Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour (w/Lunch)

Key Points

• Seven-hour guided tour showcasing Sete Cidades’ lagoons, villages, and scenic viewpoints
• Visit Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa de Santiago, and the famous King’s Viewpoint for breathtaking vistas
• Inside the caldera, explore the Sete Cidades village and learn about its history and legends
• Enjoy a delicious regional lunch during the tour, with options for local cuisine
• Walk along Mosteiros’ dark coast, swim at Mosteiros Beach, and see its iconic islets
• All stops are guided, with short walks suitable for most fitness levels

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Discover the Volcano and Lagoons of Sete Cidades

The Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour offers an opportunity to explore one of the most iconic sights of São Miguel, Azores — the twin lakes of Lagoa das Sete Cidades. With a 7-hour duration, this guided experience combines spectacular viewpoints, charming villages, and dramatic coastal scenery. The tour operates with live guides in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing with a focus on natural beauty and local culture. The journey includes scenic drives, walking tours, and stops at key viewpoints. A lunch featuring regional dishes adds a satisfying culinary touch. The only consideration is the moderate physical activity involved, with short, mostly optional walks suitable for most fitness levels.

Key Points

• Guided full-day experience lasting 7 hours with lunch included
• Stops at Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa de Santiago, and the King’s Viewpoint for stunning views
• Visit the village of Sete Cidades inside the caldera, including its neo-gothic church
• Drive to Mosteiros, a coastal Fajã with striking dark rock formations and islets
• Swim at Mosteiros Beach and enjoy a coastline walk with local sweet treats
• Stops are brief but packed with highlights, requiring only short walks

The Route and Highlights of the Tour

The tour begins with pickups from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, with an extra fee for Ribeira Grande and Lagoa. The first stop is a scenic viewpoint that offers sweeping views of both the north and south coasts of São Miguel, providing a perfect introduction to the island’s volcanic terrain.

Next, the hidden Lagoa do Canário is explored, with a moderate walk through the natural park leading to a viewpoint overlooking the valleys and Lagoa das Sete Cidades. This secluded lagoon is only accessible from a few points, making it a special stop for nature lovers.

The King’s Viewpoint provides a panoramic scene of the twin lakes — the green and blue waters that give the town its name. Here, visitors also learn about the abandoned hotel ruins, adding a touch of local lore to the scenery.

A descent into the caldera reveals the Santiago Lagoon and the famous bridge dividing the lakes. The mythology surrounding the blue and green lagoons adds an interesting story to the stunning landscape. A walk around the small village of Sete Cidades allows visitors to see its neo-gothic church and local tea house.

The tour then takes you to the westernmost cliffs of São Miguel, where the view of Mosteiros and its islets is breathtaking. Here, travelers learn about the legend of the missing island and get a close-up look at the volcanic coastline.

Exploring Mosteiros and Its Dark Coast

Descending into Mosteiros, the fajã formation reveals a vast coast of dark rock formations that contrast sharply with the ocean. The Mosteiros islets offer dramatic scenery that is perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.

The walk along the coastline culminates at Mosteiros Beach, a unique spot to enjoy the ocean breeze and sample local handmade sweets. This hour-long stop combines scenic beauty with a taste of Azorean culture, making it a highlight for many.

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Scenic Drives and Photo Stops Throughout

Throughout the day, the tour features several scenic drives and photo stops. The Secret stop and Ponta do Escalvado Lookout offer additional opportunities to capture stunning vistas and appreciate the island’s volcanic landscape.

The van journey between stops lasts about 45 minutes, giving travelers time to relax and enjoy the views from the vehicle. The tour ends with drop-offs at the initial pickup points, providing convenience and ease.

Practical Details and Recommendations

The tour includes pickups at multiple locations with an early start time, so punctuality is advised. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as the short walks involve uneven terrain and natural paths.

Notably, high-heeled shoes, large luggage, and sharp objects are not permitted on the tour vehicle. Littering and smoking are strictly prohibited, and non-folding wheelchairs or strollers are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

The tour is designed for a mild level of fitness, with short, optional walks. Guests can wait at designated areas if they prefer to skip walking portions.

The Experience from the Guides

According to reviews, guides like Ivo are highly praised for their knowledgeable and flexible approach. They share stories and historical context, enhancing the natural beauty with engaging commentary. The friendly attitude and local insights are considered major strengths.

Travelers note that the scenery is absolutely stunning, with great views from viewpoints and beautiful landscapes that feel almost surreal. The lunch with local regional food is also a valued part of the experience, offering a taste of Azorean cuisine.

The Tour’s Strengths and Best Fit

The Sete Cidades West Coast Tour delivers a well-rounded experience of São Miguel’s natural beauty, with emphasis on viewpoints, villages, and coastal scenery. The guided nature ensures you gain local knowledge and legends, adding depth to the sightseeing.

This tour suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and cultural explorers who appreciate short walks and scenic drives. The lunch and coastline walk provide a satisfying balance of relaxation and activity.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour involves short walks that are suitable for most fitness levels but may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The extra fee for pickups at Ribeira Grande and Lagoa should be considered when planning.

While the tour covers many highlights, it does involve a fast pace, so travelers wishing for more in-depth exploration of each site might prefer a longer or more specialized tour.

The Sum Up: A Compelling Day in São Miguel’s Iconic Landscapes

The Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse of São Miguel’s volcanic marvels in just one day. The stunning viewpoints, charming villages, and dramatic coastline make it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those short on time.

With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and regional cuisine, this tour provides both visual inspiration and cultural insight. The moderate physical activity is balanced well with leisure, making it accessible for most travelers. Based on the positive reviews and carefully curated itinerary, this tour is a reliable option for exploring the west coast of São Miguel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch?
Yes, a regional lunch is included, giving an authentic taste of Azorean cuisine.

Are the walks challenging?
The walks are short and moderate, suitable for most fitness levels. They involve some uneven terrain but are mostly optional.

What are the pickup locations?
Pickups are available at Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande, with an additional fee for Ribeira Grande and Lagoa.

How long is the travel time between stops?
The van journey between sites lasts about 45 minutes, allowing for rest and sightseeing from the vehicle.

What makes this tour different from others?
This tour emphasizes viewpoints and coastal scenery, with a focus on the west coast’s natural beauty and charming villages, guided by knowledgeable local guides.

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