Lagoa das Sete Cidades is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Sao Miguel island in the Azores. Some say it is one of the most beautiful spots on the entire island.
What is Lagoa das Sete Cidades?
Lagoa das Sete Cidades (in english the Lagoon of Seven Cities) is twin crater lakes located inside a dormant volcano.
What makes this lake so special? The lake consists of two different colors. One side is blue and the other is green. Pretty amazing!
How to get to Lagoa das Sete Cidades
It took us about 40 minutes to reach Sete Cidades from Ponta Delgada (where we stayed). Our rental car gave us the flexibility to stop and pull over at any time during the drive. There are so many beautiful lookout points it’s hard not to want to stop a million times along the way.
If you are not renting a car you can book a tour or you could try and take the bus, though other reviews say that the pickup and drop-off times are hard to figure out. If you don’t want to rent your own car, I recommend a tour guide or driver instead of the bus. Of course, this could change in the future as the Azores continue to grow in popularity, but as of 2020, I think it is best with your own rental car.
What’s the best way to see Lagoa das Sete Cidades
There are a few different hikes and viewpoints around the Sete Cidades area that will give you some awesome views of the lake.
Vista do Rei
This best spot to enjoy the view of the twin lakes is the Vista do Rei. The name translates to view of the king. You can see why this hike and viewpoint get its name.
Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
One of the most popular lookouts is the Miradouro da Boca do Inferno (This one was my personal favorite). It gives you a view of Lagoa de Santiago and Lagoa das Sete Cidades.
Where to Stay Near Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades Lake Lodge – Literally right next to the lake!
Sete Cidades Weather
You should know that the Azores weather changes rapidly and varies hugely on different parts of the islands. Just because it is sunny and beautiful in Ponta Delgada does not mean it will be sunny in Sete Cidades. The 40 minute drive changes everything.
You also shouldn’t expect a clear and sunny beach destination all year round; it can be cold, gloomy and foggy – sometimes even in the middle of summer!
Sete Cidades is often covered in thick fog. My advice is to monitor the weather closely and to be flexible in your planning. It may take quite a bit of patience to see the views on a clear day.
Check the views for Sete Cidades on Camera
The good news is they have cameras set up in Sete Cidades that will give you an accurate picture of what the weather is like at the viewpoint. Make sure to check the cameras before going!
Where to Stay in São Miguel Island?
Yes, the Azores is a lesser-known destination, but now that it’s becoming under more travelers’ radars, more hotels are opening up.
So, if you’re hoping to have an epic island adventure, you don’t have to worry about accommodations as there are plenty of options.
I’ve compiled a list of some of the best accommodations in São Miguel for all kinds of travelers.
Luxury Hotels in São Miguel, Azores
Looking for upscale properties to live your best life on this tropical island?
Here are some of the top-rated luxury hotels on São Miguel:
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel – You don’t have to miss the Caldeira Velha Hot Springs because you’d have access to São Miguel thermal pools at this lavish boutique hotel. Imagine spending the day hiking and exploring the island and going back to your hotel only to relax at a natural spa!
White Exclusive Suites & Villas РThe Azores is privileged with lots of beautiful beaches and Ṣo Miguel is hands down home to many of them. So, how about enjoying your stay at an ocean view luxury suite or villa?
Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort – Another great beach view option is this eco-resort. Not only because the nearby Praia de Santa Barbara is one of the best beaches in the islands but also because of its close proximity to the Caldeira Velha Hot Springs – it’s less than 15 minutes away.
Budget Accommodation Options in São Miguel
Are you an adventurous backpacker traveling on a budget? Don’t fret – there are also some great options for you:
Out of the Blue – If you’re on a budget, this hostel offers great value for money. Modern interiors and a cozy environment? Check! Ideal location? It’s a lovely getaway in Ponta Delgada, so obviously, check!
Garoupas Inn – Also located in Ponta Delgada, this inn will make you feel at home, except for that you probably don’t have impeccable ocean views or a hot tub back home!
Visiting The Azores? READ NEXT:
- Top 10 Things to Do in Ponta Delgada Azores (Sao Miguel island)
- 20 Awesome Things to do in the Azores
- 23 Most Beautiful Azores Beaches
- 5 Best Sao Miguel Hot springs
- Azores Travel Guide: 7 Things You Must Know Before Going
- Azores Weather: What You Need to Know Before Going
Places to not miss in the Furnas area:
- 6 Best Things to do in Furnas (Azores)
- Cozido das Furnas: Volcano-Cooked Cozido in the Azores
- Guide to visiting Furnas Lake (Azores)
- Parque Terra Nostra (Furnas, Azores) All you Need to Know
Everything else!
- Guide to Visiting Mosteiros Beach in the Azores (Sao Miquel Island)
- Caldeira Velha Hot Springs
- Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Azores (Lagoon of Seven Cities)
- Visiting Poca Da Dona Beija Thermal Baths in The Azores
- Miradouro da Boca do Inferno | Azores Hike in Sete Cidades
- Ponta Da Ferraria – A Volcanic Ocean Hot Spring in the Azores