Best trails in Area de Paisagem Protegida das Sete Cidades, Azores, Portugal

This trail starts at Vista do Rei viewpoint, ends in the parish of Sete Cidades. It starts on the western side of Cumeeira da Caldeira das Sete Cidades (Caldeira’s highest point). On this part of the trail you can observe the following: on your right-hand side Caldeira Seca and Sete Cidades lakes and on your left-hand side the western coast of S. Miguel island. Follow this unpaved track until you reach a tarmacked road that links Mosteiros to Sete Cidades. Go to the right and descend as far as you have an unpaved track on your left. Go along this track until you find a bifurcation. This is the point where this trail crosses trail PR-4-SMI. Here turn to the right and descend to the parish of Sete Cidades. This trail runs through a zone classified as Protected Landscape and, for this reason, visitors have not only the responsibility of contributing to its protection, but also of ensuring its biodiversity through the conservation of this natural habitat.Show more

This walk takes you to one of the highest points of Sao Miguel. You walk along some mountain paths to the second highest peak of the island, the Pico das Eguas. You can get rid of the car along the main road from the Lagoa do Canario or just before the left turn and the steep gravel path to the Lagoa Empadadas. (Beware: the gate closes at 7 p.m.!) In less than an hour you reach the second highest point of Sao Miguel where you can enjoy a nice view. In the meantime you will pass five crater lakes of various sizes. You then descend to the Lagoa do Canario. Follow the way further through the picnic zone to turn a little further to the left. Highlight of this walk: The viewpoint over the Cite Sedades. Return to the gravel road to dive further down the path through the valley until you reach an old aqueduct arrives in order to return to the starting point via the main road.Show more

Very diverse walk along the shores of Varzea and Mosteiros up to the viewpoint to Sete Cidades. You will see the magnificent rocks and have a beautiful view on the ocean and Sete Cidades. The walk is mostly on good (farm)roads with some steep descents as well as ascents. Nothing to be afraid of however. Best enjoyed on a sunny day but during mist it is equally fun but without the views!Show more