Breathtaking views alert!

Classed as one of the Best Natural Wonders of Portugal, the Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Lagoon of the Seven Cities) – with its twin lakes (one blue, one green) located in the crater of a dormant volcano –  is one of the major nature attractions of the Azores. If you see a photo of the Azores online, in a magazine, etc, it is usually a photo of this lagoon.

According to the legend, the lakes were formed from the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love. A bit sad? Maybe. But the superb scenery of this area will certainly uplift your mood.

The lagoon is the largest body of water in the region and one of the most important freshwater resources in the archipelago.

Having your own car is probably the best way to explore this area as it will give you a lot of freedom. If, like me, you travel on your own and do not fancy hiring a car, organised adventure tours (a few are available on the island) offer a valid alternative option. You can also choose between 4WD tours or hiking/walking tours.

Several viewpoints are scattered around the area and give you the opportunity to admire the beauty of the lakes and the contrast with the surrounding lush vegetation. Miradouro da Vista do Rei and Miradouro da Boca do Inferno (the latter is the best) are the ones where I stopped at. Together with large crowds of other tourists! There are also multiple options for hiking in the area, depending on the time of the year. I had a taste at what this would be like, and on muddy terrain, and I loved it.

Whatever your favourite option (car/van/cycle/hike/run), make sure you spend a few hours exploring the area of Sete Cidades – it’s so worth it!

And since pictures speak a thousand words I will leave you with these