How to Plan Your Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Day Tour in Ponta Delgada

If you are planning a trip to Ponta Delgada, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit the Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, two gorgeous lakes that are considered some of the seven wonders of Portugal. Fortunately, you can book a guided day tour that will take you to all the must-see sights, and with this guide, you will learn how to plan your tour to get the most out of your visit.

Experience

The Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Day Tour is a full-day guided tour that will take you to the most beautiful places in the areas of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. You will travel in a comfortable van that accommodates up to eight people and includes all the necessary conditions. The highlights of the tour are:

• The Green & Blue Lakes of the Sete Cidades, which are considered one of the seven wonderful places in Portugal.
• The Lake of the Fire Lagoa do Fogo, which is inside a beautiful volcanic crater.
• The Natural Park Hot Springs Waterfall.
• All the unique factories painting pottery, an ananas plantation, and a liquor factory.

Booking the Tour

You can book this tour through GetYourGuide’s website. Simply follow the link and select the date you would like to go on the tour. You will also have the option to add extras to your tour, such as lunch or a private van.

Tour Itinerary

The Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Day Tour includes the following stops:

Pickup and Pineapple Plantation

You will be picked up at your hotel in Ponta Delgada in the morning and taken to the Pineapple Plantation. Here you will learn about the history and cultivation of pineapples on the island, and you will have the opportunity to taste the delicious fruit.

Viewpoint of Pico do Carvão

Next, you will visit the Viewpoint of Pico do Carvão, which provides a stunning panoramic view of the whole island.

Natural Park of Lagoa das Empadadas

You will then be taken to the Natural Park of Lagoa das Empadadas, where you can admire the beautiful landscapes of the Azores.

Natural Park of Lagoa do Canário and Grota do Inferno

The tour then proceeds to the Natural Park of Lagoa do Canário and Grota do Inferno. Here you will see stunning waterfalls and observe the local fauna and flora.

Viewpoint of the Blue and Green lakes of the Sete Cidades

One of the highlights of the tour is the Viewpoint of the Blue and Green lakes of the Sete Cidades. Here you can take breathtaking photos of the two lakes that are separated by a narrow bridge.

Viewpoint of Cerrado das Freiras

The tour also includes a stop at the Viewpoint of Cerrado das Freiras, which offers a unique view of the central mountain range of São Miguel Island.

Center of Ponta Delgada

Finally, before returning to your hotel, you will have the opportunity to visit the charming historic center of Ponta Delgada.

Suggested Packing List

To make the most out of your tour, here is a suggested packing list:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm clothing, as temperatures in the mountains can be chilly
• A light raincoat, as weather can be unpredictable
• A camera to capture all the stunning views

Book Your Tour Now

The Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Day Tour is an experience that you will remember for a lifetime. With this guide, you now know how to plan your tour to ensure that you get the most out of your visit. Don’t forget to book the tour in advance, pack appropriately, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Azores!

FAQ About Ponta Delgada: Everything You Need to Know

Ponta Delgada is the largest municipality and administrative capital of the Azores. Situated on the island of São Miguel, this Portuguese city boasts pristine nature with stunning beaches, a vibrant culture, rich history, and a relaxed way of life. In this post, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Ponta Delgada.

1. What Is the Best Time to Visit Ponta Delgada?

The best time to visit Ponta Delgada is from May to September, as the climate during these months is temperate, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and low rainfall. The high season in Ponta Delgada is between July and August, so it is recommended to book your accommodation and tours in advance if you plan to visit during this time.

2. How to Get to Ponta Delgada?

Ponta Delgada is easily accessible by air from mainland Portugal or other European cities. The city has an international airport, João Paulo II Airport, which is a 10-minute drive from the center. Another way to reach Ponta Delgada is by ferry, which operates between the city and the other Azorean islands.

3. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Ponta Delgada?

Ponta Delgada has many interesting attractions that are worth visiting, such as:

i. Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades is a village located on the western side of São Miguel. It is known for its two twin lakes, which are considered one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal. The lakes have different colors, one is blue, and the other is green. There are several view points around the lakes that offer stunning views.

ii. Terra Nostra Garden

Terra Nostra Garden is a botanical garden in the Furnas Valley, which is reputed to have some of the best thermal springs in Europe. The garden features a large collection of exotic trees, plants, and flowers, as well as a natural thermal pool that you can swim in.

iii. Ponta da Ferraria

Ponta da Ferraria is a hot spring located on the western coast of São Miguel. The water in this spring mixes with saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique experience of a natural and warm saltwater bath.

4. What Are Some of the Best Beaches in Ponta Delgada?

Ponta Delgada has several beautiful beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Here are a few of the best beaches in Ponta Delgada:

i. Praia do Populo

Praia do Populo is a golden sand beach located about 4 km away from central Ponta Delgada. It has clear water and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxing.

ii. Praia das Milicias

Praia das Milicias is a small beach located in front of the city center. It is the closest beach to the city, making it easy to access. The water is calm, and the beach offers several amenities, such as restaurants, cafes, and showers.

iii. Praia dos Mosteiros

Praia dos Mosteiros is a black sand beach located on the western coast of São Miguel. The beach offers impressive views of the rocky cliffs and the sea, making it a perfect spot for photographers.

5. What Are Some of the Best Restaurants in Ponta Delgada?

Ponta Delgada has an array of excellent restaurants offering traditional Azorean cuisine, fresh seafood, and international dishes. Here are a few of the best restaurants to try in Ponta Delgada:

i. A Tasca

A Tasca is a cozy restaurant located in the historic center of Ponta Delgada. It offers traditional Azorean dishes, such as cozido das furnas, which is a meat and vegetable stew cooked underground using volcanic heat.

ii. Mercado da Graça

Mercado da Graça is a food court located in the heart of Ponta Delgada. It features several food stalls offering a variety of local dishes, such as caldo verde, a traditional Portuguese soup made with kale, potatoes, and chouriço.

iii. Tasquinha Vieira

Tasquinha Vieira is a seafood restaurant known for its fresh fish dishes. It is situated in a pleasant outdoor terrace, where you can enjoy your meal while admiring the stunning views of the harbor.

6. What Are Some of the Best Hiking Trails in Ponta Delgada?

Ponta Delgada has a variety of hiking trails that are suitable for all levels of hikers, from beginners to experienced ones. Here are a few of the best hiking trails to explore in Ponta Delgada:

i. Faial da Terra

Faial da Terra is a small village located on the southeastern side of São Miguel. It offers several trails that take you through lush green forests, waterfalls, and stunning coastal views.

ii. Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo is a crater lake located in the center of São Miguel. It is surrounded by a protected landscape area with several hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the lake and the mountains.

iii. Sanguinho

Sanguinho is a small village located on the northeastern side of São Miguel. It is famous for its unique architecture and offers several hiking trails that take you through charming stone houses, waterfalls, and luscious green forests.

7. Is Ponta Delgada Safe?

Ponta Delgada is a safe place to visit, with very low crime rates. However, it is still advisable to take the necessary precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings.

Book Your Tour Now

Ponta Delgada is a charming city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in nature, culture, history, food, or adventure, Ponta Delgada is the perfect destination for you. We hope that this FAQ has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Ponta Delgada.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ponta Delgada

If you are looking for a vacation spot with stunning landscapes and rich cultural history, look no further than Ponta Delgada. This city, located on the Portuguese island of Sao Miguel in the Azores, is the perfect destination for tourists of all ages. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Ponta Delgada.

1. Visit the Historic Center

One of the must-visit places in Ponta Delgada is the historic center. This area is filled with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and charming squares. Here, you can take in the historic landmarks such as the Portas da Cidade, which is the city gates, the majestic St. Sebastian Church, and the 16th century Convento da Esperança.

2. Explore the Stunning Lagoa das Sete Cidades

The Lagoa das Sete Cidades is undoubtedly the most famous spot in the Azores, and it is not hard to see why. The lake’s deep blue and turquoise waters are surrounded by green hills and forests, making it a true natural paradise. You can choose to hike along the lake or take a boat tour to fully explore the area.

3. Visit the Gruta do Carvão

Gruta do Carvão is a 4000-year-old volcanic cave located in Ponta Delgada. This cave is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The guided tour within the cave is fascinating and informative, making it an excellent educational experience for both adults and children.

4. Go Whale Watching

Ponta Delgada is one of the best whale watching spots in the world. You can witness several species of whales and dolphins, including sperm whales, blue whales, orcas, and fin whales, among others. The tours also offer a chance to explore the coastline and admire the stunning views of the island from the sea.

5. Taste the Local Cuisine

No vacation is complete without tasting some of the local cuisines. The island of Sao Miguel is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including octopus stew, shrimp, and grilled fish. You can also taste the famous Azorean pineapple, which is known for its sweet and tangy flavor. Don’t forget to try the local cheese, which is one of the best in the world.

6. Relax at the Beaches

Ponta Delgada has numerous beaches with soft sand and crystal clear waters, such as Santa Barbara beach and Milicias beach. These beaches are ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, swimming, or participating in water sports such as surfing and windsurfing.

7. Visit the Botanical Garden

Ponta Delgada’s botanical garden is an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. This lush garden covers an area of 13.5 hectares, and it features various plant species, including endemic plant species like the laurel, heather, and the famous “twin” plants, among others. The garden also has a greenhouse where you can learn about different plant species and their ecology.

8. Explore the Hot Springs

Ponta Delgada has many natural hot springs and volcanic pools, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. The thermal pools of Termas da Ferraria on the west coast are an excellent spot to take a warm soothing dip.

Book Your Tour Now

Ponta Delgada is a perfect family-friendly destination that provides an abundance of activities and places to explore. From visiting historic sites and natural wonders to whale watching, a trip to Ponta Delgada will undoubtedly be worthwhile. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, there’s something for every tourist in this breathtaking island of Sao Miguel.