Mosteiros, Portugal

Tours

Explore the highlights of the western half of São Miguel island on this guided tour by van. Discover the famous crater lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, picturesque waterfalls, amazing cliffs, and stunning rock formations around the coast of the island. Start with a visit to Ribeira Grande, one of the most picturesque towns of the Azores, followed by a surprising view of some amazingly beautiful cliffs on the North coast. Then travel to the inner areas of the island to see the gorgeous waterfall of Salto do Cabrito, surrounded by wild vegetation. Drive to the top of Fogo Volcano to enjoy views of the most pristine and magical of the crater lakes of São Miguel. From the top of the mountain, enjoy the stunning views over a large portion of the island. After a tasty meal to restore your energy levels, head to Sete Cidades, to understand why this is considered by the postcard of the Azores. Enjoy views from two completely different perspectives over the famous twin lakes.  End the day in Mosteiros, on the western coast of the island, where the lava rocks have formed enchanting small islets and natural pools.

Your tour starts at Ponta Delgada with a safety briefing about the vehicles and how to manage them. You need to present to the guide your drivers license and credit card for the deposit. We have available 2 different itineraries Sete Cidades or Coast to Coast in Ribeira Grande and the full day or half day option. -Sete Cidades: drive around the crater witch was a volcano thar creates itself. Driving around the landscapes are unbreathing, stunning. The crater from one side and the ocean from the other side. You will also have the chance to drive down to the village and be involved directly with the nature. -Coast to Coast in Ribeira Grande: drive near the coast of Ribeira Grande next to the option. Then you will drive into small off-road trails and in the middle of the nature. Feel the adrenaline and feel yourself insie the adventure.

ITINERARY 1: Along the shores of the Lagoa Azul you’ll reach the Sete Cidades Tunnel. We return to the heart of the parish and visit the Church of São Nicolau. Cycle through the traditional rural houses to the bridge that divides the lake in two, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul. Passing along the shore of the Lagoa Verde, we can find the showy cryptomeria trees until we reach the Bay of Silence. Returning along the same route to the bridge, you can enjoy the shores of the Lagoa Azul while getting to know the Peninsula and Cerrado das Freiras. ITINERARY 2: You'll cross the bridge that separates the Lagoa Azul from the Lagoa Verde. After observing the tranquillity of this place, we head back in the direction of Cumeeira Pequena, passing by the Lagoa do Santiago, Cerrado das Freiras and the Regional Road. You'll descend towards the Vista do Rei viewpoint for a panoramic view of the lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, and also the abandoned “Monte Palace” hotel. You'll follow a more adventure trail that will take you along Cumeeira Pequena, where we can find several endemic species. We'll at the Lomba do Vasco viewpoint, where it is possible to see the islets of Mosteiros and its parish. We'll end the tour by descending into the heart of the town of Sete Cidades, which will lead us to the Church of São Nicolau. ITINERARY 3: Start the tour by cycling towards Cumeeira Grande, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and the Sete Cidades caldera, where you can pass the Cumeeira viewpoint and the highest point, Pico da Cruz. Then, after passing the Nove Janelas Aqueduct, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Lagoa do Canário and Miradouro da Grota do Inferno. You'll continue along the Regional Road where you'll find a variety of hydrangeas with their different colors, Lagoa do Santiago, and the opportunity to stop at the Cerrado das Freiras viewpoint. To end this tour pedal along the shores of Lagoa Azul. ITINERARY 4: Start the tour with a relaxed warm-up, crossing the bridge that separates the Lagoa Azul from the Lagoa Verde. We head back towards Cumeeira Grande, passing through the parish of Sete Cidades. Along the Cumeeira Grande, you'll be amazed by the view over the sea, lakes, pastures and where you’ll stop at the highest point of the Sete Cidades volcanic complex, with a height of 845m. Back on the road, you'll pass throught the Nove Janelas Aqueduct, with a stop at Lagoa do Canário and the most emblematic viewpoint on the island of São Miguel, Miradouro da Grota do Inferno. You'll descend towards the Vista do Rei viewpoint for a panoramic view of the Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, and also abandoned “Monte Palace” hotel. We then follow a more adventure trail that will take us along Cumeeira Pequena, arriving at the Lomba do Vasco viewpoint, where we can see the islets of Mosteiros and its parish. We will end the tour by descending into the heart of the town of Sete Cidades, which will lead us to the Church of São Nicolau.

Start by visiting a traditional pineapple plantation, which is a biological culture developed on greenhouses where it’s possible to taste the pineapple´s liquor. Continue along the west coast of the island where it´s possible to enjoy the view of both São Miguel’s coasts from the Pico de Carvão‘s viewpoint. Surrounded by the greenest vegetation, visit the Vista do Rei‘s viewpoint at Sete Cidades. From this point, see the twin lakes with their varying colours. Then, inside the crater, admire the stunning Santiago lake. Head next to the stop will be made in the picturesque town of Sete Cidades where lunch will be served in a regional restaurant. After lunch, admire the beauty of São Nicolau church. In the afternoon, continue along to the Escalvado Viewpoint. Along the north coast, stop to visit the town of Ribeira Grande where you can explore its historic center. Visit the Regional Liquors' Factory to taste a variety of its products. Continuing in the north coast, we will stop to visit the Ribeira Grande city and its historic center, as well as we also go to the Regional Liquors’ Factory to taste its liquors. After this sensory experience, we will make an optional stop at Caldeira Velha, a natural reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the warm water of a beautiful waterfall. The last stop will be at the fantastic Lagoa do Fogo for fantastic views of the island. Finally, return to Ponta Delgada, through Pico da Barrosa.

Set off on a half or full-day adventure to discover the island of São Miguel in a 4x4 vehicle. With a private tour that can be fully customized, you decide what to do and when. Explore the craters of Sete Cidades, visit the romantic town of Furnas, or discover Lagoa do Fogo. Get picked up from your hotel by your driver/guide to start this incredible experience. A number of itineraries are available that you can discuss with the driver on the day of your tour. Choose to visit the parishes around Sete Cidades, to discover the lakes, craters, and hot springs around the area.  Alternatively, head in the direction of Furnas and take a tour of the most beautiful town on the island. See fumaroles and hot springs as you admire the lush vegetation around Furnas lake. Take a short hike if you wish, and see how traditional pottery is made locally.   If you love nature, then choose to discover the two biggest lakes on Sao Miguel, Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Explore a 4x4 trail a waterfall, and take a short hike if you like. Witness volcanic activity at Ribeira Grande, a small town in Caldeiras.

Discover the stunning landscapes of São Miguel Island on a captivating 3-hour Jeep tour departing from Ponta Delgada. Journey through breathtaking vistas including Miradouro da Vista do Rei, the beautiful Lagoa do Canário, and the iconic Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Visit the charming Igreja de São Nicolau and the serene Lagoa de São Tiago before returning to Ponta Delgada. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll gain unique insights into the island's rich history and culture. Enjoy panoramic views and experience the rugged beauty and unique charm of the Azores, making this an unforgettable adventure.

Tour starting time WILL BE ADJUSTED to the ship's arrival and disembark time if it docks after 9am with Pick-up/Drop-of from the cruise ship terminal. This is an exclusive activity for cruise travelers. Sete Cidades volcano was once São Miguel's most active volcano and is a veritable surprise box. Capable of surprising you with its breathtaking landscapes, this tour has been designed to make you discover the majestic beauty of the most beautiful place in Portugal. You will be accompanied by a 100% local storyteller and visit the most beautiful viewpoints in the western region of São Miguel island. After your easy pick-up from the cruise terminal, enjoy the scenic drive to the "Vista do Rei" viewpoint, located at the top of the crater. You'll be faced with an unparalleled setting, the blue and green lake, framed by the picturesque Sete Cidades parish, decorate the interior of this majestic crater. This natural landscape was elected winner of the "7 natural wonders of Portugal" category and is a memorable sight. Next, head inside the volcano crater for more fantastic views stopping at the parish center for free time, where we will happily share some of our flavors through a small tasting of Azorean wine and cheese. (Except Mondays) Then discover the dramatic lava-carved coastline with its immense cliffs and islets from a historic whale-watching post. Back to the road, is time to drive back to Ponta Delgada for the last stop, a visit to the pineapple plantation will give you an insight into the history and production methods. The Azorean pineapple is one of the most emblematic products when it comes to gastronomy and its production is unique in the world. The drop-off will be made in Ponta Delgada's center, located just 400 meters from the cruise terminal, or at the cruise terminal itself, guaranteeing on-time boarding.

Explore São Miguel Island's Stunning West Coast - One-Day Guided Tour Experience the beauty of São Miguel Island's western coastline on this expertly guided tour. Immerse yourself in breathtaking vistas as you visit picturesque viewpoints, a pineapple plantation, and the iconic Sete Cidades Lake. Delve into the rich history of these captivating landscapes along the way. Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup, where you'll meet your knowledgeable guide, who will take you through the fascinating history and natural wonders of the Azores archipelago. Our first destination is Sete Cidades, and our journey kicks off with a visit to the renowned Vista do Rei viewpoint, known as the "King's view." Afterward, we explore the charming village nestled around the stunning lake, soaking in its natural beauty. Sete Cidades Lake is celebrated as one of Portugal's Seven Natural Wonders and is widely regarded as ont of the most iconic views in the Azores. Following our time in Sete Cidades, we head to the village of Mosteiros, where we admire the picturesque islets and immerse ourselves in the local culture. A delightful break awaits us at a local restaurant for a traditional lunch experience. Post-lunch, our journey continues through the western part of the island, leading us to the historic village of Capelas. Here, we visit the iconic Port, once a departure point for local whale hunting expeditions. We conclude our enriching tour with a visit to the Pineapple plantations in Ponta Delgada, where you can enjoy some tasty treats, made from pineapple. Embark on this unforgettable exploration of São Miguel Island's western coast, uncovering its natural wonders and cultural treasures along the way. NOTE: - All passengers must be ready at the designated pickup location at 8:45 a.m. Delays may be expected, due to traffic, high number of passengers or other reasons;

Join us for a 3-hour 4x4 Jeep tour departing from Ponta Delgada, towards Lagoa do Fogo. Your adventure begins as we drive towards Pico Barrosa, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the island. Next, we visit Miradouro Lagoa do Fogo, offering breathtaking vistas of the crystal-clear volcanic lake. Continuing our journey, we'll stop at Salto do Cabrito, a hidden gem with a stunning waterfall nestled in lush greenery. As we head towards the northern coast, we'll explore Ribeira Grande, a charming town known for its historic architecture and vibrant culture. Our final stop before returning to Ponta Delgada is Rabo de Peixe, a picturesque fishing village where you can experience local life. This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and thrilling off-road adventure, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Your first stop on this full-day circuit will be at Pico do Carvão viewpoint, from here you'll be able to see the north coast (Ribeira Grande) and south of the island (Ponta Delgada) of São Miguel Island, against the backdrop of a vast expanse of volcanic cones between the incredible Sete Cidades volcano and the majestic 900-meter-high Fire volcano. Continuing to one of the most emblematic viewpoints of São Miguel, in the Azores, Vista do Rei. Time to continue your incredible all-day circuit into the massive volcanic interior of the Sete Cidades, considered one of the most incredible locations on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores, amid epic paths and flanked slopes of hydrangeas. If you have never known what it is like to be inside a volcanic crater, then this is another reason to book this incredible full-day guided tour. Admire the Seven Cities Lagoon at a must-stop on the famous bridge that divides it, in the center of a volcanic crater. Breathe nature in the quiet parish of Sete Cidades and visit São Nicolau church. With a heart purified by nature, time to go to the Escalvado viewpoint, situated on a pyroclastic cliff, where from the top, you can admire the Mosteiros and Ferraria, generated by the volcanic force of this area. Lunch break (lunch included). After lunch, time to return to head towards the second highest point of the island of São Miguel, at 900 meters, where the Pico da Barrosa viewpoint is located. From here you can see the north coast with its city of Ribeira Grande and the city of Ponta Delgada on the south coast of the island, as well as the entire amazing Lagoa do Fogo crater. Going down the north coast, the next stop will be at the Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint. Next stop is the Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Center for visiting or bathing in natural hot springs pools. (Entry not included, available by choice or at customer’s expense). The last stop of your full-day tour will be at the Pineapple Plantations to learn the whole process of growing pineapple in greenhouses and see for yourself why pineapple is considered the King fruit in Sao Miguel, and the Azores.