Ponta Delgada to Sao Miguel's Western Towns: Day trip

Explore Sete Cidades, known for its surreal natural beauty and serene village. Begin your journey at the twin lakes that epitomize the Azores’ natural beauty, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, nestled in a volcanic crater. Head to Miradouro da Vista do Rei, the “King’s View,” to marvel at the iconic view below. Or, tackle the short hike to Miradouro da Boca do Inferno to capture a different angle of the view. Then, visit the ruins of the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel, a mysterious location presenting unique photo opportunities. Finally, stroll through the quaint Sete Cidades Village and sample Fresh Azorean cheese and Passion Fruit Liqueur, a delectably sweet and tangy digestif unique to the region.

Black sand beaches, basalt sea stacks, and lava pools define the dramatic coast of Mosteiros. Mosteiros captures the wild beauty of Sao Miguel’s west coast with its volcanic drama. Begin with a stroll along the black sand of Praia dos Mosteiros, where the Atlantic crashes against dramatic basalt stacks. Then take a dip or wade in the natural lava rock pools, calm and perfect for relaxing as the ocean surges nearby. Continue to one of the rocky promontories for unforgettable photos of the sea stacks silhouetted at golden hour. Finish with a seafood lunch or Azorean pineapple dessert at a local cafe, where the views are as delightful as the flavors.

Swim where lava heats the sea, or unwind cliffside with geothermal views at Ponta da Ferraria. At Ponta da Ferraria, nature offers a spa like no other. Begin with a short walk along the volcanic cliffs to the Miradouro da Ferraria, where sweeping views reveal lava fields spilling into the sea. Then descend to the ocean thermal pool - a surreal spot where hot volcanic springs bubble up into Atlantic waves. Swim during low tide for the best mix of warm and cool waters, using the ropes for balance. Prefer to stay dry? Relax at the cliffside thermal spa above, with indoor geothermal pools and massage options. End with grilled limpets or local cheese on the rocks nearby.