Sete Cidades: West Coast Tour (w/Lunch)

Taking a full day to explore São Miguel’s west coast and the iconic Sete Cidades is a perfect way to soak up the island’s natural beauty and authentic charm. This 7-hour tour, offered by WildScape Azores Tours, promises a mix of breathtaking viewpoints, peaceful lagoons, and local villages—all with a delicious regional lunch to fuel your adventure. Expect a well-rounded experience that combines scenic drives, moderate walks, and cultural insights, making it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s west side.

One aspect we really like is the variety of stops—each designed to showcase the island’s diverse landscapes and history. From lush lagoons surrounded by green hills to dark volcanic coastlines, the tour offers some truly picture-perfect moments. That said, the itinerary involves quite a bit of driving and walking, so it might not be suited for those with mobility issues or a preference for very leisurely days. Overall, if you’re a nature lover or enjoy discovering small villages and scenic viewpoints, this tour provides excellent value and an authentic slice of the Azores.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Multiple scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of lakes and coastlines.
• Variety of Experiences: From lagoons and viewpoints to village walks and coastal scenery.
• Moderate Walks: Some short hikes and walks that add to the authenticity and immersive experience.
• Local Cuisine: A generous regional buffet lunch included, highlighting Azorean flavors.
• Comfortable Transportation: 9-seat van with air conditioning and panoramic windows for optimal sightseeing.
• Authentic Insights: Knowledgeable guides sharing stories behind the sights, like the myth of the missing island.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting Point and Scenic Drive

The tour begins with pick-up options from Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada—each offering convenience depending on where you’re staying. The journey kicks off with a scenic drive through the island’s interior, passing old roman-style aqueducts that whisper stories of the past. These aqueducts, still standing today, remind us how vital water was for local villages, and spotting them adds context to the Azores’ inventive history.

A highlight early on is a “secret stop”—a quick photo and sightseeing point that offers an initial taste of the island’s lush landscapes. This sets a relaxed tone and allows guests to get a feel for the natural beauty ahead.

Exploring Lagoa do Canário and the Viewpoints

Next, we visit the Lagoa do Canário, a natural lagoon surrounded by dense trees. Here, a moderate walk leads you to a viewpoint overlooking the valley and the lagoon below. We loved the way this spot felt secluded and peaceful—perfect for photos and a moment to breathe in the fresh air.

From the Vista do Rei viewpoint, you get a sweeping view of the Sete Cidades twin lakes. This panoramic spot is famously photogenic, offering a view that looks like it belongs on a postcard. As one reviewer noted, “The beautiful surroundings” truly come alive here. You’ll learn about the history and myths surrounding the lakes, including the story of the abandoned hotel ruins nearby, which adds a touch of nostalgic mystery.

Descending into the Caldera and the Lakes

Descending into the caldera, the landscape shifts into lush greenery and colorful hydrangeas, which bloom along the roadsides. You’ll visit the Lagoa de Santiago from above, an intimate lagoon that’s less touristy but equally scenic.

The highlight is the bridge dividing the blue and green lakes of Sete Cidades—a site with mythological roots. Standing here, you get a sense of the scale and beauty of this volcanic crater, which is one of the largest in the Azores. The views are so striking that you may find yourself wanting to linger longer.

Visiting the Village and the Coastal Cliffs

A walk through the charming Sete Cidades village introduces you to local life. Here, you might peek at a traditional tea house or the island’s neo-Gothic church—quiet spots that showcase Azorean culture. Then, it’s time to head to the westernmost point of São Miguel at Ponta do Escalvado. The cliffs here tower above the ocean, offering dramatic views of Mosteiros and its islets. One reviewer shared that they enjoyed learning about the story of the missing Azorean island, adding a layer of intrigue to the scenic outlook.

Mosteiros and the Dark Coastline

Descending to Mosteiros, the scenery transforms into rugged volcanic coastlines and jet-black rock formations—an unusual and captivating sight. The dark coast and islets make for an impressive backdrop, and you’ll have time to walk along the beach and enjoy the ocean breeze. We loved the quiet atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

You’ll also visit the Mosteiros beach, where you can dip your toes in the Atlantic and sample a local handmade sweet delicacy—an authentic treat that pairs perfectly with ocean sounds and fresh air. One reviewer appreciated this simple, yet delightful, finish to the day.

Wrap-up and Drop-offs

The tour wraps up with a short scenic drive back to your accommodation, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Drop-offs are available at Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, with a small extra fee for those in Ribeira Grande or Lagoa.

The Value of This Tour

At around 7 hours, this tour offers a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s west coast without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a regional buffet lunch adds great value, giving you a taste of local flavors—something many travelers appreciate. The use of a comfortable van with panoramic windows ensures that you won’t miss a sight, and the guided commentary enriches your understanding of the landscapes and stories.

Although the itinerary covers a lot, it balances scenery, culture, and leisure. The moderate walks mean you’ll see a lot without overexerting yourself, and the small group size (via van) allows for a more intimate experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in local culture and legends. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a full day of discovery with minimal hassle, as all logistics—including transport and lunch—are taken care of. If you enjoy stunning viewpoints and peaceful lakes, this tour offers ample opportunities for memorable photos and quiet reflection.

However, if you prefer slow-paced, relaxing days or have mobility concerns, the moderate walking involved might be a consideration. Also, those who want to focus solely on beaches or urban attractions might find the scenic drives less appealing.

Final Thoughts

The Sete Cidades West Coast Tour with lunch delivers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and comfort. It’s a well-organized way to see the highlights of São Miguel’s west side in one day, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. The views of the twin lakes, volcanic coastlines, and charming villages are genuinely special—these are the kind of sights that stay with you long after you leave.

The inclusion of a hearty regional meal makes this a practical choice for those wanting to experience authentic Azorean cuisine alongside nature’s beauty. While the day involves some walking and a fair amount of driving, the scenery and stories make it worthwhile. It’s perfect for travelers eager to tick off the island’s must-see sites in a single, well-paced outing.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with pick-up starting from early morning or late morning depending on availability.

What transportation is used?
You’ll be traveling in a 9-seat van with air conditioning and panoramic windows, ideal for sightseeing.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch featuring starter, main dish, drink, and dessert is included, offering a taste of local flavors.

Are there any strenuous activities?
The tour involves some short walks and mild hikes, but nothing too demanding. It’s suitable for most people with average mobility.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guide often shares interesting stories and insights along the way, making each stop more meaningful.

Are there options if I need to leave early?
The tour ends with drop-offs at your accommodation, so you can choose to stay longer at certain stops if you wish.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the moderate walks and scenic drives make it family-friendly, though young kids should be able to handle the walking.

To sum it up, this tour offers a full day of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and delicious local food. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see the best of São Miguel’s west coast, especially if you love picture-perfect views and authentic villages. With comfortable transport, a knowledgeable guide, and a well-curated itinerary, it provides excellent value and memorable experiences—an ideal way to deepen your appreciation for the Azores’ natural beauty.