Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour (w/Lunch)

Discover the Azores’ Iconic Landscapes on the Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour (w/Lunch)

If you’re after a full day of jaw-dropping scenery on São Miguel, this Sete Cidades West Coast Tour is hard to beat. For around 7 hours, you’ll journey through lush volcanic landscapes, gaze upon the famous twin lakes, and enjoy a hearty regional lunch. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour makes it easy to see some of the island’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

What we love most about this experience are two key things: First, the stunning views from the various lookout points—especially from the King’s Viewpoint and Ponta do Escalvado—are simply unforgettable. Second, the mix of natural beauty with a taste of local culture, like strolling through the charming village of Sete Cidades and sampling regional sweets, adds depth to the trip.

A small potential drawback? The tour involves some walking, although it’s generally moderate. Travelers with mobility issues might want to review the walking involved at each stop. Overall, if you’re looking for an immersive taste of São Miguel’s natural beauty, with a comfortable, well-organized itinerary, this tour suits travelers of all ages ready to explore.

This trip is perfect for those who want a comprehensive scenic experience that combines nature, culture, and delicious local cuisine—ideal for first-time visitors eager to see iconic sights without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from multiple lookout points provide perfect photo opportunities.
• Diverse stops include lagoons, villages, coastlines, and scenic viewpoints.
• Moderate walks allow you to experience natural beauty without strenuous hiking.
• The local lunch delivers regional flavors, adding value to the full-day experience.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth ride through varied terrains.
• The tour’s small group size and expert guides enhance the overall experience, making it intimate and informative.

An In-Depth Look at the Sete Cidades West Coast Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers an excellent combination of natural scenery, cultural insights, and practical comfort. Starting with pickup options in Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada, it’s flexible depending on where you’re staying. The 7-hour itinerary promises a well-paced day, balancing sightseeing with time to relax and enjoy each spot.

The guide drives a 9-seat van with A/C and panoramic windows, which means you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the views without feeling crowded. The inclusion of a local guide is particularly valuable, as they bring stories and context to each stop, enriching your experience beyond just snapping photos.

The Scenic Drive and Viewpoints

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive through the island’s interior, offering a chance to appreciate São Miguel’s volcanic terrain and lush greenery. The first stop, a secret photo stop, introduces you to the island’s natural beauty with sweeping views.

Next, you’ll visit Lagoa do Canário—a secluded lagoon surrounded by trees—which is accessible only from a few vantage points, making it feel like a hidden gem. Here, you’ll take a moderate walk through a natural park, reaching a viewpoint overlooking valleys formed around the lakes.

At the Vista do Rei lookout, you’ll see the vast twin lakes of Sete Cidades from above. The views are postcard-perfect, and the guide shares stories about the abandoned hotel ruins that dot the landscape, adding a touch of history to your photo ops.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Lakes and Village

Descending into the caldera, you’ll get close to the Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa de Santiago. The highlight is the bridge dividing the two lakes—a site filled with local myths. Walking around the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll encounter quaint streets, a neo-gothic church, and perhaps a visit to a traditional tea house, offering a glimpse of local life.

What makes this part special is the opportunity to really absorb the calm and beauty of a small Azorean village. The views of the lakes from various angles, combined with the lush hydrangea bushes along the way, make this a memorable stop.

Ponta do Escalvado and Mosteiros

Next, the tour takes you to the westernmost cliff of São Miguel at Ponta do Escalvado, where you’ll admire spectacular coastal vistas of Mosteiros and its islets. You’ll learn about the myth of a missing Azorean island, which adds an intriguing local legend to the view.

Descending into Mosteiros, you’ll walk along the dark rocky coast of a fajã formation and visit Mosteiros Beach. Here, the scenery shifts dramatically—dark volcanic rocks, crashing waves, and a quiet beach, perfect for a final relaxing walk. You can enjoy a local handmade sweet while breathing in the ocean breeze, wrapping up a full day of natural beauty.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes lunch with regional specialties, which is a great value considering most tours would charge extra for a meal. The buffet offers a starter, main dish, drink, and dessert, giving you a taste of local cuisine amid stunning scenery.

The itinerary’s timing is well-planned, with ample stops for photos, walks, and short visits. The extra fee for pickups in Ribeira Grande and Lagoa is modest, considering the convenience of door-to-door service.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Based on reviews, many travelers appreciate the “beautiful surroundings” and the stunning views that are the highlight of the day. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, and the guides’ local knowledge adds authenticity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love scenic vistas and want to see the best of São Miguel’s lakes and coastlines comfortably, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy moderate walks and want to combine stunning landscape views with cultural touches like village strolls and local treats. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time but wanting a broad overview of the island’s natural wonders.

The Sum Up

This Sete Cidades West Coast Tour offers an excellent way to experience São Miguel’s most iconic scenery with the convenience of guided logistics and local insight. The panoramic viewpoints, especially from the Vista do Rei and the cliffs of Mosteiros, are truly breathtaking and worth every moment. The journey through volcanic landscapes, lakes, and coastal vistas makes for a memorable and enriching day.

The inclusion of regional food and the chance to explore small villages add depth beyond just sightseeing. While it involves some walking, the moderate pace means most travelers should find it manageable.

Whether you’re a landscape lover, a photographer, or simply seeking a relaxing day immersed in nature, this tour balances value, comfort, and authentic Azorean charm. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a well-rounded, scenic adventure with a taste of local life.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the lunch?
You’ll receive a regional food buffet with a starter, main dish, drink, and dessert, offering a good taste of local flavors.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes. You’ll be transported in a 9-seat van with air conditioning and panoramic windows, making the ride scenic and comfortable.

Are there any physical demands?
The walks are described as moderate, suitable for most travelers with a mild level of fitness. Some shorter walks involve stepping through natural parks and villages.

Can I join if I stay outside Ponta Delgada?
Yes. Pickup options are available from Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, and Ponta Delgada, although pickups from Ribeira Grande and Lagoa carry an extra fee.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
Yes. The itinerary is well-paced, with stops ranging from 15 to 75 minutes, enough to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most likely yes, especially those who enjoy light walks and scenic views. Always check with the provider if traveling with very young children or those with mobility concerns.

In essence, this tour packs a lot of beautiful scenery, local flavor, and cultural insights into one memorable day—great for travelers eager to see São Miguel’s best without the stress of planning each detail.

You can check availability for your dates here: