Sete Cidades: Twin Lakes, Serra Devassa Hike & Mosteiros

Getting a taste of São Miguel’s natural beauty often involves a mix of breathtaking landscapes, invigorating hikes, and charming coastal spots. This tour from Alma Verde Tours promises just that—an authentic day that combines iconic viewpoints, volcanic terrain, and coastal relaxation all in one package. It’s a well-rounded experience that offers a deep dive into the island’s volcanic soul, without feeling rushed or superficial.

Three things we especially appreciate about this tour are the stunning vistas from Vista do Rei, the secluded Lagoa do Canário, and the relaxing swim in natural pools at Mosteiros. The thoughtful combination of scenic viewpoints, engaging hikes, and downtime at the coast gives the day a well-balanced rhythm. A potential consideration might be the physical activity involved, as it includes a two-hour hike and some walking on uneven trails—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with light to moderate outdoor activity.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love nature, photography, and authentic landscapes. If you’re keen on exploring volcanic terrains and coastal scenery while enjoying the camaraderie of a small group, this tour offers excellent value and a genuine taste of São Miguel’s outdoors.

Key Points

• Iconic Views: Capture postcard-worthy photos from Vista do Rei, the island’s most famous viewpoint over the twin lakes.
• Diverse Landscapes: Experience lush forests, volcanic craters, and rugged coastlines in a single day.
• Active & Relaxing: Combine a two-hour volcanic hike with leisure time at natural pools and beaches.
• Local Insights: A professional, certified guide enhances the experience with local knowledge.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, hotel pickup, and all entry fees included make for a stress-free day.
• Authentic Touch: A scenic picnic and visits to local spots like a pineapple plantation add cultural flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Well-Structured Day in São Miguel’s Natural Wonders

This tour from Alma Verde Tours is a carefully curated itinerary that balances sightseeing, physical activity, and downtime. It begins with a panoramic look at one of the island’s most photographed vistas: the Vista do Rei, which provides a sweeping view over the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. From here, you can really appreciate the vivid contrast of the blue and green lakes split by the crater, an image that most visitors hope to photograph.

The Scenic Viewpoint: Vista do Rei

We loved the way this viewpoint immediately immerses you in the beauty of the volcanic landscape. The perspective from Vista do Rei is simply breathtaking, and it’s a spot that feels almost surreal—perfect for those iconic snaps or just soaking in the scenery. It’s also the starting point for many of the trails and hikes that follow, setting the tone for an active day.

Forest Trails and Hidden Lagoa do Canário

After the initial viewpoint, the tour continues through lush forest trails leading to spots like Lagoa do Canário and the Grota do Inferno. These areas are less crowded, offering a sense of seclusion and untouched nature. Reviewers mention “wandering through lush forest trails” and feeling a sense of peace away from busy tourist spots, which adds a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Serra Devassa Hike: Volcanic Landscapes & Crater Lakes

The highlight is a roughly two-hour hike through Serra Devassa, where volcanic terrains and rolling green hills stretch out before you. The landscapes are striking, with lava rock formations and crater lakes that tell the story of São Miguel’s volcanic past. The guide’s local knowledge adds context to these formations, making the hike both scenic and educational.

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Picnic with a View

Midday, you’ll stop at a thoughtfully chosen picnic spot for a scenic lunch. The included picnic lunch, often featuring local ingredients, provides a chance to relax and recharge while soaking in more views. Reviewers note that the picnic area offers picture-perfect scenery—ideal for a laid-back meal amid nature.

Coastal Charm at Mosteiros

In the afternoon, the tour heads to the rugged west coast, where lava rock pools and black sand beaches await. Mosteiros is a small fishing village, and it’s a real highlight for many guests. During summer, you can take a dip in the natural pools—an experience praised by travelers for its refreshing simplicity. Even if swimming isn’t your thing, a coastal walk here offers stunning ocean vistas and a chance to see the island’s volcanic coastline up close.

Pineapple Plantation & Final Views

As the day winds down, the guide often includes a visit to a pineapple plantation, providing insight into how these iconic fruits are grown on the island. Finally, sweeping ocean views and dramatic cliffs round out the day before you’re dropped back at your accommodation, tired but enriched by the day’s adventures.

Practical Details & Experience Quality

Transportation & Group Size: The tour uses private transportation, making logistics smoother and more comfortable. The small group size ensures personalized attention, with a professional, certified guide leading the way—adding local expertise and answering questions along the route.

Duration & Price: Priced at $293 for up to two people, the value lies in the comprehensive experience—covering viewpoints, hikes, and coastal spots in one well-organized day. The full-day format (approximately 8 hours) balances activity and relaxation, ideal for travelers who want an in-depth look at São Miguel’s landscapes.

Included & Not Included: All entry fees, hiking poles, and the picnic lunch are included, which reduces extra costs and planning. You’ll need to bring essentials like comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear (if swimming), and water. Extra snacks aren’t included, so packing a small snack or two might be helpful.

Accessibility & Flexibility: The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the uneven trails and walking involved. Flexibility in booking—“reserve & pay later”—allows travelers to plan ahead without financial commitment.

Authenticity & User Experience

The reviews underline the quality of the private service. One traveler notes, “Bien agréable d’avoir un service privé,” highlighting the personalized experience. The stunning views and the opportunity to take photographs from iconic viewpoints seem to be the tour’s standout features, aligning well with the desire for memorable, picture-perfect moments.

The Sum Up: Is this tour right for you?

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight in São Miguel. It’s especially valuable for those who want a guided experience that covers the island’s most photogenic spots, with the added benefit of private transportation and a personalized touch. The inclusion of a scenic hike, a picnic lunch, and coastal exploration makes for a fulfilling day out.

If you’re craving active exploration paired with stunning vistas and quiet natural spots, this tour will not disappoint. It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with light to moderate walking and who appreciate a day immersed in nature without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, if mobility is an issue or you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, you might want to consider other options. For those seeking an authentic, well-organized adventure with a small group, this experience stands out as a fantastic way to see São Miguel’s highlights with ease and comfort.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers a professional, certified guide, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, all entry fees, hiking poles, a scenic picnic lunch, and private transportation.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming in natural pools at Mosteiros is optional and available in the summer months. Remember to bring swimwear and a towel.

Is this tour suitable for children or the elderly?
It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a two-hour hike and walking on uneven trails. It may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunhat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water. Extra snacks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, covering scenic viewpoints, hiking, and coastal exploration.

Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve and pay later, allowing flexible planning.

In essence, this guided tour offers a well-rounded day that showcases São Miguel’s volcanic beauty, lush landscapes, and coastal charm. With stunning views, engaging hikes, and a relaxed coastal finale, it’s a fantastic way to experience some of the Azores’ most iconic scenery—all while enjoying the comforts of private transportation and expert guidance. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a nature lover, this trip promises memorable sights and authentic experiences that will surely leave you longing for your next visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: