Discover Sete Cidades

Two hands form a heart shape against a scenic lake and mountain backdrop.

Posted by leandro

The Sete Cidades, located on the island of São Miguel, is one of the must-visit places in the Azores. Discover this little paradise and everything you can’t miss.

Vista do Rei Viewpoint

The Vista do Rei Viewpoint is undoubtedly one of the most famous viewpoints in São Miguel and the Azores. From there, you will have a spectacular panoramic view of the Sete Cidades Lagoon, the Blue Lagoon, and the Green Lagoon, which are separated by a bridge. Local legend says that the lagoons were formed by the tears of a shepherd and a princess who had an impossible love. The view is especially impressive at sunrise or sunset when the colors of the sky are reflected in the lake waters.

A scenic view of a lake surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. Scenic view of a lake surrounded by lush green hills under a clear blue sky. Panoramic view of two lakes surrounded by lush green forest and mountains under a clear blue sky.

Sete Cidades Lagoon

The Sete Cidades Lagoon is, unsurprisingly, one of the most iconic and unmissable places in the Seven Cities. Comprising two lagoons, one blue and one green, it is a true paradise to observe and admire the unique nature of the archipelago. You can explore the area in various ways, whether by walking around it, taking a canoe trip on the tranquil waters, or simply relaxing on the shores and appreciating the natural beauty around you.

A view of two lakes in a green valley, one blue and one green, with a small village nearby. Scenic view of a lake surrounded by green hills and a small village. Vibrant lake surrounded by lush green hills under a blue sky with white clouds.

São Nicolau Church

Located in the small village of Sete Cidades, the São Nicolau Church is a charming neo-Gothic building worth visiting. The church, with its white facade and basalt details, is a beautiful example of local religious architecture. Besides admiring the construction, take the opportunity to walk around the village.

White chapel and fountain in a park with tall trees and mountains. White church with steeple, surrounded by tall trees and colorful flowers. A white church with a bell tower, surrounded by tall trees under a blue sky.

Santiago Lagoon

Santiago Lagoon is another hidden gem in Sete Cidades. Less frequented than the Sete Cidades Lagoon, this lagoon offers a calmer and more introspective atmosphere. The lagoon is surrounded by dense vegetation, creating an almost magical setting.

Misty forested crater lake surrounded by lush green trees. Vibrant green landscape with a yellow lake surrounded by lush trees and hills under a blue sky. View of a green lake surrounded by lush forest and flowers with a stone wall in the foreground.

Lagoa do Canário Natural Park

The Lagoa do Canário Natural Park is a protected area that offers some of the most stunning views of São Miguel. In addition to the Lagoa do Canário itself, the park includes the famous Miradouro da Grota do Inferno, which provides a spectacular panoramic view of the volcanic craters and lagoons in the area. It is a perfect place for walking and connecting with nature.

From this viewpoint, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view. The Sete Cidades Lagoon, with its Blue and Green Lagoons, is one of the main attractions, creating a stunning and serene landscape that enchants all who behold it.

Besides the spectacular view, the viewpoint also offers visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding trails. These provide closer contact with the distinctive nature of the Azores, allowing explorers to discover the local flora and fauna. The trail to the viewpoint is easily accessible and offers a pleasant walk, surrounded by lush vegetation.

Aerial view of dense green forest next to a water body with brown path. Lake surrounded by forested hills under a blue sky with clouds. Aerial view of a green forest encircling a large, oval-shaped lake.

Grota do Inferno Viewpoint

The Boca do Inferno Viewpoint is one of the most impressive viewpoints in São Miguel. It offers a comprehensive view of the Sete Cidades Lagoon, Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa Rasa, as well as parts of the Sete Cidades parish and Serra Devassa.

Dirt path with wooden railing on a lush green hillside under a blue sky with clouds. Person with arms outstretched on a hill overlooking lush landscape and lake. Scenic view of a hilly landscape, lake, and ocean under a cloudy sky.

Bike Tour Activity

Venture through Sete Cidades in our company on a bike tour! The bike ride takes place inside the volcanic caldera of the Sete Cidades complex, on mostly flat and slightly rugged terrain. It is a circular route, starting and ending at the bridge that crosses the lagoon.

This bike tour is the ideal activity for those looking for a leisurely and contemplative ride, with the opportunity to get closer to the Sete Cidades valley and the lagoons that beautify this area of São Miguel island.

Group of cyclists on a cobblestone path surrounded by trees. Seven people with bikes and helmets by a lake with hills in the background. Person in sportswear with a bike, facing a lake and hills in the background.