Sete Cidades Azores Epic Travel Guide

Known the world over for its iconic blue and green lakes, caldera, and verdant landscapes, Sete Cidades is one of the top destinations in the Azores. Beyond the stunning viewpoints, enjoy Sete Cidades’ plentiful outdoor activities, with hiking, biking, kayaking, and even buggy tours. Top off your adventures with a stop in the quaint town of Sete Cidades or at nearby Ponta da Ferraria’s natural thermal pools. Explore the top things to do in Sete Cidades Azores with this epic travel guide, including the top viewpoints, hikes and other outdoor activities, dining, and travel tips.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We recommend products we have personally used or verified. Read the full disclosure here.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?
Here is the best Sete Cidades day tour!
Find the top São Miguel hotels!
Reserve your rental car!

Pin this for later!

Sete Cidades Azores Travel Guide

• Legend of the Twin Lakes of Sete Cidades Azores
• Top 3 Viewpoints Around Sete Cidades Azores
• Best Hiking Trails in Sete Cidades, Azores
• Kayaking Sete Cidade
• Biking Sete Cidades
• What to See in the Town of Sete Cidades
• Ponte da Ferraria Natural Thermal Pools
• Travel Tips Sete Cidades

Legend of the Twin Lakes of Sete Cidades Azores

According to local legend, the Sete Cidades twin lakes were formed from the tears of the forbidden love between a a green-eyed shepherd and a blue-eyed princess. The princess’ father, the king, forbade their union. When the two lovers met to say goodbye, their tears flowed into the crater. The tears from the blue of the princess’ eyes created Lagoa Azul (the Blue Lake), while the green of the shepherd’s eyes created Lagoa Verde (the Green Lake). You can walk (or drive) over the bridge where these lakes remain connected.

Top 3 Viewpoints Around Sete Cidades Azores

Sete Cidades has a series of stunning viewpoints where you can enjoy the unique twin blue and green lakes and the lush volcanic landscape.

Pro tip: When it’s cloudy, the views of the lakes from the Miradouros can be non-existent. The live webcams are a great way to check the weather before you head out (at Meteoblue or Visit Azores). The weather changes rapidly, so it may clear up if you wait 30 minutes or so.

Our favorite 3 Sete Cidades viewpoints (miradouros) are:

1. Miradouro da Boca do Inferno

This iconic viewpoint, also known as Grota do Inferno, is located near the Lagoa do Canário parking area. It does require a short 0.6 km walk to get to the viewpoint, but it’s certainly worth the effort for the views. Enjoy the almost surreal panoramic views of the crater, the blue and green lakes, and the surrounding cliffs and ocean beyond. See more details under Easy Hikes below.

Visit early or late in the day to avoid the crowds. Lighting tends to be better then too!

Pro Tip: Take a quick detour on your drive to the 19th-century Muro das Nove Janelas (Wall of Nine Windows). It’s an historic aqueduct near Lagoa do Canário on the road into town.

2. Vista do Rei

Unlike the Boca Inferno viewpoint, you can enjoy Vista do Rei’s postcard-perfect views of the twin lakes just a few steps from the parking lot. The most convenient parking is right next to the viewpoint (on the south side of the caldera’s rim). If this is full, you can find additional parking just past the viewpoint, at the trailhead for the PR3 SMI trail. This viewpoint is often busy with tour buses—visit early morning or in the evening for a more peaceful experience.

Pro Tip: If you’d like a snack or lunch with a view at the Vista do Rei viewpoint, we highly recommend Food & Friends Food Truck, which has burgers and sandwiches, as well as vegetarian options.

You’ll see the abandoned 5-star Monte Palace Hotel right across from the viewpoint. It’s a very popular instagram spot. If you choose to explore the property, do so at your own risk. The property is not maintained, and parts are in serious disrepair.

3. Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras

If you are looking for a great view of the bridge between the lakes and of the blue lake (Lagoa Azul), this viewpoint may be a great choice. You’ll pass this on your way into town from the Vista do Rei viewpoint. We didn’t find this spot as stunning as the first two mentioned above, but it does provide a unique perspective on the lakes.

Best Hiking Trails in Sete Cidades, Azores

Sete Cidades offers some of the most dramatic hiking on São Miguel Island. You’ll find everything from short and easy walks to full-day long treks around the rim of the crater. Be sure to bring along your day hike essentials to be prepared for the frequently changing weather conditions.

Easy Trails

1. Boca do Inferno Viewpoint Trail (Grota do Inferno)

• Distance: 1.6 miles / 2.6 km (out and back)
• Duration: 50 minutes (roundtrip)
• Difficulty: easy-moderate
• Elevation Gain: 387 ft / 118 m
• Highlights: Short walk from the Lagoa do Canário parking area to the iconic Boca do Inferno viewpoint. Incredible views over the twin lakes and the caldera. Most of the trail is easy, with a steep section right before the viewpoint.
• Notes: Great for sunrise or sunset. It is often muddy—wear good shoes.
• AllTrails link: alltrails.com

2. Pequena Rota da Lagoa do Canário Loop

• Distance: 0.4 miles / 0.6 km
• Duration: 15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: 114 ft / 35 m
• Highlights: Forested trail around a peaceful lake. Easily paired with Boca do Inferno.
• Notes: This flat trail is also an ideal picnic spot.
• AllTrails link: alltrails.com

Moderate Trails

3. Sete Cidades – Lagoa Verde – Cerrado das Freiras

• Distance: 5.3 miles / 8.5 km
• Duration: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 800 ft / 245 m
• Highlights: forest paths, farmland, and lake views, with easy access from Sete Cidades village and bridge.
• Notes: While this scenic trail loops around Lagoa Verde and part of Lagoa Azul, it is not an easy lake walk. Expect fallen trees, other obstacles, and mud, especially after it rains. Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes with good traction and bring along trekking poles.
• AllTrails: alltrails.com

Important: Portions of this trail are closed (as of mid-2025). Please check the latest conditions and closures before you go.

4. Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades (PR3 SMI)

• Distance: 9.7 miles / 15.6 km round trip (4.85 miles / 7.8 km if downhill only)
• Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes round trip (2 hours if downhill only)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 1601ft / 487 m (or loss if downhill only)
• Highlights: Beautiful panoramic views of the caldera, twin lakes, and the ocean. Passes by farms, forest, and the village.
• Notes: For those looking for a more moderate hike, hike downhill from Vista do Rei to town. Grab a taxi back up to your car.
• AllTrails: alltrails.com

Challenging Trails

5. Lagoon of the Seven Cities Loop

• Length: 12.5 miles / 20.1 km
• Duration: 6+ hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Elevation Gain: 2,526 ft / 770 m
• Highlights: This is a full day hike that circumnavigates the rim of the caldera. Hikers are rewarded with stunning views over both lakes, the ocean, and the interior crater on clear days (avoid doing this in the fog or rain).
• Notes: Only experienced hikers should tackle this trail. Be sure to bring along plenty of water, food, and supplies.
• AllTrails: alltrails.com

6. Circuito do Cumeeira Pequena e Cumeeira Grande

• Distance: 20.5 miles / 33 km
• Duration: 10 hours
• Difficulty: Very Challenging
• Elevation Gain: 4,114 ft / 1,253 m
• Highlights: This dramatic route is not for the faint of heart, combining both the inner and outer crater ridges. It is less trafficked and extremely scenic, though very challenging.
• Notes: Only very experienced hikers should tackle this trail. Be sure to bring along plenty of water, food, and supplies for a day hike.
• AllTrails: alltrails.com

Note: Our son ran into some trail closures when doing this route in spring 2025. This meant spending a bit of time walking along the road and on paths with obstacles before re-connecting with the proper trail.

Kayaking Sete Cidade

Rent a kayak or head out on a self-guided kayak and bike tour to explore the tranquil waters of the crater lakes. Immerse yourself in the tranquil environment and observe the unique flora and fauna in this volcanic environment.

Biking Sete Cidades

Rent an electric bike and explore town and the caldera’s rim, combining the cycling (especially e-bikes) with stops at the key viewpoints mentioned above. Or, take a self-guided kayak and bike tour, spending time exploring the areas around town.

For those who prefer to explore on four wheels, enjoy a half day buggy tour of the Sete Cidades volcano area.

What to See in the Town of Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades village is a peaceful and charming spot nestled within the volcanic crater, bordered by the striking Lagoa Azul. While small, the town offers a few worthwhile stops that are worth adding to your visit:

• Igreja de São Nicolau is a picturesque 19th-century church, which is framed by tall trees and set against the lush landscape right in the heart of town. It’s one of the most photographed churches on the island. We visited during Holy Week and enjoyed walking through their grounds decorated for Easter.
• Sete Cidades Bridge (Ponte dos Rêgos) is a narrow stone bridge dividing the twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. It marks where the two lakes meet, and Is a great spot for photos and walks. We enjoyed a picnic on the grassy area just off of the bridge.
• Lagoa Azul Shoreline Walk – Enjoy a stroll or picnic along the lake’s edge. You’ll find benches, grassy areas, and opportunities to spot ducks and other water birds. The “Green Love Restaurant” is a great spot for a coffee break during your walk.

Ponta da Ferraria Natural Thermal Pools

On your way to or from Sete Cidades, consider stopping at Ponta da Ferraria, a unique geothermal spot where hot springs meet the Atlantic Ocean, creating natural thermal pools. It’s a beautiful spot for a swim! Low tide is typically the safest time to swim, though keep in mind that there are no life guards on duty.

Travel Tips Sete Cidades Azores

Where to Eat in Sete Cidades

• Food & Friends Food Truck: Located near the Vista do Rei viewpoint and the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel, this food truck offers quick bites like burgers and sandwiches, perfect for a casual meal with a view.
• Restaurante Lagoa Azul: A buffet-style restaurant serving a variety of local specialties, ideal for those looking to sample multiple dishes in one sitting.
• Casa de Chá “O Poejo”: cozy restaurant where you can enjoy local teas, as well as simple salads, cheese boards, sandwhiches, and more.

Getting to Sete Cidades

You May Also Enjoy:

• Top Tips for Renting a Car in Portugal
• Kayak Vila Franca do Campo Adventure to Vila Franca Islet
• How to Plan Your Visit to the Furnas São Miguel Hot Springs
• How Many Days in São Miguel, Azores?
• Winter in Madeira, a 4-Day Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Madeira Portugal
• Best Time to Visit Madeira Portugal
• Tenerife or Madeira, a Traveler’s Guide to Two Paradise Islands
• Top 10 Things to Do in Madeira Portugal
• Hiking the São Miguel Gorreana Tea Plantation Trail

If you enjoyed this post, pin this for later!