Sete Cidades, Mosteiros and Ferraria Half Day Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of São Miguel Island has never been easier. The Sete Cidades, Mosteiros, and Ferraria Half Day Tour offers a captivating adventure that showcases the island’s stunning landscapes. From panoramic viewpoints to charming villages and serene beaches, this four-hour excursion immerses visitors in the island’s captivating beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, this tour promises to leave you in awe of the Azores’ remarkable natural splendor. Dive into the itinerary, and uncover the enchanting sights that await.

Key Points

• This half-day tour provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of São Miguel island, including the picturesque Sete Cidades village, Mosteiros Beach, and the Ponta da Ferraria hot sea baths.
• The tour includes stops at panoramic viewpoints such as Pico do Carvão, Canário Lake, Grota do Inferno, and Vista do Rei, showcasing the island’s volcanic landscape.
• Visitors can stroll along the shores of the iconic blue and green twin lakes of Sete Cidades and explore the quaint village with its colorful houses and gardens.
• Mosteiros Beach offers a chance to see the dramatic Quatro Ilhéus islets and experience the rugged coastal environment, while Ponta da Ferraria provides access to natural hot sea baths.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off service within 5 km of Ponta Delgada, transportation by a knowledgeable local driver/guide, and potential access to hot sea baths at Ponta da Ferraria.

Tour Overview

This half-day tour takes visitors on a captivating journey to explore the natural wonders of Sete Cidades, Mosteiros, and Ferraria, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the breathtaking landscapes of São Miguel island.

Priced at $54.46 per person, the tour lasts approximately 4 hours and accommodates a maximum of 4 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Available in both Portuguese and English, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from accommodations within a 5 km radius of Ponta Delgada.

Highlights include panoramic viewpoints, a visit to the picturesque village of Sete Cidades, and the opportunity to experience the seasonal hot sea baths at Ponta da Ferraria, making this an ideal way to discover the island’s natural beauty.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a departure from Ponta Delgada towards the breathtaking Sete Cidades, where visitors can marvel at the panoramic viewpoints along the way, including the stunning Pico do Carvão, Canário Lake, Grota do Inferno, Vista do Rei, Cerrado das Freiras, and the serene Santiago Lake.

After admiring the volcanic landscape, the tour continues to the picturesque village of Sete Cidades, allowing guests to stroll along the shores of the iconic blue lake.

The exploration then shifts to Mosteiros Beach, where four captivating islets can be discovered.

Key Viewpoints

Along the way to Sete Cidades, the tour makes several stops at key viewpoints that showcase the stunning volcanic landscape of the region.

At Pico do Carvão, visitors can take in panoramic vistas of the twin lakes and the village below.

Further on, Canário Lake presents a tranquil mirror-like surface, reflecting the surrounding lush greenery.

The tour then proceeds to the dramatic Grota do Inferno, a deep ravine formed by volcanic activity.

Next up is the iconic Vista do Rei, offering sweeping views of the caldera and its azure-hued lakes.

The final key viewpoint is Cerrado das Freiras, where travelers can gaze upon the Santiago Lake nestled in the hills.

Sete Cidades Village

After taking in the breathtaking vistas from the key viewpoints, the tour heads to the picturesque village of Sete Cidades, where visitors can stroll along the shores of the stunning blue and green twin lakes.

The village, nestled in the caldera of an ancient volcano, offers a peaceful respite from the panoramic overlooks. Visitors can explore:

1. The quaint streets lined with colorful houses and flower-filled gardens.
2. The twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, which get their distinct hues from the volcanic soil.
3. The small chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz, a local landmark.
4. The tranquil atmosphere and traditional way of life that has been preserved in this charming village.

Mosteiros Beach

From Sete Cidades, the tour then moves on to explore the picturesque Mosteiros Beach, home to four distinct islets just off the coast. Visitors can wander along the black sandy shores, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.

The islets, known as Quatro Ilhéus, offer a unique natural setting, with caves and rock formations shaped by the powerful waves over time. Guests can admire the stunning views, perhaps spot some seabirds, and even venture out to one of the islets, weather permitting.

This tranquil coastal area provides a serene contrast to the vibrant colors of Sete Cidades, offering a chance to take in the rugged beauty of the Azores.

Ponta Da Ferraria

The tour then proceeds to the dramatic coastal area of Ponta da Ferraria, where visitors can experience the unique opportunity of natural hot sea baths, depending on seasonal conditions.

This geological wonder is the result of ancient volcanic activity, leaving behind a series of rocky islets and natural pools that are heated by geothermal energy.

Visitors can:

1. Take a refreshing dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the natural pools.
2. Explore the rugged, volcanic landscape and take in the breathtaking ocean views.
3. Observe the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this dynamic coastal environment.
4. Relax and unwind in the serene and tranquil atmosphere of this natural wonder.

Inclusions

This half-day tour package includes pickup and drop-off service from accommodations within a 5-kilometer radius of Ponta Delgada. Visitors will be transported by a knowledgeable local driver/guide throughout the tour’s key destinations.

The tour covers the stunning landscapes of Sete Cidades, Mosteiros, and Ferraria, providing a comprehensive introduction to the natural beauty of Sao Miguel Island. Travelers will have the opportunity to capture breathtaking views from iconic vantage points like Pico do Carvao, Lagoa do Canario, and Vista do Rei.

Plus, the tour includes visits to the picturesque village of Sete Cidades, Mosteiros Beach, and the Ponta da Ferraria area, where visitors can enjoy potential hot sea baths, weather permitting.

Important Information

This half-day tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 years of age.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, swimwear and a towel, as well as a jacket and other comfortable clothing to prepare for the varied weather conditions.

The tour covers a range of landscapes, from the iconic Sete Cidades lakes to the dramatic Mosteiros Beach and the potential hot sea baths at Ponta da Ferraria (seasonal).

To fully enjoy the experience, here are four essential items to pack:

1. Waterproof jacket for changeable weather
2. Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
3. Camera to capture the stunning scenery
4. Snacks and water to stay energized throughout the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Stop at Any Local Shops or Restaurants During the Tour?

Yes, the tour may include stops at local shops or restaurants, allowing participants to explore the area’s culture and cuisine. However, the full itinerary and inclusions can vary, so it’s best to confirm the details with the tour provider.

Will We Have Opportunities for Hiking or Exploring on Our Own?

The tour provides opportunities for hiking and independent exploration at select viewpoints and locations. Guests can walk along the blue lake shores of Sete Cidades and explore Mosteiros Beach on their own during the scheduled stops.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old. The activity is geared towards adult participants, and the operator has set an age limit to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests on the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

The tour can be customized to accommodate participants’ preferences. While the itinerary is set, the tour provider may allow adjustments to the duration, stops, or activities based on the group’s interests and needs. Flexibility is often available within the tour’s framework.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Groups or Families?

The tour operator offers discounts for groups of 3 or more participants. Families with children over 12 can also receive a discounted rate. Inquire about these options when booking to get the best price for your group.

Recap

This captivating half-day tour offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore the natural wonders of São Miguel Island.

From the iconic twin lakes of Sete Cidades to the serene shores of Mosteiros Beach and the rejuvenating hot sea baths at Ponta da Ferraria, this excursion caters to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

All of this is available for the modest price of $54.46 per person.