Natural Lagoons
of São Miguel

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Lagoa das Sete Cidades is one of the most emblematic landmarks of São Miguel island and the perfect place to begin your Azores experience! The caldera was formed through successive collapses of pumice volcanic cones, lava domes and maars, creating a depression 6 km in diameter and 0.5 km deep. Today, this impressive volcanic setting is home to two large lagoons — one blue and one green — that have become the most recognisable symbol of São Miguel.

The caldera rim is lined by steep slopes covered in lush green forests, while its interior shelters the picturesque village of Sete Cidades, farmland and pastures that complete this unique landscape. The twin lakes can be admired from several viewpoints along the crater rim, each offering stunning views and unforgettable panoramas.

The Miradouro da Vista do Rei is an absolute must-stop. From here, visitors enjoy a privileged view over both lagoons — one green and one blue — that together form the famous "Lagoas das Sete Cidades". Next to the viewpoint stands the abandoned Hotel Monte Palace, a history-laden building that majestically dominates the caldera rim and adds a touch of mystery to the landscape.

Lagoa das Furnas

Lagoa das Furnas is one of the most emblematic sites on São Miguel island and an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the volcanic force of the Azores up close. Wrapped in lush greenery and a mystical atmosphere, it is the ideal setting to begin a deeper discovery of Azorean nature. Located within the Furnas volcanic complex, this lagoon occupies a large crater formed by explosive eruptions and successive collapses over thousands of years. Its geothermal activity remains clearly visible through the fumaroles and hot springs that surround the lagoon, bearing witness to the ongoing volcanism in this part of the island.

The shores are bordered by slopes covered in dense vegetation, while the interior of the caldera is marked by fertile soils, sulphurous vapours and small areas used for traditional practices. One of the most unique aspects of Lagoa das Furnas is its geothermal hot springs, where the famous Cozido das Furnas is prepared. Buried in the hot ground and slowly cooked by the natural heat of the earth, this dish is a unique tradition that connects local gastronomy to the island's geology.

The lagoon can be admired from several elevated points, with the Miradouro do Pico do Ferro being one of the most impressive. From this viewpoint, visitors enjoy a panoramic view over the entire crater, the lagoon and its natural surroundings, providing an unforgettable perspective of this unique volcanic scenery.

Lagoa do Congro

Lagoa do Congro is one of São Miguel's hidden treasures, perfect for those seeking tranquillity, genuine contact with nature and landscapes of rare beauty. Set inside an explosive volcanic crater, it forms an almost circular depression deeply embedded in the landscape. Although smaller than other lagoons on the island, it stands out for its excellent preservation and the intimate, serene atmosphere that defines it.

The steep slopes of the caldera are densely covered with endemic and exotic vegetation, creating a true natural amphitheatre that shelters the lagoon and enhances its tranquil and virtually untouched atmosphere. The lagoon is reached via a walking trail through the forest, making the journey itself an essential part of the experience.

Inside the caldera, the complete absence of buildings and human activity gives the site a profound sense of isolation and purity, ideal for moments of contemplation and rest. The lagoon can be admired from small natural vantage points along the trail and the crater rim, offering stunning views over the water surface and surrounding vegetation.

Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo is one of the most striking natural landscapes on São Miguel and a must-visit for anyone travelling to the Azores. This volcanic lagoon stands out for its untouched beauty, the sense of vastness it provides and the wild atmosphere that defines it. Located inside the caldera of the Fogo volcanic complex, it was formed through explosive eruptions and successive collapses that created a broad depression with irregular contours. At approximately 575 metres above sea level, it is one of the highest lagoons on the island and one of the finest examples of well-preserved volcanic scenery in the Azores.

The caldera slopes are steep and covered in natural vegetation, while the interior remains virtually untouched, with no permanent structures, reinforcing the wild and pristine character of this site. Part of the Reserva Natural da Lagoa do Fogo, this area is protected for its outstanding ecological and scenic value. Here you will find endemic species of Azorean flora and a unique harmony between water, mountain and sky that shifts with the weather conditions.

The lagoon can be admired from several viewpoints along the caldera rim, such as the Miradouro da Serra da Barrosa, the Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo (Pico da Barrosa) and the Miradouro do Pico da Cruz, each offering unique panoramic views of this volcanic scenery. On clear days, much of the island can be seen from these points, making the visit even more memorable.

Lagoa de São Brás

Lagoa de São Brás is one of the most peaceful and lesser-known spots on São Miguel, perfect for those seeking contact with nature, silence and an intimate experience in the Azores. It was formed inside a small volcanic depression, the result of ancient eruptions that shaped this part of the island. Small in size and understated in appearance, it blends harmoniously into the landscape, often going unnoticed by those unfamiliar with the area.

The interior of the caldera remains virtually unchanged, with no buildings or significant human activity. This seclusion creates a serene atmosphere, making the lagoon ideal for walking, nature observation and moments of contemplation. Although it has no formal viewpoints like other lagoons on the island, it can be appreciated from small natural vantage points along the trails and forest clearings that surround it.

Lagoa das Empadadas

Lagoa das Empadadas is one of the most serene and least visited spots on São Miguel, ideal for those seeking tranquillity, contact with nature and green, silent landscapes. It was formed in a small volcanic depression, the result of ancient eruptive processes that shaped this part of the island. Modest in size, it presents itself as a discreet mirror of water, perfectly integrated into its surroundings. The rim is bordered by gently sloping hillsides densely covered in forest, creating a sheltered environment that reinforces the sense of isolation and calm.

The interior of the depression remains virtually unaltered, with no buildings or significant human activity. This preserved character makes the lagoon a true natural refuge, ideal for walking, observing the flora and enjoying moments of contemplation away from the more touristy spots. Although it has no structured viewpoints, it can be appreciated from small natural vantage points along the trails and clearings of the surrounding forest. These simple perspectives allow visitors to observe it up close and intimately, highlighting its discreet and reserved character.