Passeio de dia Sete Cidades 50 apxoximadamente de 4 horas

Our review of the Passeio de dia Sete Cidades aims to help travelers understand what makes this approximately 4-hour experience a worthwhile choice—and where it might fall short. Designed as a small-group excursion with a maximum of eight participants, this tour offers a balanced look at one of the Azores’ most iconic sights. Imagine cruising through lush green valleys, marveling at the striking contrast of two lakes—one blue, one green—and soaking in the panoramic views that seem to make the world stand still. We’re here to tell you what you can expect, what’s special, and whether it’s right for your travel plans.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with engaging storytelling—especially the legend of the lakes that adds a layer of cultural intrigue. The carefully curated viewpoints and the inclusion of a traditional lunch make this a well-rounded experience. That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers might find the 8-hour bus journey quite full, especially if they prefer more time at each stop. This tour suits those who want a taste of the Azores’ most famous scenery without the commitment of a full day or multi-day adventure.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking memorable vistas, this tour offers a snapshot of São Miguel’s magic. It’s particularly good for travelers who appreciate small-group tours and local insights, offering a personal touch that large bus trips can’t match.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The viewpoints overlooking Sete Cidades are breathtaking and provide perfect photo opportunities.
Cultural Legends: The story of the lakes adds an enchanting element, making the scenery more meaningful.
Lush Landscapes: The valley’s greenery and the surrounding volcanic terrain showcase the Azores’ natural diversity.
Inclusive Experience: Lunch is included, offering a taste of local cuisine without extra cost or hassle.
Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience.
Flexibility & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward, especially for travelers staying in Ponta Delgada.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Our journey begins in Ponta Delgada, where you’ll be picked up at your hotel—an advantage for convenience and comfort. After a brief guided introduction (about 10 minutes), the group boards a comfortable bus for the approximately 4-hour adventure. While the bus ride is quite lengthy, it’s well-spent traveling through the lush Sete Cidades landscape, giving you plenty of chances to admire the scenery from your window.

Stop 1: Miradouros (Viewpoints) and the Legend

One of the first highlights is the series of miradouros (viewpoints), where you’ll stop to soak in the vistas of the twin lakes. These scenic overlooks are often praised for their breathtaking panoramic views of the blue and green lagoons, nestled within the volcanic crater. Travelers consistently mention how these stops provide ideal photo moments and how the views have left a lasting impression. As one reviewer noted, “The views are so stunning that you’ll want to linger, but the tour moves along to keep things on schedule.”

The legend of the lakes adds a layer of local charm. According to the story, the blue lake was once a princess’s eye, and the green lake belonged to a humble farmer—whose tears supposedly formed the lakes after their love was forbidden. This tale enriches the scenery, making it more than just pretty lakes but a symbol of love and tragedy.

Stop 2: Exploring the Lush Valley

Next, the tour takes you into the green Sete Cidades valley itself. Here, we loved the way the guide explained how the lush vegetation and volcanic terrain create a landscape unlike anything else in the Azores. The countryside feels both wild and cultivated, a perfect spot for nature lovers to feel immersed in an untouched environment. You might find yourself strolling along gentle paths or just enjoying the view from the bus, depending on the schedule.

The Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel

A poignant reminder of the area’s history is the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel, once the Azores’ first five-star hotel, opened in 1989 but shuttered after just a year. It stands as a curious relic amid the scenery—an intriguing photo subject and a symbol of how tourism ebbs and flows. Travelers find it adds a touch of history and a bit of mystery to the landscape.

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Lunch and Cultural Touchpoints

The tour includes a traditional Azorean lunch, a feature many travelers appreciate for the chance to sample local flavors without the hassle of finding a restaurant on your own. While specifics aren’t detailed, think hearty regional dishes that reflect the island’s culinary traditions. This meal rounds out the experience, giving you fuel for the journey back.

Final Vistapoints and Return

Before heading back to Ponta Delgada, you’ll make one more stop at a viewpoint for a last look at the twin lakes. The return journey provides ample opportunity to reflect on the scenery and legends, and many enjoy swapping stories about their favorite vistas or surprises from the day.

Practical Details and Value Analysis

The 8-hour duration might seem long, but it’s structured to maximize your exposure to the landscape while keeping a comfortable pace. The small group setting ensures personalized attention and the chance to ask questions—something larger tours often lack.

The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, viewpoints, and lunch, which adds value considering that many similar tours omit meals or transportation. However, note that entry fees for parks and hot springs are not included, so if you wish to extend your exploration into local parks or hot springs, you’ll need to budget extra.

The tour guide speaks both Portuguese and English, making the experience accessible to most travelers. The limited group size fosters a friendly, less rushed atmosphere, giving you more opportunity to connect with your guide and fellow travelers.

Some reviews have mentioned that the bus ride can be lengthy, but most agree that the scenery and viewpoints make it worthwhile. The viewpoints are the real star, offering some of the most stunning vistas on São Miguel. The inclusion of a local legend helps to deepen your appreciation of the landscape beyond surface beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick but meaningful introduction to Sete Cidades and its legends. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy small-group tours, scenic views, and cultural stories. If you’re on a tight schedule but still want to experience some of the Azores’ most iconic sights, this tour hits that sweet spot.

It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in learning about local legends and history while enjoying the natural beauty. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or more time at each stop, consider whether a longer or more flexible option might suit you better.

The Sum Up

The Passeio de dia Sete Cidades offers a well-rounded glimpse of one of the Azores’ most celebrated natural features. With stunning views, engaging storytelling, and a small-group setting, it provides a memorable experience packed into just a few hours. The inclusion of lunch, hotel pickup, and the chance to see the legendary lakes makes it an excellent value for travelers eager to see the best of São Miguel without overextending their schedule.

This tour is an attractive option for those seeking a balance of natural beauty, cultural storytelling, and convenience. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate personal attention, authentic scenery, and the chance to learn local legends firsthand.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation and sightseeing stops.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier for visitors.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional Azorean lunch is included in the tour price.

What are the main highlights?
The key highlights are the viewpoints overlooking the twin lagoons, the lush Sete Cidades valley, the legend of the lakes, and the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check with the provider for specific needs.

Are entrance fees to parks or hot springs included?
No, entrance fees to parks and hot springs are not included in the tour cost.

Whether you’re captivated by natural beauty or intrigued by local stories, this tour offers a meaningful way to experience the magic of Sete Cidades—just be prepared for the scenic bus ride and bring your camera!

You can check availability for your dates here: