Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour (w/Lunch)

If you’re dreaming of lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and charming villages, this Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour could be just what you need. Designed to give you a full day of exploring São Miguel’s most iconic sights, it promises awe-inspiring views, cultural stops, and a taste of local flavors. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, reviews suggest it offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenery, history, and relaxation.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines stunning natural landscapes with engaging stops that tell the story of the island. The inclusion of a regional lunch adds a genuine taste of Azorean cuisine, which helps make the experience feel complete. On the flip side, some might find the day a bit packed with stops, so if you’re looking for a slow-paced, in-depth exploration, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is ideal if you’re eager to see Sete Cidades’ twin lakes, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, and explore local villages without the hassle of self-driving. It’s also a good pick for those who want a guided experience that covers the highlights while allowing time for personal curiosity.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary including viewpoints, villages, and scenic coastlines.
• Guided experience with a knowledgeable guide, enhancing your understanding of the sites.
• Includes a regional lunch, giving you a taste of Azorean cuisine.
• Flexible pickup options from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande.
• Short walks involved, suitable for most fitness levels but note some optional mild hikes.
• Authentic local stops like Mosteiros coast and traditional villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This 7-hour journey begins with pickup from convenient locations: Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande. Once you’re in the comfortable van (recognizable by its logo), the adventure kicks off with a scenic drive through the island’s interior, offering glimpses of São Miguel’s volcanic backbone. The guide’s knowledge makes these drives more interesting, sharing stories about the island’s geology, history, and legends.

Scenic Viewpoints and Iconic Landscapes

One of the first stops is a viewpoint overlooking both the north and south coasts. Here, you’ll get a sweeping vista of the island’s lush hills and volcanic formations. It’s the perfect warm-up for your eyes and camera. Next, you’ll see the ancient Roman-style aqueducts, which are fascinating remnants of old water systems. These structures remind us how resourceful the island’s inhabitants were.

The highlight for many is the visit to Lagoa do Canário, a quiet lagoon surrounded by trees and thick greenery. This spot is only accessible from a few points, which helps preserve its serenity. A moderate walk through this natural park leads to a viewpoint where you can appreciate the valleys carved by volcanic activity around the twin lakes.

The Iconic Sete Cidades Lagoons

No visit here is complete without contemplating the Lagoa das Sete Cidades. From the Vista do Rei (King’s Viewpoint), you’ll see the breathtaking expanse of the twin lakes—one blue, one green—separated by a narrow bridge. This viewpoint is a favorite for travelers wanting that quintessential Azores shot. Here, the guide shares stories about the hotel ruins nearby, adding a touch of local lore.

Descending into the caldera, you’ll pass lush hydrangeas and reach the Santiago Lagoon from above. The bridge that divides the two lakes is not only a marvel of nature but also steeped in legend. Standing here, you’ll understand why many say this view looks like it belongs in a storybook.

Village Strolls and Cultural Insights

The tour spends some time wandering through the Sete Cidades village. You can peek into the local tea house or admire the neo-Gothic church, which is simple yet striking—highlighting the blend of local tradition and architecture. These moments offer a glimpse into island life beyond the tourist spots.

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The Westernmost Cliffs and Mosteiros Coast

Next, you’ll travel westward to the top of a cliff at Ponta do Escalvado. The views here are spectacular, with Mosteiros and its islets in sight. The guide also shares the intriguing story of a “missing Azorean island”, which adds a layer of myth to the scenery.

Descending into Mosteiros, you’ll encounter a fajã formation—a flat, fertile area surrounded by dark volcanic rocks. The coastline here is rugged and dramatic, with black sand beaches and small islets, perfect for photos. A walk along the coast will be topped off with a tasting of local handmade sweets, enjoyed with the fresh ocean breeze—simple but memorable.

Lunch and Final Highlights

The included regional lunch lasts about 75 minutes, giving you plenty of time to savor local dishes and relax. The guide often mentions that the food is a highlight, showcasing authentic Azorean flavors that pair perfectly with the stunning scenery.

After lunch, the tour continues with stops at Ponta do Escalvado and Mosteiros Beach, where travelers can take in the last of the ocean views or simply unwind after a day of sightseeing. The return trip takes approximately 45 minutes, bringing you back to your starting point.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a big part of why this experience shines. Travelers like Anthony from the UK praised their “very knowledgeable guide” who made everything more engaging. Ivo from the reviews was highlighted as especially friendly and accommodating, which enhances the overall feeling of a personalized experience.

The views are another standout feature. The vistas from the King’s Viewpoint and the coastlines of Mosteiros are often described as “amazing scenery” and “breathtaking”. These are the kind of sights that stick with you long after the trip ends, perfect for photo stops and quiet reflection.

The local stops—like the tea house and the village walk—add authenticity, giving insight into traditional Azorean life. Plus, the lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to enjoy regional fare that complements the day’s theme of natural beauty.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the full day of guided sightseeing, the multiple scenic stops, and the included lunch, this tour offers good value. It’s a balanced mix of nature, culture, and convenience—especially for travelers who prefer guided trips to self-driving. The small group feel means you get personalized attention, and the stories shared by guides can deepen your appreciation of the sites.

While the price might seem higher than a simple bus ride, you’re paying for the expert guidance, the convenience, and the variety of experiences packed into one day. Plus, the stops at renowned viewpoints and the chance to walk through untouched landscapes make it a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts: Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of São Miguel’s west coast and Sete Cidades, without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s ideal for those who value guided insights and cultural stories as part of their sightseeing. Since the walks are short and mostly optional, it’s accessible for most fitness levels, though some mild hiking is involved.

If you’re a lover of breathtaking vistas, local charm, and authentic cuisine, this tour covers all those bases. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a very slow-paced, in-depth exploration of fewer sites, or traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, lunch, and return.

Where does the tour pick up from?
You can be picked up from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande. Note that pickups from Ribeira Grande and Lagoa have an extra fee of 10.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the walks are short and optional, requiring only a mild level of fitness. Non-participants can wait at designated areas if they prefer.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, clothes suitable for the weather, and closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Are there any restrictions?
High heels, large luggage, weapons, smoking, electric wheelchairs, and non-folding strollers are not allowed.

What’s included in the lunch?
While specifics aren’t detailed, the lunch features regional food and local delicacies.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly aimed at families, the moderate walks and scenic stops are generally suitable for most travelers; those with very young children should consider their comfort with the walking involved.

This tour offers a wonderful way to experience São Miguel’s most stunning sights while enjoying the comfort of a guided day out. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights, learn the stories behind them, and indulge in local flavors—all in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: