Sete Cidades to Ferraria: Volcanic Trails and Thermal Pools
Walk through a caldera, discover hidden lagoons, and end the day soaking in the Atlantic's geothermal waters.
This full-day adventure takes you deep into the Sete Cidades volcanic complex, one of the most iconic landscapes in the Azores, before finishing at the thermal pools of Ferraria — where geothermal springs meet the open ocean.
A credentialed local guide leads the group through layered terrain: dense cryptomeria forests, moss-covered paths, and crater-rim viewpoints that open onto panoramas of the island's interior lagoons. Stories and legends tied to the volcanoes and lakes are woven throughout the walk.
The second part of the day shifts pace, moving by vehicle to the Escalvado viewpoint above Mosteiros and on to Ferraria, where volcanic hot springs rise through the seabed and mix with Atlantic seawater in natural rock pools.
Tour Highlights
Panoramic views from the highest points of the Sete Cidades caldera, overlooking the blue and green lagoons and the island's central ridgeline.
A walk through cryptomeria forest and across a broad moss carpet leading to Lagoa das Empadadas and Lagoa do Canário.
Two landmark viewpoints — Grota do Inferno and Vista do Rei — including a look at the abandoned Monte Palace hotel.
South-facing coastal pastures lined with hydrangeas in multiple colours, a defining visual of São Miguel's countryside.
A picnic lunch served in the village of Sete Cidades after the main hiking section is complete.
A soak in the geothermal rock pools at Ferraria, where subsurface volcanic springs warm the Atlantic waters at the shoreline.
Expert local guidance with ecological and cultural context provided throughout the route, covering fauna, flora, and volcanic geology.
Itinerary Overview
The hike begins in a mixed zone of greenery and volcanic rock, ascending to one of the highest points in the Sete Cidades caldera. From this vantage, walkers gain a broad view of the island's interior and its network of lagoons. This section takes approximately three hours to complete.
The descent passes through hydrangea-lined coastal pastures on the southern slopes before entering a cryptomeria forest. The path continues across a mossy landscape to Lagoa das Empadadas and then on to Lagoa do Canário.
Before reaching the village, the route passes two of the island's most visited viewpoints. Vista do Rei frames the blue and green lagoons of Sete Cidades together, with the ruins of the Monte Palace hotel visible on the hillside.
Upon arriving in the parish of Sete Cidades, the group stops for a included picnic lunch. This rest period allows walkers to recover before the afternoon segment of the day.
The group travels by van to the Miradouro do Escalvado for views over Mosteiros parish and the Ferraria headland. A visit to the local viewpoint reveals the full extent of the lava field (fajã) and the Ferraria lighthouse.
The day closes at the natural rock pools of Ferraria, where geothermal springs emerge from the ocean floor and mix with seawater. Water temperature and pool conditions vary with the tides, and the guide will advise on the best time to enter.
What Is Included
Included
- Accredited local guide
- Activity insurance
- Picnic lunch
- Pick-up and drop-off (Ponta Delgada)
- Hiking poles
Not Included
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Gratuities (optional)
- Pick-up outside Ponta Delgada (contact operator)
- Personal medication
Important Information
Ready to Explore Sete Cidades?
Secure your place on this full-day guided hike through one of the Azores' most dramatic volcanic landscapes, with thermal bathing included at the finish.
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