The island of São Miguel is full of natural beauties and breathtaking landscapes, which dazzle the thousands of people who visit it every year. From the beaches, lagoons, thermal pools, trails, gastronomy and handicrafts, this island appeals to all types of travelers, whether looking for adventure or just a few days of rest.
There are several places you should visit in São Miguel. These are just a few:
- Lagoa do Fogo
It is one of the largest lagoons in the Archipelago and the second largest on the island of São Miguel. Located in the municipality of Ribeira Grande, Lagoa do Fogo was classified as a nature reserve in 1974 and is a protected landscape. It is an important lagoon for the region due to the supply of drinking water.
Access to the lagoon can be done via Pico da Barrosa, one of the highest points on the island. You can reach the viewpoint by car and if you wish you can take a small trail to the lagoon. It’s a memorable experience.
- Terra Nostra Park and Poça da Dona Beija
Vale das Furnas is, without a doubt, one of the most visited places on the entire island and it is there that we can find the famous Parque Terra Nostra and also the Poça da Dona Beija.
Parque Terra Nostra is a botanical garden, with a wide variety of plants and trees, thermal water pools, lakes and streams. It is also well known for its camellia collection, with over 600 different species. In 2014, it received the award for “Garden of Camellias of Excellence”, from the International Camellia Society.
Poça da Dona Beja offers 5 thermal water pools, with an average temperature of 39 degrees, called Ribeira, Serena, Mística, Convívio Thermae and Meditação.
- Lagoa das Sete Cidades
In Sete Cidades we can find several lagoons, each one more stunning than the other. However, the Blue and Green Lagoons are the protagonists, as they are often the island’s main attraction.
Classified as a Protected Landscape by the Natura 2000 Network, the Lagoa das Sete Cidades is formed by two lagoons of different colors, one green and one blue, colors associated with the legend of the princess with blue eyes.
- Vila Franca do Campo islet
This small islet, of volcanic origin, is located 500 meters from the coast of Vila Franca do Campo. The islet is one of the main attractions on the island, since the Red Bull Cliff Diving stage of the world cliff diving championship.
In addition to the wonderful walk to the islet, it is possible to take a dip and enjoy the sunny days in this paradisiacal place. However, it is only possible to visit the islet between the months of June and October, as it is a nature reserve.
- Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint
The Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint has this name because it is one of the best places on the island of São Miguel to see the sunrise. It is located in Lomba da Pedreira and receives many visits from locals and tourists, who seek to contemplate the event.
At the viewpoint, there are several small gardens, with various species of flowers, which decorate the entire space. There is also a leisure and picnic area, with barbecues and tables, for family fun.
The island of São Miguel has much more to see! When staying with Atlantic Apartments you will receive indications and tips on the best places to visit on this fantastic island. Book your stay now and have a memorable vacation.
