São Miguel: Sete Cidades Hiking, Picnic & Swim in Mosteiros

Exploring São Miguel: Sete Cidades Hiking, Picnic & Swim in Mosteiros – An Authentic Azorean Adventure

If you’re considering a day trip to São Miguel that combines stunning scenery, gentle adventure, and genuine local flavor, this tour from Alma Verde Tours might just be your perfect fit. Designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or missing out on the details, it offers a balanced mix of trekking, panoramic views, and coastal relaxation.

What makes this experience shine? First, we love how it takes you to iconic viewpoints like Vista do Rei, giving you postcard-perfect views of the twin lakes that define São Miguel’s volcanic landscape. Second, the inclusion of a scenic picnic and swimming at Mosteiros turns a sightseeing day into a full sensory experience. But, a potential consideration is that the hiking involves some walking on uneven terrain, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues.

This tour suits active travelers eager to explore natural wonders comfortably, families looking for a scenic outing, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic Azorean life along with spectacular vistas. With flexible pickup options and a private group setting, it offers a personalized touch that can make your visit to the Azores truly memorable.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience sweeping panoramas from some of São Miguel’s most famous lookouts.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation in one seamless day.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared picnic featuring local flavors.
• Natural Beauty: Explore volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and rugged coastlines.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture iconic scenes at Vista do Rei and Grota do Inferno.
• Flexibility: Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, with private group attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the São Miguel Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Setting Out

The tour begins early, with pickup at one of three locations—Ribeira Grande, Lagoa, or Ponta Delgada—making it easy to access from your lodging. Expect to be outside your hotel by 9:00 a.m., where a friendly blue SUV will whisk you off into the landscape. This kind of organized pickup saves you the hassle of navigating local buses or taxis and sets a relaxed tone for the day.

The Viewpoint at Grota do Inferno

The first stop is Grota do Inferno, a breathtaking lookout offering sweeping views of volcanic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean below. The short walk from the parking area takes about an hour and gives you a chance to stretch your legs and get your cameras ready. Many visitors comment on how this spot is perfect for capturing that classic Azorean rugged coast—“postcard-perfect” is a phrase often used. Plus, it’s a great chance to appreciate the power of volcanic activity shaping the island over centuries.

The Main Event: A 2-Hour Hike Through Volcanic Landscapes

The core of the day is a two-hour hike through a variety of terrains—volcano craters, lush forest trails, rolling green hills, and lava fields. This trek allows you to see the diverse geological features that make São Miguel so special. The trails are generally manageable but involve walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are essential.

The trail passes by Lagoa do Canário, a hidden gem often described as “beautiful and peaceful.” Here, the quiet waters reflect the surrounding greenery, offering a serene break and great photo opportunities. As one reviewer put it, “The hike was challenging but rewarding, with spectacular views at every turn.”

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Scenic Picnic at Lagoa das Sete Cidades

After working up an appetite, you’ll stop for a scenic picnic at one of the island’s picturesque spots overlooking the famous twin lakes. You’ll sit back and enjoy local delicacies—a simple yet delicious way to recharge. The picnic spot provides a peaceful environment amid nature, where you can really soak in the views and the fresh island air.

Vista do Rei: The Iconic Lookout

Next, a quick 15-minute stop at Vista do Rei offers perhaps the most iconic vista of the day. From here, you can gaze directly down into the twin lakes, which split the volcanic crater in two, with their striking blue and green hues. This viewpoint is so photogenic it’s often called the “must-visit” spot—and for good reason. Expect to spend a few moments snapping photos and marveling at the surreal landscape.

Coastal Charm at Mosteiros

The journey continues to Mosteiros, a charming fishing village on the rugged west coast. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore, take in the scenic views, and, if you’re visiting in summer, enjoy a swim in the natural lava rock pools. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, with some describing the pools as perfect for a refreshing dip. Even if swimming isn’t your thing, a walk along the black sand beaches or along the cliffs offers impressive ocean vistas and a chance to connect with local life.

Final Stop: Ponta do Escalvado Lookout

Before heading back, the group makes a quick stop at Ponta do Escalvado, another fantastic vantage point to capture dramatic cliffs and ocean views. The 15-minute stop is brief but worth it for the last panoramic shots of the day.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with the driver dropping you off at your hotel or accommodation in Ribeira Grande, Ponta Delgada, or Lagoa. On the way back, many travelers remark how the day felt perfectly paced, with enough time to absorb each location without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Value of the Itinerary

This experience is a well-structured blend of nature and sightseeing. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints, hiking, and coastal exploration covers a wide spectrum of what São Miguel offers. The scenic picnic adds a personal, local touch, turning sightseeing into a relaxed, memorable meal amid stunning surroundings.

The Quality of Guides and Transportation

A professional, certified local guide leads the tour, providing insights and answering questions along the way. The private transportation ensures a comfortable and intimate atmosphere, often appreciated over larger group tours—especially in a setting where flexibility and personal attention matter.

The Value for Money

Given the 8-hour duration, private group setting, all entry fees, and included picnic, this tour offers good value. The cost includes many essentials like hiking poles, a guide, and transportation, making it a convenient, all-in-one option for travelers who want a curated experience without extra planning.

Considerations and Limitations

The main consideration is the physical nature of the hike. While manageable for most, those with limited mobility or difficulty walking on uneven terrain might find parts of the trek challenging. The swimming in natural pools is optional and seasonal, so if a swim is a must, visiting in summer is best.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who appreciate stunning views and authentic landscapes. If you love photography, gentle hikes, and scenic drives, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also perfect for families or groups seeking a personalized, intimate tour that avoids large crowds.

On the flip side, if your mobility is limited or you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding day, some parts of this tour might be less suitable. Still, the overall route is thoughtfully designed for most visitors with moderate fitness.

For those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, this tour offers a compelling way to see the best of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty — with enough flexibility to make it a truly special day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain should enjoy it, but because of the hiking involved, very young children or those with mobility issues might find it challenging.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, water, and a towel if you plan to swim. The tour provides hiking poles, but bring your own if you prefer.

Can I swim at Mosteiros?
Yes, during the summer months, there’s an option to swim in natural lava pools. Bring swimwear and a towel if you want to take advantage of this.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 15 to 60 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the views, take photos, or relax.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is offered in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, offering a personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, a scenic picnic with local food is included, but snacks and extra water are not.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this tour delivers a well-rounded, visually stunning introduction to São Miguel’s volcanic marvels, making it a top choice for travelers eager to combine gentle adventure with authentic cultural moments. Whether you’re seeking iconic vistas, peaceful lakes, or coastal charm, you’ll find this day trip offers plenty of value and unforgettable sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: