Guided Hiking Tour around Sete Cidades near Ponta Delgada, Azores

Come hiking in Sete Cidades and discover one of the seven wonders of the Azores Islands!

Start your day exploring the Sete Cidades volcanic complex on the west side of São Miguel Island. Begin the trail through lush green areas interspersed with rocky terrain. Ascend to one of the highest vantage points in Sete Cidades, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the island’s center and its lakes.

As you descend, take in the expansive pastures of the south coast and the paths adorned with colorful hydrangeas. Continue through a cryptomeria forest towards Lagoa das Empadadas, and then traverse a mossy landscape with its surrounding vegetation until you reach Lagoa do Canário.

Proceed to one of São Miguel’s iconic viewpoints, the Grota do Inferno. Before descending into the parish, visit the Vista de Rei viewpoint to admire the striking views of the Blue Lake and Green Lake, and also see the abandoned Monte Palace hotel.

Upon arriving in the parish of Sete Cidades, enjoy a picnic lunch. After a brief rest, the tour continues by van to the Escalvado viewpoint, where you can view the parish of Mosteiros and Ponta da Ferraria. Explore the local viewpoint for a panoramic view of the lava platform, including Ferraria Lighthouse.

Conclude the day with a relaxing dip in the natural thermal pools of Ferraria. These volcanic springs, occurring underground in the ocean close to the coast, are renowned for their unique blend of salt water and thermal water.