Ponta Delgada: Guided Tours Sete Cidades Half-day – How to Plan Your Tour

Are you planning a trip to Ponta Delgada? If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Sao Miguel Island in the Azores, a guided tour is the perfect option. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan a half-day guided tour to Sete Cidades, one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal.

Overview of the Tour

The Sete Cidades Half-day Guided Tour is an incredibly scenic experience that offers breathtaking views of the civil parish, hiking through the sleeping volcanoes, stunning views of Hortências, and Hydrangeas, the Island’s typical Azorean flowers along the way. This tour is designed to take you through the Island’s Western Region, and it lasts for 4.5 to 5 hours, beginning your journey from Ponta Delgada.

Highlights of the Tour

The highlights of this tour include:

Viewpoint Grota do Inferno

One of the major highlights of the tour is the viewpoint Grota do Inferno. The viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the volcanic lakes called Lagoa das Empadadas. The lake is filled with crystal-clear water, making it an ideal place to take photos to capture your unforgettable moments.

Viewpoint Vista do Rei

Another impressive viewpoint to visit on this tour is the Vista do Rei viewpoint. It offers visitors spectacular views of the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, which sits comfortably and serenely in a volcanic crater. The views from this viewpoint are surreal, and you won’t fail to notice the natural beauty of the island.

Discover civil parish and see stunning views over Sete Cidades

One of the most beautiful places to visit in the Azores is Sete Cidades. You will continue your tour by stopping at the beautiful civil parish where you can marvel at the beautiful lagoon and the Volcano – this will leave you in awe of what the island has to offer!

Booking the Tour

Ready to book your Sete Cidades Half-day Guided Tour? You can easily book the tour on getyourguide.com through this link.

Once you have booked the tour, make sure that you arrive at the designated meeting point, prepared for a fun-filled adventure through the breathtaking beauty of the western region, stunning views of the island, and breathtaking viewpoints.

What to Expect

This tour is conducted in a relaxed and friendly manner that makes it easy to socialize with other tourists while touring the beautiful island. Your tour guide will speak English, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with the locals. The tour is designed for people of all ages and fitness levels, and you will cover a lot of ground while enjoying stunning views along the way.

Tour Itinerary

During this 4.5 to 5 hours tour, you will explore the Western Region of the island that comprises part of the sleeping volcanoes. You will witness the natural beauty of the irregular landscape, stunning beaches, Lagoa das Empadadas, Sete Cidades, and Ponta Delgada.

Here is what you should expect during the tour:

1. Hotel Pick-up

The tour guide will pick you from your hotel in Ponta Delgada and take you to the starting point of the trilha – the hiking trail.

2. Escavaldo Viewpoint

You will stop at the Escavaldo Viewpoint to take in the view of the beautiful natural landscape. From this viewpoint, you will see the twin lakes reflecting astonishing contrasting colors.

3. Horse Riding Tour

If you like to pick up the pace of the trip, you will get the opportunity to take a horse riding tour.

4. Explore Sete Cidades and Visit Vista do Rei Viewpoint

When visiting Sete Cidades, you will experience the extraordinary beauty of this unique parish. You can explore the various attractions located in Sete Cidades, including Vista do Rei viewpoint and Lagoa Azul trail.

Tour Pricing

The cost of the Sete Cidades Half-day Guided Tour is €50 per person, and it includes the following:

– Hotel pick-up and drop-off
– Professional guide
– Transportation to and from Ponta Delgada
– Insurance

Conclusion

The Ponta Delgada: Guided Tours Sete Cidades Half-day is an excellent activity when you’re visiting Sao Miguel Island in the Azores. With our guide, you’ll enjoy a relaxed experience through the western region, discovering the natural beauty of the island, and breathtaking viewpoints.

So if you’re ready to start your adventure, book your Sete Cidades Half-day Guided Tour today and experience it all for yourself!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Ponta Delgada

When it comes to touring beautiful Ponta Delgada, there’s always something fascinating for every visitor, waiting to be explored. You can tour the gorgeous seven lagoons of Sete Cidades half-day or just immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and fascinating history. Here is an insider’s guide to help you experience the best that Ponta Delgada has to offer beyond the typical tourist spots.

Hidden Gems

While the main attractions like the historic Sao Sebastiao and the stunning Portas da Cidade are definitely worth a visit, there are lesser-known hidden gems that you must visit. One such place is the peaceful Convento da Esperanca, a beautiful convent that will make you feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Caloura beach, a serene get-away paradise, and the Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada, a spectacular viewpoint, are also a must see.

Cuisine and Where to Get It

Being an island, Ponta Delgada has a wide range of seafood on offer, and the most famous dish is their stew, cozido das Furnas. To taste some of the best, the award-winning seafood restaurant, O Calhetas is a reliable destination. What is lesser-known is their local delicacy, bolos lêvedos, a type of sweet bread. These warm, pillowy delights are simply delicious when toasted and spread with butter and jam, which you can get from the popular snack bars like Casa dos Biscoitos.

Traditions and Culture

The Azores and Ponta Delgada have distinct traditions and festivals that are worth experiencing. The Monte Verde Music Festival is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in local music, while the Festa da Nossa Senhora da Conceição, an annual religious celebration, is a display of the region’s Christian heritage. The Portuguese culture of Fado music is also widely embraced here. So grab a bottle of red or white Azorean wine and visit Fado ao Centro; this locals’ favorite spot is an excellent way to experience the mesmerizing tunes.

Local History and Storytelling

One story worth noting is the role the city played during World War II. The old military airport of Ponta Delgada was a vital stop over for supplies and personnel crossing the Atlantic. In 1944, the American Navy detected German U-boats in the area and went on to engage in a three-day battle that came to be known as the Battle of the Atlantic. Visitors can visit the Gruta do Carvão, a fascinating volcanic cave, now a mining museum, and learn about local mineral extraction and the early settlers’ geothermal heating.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

One of the best-kept secrets in Ponta Delgada is the incredible whale watching experience. You can sail for a couple of hours to witness these beautiful creatures and also enjoy the scenic view of the coast. If you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, a volcanic crater lake hike is an unforgettable experience. Boca do Inferno, Devil’s mouth, is a must-visit spot for those who don’t suffer from vertigo. The view from the lighthouse is spectacular with the surf rolling onto the jagged cliffs below.

With the above insider’s guide, you’ll discover the hidden gems and exciting local experiences that will have you falling in love with Ponta Delgada. So pack your bags, prepare to be amazed, and don’t forget to sample some of the fantastic local delicacies.