Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour (w/Lunch)

Are you considering a day trip to São Miguel Island’s famed west coast? This Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour with Lunch promises a full 7-hour immersion into some of the island’s most iconic sights. From the twin lakes within the dormant volcano to rugged coastlines and charming villages, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and local culture. While it’s packed with scenic stops and stories, it’s worth noting that the pace can be quite full—so a moderate fitness level and comfortable shoes are a must.

What draws many travelers to this experience are the stunning vistas and the chance to explore both the inside of the caldera and the coast at Mosteiros. We particularly appreciate the careful planning that includes scenic viewpoints, walking opportunities, and a delicious regional buffet lunch. One minor consideration is that the tour involves some walking and short hikes, which might not suit those with limited mobility. This tour is ideal for travelers who love scenic landscapes, want a rundown of the west side of São Miguel, and appreciate local, authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers spectacular vistas from various viewpoints, including the King’s Viewpoint and Ponta do Escalvado.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines scenic drives, hikes, village walks, and coastal explorations for a well-rounded day.
• Authentic Touches: Visits to local villages like Sete Cidades and Mosteiros reveal island life beyond the tourist spots.
• Good Value: The price includes transportation, a guided experience, a regional lunch, and snacks, making it a convenient all-in-one day.
• Moderate Fitness Required: Expect some walking and short hikes; comfortable shoes are essential.
• Small Group Feel: The 9-seat van ensures a more intimate experience, with personalized attention from your guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: An Attractive Day of Natural Beauty and Local Charm

If you’re eyeing a day of exploring São Miguel’s west coast, this Sete Cidades tour might be just what you need. It’s designed to showcase the island’s most eye-catching sights, from the legendary twin lakes to the dark, volcanic coast of Mosteiros. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but based on the detailed itinerary and reviews, it looks like a practical, engaging way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances breathtaking viewpoints with the chance to walk through villages and along the coast, giving it a genuine local feel. Plus, the inclusion of regional cuisine in a buffet lunch adds a delicious, authentic touch that many tours overlook. On the downside, the schedule is quite packed—so if you prefer slow, lingering experiences, this might feel a bit hurried.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, photo opportunities, and active explorations, but also want a comfortable, hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide to fill in the stories.

The Itinerary in Detail: What Makes Each Stop Special

Drive Through the Caldera’s Inner Roads and Viewpoints

Your journey begins with a scenic drive along the island’s interior roads, crossing the caldera’s edge. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape—vast hills, craters, and lush vegetation. The first highlight is a viewpoint where you can see both the northern and southern coastlines, giving you a sense of the island’s scale and diversity. We love the way these viewpoints set the tone for the day—showcasing the island’s volcanic origins and lush surroundings.

Lagoa do Canário: A Hidden Gem

Next, you’ll stop at Lagoa do Canário, a lesser-known lagoon surrounded by trees. The tour includes a moderate walk through this natural park, leading to a viewpoint overlooking the valleys around the Sete Cidades lagoons. The quiet, secluded nature of Lagoa do Canário makes it a peaceful spot, perfect for photos and reflection. One reviewer remarked, “N,” but others will appreciate the chance to see a more intimate side of the island away from the crowds.

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King’s Viewpoint and the Ruined Hotel

From the King’s Viewpoint, you’ll contemplate the full scope of the twin lakes—blue and green—and learn about the history of the abandoned hotel that lies in ruins nearby. The view here is one of the most iconic on São Miguel, with sweeping vistas that seem almost unreal. It’s a great spot to pause and appreciate the natural artistry of the volcanic landscape.

Lagoa de Santiago and Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Another stop grants views over Lagoa de Santiago—a smaller but picturesque lagoon—and the famous Lagoa das Sete Cidades. From up high, you can see the contrasting colors of the twin lakes and get a sense of their mythological background. The bridge dividing the blue and green lagoons is one of the tour’s highlights, and you’ll hear the legends about its origins.

Lunch in Sete Cidades Village

After all these stunning viewpoints, the tour descends into Sete Cidades village for a regional buffet lunch. This is an excellent way to taste local flavors—think hearty stews, fresh seafood, and traditional desserts—prepared with regional ingredients. The 75-minute break allows you to relax and recharge before more sightseeing.

Ponta do Escalvado and Mosteiros

The journey continues to Ponta do Escalvado, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coast and islets—an impressive sight. Then, the bus takes you to Mosteiros, a small fishing village famous for its volcanic coastline. Walking along the dark, jagged coast and beach, you’ll get an authentic taste of island life and its dramatic scenery. We love the detail about the story of the missing island—it adds a bit of local lore to the striking landscape.

Coastal Walk and Sweet Delicacy

The tour wraps up with a walk along the coast at Mosteiros, where you can enjoy the ocean breeze and sample a local handmade sweet. It’s a simple but memorable way to end the day, savoring a treat while gazing at the dark rock formations and islets.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a 9-seat van with A/C and panoramic windows makes for a comfortable ride, ideal for enjoying the scenery without feeling crowded. The small group size fosters a more personalized experience, with your guide able to share stories and answer questions along the way.

Pickup options are available from three locations—Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, and Ponta Delgada—making this tour accessible no matter where you’re based. Note that pickups from Ribeira Grande and Lagoa involve an extra fee of 10 euros per booking, so plan accordingly.

The Value and Overall Experience

This tour’s price includes transportation, a local guide, a regional buffet lunch, and snacks, which makes it a convenient option for travelers wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. Considering the extensive itinerary, the stops, and the insider knowledge you’ll gain, it offers good value for those seeking an active, scenic day.

The reviews echo the appeal—one traveler called it “The beautiful surroundings,” and others appreciated the variety of sights packed into the day. It’s clear that the stunning views are a highlight, and most participants seem pleased with how well the day balances sightseeing and relaxation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a full day of nature, breathtaking vistas, and local culture, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for people who enjoy photos, light hikes, and exploring villages. Travelers with a moderate fitness level will find the walking manageable, and the small-group setting makes it easier to stay engaged and ask questions.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility limitations, you might find the schedule a little tight. The scenic drives and viewpoints are the main draw, so those looking for a relaxed, slow experience might want to consider a less packed option.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Sete Cidades West Coast Tour offers a well-rounded experience of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see the island’s volcanic landscapes, coastal beauty, and charming villages—all within a manageable day. The inclusion of spectacular viewpoints and a regional meal adds to the value, making it a practical choice for those who want a bit of everything.

If your goal is to capture stunning scenery, learn about local legends, and enjoy an active but comfortable day, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences paired with breathtaking vistas, making it a memorable part of your Azorean adventure.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Yes, expect some walking and short hikes, particularly at Lagoa do Canário and around viewpoints. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.

Is food included?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch is included, featuring starters, main dishes, drinks, and desserts.

Where can I be picked up?
Pickup is available from Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, and Ponta Delgada. Note that pickups from Ribeira Grande and Lagoa involve an extra fee of 10 euros per booking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes and shoes, preferably closed-toe shoes, are recommended. Bring sunscreen, water, and a camera for the views.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate walks and scenic stops suggest it can be enjoyed by families with children capable of walking short distances.

How many people are in the group?
The tour operates in a small van with a maximum of 9 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: