São Miguel island, the largest in the Azores Archipelago, is a true paradise of breathtaking views that blend harmoniously with the blue of the sea. Its landscapes, of volcanic origins, are distinguished by their impressive shades of green and their unique natural beauty. A simple and sublime way to appreciate the wonders of Mother Nature is to contemplate them at the various viewpoints spread all over the island. We share five of them that will surprise you.
1 – Boca do Inferno Viewpoint
The Boca do Inferno Viewpoint, located in Santo António’s parish and in Ponta Delgada municipality, is a must-see for anyone visiting São Miguel. It is located within the Forest Park of Mata do Canário. And it is considered one of the most beautiful on the island.
The view from this point is a breathtaking scenery! Given its altitude, it has a panoramic view over the Sete Cidades Lagoon, the Canário Lagoon, the Rasa Lagoon, part of Sete Cidades parish and part of the Serra Devassa. A truly magical vision that looks like it came out of a painting! parte da Serra Devassa. Uma visão verdadeiramente mágica que parece ter saído de uma pintura!
2 – Vista do Rei Viewpoint
The Vista do Rei Viewpoint is probably one of the most famous and most visited viewpoints in São Miguel Island. It is located in Sete Cidades, just before the descent to the parish. It offers a breathtaking view over the Sete Cidades Lagoon, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal.
. Its landscape is marked by the mixture of blue and green waters of the Lagoon, resulting in a scenario of serenity and unparalleled natural beauty. Sete Cidades Lagoon is the largest freshwater lake in the Azores and has a natural beauty that leaves you speechless. It's an amazing place you can’t miss on a visit to São Miguel! It can be said that it is a viewpoint whose landscape is worthy of a king's sight.
3 – Salto do Cavalo Viewpoint
The Salto do Cavalo Viewpoint is located in Salga parish, in the Nordeste municipality. From its 760 meters of altitude, it is possible to have a wide view over the Povoação Valley and its 7 hills, the Furnas Valley and the serene Furnas Lagoon and over the north and south coast of São Miguel Island. It is a viewpoint with a privileged view, where you can also appreciate the local Laurissilva.
4 – Lagoa do Fogo Viewpoint
The Lagoa do Fogo Viewpoint is located in Ribeira Grande municipality. It is one of the ex-libris of São Miguel Island and one of the places that you cannot leave out of your itinerary. From this point, the view over the Lagoon is described as absolutely magical. This Lagoon has been a Nature Reserve since 1974 due to its scenic and natural value. The color of the water is amazing. It's a little haven of peace and tranquility.
5 – Santa Iria Viewpoint
The Santa Iria Viewpoint is located in Porto Formoso viewpoint, in Ribeira Grande municipality, at an altitude of about 190 meters. From there, you can see the natural beauty of the island's magnificent north coast, from Ribeira Grande to Porto Formoso. The landscape presents itself in various shades of green, blending in perfect harmony with the blue of the ocean. It is a mandatory stop!