Sete Cidades, Sao Miguel: Viewpoints, Walks and Tips

Sete Cidades is the Azores’ most iconic view: twin lakes, one blue and one green, lying in a giant volcanic crater on São Miguel. Here’s how to visit, the best viewpoints and the walks around the crater rim.

Quick answer: Sete Cidades is about 30 to 40 minutes’ drive from Ponta Delgada. The best views are from the Vista do Rei viewpoint and the short walk to the Boca do Inferno viewpoint. Check the webcams for cloud before you go, and come back another day if the crater is fogged in. See Sete Cidades tours.

The lakes

Lagoa Azul (blue) and Lagoa Verde (green) are joined by a narrow channel under a bridge. Their colours come from the depth and the reflections. A local legend says they were formed by the tears of a princess and a shepherd who were forbidden to marry: her blue eyes and his green. The crater also holds the smaller Lagoa de Santiago and Lagoa Rasa.

The best viewpoints

• Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: the most spectacular view, over all the lakes. Park nearby and walk about 10 minutes.
• Vista do Rei: the classic view of the twin lakes and the village, right by the road.
• Lagoa de Santiago viewpoint: a hidden lake in a deep green bowl.

Things to do

• Walk the crater rim: a popular trail runs along the rim with views on both sides.
• Kayak or cycle around the lakes.
• Visit the village on the crater floor, with its church and cafés.
• Mosteiros: head down to the coast for black-sand beaches and sea stacks.

Tips

• Clouds: the crater is often hidden in mist. Mornings can be clearer, and conditions change fast.
• Trail fees: some Azores trails now charge a small fee. Check before walking.
• Car: essential unless you take a tour. See the best Azores tours.
• Cruise passengers: see Ponta Delgada’s cruise port.

More: the São Miguel itinerary, the Furnas guide and São Miguel hotels.

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