira Grande, where you can appreciate the traditional architecture, picturesque squares, and rich history of this charming Azorean city.
Visit the famous Azorean pineapple plantation to learn about the unique cultivation process of this exceptional fruit. Grown in traditional glass greenhouses, the Azorean pineapple takes up to two years to mature, resulting in its renowned sweetness and distinct flavor.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to see each stage of the pineapple’s growth cycle and understand why it is celebrated as the “king fruit” of São Miguel and the Azores.
