Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
This is an incredible hike that is frankly a little complicated in terms of planning. First off, the hike offers incredible views as it traverses the rim of a caldera with views across 2 gorgeous lakes and out to the ocean. The views make this hike worth it and overall it’s a moderate hiking trail. The reason I say it’s complicated, is that there are many different versions of this hike online and several ways you can do it.
In this article, I’ll explain my top recommendation for how to do this hike as well as the alternatives.
We did this hike on our 3 day layover in Sao Miquel (see exactly how to book a layover)
A Quick Overview of the Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades is one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations on São Miguel Island in the Azores, known for its twin crater lakes—Lagoa Verde (Green Lake) and Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake): set within a massive volcanic caldera. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, the area is perfect for hiking and photography. This hike is takes you from a famous viewpoint down into the picturesque village of Sete Cidades, making it a must-do adventure for nature lovers and travelers to the Azores.
views along the lagoon of the seven cities hikeRecommended Route for the Lagoon of the Seven Cities
Distance: 8 miles (one way)
Elevation: 700 feet up (but more elevation lost)
Difficulty: moderate
Notes: this is a point to point hike
This is our recommended route. Start at the parking lot Mata do Canario. From here follow the trail past the Muro das Nove Janelas and continue on this trail around the rim of the caldera. The trails is on a road and easy to walk. You can also bike this route. Follow the trail downhill to the Seven Cities. From here you can take a taxi back up to the parking lot to get your car. (scroll down where I describe this trail in more detail).
Alternative Routes:
The full loop through the Seven Cities: this hiking trail descends to the town like the recommended route above and then you follow the road back uphill to the parking lot. This involves a lot more uphill and distance mostly walked along a busy road.
Follow the Rim Around: You can also follow the trail all the way around the rim – this also means that you have more uphill, a longer hike and you will also be on a busy road for part of the hike.
Hiking the trail as an out and back: if you want to avoid walking on the busy road, you can also hike this as an out and back. This means you can go out as far as you want and return when you are done. We almost did this as it was raining but ended up continueing on.
Details of the Recommended Route
Start you hike at parking lot Mata do Canario. There is a trail map here. If you are doing this as a point to point trail and there is time, you should plan to do the taxi ride first thing, otherwise you can park here and take a taxi back up to your car.
The trail start on a dirt road and goes past the Wall of Nine Windows. This is a fun moss covered old building that is right on the trail. From here the trail/road ascends steeply and you’ll get to the Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul viewpoint. This is the majority of the elevation gain – after this it is more gentle.
From here, the trail follows a wide dirt and gravel path that hugs the crater rim. The first part of the hike features the most dramatic scenery, as the path gradually descends along the ridge with stunning views of the lakes below on one side and the ocean in the distance on the other. The trail is mostly open, so you’ll be walking in full sun or cloud cover, depending on the weather. Expect some uneven footing, especially in sections that can get muddy after rain.
Unfortunately we had cloudy conditions for this part of the hike so most of our photos are from the other side of the lagoon.
As you continue, the trail gently undulates along the rim before beginning a more noticeable descent. Along the way, you’ll pass a few gates and cattle pastures, a reminder that this area is still actively farmed. There are also 4 wheelers, dirt bikers and even some cars of parts of the road. Eventually, you’ll leave the rim and wind your way downhill through a mix of grassy fields and gravel roads.
The final stretch brings you into the quiet village of Sete Cidades, located right at the water’s edge. It’s a bit steep downhills on the road. The town is small but charming, with a few cafés, a picturesque church, and the peaceful presence of the lakes that dominate the landscape.
Taking the Taxi: as far as I could tell, there is one taxi that operates here and shuttle hikers up and down. You can find the taxi stand in town right next to the church. We found the driver in the nearby restarant, but just ask around. It cost 15 Euros.
Things to Know about Hiking Lagoon of the Seven Cities (Sete Cidades Lagoon)
Terrain and Difficulty
This hike is rated moderate and is suitable for most reasonably fit hikers. The trail is mostly along a dirt and gravel path, with some uneven or muddy sections depending on the weather. There’s very little shade along the rim, so be prepared for sun exposure. The route can also get windy due to its elevation.
Weather Conditions
Azorean weather is famously unpredictable, and clouds or fog can roll in quickly, especially around the caldera rim. Clear mornings offer the best visibility, so it’s smart to start early. Always check the forecast before heading out, and bring a rain jacket just in case. On the other hand, we had a cloudy morning and started the hike around 11 am in the rain. We almost turned back, but by 12:30 it was beautiful.
Transportation and Logistics
Since this is a one-way hike, you’ll need to plan transportation. As mentioned, pptions include parking a second car in the village, arranging a taxi shuttle, or walking back the same way if you’re up for doubling the distance. Some travelers choose to do the hike as part of a guided tour, which often includes transportation.
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
- Sunscreen and a hat (there’s little shade)
- Water and snacks
- Rain gear or windbreaker
- Camera or smartphone for stunning lake views
Nearby Highlights
After the hike, take time to explore the peaceful village of Sete Cidades, grab a bite at a local café, or rent a kayak to enjoy the lakes from a different perspective. You can also visit nearby viewpoints like Miradouro da Boca do Inferno for an unforgettable view of the entire caldera. There are trails that look like they connect these two hikes, but at least one of them is closed so don’t count on it.
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