Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades is one of the most emblematic sceneries of the Azores. This volcanic complex is a well-known picture of São Miguel. It was elected one of Portugal’s seven nature wonders and is protected by Natura 2000. It is a unique place on Earth, reminding us how small we are in front of nature.

About Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades volcanic complex is a region but also a village on the Northwest of São Miguel, in Ponta Delgada county.

The two-colored lake is famous for its love legend between a blue-eyed princess and a green-eyed farmer who cried so much after the king forbid their love, that their tears created lakes.

On the edge of the huge crater is an enormous abandoned hotel: Monte Palace. It was inaugurated in 1989 and was the first five-star hotel in the Azores. It was only open for a year before meeting bankruptcy.

Lakes Wonderland

This full-day adventure will allow you to discover the volcanic complex of Sete Cidades on a different path.

Beautiful scenery

Surrounded by green, get mesmerized by the deep colors of Sete Cidades.

Where lies one of Portugal’s 7 Wonders

Sete Cidades has been elected by the Portuguese people as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the whole country. The volcanic complex is huge and the views breathtaking.

Listen to the quiet around you

A relaxing yet active experience, that is possible pedaling through the wonderful Sete Cidades Volcanic complex.

From love, Nature was born

Be surprised by the old love legend associated with the formation of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, between the blue and green lakes. Our guides will tell you the story like no one else!

Inside the crater

Go inside the volcanic complex of Sete Cidades and discover the beautiful village with two lakes.

Cycling in paradise

Sete Cidades is one of the most famous places around the island due to its unequalled beauty. The views will take your breath away.

Nature all around

There will be tons of different landscapes to see during this tour.

Impressive views

You will have views on the lakes as well as the ocean and pass by roads full of hortensias during summertime.

Scientific and sociologic approach

On this tour you will have the opportunity to learn more about the fauna, flora, history and culture of this magical place called Azores.

The whole volcanic crater

Cumeeira Grande is a trail that goes all around Sete Cidades volcanic crater, that is quite a nice challenge.

One of Portugal 7 wonders

In 2010 were elected the 7 natural wonders of Portugal, and it is no surprise that almost 700,000 voters chose Sete Cidades as one of them!

All in one

On earth and on the water, you will have a full experience of Sete Cidades.

Panoramic views

When you go up, you can see the North coast of São Miguel but also the volcanic complex of Sete Cidades in the West and Ponta dos Fenais da Ajuda in the other direction.

Rainbow lakes

When it is sunny, it is possible to see the great variety of colors between all the lakes in Sete Cidades volcanic complex.

Touch and feel

With this tour, you will not only sit in a Jeep and look at landscapes by the window. We offer you to do some bike and kayak at Sete Cidades.

Up and Down Volcanoes

This is a good trail to explore the most hidden natural secrets of São Miguel, inside Sete Cidades volcanic complex.

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Nature & Geology

The lake of Sete Cidades is the biggest in the Azores archipelago, being about 4,2km with a total area of about 4,3km and a depth of 33m. Surrounded by green pastures and countless smaller lakes inside volcanic cones, Sete Cidades offers a natural setting like no other place.

The crater in itself has a diameter of about 5km and a depth of 400m, with its highest point rising up to 845m above sea level. It is possible to walk around the entire volcano, on its edges called Cumeeiras.

Inside the volcanic complex lies the village of Sete Cidades, the so-known lake, but also many other lakes of all shapes, sizes, and colors.

Experiences and Tips

Sete Cidades is the perfect setting for many outdoor adventures such as kayaks or stand-up paddles. The calm waters of the lake are ideal for beginners. Experimenting with these fun activities is just amazing surrounded by the huge crater and the lush vegetation of the area.

Tip: Futurismo also has an activity center in Sete Cidades where you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. We also have mountain bikes, for all the family.

Finally, from the viewpoint of Grota do Inferno, you can contemplate the entire beauty of the dormant volcano. It is a privilege to stand by this viewpoint offering one of the most prized views on São Miguel Island.

Why Futurismo

100+ Breathtaking experiences

Venture beyond the extraordinary. Unrivaled adventure

Azores Travel Experts

Largest tour operator in the Azores with 30 years of experience

Environmental Education

At Futurismo, we think that educating and raising awareness among the young ones is very important for the future

Helping Social Solidarity Institutions

Apart from being a responsible tour operator, we also have a social commitment with many local organizations

Tours in Descent to the Caldeira in Faial – Half day

Explore São Miguel's Stunning South Coast

Boat Tours

Sao Miguel island

Ponta Delgada

Half day All season Easy

Ribeira dos Caldeirões

Half day All season Easy

Per adult 65€

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Jump into the Atlantic

Coasteering

Sao Miguel island

Lagoa

Half day All season Easy

Per adult 65€

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Things you must see in Sete Cidades

Grota do Inferno

When you type ‘Azores’ on the internet, that is something you will see straight away. This viewpoint offers an incredible panorama over many lakes inside Sete Cidades volcanic complex. Breathe fresh air and enjoy the views.

King’s viewpoint

From a huge abandoned hotel on the top of Sete Cidades caldera, observe the two-coloured lake, famous around the world for its unique beauty. Stop some minutes and embrace this particular landscape.

Plan your trip to Sete Cidades

What can I do in Sete Cidades?

In addition to enjoying the magical surrounding landscape, during the summertime, it is possible to rent a kayak, a stand-up paddle or a bike. If you are interested in this, please let us know to make sure we have something available for you.

Are the Azores a good biking destination?

Yes, the landscapes are truly beautiful and Sete Cidades is perfect to go for a ride.

Frequently asked about Sete Cidades

How to go to Sete Cidades?

The best way is to rent a car and go by yourself. However, we can offer a transfer from and to Ponta Delgada. Also, there are some buses from Ponta Delgada. More information in the tourist office.

What can I do in Sete Cidades?

In addition to enjoying the magical surrounding landscape, during the summertime, it is possible to

Where is located Sete Cidades?

Sete Cidades is about 40 minutes away from Ponta Delgada. It is situated on the western part of São Miguel island.

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Sete Cidades

About Sete Cidades

Lakes Wonderland

Beautiful scenery

Where lies one of Portugal’s 7 Wonders

Listen to the quiet around you

From love, Nature was born

Inside the crater

Cycling in paradise

Nature all around

Impressive views

Scientific and sociologic approach

The whole volcanic crater

One of Portugal 7 wonders

All in one

Panoramic views

Rainbow lakes

Touch and feel

Up and Down Volcanoes

Show all Show less

Nature & Geology

Experiences and Tips

Why Futurismo

Tours in Descent to the Caldeira in Faial – Half day

Things you must see in Sete Cidades

Grota do Inferno

King’s viewpoint

Plan your trip to Sete Cidades

What can I do in Sete Cidades?

Are the Azores a good biking destination?

Frequently asked about Sete Cidades

How to go to Sete Cidades?

What can I do in Sete Cidades?

Where is located Sete Cidades?

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