São Miguel: Sete Cidades Experience

Discover the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex for $97

The São Miguel: Sete Cidades Experience offers a full-day adventure for $97 per person, lasting approximately 8 hours. This tour is designed for those eager to explore the iconic lakes, volcanic landscapes, and panoramic viewpoints of the Sete Cidades region on São Miguel Island, Portugal.

Starting from five different pickup locations, including Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande, the tour provides convenient transportation, with pickup and drop-off included. The experience combines sightseeing, active exploration on an electric bike, and relaxing moments at thermal baths in Ferraria—a perfect mix for travelers wanting variety in their day.

While the tour is accessible to most, it’s important to note that it is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems. Nevertheless, the tour offers small-group or private options, ensuring personalized attention and flexible planning aligned with weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip exploring São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and lakes.
• Includes electric bike ride along the lakes with a customized route.
• Visit viewpoints like Pico do Carvão, Grota do Inferno, and Vista de Rei.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Sete Cidades parish.
• Relax in thermal springs at Ferraria, with tide conditions affecting water temperature.
• Guided tours led by accredited guides, with detailed explanations of legends and local history.

Exploring the Sete Cidades Area and Its Legends

The tour begins in the small parish of Sete Cidades, located within a volcanic caldera on São Miguel’s western side. This area is renowned for its twin lakes, Blue and Green, and the stories behind their formation. The guides explain how these lakes came to be, adding context to the stunning scenery.

The scenic drives take you to several key viewpoints, including Pico do Carvão, which offers sweeping views of the island’s volcanic central zone. Here, travelers get a clear picture of the island’s volcanic activity and the formation of the lakes. The nearby Carvão and Nove Janelas Aqueducts highlight the island’s engineering feats, once used to supply water to Ponta Delgada.

Discovering Lagoa das Empadadas and Lagoa do Canário

Next, the tour stops at Lagoa das Empadadas, a peaceful spot surrounded by cryptomeria trees. This lesser-known location offers a quiet retreat where visitors can enjoy nature away from crowds. Nearby, Lagoa do Canário provides a picturesque setting, perfect for a short walk and photography.

Travelers will find these hidden corners of São Miguel ideal for appreciating the island’s natural beauty without large tourist crowds. The calm waters and lush surroundings make these stops especially appealing for nature lovers.

Panoramic Views from Grota do Inferno and Vista de Rei

The Grota do Inferno viewpoint provides an impressive look over the entire caldera of Sete Cidades, with vistas of multiple lakes nestled within the volcano’s walls. The short walk to this viewpoint includes a visit to Lagoa do Canário, adding an extra scenic highlight.

Following this, the Vista de Rei viewpoint offers a classic postcard view of the lakes, along with the abandoned Monte Palace hotel, which adds a touch of history and intrigue to the landscape. These viewpoints are essential stops for capturing postcard-worthy photos and understanding the scale of the volcanic landscape.

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Picnic Lunch in Sete Cidades Parish

Midday, the tour stops at the Sete Cidades parish for a picnic lunch, providing a chance to relax amid the stunning environment. The meal is included in the tour price, offering local flavors and a break from active exploring.

This downtime allows travelers to appreciate the quiet atmosphere and prepare for the afternoon activities, including the electric bike ride and sightseeing. The picnic area offers a cozy setting with views over the lakes, enhancing the overall experience.

Electric Bike Adventure Along the Lakes

After lunch, the journey continues with a guided electric bike ride. This activity is a highlight, as it allows access to areas that vehicles cannot reach and provides a more intimate connection with the landscape.

The guide personalizes the route based on participants’ interests and weather conditions, ensuring a tailored experience. During the summer months, there’s an option for stand-up paddleboarding on the Blue Lake, adding an adventurous water element.

Cycling along the lakes, visitors enjoy close-up views of the water, cliffs, and lush surroundings, making it a memorable active highlight of the day.

Visiting Ponta da Ferraria and the Lava Platform

The tour then travels toward Ponta da Ferraria, known as Miradouro da Ilha Sabrina. From this vantage point, travelers take in a panoramic view of the volcanic lava platform and the Ferraria Lighthouse.

This site offers spectacular coastal scenery and a chance to glimpse the volcanic activity shaping the island’s coast. While here, visitors can take photos and enjoy the breathtaking seascape.

Relaxing in the Thermal Pools of Ferraria

The day concludes with a visit to the natural thermal pools at Ferraria, a location famed for its volcanic hot springs. These springs are unique because they originate underground in the ocean, resulting in mineral-rich, warm waters.

Visitors can swim and unwind in these natural pools, experiencing a volcanic thermal bath with saltwater and warm currents. Tide conditions influence the water temperature, so timing the visit for low tide can enhance comfort.

This relaxing activity provides a perfect way to cap off the day, combining nature’s thermal energy with the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Logistics, Flexibility, and Practical Tips

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at or near your accommodation, with five pickup points available. Duration is around 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day for most travelers.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a daypack. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy light physical activity, but not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility or heart issues.

The experience offers small-group or private options, allowing for a more personalized adventure. The guides are accredited and provide detailed explanations, which enhance the understanding of the scenery and legends.

The Value of the São Miguel: Sete Cidades Experience

Priced at $97 per person, this tour delivers a rich combination of scenic viewpoints, active exploration, and relaxation. The inclusion of insurances, a picnic lunch, and trekking poles adds to its convenience and value.

While the thermal baths are a major highlight, the electric bike ride and viewpoints ensure a well-rounded experience. The small-group setting fosters a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a personal touch.

The tour’s 4.5-star rating from two reviews reflects its quality and the satisfaction of participants, especially emphasizing the guides’ knowledge and the opportunity to relax at Ferraria.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who want to combine nature, scenery, and gentle physical activity. It’s ideal for those interested in volcanic landscapes, lakes, and local legends. The inclusion of thermal baths makes it attractive for anyone seeking a relaxing end to a full day.

It is less suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility challenges, or those with heart conditions. The small-group or private options also make it well-suited for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts on the Sete Cidades Experience

The São Miguel: Sete Cidades Experience offers an immersive day exploring the heart of the island’s volcanic scenery. The combination of viewpoints, lakes, e-bike adventure, and thermal baths makes for a memorable day in São Miguel.

While the price is reasonable for the variety of activities and inclusions, travelers should be prepared for some physical activity and variable tide conditions at Ferraria. Those seeking a balanced mix of active exploration and relaxation will find this tour a rewarding way to see some of São Miguel’s most iconic spots.

This experience provides insightful guides, beautiful scenery, and a well-structured itinerary, making it a strong choice for visitors eager to discover the island’s volcanic wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at or near your accommodation from five designated points.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours.

What activities are included?
Visitors enjoy sightseeing at viewpoints, an electric bike ride, a picnic lunch, and thermal baths in Ferraria.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, pregnant women, or those with heart problems. It involves walking and cycling.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and personal medication. A reusable water bottle is recommended.

Can I do stand-up paddleboarding?
Yes, stand-up paddleboarding is available only during the summer months at the Blue Lake.

What makes Ferraria special?
The thermal springs in Ferraria are volcanic in origin, underground in the ocean, and offer a unique warm water experience influenced by tide conditions.

Are the viewpoints accessible easily?
Most viewpoints are accessible, but some involve short walks or hikes. The guide adjusts the itinerary based on weather and participant interests.

What is the guide’s role on this tour?
The accredited guides lead, explain legends, share insights about the landscape, and help customize the experience for the group.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby