On our second day in São Miguel, we followed a Sete Cidades day trip itinerary that revealed the island’s wild western landscapes. Leaving Ponta Delgada after breakfast, we drove along winding roads lined with hydrangeas and pastures dotted with grazing cows. The first viewpoint opened to Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, two crater lakes in striking shades of blue and green, framed by steep volcanic walls and forested slopes. Each stop along the rim offered new angles, from cloud reflections on the water to glimpses of the Atlantic. It was the perfect way to see the best viewpoints in Sete Cidades and experience a highlight of a typical Azores itinerary in a single, unforgettable day.
Table of Contents
Morning: Volcanic Remnants and Crater Landscapes
Miradouro do Pico do Carvão – Panoramic Views Over São Miguel
Our Sete Cidades day trip itinerary began with a short drive from Ponta Delgada to Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, one of the best viewpoints in Sete Cidades and a perfect introduction to the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel. From this high vantage point, I could see steep valleys, rolling green slopes, and the remnants of ancient craters. Dark volcanic rock stood out against the lush vegetation, a vivid reminder of the island’s geological history.
The air was crisp with the scent of pine and wildflowers. I took my time photographing the ridges and watching the light shift across the slopes. Starting here gave context to the western part of the island, setting the stage for the panoramic miradouros and natural beauty that make this corner of the Azores unforgettable.
Muro das Nove Janelas – An Iconic Wall with Local Secrets
Shortly after we stopped at the striking Muro das Nove Janelas (“Wall of Nine Windows”) in Ribeira Grande, a perfect blend of history and coastal scenery. This 18th-century structure, part of the old city’s fortifications, features nine evenly spaced arches that frame views of the Atlantic, creating an almost cinematic perspective. Walking along the wall, you can imagine fishermen and merchants passing through centuries ago, while the sound of waves breaking against the volcanic rocks below adds a serene soundtrack to the experience.
Pedro, my local guide, pointed out that the wall’s alignment captures the light beautifully at sunrise and sunset, making it a favorite spot for photographers and locals alike. Nearby cafés and pastel-colored houses add charm, allowing you to pause and soak in Ribeira Grande’s maritime heritage. A visit here feels like stepping back in time, yet it remains very much alive in the rhythm of local life.
Miradouro da Boca do Inferno – Crater Depths and Volcanic Drama
After a short walk through the forest, I arrived at Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Western São Miguel. There I found myself looking straight into the depths of a vast volcanic crater. Forested slopes and grassy terraces stretched below, framed by jagged ridges shaped over millennia. Low clouds drifted through the valley, casting shifting shadows that gave the scene an almost cinematic quality.
Standing at the edge, it was easy to picture the eruptions that carved this landscape and the immense forces that formed its contours. In a way, it really reminded me of Cilaos, Reunion. Every angle revealed something new, from rugged cliffs to soft green slopes. This stop captured the raw beauty of the Azores, blending volcanic drama with serene views that set the tone for the lakes, coastal cliffs, and hidden spots still to come.
Midday: Best Things to Do in Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades At a Glance
- Location: Western São Miguel, Azores
- Best for: Scenic viewpoints, crater lakes, coastal cliffs
- Duration: Full day (6–10 hours)
- Highlights: Vista do Rei, Boca do Inferno, Sete Cidades village, Ferraria hot springs
- Activities: Hiking, kayaking, e‑biking, photography
Miradouro da Vista do Rei – Classic Viewpoint Over Sete Cidades
Miradouro da Vista do Rei is one of the most famous viewpoints in the Azores, offering a sweeping panorama of the Sete Cidades caldera. From here, Lagoa Verde shimmers in a vivid emerald while Lagoa Azul reflects the sky in deep cobalt, their colors shaped by light, depth, and algae. The contrast is so striking that it has inspired local legends about a green‑eyed princess and a blue‑eyed shepherd whose tears formed the lakes.
I lingered at the railing, taking photographs and breathing in the crisp air scented with volcanic soil and mountain water. The combination of dramatic slopes, vivid lake colors, and the sheer scale of the crater made this a defining stop in my western São Miguel journey.
Good to Know – Vista do Rei
- Parking: Large lot, 20‑minute limit
- Accessibility: Easy, flat path
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds
- Extra: Monte Palace Hotel ruins nearby (entry forbidden but visible)
Sete Cidades Village & Lakes
Driving down into the Sete Cidades caldera, I reached the village that shares its name, a quiet place surrounded by steep green slopes and the twin crater lakes. Narrow cobbled streets wind past pastel houses and gardens overflowing with hydrangeas, blending seamlessly into the volcanic landscape.
At the center stands the Igreja de São Nicolau, an 18th‑century church with whitewashed walls and a simple bell tower. Inside, sunlight filters through small stained‑glass windows, scattering soft colors across the wooden pews. The church’s bell once served as a signal for fishermen on the lakes, a reminder of how closely life here has always been tied to the water. Visiting the village is one of the most rewarding things to do in Sete Cidades, offering both cultural charm and views of the lakes from within the caldera.
Walking along the shores, I watched birds glide over the water and ripples spread across the surface. From certain angles, the lakes seemed to merge into one, an optical illusion that has inspired local legends and countless photographs. The harmony of water, volcanic slopes, and human life makes this one of Western São Miguel’s most memorable highlights.
Before continuing, we stopped at Casa de Cha “O Poejo” for lunch. Freshly grilled limpets, their briny flavor accentuated with a squeeze of local lemon, paired perfectly with warm bread still steaming from the oven. Each bite felt like a taste of the Azores itself.
Sete Cidades Hiking: Best Routes Around the Crater
Exploring Sete Cidades on foot gives you perspectives no viewpoint alone can offer. These trails range from short walks to half‑day adventures, each revealing volcanic drama and lake panoramas.
1. Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades Village (PR3 SMI)
- Distance: 7.7 km (4.8 mi) one way
- Time Needed: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (mostly downhill gravel road)
- Highlights: Sweeping views of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, ending in the quiet village with its church and lakeside charm. Best done in clear weather for maximum contrast between the lakes.
2. Mata do Canário – Boca do Inferno Crater Rim (PR4 SMI)
- Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi) loop
- Time Needed: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (steep start and finish, otherwise wide gravel paths)
- Highlights: The most iconic rim trail, circling the caldera with constant views of twin lakes, forests, and ridges. Perfect for hikers who want the full Sete Cidades panorama.
3. Serra Devassa Circuit (PRC05 SMI)
- Distance: 5 km (3 mi) loop
- Time Needed: 2–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (short climbs, exposed ridges)
- Highlights: A compact hike with 360° views, smaller crater lakes (Lagoa das Empadadas, Lagoa Rasa), and the historic Muro das Nove Janelas aqueduct. Great if you want variety without committing to a long trek.
4. Full Sete Cidades Crater Rim Loop
If you want the ultimate Sete Cidades experience, you can walk the entire rim of the caldera. This is a proper circuit that keeps you high above the lakes almost the whole way, with constant panoramas and fewer crowds once you leave the famous viewpoints.
- Distance: ~21 km (13 mi) loop
- Time Needed: 5–7 hours depending on pace and photo stops
- Difficulty: Moderate — mostly wide gravel/dirt roads, some steep sections, ~600 m (1,969 ft) elevation gain
- Terrain: Crater ridgelines, forest tracks, occasional paved stretches shared with cars/ATVs
Afternoon: Coastal Cliffs & Traditional Windmills
Ponta da Ferraria – Natural Hot Springs & Sea Bathing
After exploring crater lakes and miradouros, I headed to Ponta da Ferraria, one of the most unique natural hot springs in the Azores. Here, geothermal waters flow directly into the Atlantic, creating warm tidal pools along the volcanic shoreline. The mix of mineral‑rich heat and cool ocean swells is unlike anywhere else on São Miguel.
Stepping into the water, the warmth wrapped around me while the Atlantic surged gently at my sides. From the pools, I could see jagged cliffs rising from the sea and hear waves breaking against the black volcanic rock. At low tide, the temperature can reach over 30°C (86°F), making it one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy sea bathing in naturally heated ocean water. It was the perfect blend of relaxation and raw volcanic energy.
Good to Know – Ponta da Ferraria
- Best time: Low tide for warmer pools
- Facilities: Changing rooms, lifeguards, restaurant nearby
- Road: Steep but manageable in a regular car
Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado – Cliffs and Atlantic Vistas
Continuing along the western coast of São Miguel, I stopped at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, a coastal viewpoint where sheer basalt cliffs drop into the Atlantic. Far below, waves crashed against volcanic rock and sent bursts of salt spray into the air.
The horizon stretched endlessly, the ocean shifting from deep blue to silver as the light changed. Each curve of the coastline revealed new contrasts of dark cliffs, bright green vegetation and moving afternoon shadows. On exceptionally clear days it is possible to see the distant island of Pico, a reminder of how the Azores are scattered across the Atlantic. The wind, the sea spray and the vast seascape made this a striking counterpoint to the warm waters of Ponta da Ferraria earlier in the day.
Ponta dos Mosteiros – Coastal Rock Formations
At Ponta dos Mosteiros, the western edge of São Miguel meets the Atlantic in a display of raw volcanic artistry. Basalt columns and sea stacks rise from the water, shaped over centuries by eruptions and the relentless force of the ocean. Walking along the rocky shoreline, I traced the jagged edges and intricate patterns carved by waves and wind. Sunlight shifted across the formations, revealing new textures with every step.
The constant crash of surf underscored the scale of the cliffs and stacks. Just offshore, a cluster of islets known as the Mosteiros rocks is a nesting site for seabirds, adding movement and sound to the scene. For photographers and nature lovers, this is one of the most rewarding coastal viewpoints in Western São Miguel, offering both drama and detail in every direction.
Moinho do Pico Vermelho – Traditional Windmill Photography
As the afternoon light softened, we headed inland to Moinho do Pico Vermelho, a traditional windmill surrounded by rolling hills and lush fields. Its weathered sails and solid stone base reflect centuries of rural life in São Miguel, when wind power was essential for grinding grain and sustaining village communities.
We walked around the site, noticing how the green fields contrasted with the dark stonework, a scene that seemed made for photography. The quiet setting and gentle slopes gave the place a reflective atmosphere, a calm counterpoint to the volcanic craters and coastal cliffs we had explored earlier in the day. For anyone interested in traditional windmills in the Azores, this is both a cultural landmark and one of the most photogenic spots in the region.
A Worthwhile Detour: Igreja do Bom Jesus in Rabo de Peixe
As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, we drove back to Ponta Delgada, reflecting on the day’s journey through western São Miguel. Volcanic peaks, crater lakes, rugged cliffs, and centuries-old windmills had revealed the island’s dramatic contrasts and hidden charms.
On the return journey, we made a short detour to Rabo de Peixe to see the Igreja do Bom Jesus, a landmark that rises above the coastal village with its whitewashed façade and elegant bell tower. The church’s origins date back to at least the 16th century, with records showing it was already an important parish by 1568. Over the centuries it has been rebuilt and expanded, with the tower completed in 17352.
Its design follows the traditional Azorean style, with three naves, a tripartite front, and volcanic stone detailing that contrasts with the bright plaster walls. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and cool, with carved woodwork and modest stained glass that filters soft light onto the pews. The church has withstood storms, earthquakes, and the passage of time, remaining a focal point for the community’s religious and cultural life.
Back in Ponta Delgada, we had another delicious dinner and took a walk along the promenade. Another successful day on Sao Miguel was over!
Why Sete Cidades is Worth Visiting
This day trip across western São Miguel offered a concentrated look at the Azores’ volcanic landscapes and coastal beauty. From the panoramic viewpoints of Pico do Carvão and Boca do Inferno to the twin crater lakes at Sete Cidades, each stop revealed a unique geological story. The dramatic cliffs at Ponta dos Mosteiros and the traditional windmill at Moinho do Pico Vermelho added layers of cultural and historical context, showing how human activity has adapted to the island’s natural forces.
A Sete Cidades day trip provides a mix of iconic viewpoints, serene natural settings, and opportunities for immersive experiences.This route combines volcanic heritage, lush vegetation, and sweeping Atlantic vistas. And when you are ready to see a different side of the island, Nordeste, Furnas hot springs and São Miguel’s tea plantations offer a perfect complement, blending crater lakes, hot springs, and Europe’s only working tea estates.
Travel Tips
How to get to Sete Cidades from Ponta Delgada
By car
The above is best done by car, which allows you to stop at all these maazing spots I showed.Roads are very good but can be winding and narrow; drive cautiously and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
By bus
A bus from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades is also available. Bus C205 leaving from Avenida Marginal – Turismo in Ponta Delgada is a convenient one. I suggest you check Google Maps for the latest departure times.
Guided tour
If you have no car, the best way is an organized day trip to Sete Cidades.
👉 My local friends suggested this guided tour to Sete Cidades, which is affordable and convenient!
How Much Time to Spend in Sete Cidades
This is a whole day trip that can take 6-10 hours, depending on how many stops you make. And, trust me, you will want to make many stops to admire the scenery.
Accommodation in Sete Cidades
This place makes an amazing day trip destination, but you will appreciate the area even more if you spend one or more days, hiking and just relaxing. In my Sao Miguel accommodation guide I mention a few fastastic places to stay in Sete Cidades.
Also Good to Know
- Timing & light: Start early to catch the best light at the viewpoints and to avoid crowds at popular spots.
- Swimming at Ponta da Ferraria: Best during low tide for warmer and calmer waters; always check tide schedules.
- What to wear: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and rocky paths. A raincoat is always handy, as the weather in Sete Cidades can be unstable any time of the year. The temperatures range from 8-15°C (46-59°F) in winter to 12-25°C (54-77°F) in summer.
- Photography: Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best conditions for landscape photography.
Last Updated on 09/02/2026 by Panos
