São Miguel: The most beautiful lagoons to visit

Person with arms outstretched overlooking a scenic lake and mountains.

Posted by leandro

Explore some of the most beautiful lagoons on São Miguel Island during your stay. The green and pure nature of the archipelago calls for you. Don’t miss it!

Sete Cidades Lagoon

One of the most beautiful lagoons in São Miguel is Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Surrounded by ancient legends and stunning landscapes, this lagoon is a must-see for travelers looking for tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

One of the most beautiful lagoons in São Miguel is Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Surrounded by ancient legends and stunning landscapes, this lagoon is a must-see for travelers looking for tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

Visitors can explore the surrounding area through various activities such as trails, cycling and bird watching. You certainly can’t miss the view from the Miradouro da Vista do Rei, through which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire lagoon.

According to local legend, this lagoon was formed by the tears shed by a princess and a shepherd, whose forbidden love triggered a tragedy. The contrasting colors of the pond – one half blue and the other green – are attributed to the tears of the princess and the shepherd.

Lush landscape with two lakes surrounded by green hills under a partly cloudy sky. Vibrant sunset over a lake with lush greenery and hydrangeas in the foreground. Scenic view of a lake with a bridge, surrounded by greenery and distant buildings.

Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo is also one of the unmissable lagoons in São Miguel and one of the most famous. This lagoon is an authentic natural beauty. With its clear, turquoise waters contrasting with the lush green of the surrounding landscape, the lagoon is a spectacle of colors and textures that captivates any visitor. The volcanic mountains that surround the lagoon provide a dramatic and majestic setting, revealing the strength and beauty of the Azores’ nature.

When visiting the surroundings of Lagoa do Fogo, visitors are immediately enveloped by a feeling of serenity and calm. Surrounded by lush vegetation and green hills, the lagoon offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

In addition to enjoying the panoramic view of Lagoa do Fogo, visitors also have the opportunity to explore the surroundings through several trails. These trails offer spectacular views of the lagoon and surrounding landscapes, as well as providing the opportunity to observe local wildlife and the unique flora of the Azores. trails. Esses trilhos oferecem vistas espetaculares da lagoa e das paisagens circundantes, além de proporcionar a oportunidade de observar a vida selvagem local e a flora única dos Açores.

Sunset over hilly landscape with lakes and a clear sky. Scenic view of a lake surrounded by lush green hills under a cloudy sky. Hiker on a lush green trail overlooking a lake and mountains.

Lagoa das Furnas

Located in the parish of Furnas, Lagoa das Furnas is fed by hot water springs that bubble up from the depths of the Earth, creating a unique and revitalizing atmosphere.

It is there that the traditional Furnas stew is cooked, a typical dish from the Azores that is cooked in the volcanic calderas near the lagoon. This delicious dish is prepared with a variety of meats, vegetables and seasonings, and is slowly cooked under the Earth’s natural heat, acquiring a unique and aromatic flavor.

Various activities connecting with nature can be carried out on site, such as canoeing, hiking and cycling.

The parish of Furnas is known for its thermal waters. These naturally heated waters are rich in minerals and are known for their therapeutic and relaxing benefits. During your visit to the parish, you can take the opportunity to relax in the various thermal pools available, such as Parque Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija.

Aerial view of a lush green landscape with a large lake and distant hills under a partly cloudy sky. Lush green landscape with a lake, trees, and blue sky with clouds. Aerial view of a large green lake surrounded by lush hills and clouds on a sunny day.

Lagoa do Congro

Lagoa do Congro is a hidden gem in São Miguel, far from the busiest tourist trails, which makes it an ideal place for those looking for peace and quiet. Upon arriving at the shores of this tranquil lagoon, visitors are immediately enveloped by a feeling of serenity and calm. The silence that reigns over the place is truly rejuvenating.

Its calm waters reflect the lush green of the surrounding hills, creating a picturesque setting that seems straight out of a postcard. You can enjoy moments of contemplation by the lake and admire its simplicity and harmony.

To access the lagoon there is only one pedestrian trail. Visitors can park their car nearby and walk through the untouched nature.

Stone path by a tranquil, tree-lined lake under a clear sky. Aerial view of a circular forest lake surrounded by dense green trees. Lush green forest surrounds a tranquil lake under a cloudy sky.