PORTUGAL

Discover São Miguel’s top 10 hikes in this detailed guide, offering stunning trails suitable for all levels. From Sete Cidades to lush forests and waterfalls, explore the island’s natural wonders.

Welcome to Lagoa do Fogo, where emerald-green hillsides meet the deep azure waters of a volcanic crater lake. This hidden gem in the Azores offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Venture to the summit of São Miguel’s tallest peak, Pico da Vara, at 1103m. Delve into lush forests and enjoy incredible panoramas on this unique hiking journey.

Welcome to Lagoa do Fogo, where emerald-green hillsides meet the deep azure waters of a volcanic crater lake. This hidden gem in the Azores offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Starting the Salto do Cabrito waterfall hike in São Miguel was an adventure I eagerly looked forward to. This trail, beginning at the Caldeiras in Ribeira Grande, perfectly combines moments of peace with a sense of exploration. With its inviting hot springs and a comfortable area to relax, it sets the stage for an unforgettable journey.

Janela do Inferno trail is one of my personal favourites and without a doubt – a hidden gem of São Miguel in Azores. This short adventure is packed with incredible experiences including a remarkable stroll through a dense jungle, traversing and on top of that, an unforgettable cute, little lagoon. It’s a rewarding challenge for everyone who is willing to explore the path that’s a little bit less traveled.

The Lagoa das Furnas trail offers a nice exploration through São Miguel’s vibrant landscape, mixing cultural landmarks and natural wonders. This circular path, starting at Furnas village, unveils the island’s geothermal activity and lush scenery which is perfect for a leisurely hike.

Rocha da Relva hike is my personal hidden gem of São Miguel in the Azores. This unique trail: PRC02 SMI, winding through one of São Miguel’s majestic cliffs offers a blend of cultural heritage, incredible landscapes and a close encounter with the island’s rich biodiversity. The town itself is also a very cool sight and a great addition to this island’s itinerary.

Lomba da Fazenda hike in San Miguel Island’s northeast offers an awesome 7.5 km long adventure. Starting at the historic Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceicao, this circular path PRC31 goes through the town, past an ancient watermill and along river beds to the bathing spot – Boca da Ribeira. It’s a nice blend of a few viewpoints, coastal paths and a local flora and fauna.

Caldeira das Sete Cidades is a great loop hike around the whole Sete Cidades. It’s a longer alternative to Lagoa das Sete Cidades hike.

In this guide, I’m taking you on a straightforward 13km route around Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Here’s where you can also visit the small town inside the crater and exploring two beautiful lakes: Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde.