Sete Cidades: Twin Lakes, Serra Devassa Hike & Mosteiros

If you’re planning to explore São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, this tour offers a balanced blend of nature, scenic views, and local charm. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-rounded adventure—especially if you love hiking, photography, and coastal scenery.

Two things stand out: First, the stunning vistas from the Vista do Rei lookout and the chance to walk through volcanic landscapes that feel untouched and wild. Second, the tour’s focus on local experiences like a scenic picnic and a visit to a pineapple plantation, which add a touch of Azorean flavor to the day.

A potential consideration is the full-day schedule, which might feel long for some travelers, especially if you’re not keen on active outdoor activities. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and outdoor gear, and who want an immersive experience of São Miguel’s natural beauty without rushing.

This experience seems ideal for nature lovers, photography buffs, or anyone eager to see the island’s iconic landscapes in a single day. It offers a great mix of active exploration and relaxed sightseeing.

Key Points

• Stunning vistas from Vista do Rei and other viewpoints give you perfect photo ops.
• A scenic hike through volcanic landscapes offers a genuine connection with the island’s geology.
• Local touches like a picnic and pineapple plantation visit enrich the experience.
• Rugged coastline with lava pools and black sand beaches provide a contrast to the lush interior.
• Small group, private tour ensures personalized attention and flexible pacing.
• Expert guides share detailed insights into the area’s natural features, making each stop meaningful.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders

This tour kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation—either Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada—around 9:00 AM. From there, the day is packed with diverse scenery, all designed to showcase what makes São Miguel special: its volcanic origins, lush greenery, and dramatic coastlines.

The Viewpoint at Vista do Rei

Soon after the start, you’ll stop at Vista do Rei, one of the island’s most iconic viewpoints. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of Sete Cidades’ twin lakes, which sit like two gemstones in the crater of a dormant volcano. The blue and green waters are separated by a thin strip of land—a sight that’s postcard-perfect. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way the lakes split the crater and the chance to take stunning photos.”

This spot is a must-see, especially if you enjoy photography or simply want to soak in a landscape that epitomizes the Azores’ volcanic beauty. The short stop (about 15 minutes) keeps the group moving but allows enough time to admire and capture the scenery.

Forest Trails and Lagoa do Canário

Next, the guide takes you through lush forest trails leading to Lagoa do Canário and the Grota do Inferno viewpoint. These walks provide a quieter, more intimate connection with nature. You’ll walk through volcanic landscapes, rolling green hills, and dense foliage, feeling the cool air and hearing the bird calls.

Travelers have commented positively on the guide’s knowledge, with one saying: “Deborah had so much info on plants, birds, and trails—she really made it educational and fun.” The two-hour hike is a core part of the day, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Scenic Picnic and Coastal Exploration

After the hike, it’s time to recharge with a scenic Azorean picnic. The tour includes a stop at a picturesque picnic and barbecue spot—think local cheeses, bread, fruits, and maybe a glass of wine, all enjoyed with views over the landscape.

Post-lunch, you’ll head toward the rugged west coast of the island. Here, lava rock pools, black sand beaches, and the fishing village of Mosteiros await. The coastline is dramatic—perfect for a relaxing swim, a coastal stroll, or just soaking in the view. The reviews mention that a summer dip in the pools can be refreshing, so bringing swimwear is wise.

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Viewpoints and Pineapple Plantation

To wrap up the day, you’ll visit Ponta do Escalvado, another sweeping lookout with views over the Atlantic. Then, you’ll stop at a pineapple plantation for a guided tour, where you can learn about the island’s unique agriculture—an interesting contrast to the volcanic terrain you’ve seen earlier.

Practical Details and Experience

The tour is offered as a private group, with pickup and drop-off included. The guide speaks multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication. The full day runs about 8 hours, and you’ll need comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and a camera to capture all the moments.

Cost-wise, it seems to be good value considering the personalized experience, diverse stops, and local inclusions like the picnic. Since you’re paying for a private group, it’s likely a more intimate and flexible experience than a large bus tour.

What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback from those who’ve done the tour highlights the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views. Susan from the US raves about Deborah’s lively conversation and local insights, calling her a highlight of the day. She appreciated the unhurried pace and thought the picnic was a “fabulous” addition.

Similarly, a traveler from Canada describes it as “bien agréable”, emphasizing the value of the private service. These comments suggest that the tour’s focus on personal attention and expert guiding makes the experience stand out.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s natural highlights—from crater lakes and volcanic landscapes to rugged coastlines and local agriculture. It’s ideal if you’re looking for active exploration combined with cultural touches, all within a manageable schedule.

While the full-day commitment might be tiring for some, the variety of scenery and the intimate group setting make it worthwhile. The knowledgeable guides and well-planned stops ensure you’ll leave with memorable photos and stories to tell.

For travelers wanting an authentic, immersive day in the Azores—without feeling rushed—this trip fits the bill. Just wear good shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for a day of stunning views and enriching insights.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily outdoors and involves walking and some physical activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with hiking and outdoor conditions. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, and water. If you plan to swim in the pools, don’t forget your towel.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a scenic picnic, which offers local delicacies and possibly wine and flowers, enhancing the experience. It’s a good opportunity to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, starting in the morning with pickup at 9:00 AM and ending in the late afternoon.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in multiple languages including French, English, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s offered as a private group, which means more personalized attention and a flexible, relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: