The first dazzling view is that of the lakes, its serene and poetic beauty, followed by the green and flowered landscape with wide land and sea horizons.
São Miguel Island really does have a lot to offer: monuments that testify five centuries of history, the tranquillity of large spaces, the hustle of the cities, the colours of ancient festivities and traditional handicraft. Besides that, there is always the pleasure of eating, the thrill of sports, the liveliness of the shows... This island really provides complete holidays.
Geographical Description
Located at 25º 30” west longitude and 37º 50” north latitude, São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores Archipelago, covers a total area of 759.41 km2, with 65 km of length and 16 km of maximum width. The island is formed by two large volcanic areas separated by a central low mountain range. The highest point of the island (Pico da Vara) is 1.080 m high and is located in the western range. The great craters of Sete Cidades, Fogo and Furnas feature wonderful crystal-clear lakes.
What to visit
Sete Cidades
In the western end of São Miguel Island, the emerald and blue lakes remind us of several legends: that of the seven bishops or that of the seven cities consumed by the fire of seven volcanoes.
Lagoa do Fogo
At the centre of São Miguel Island, descending through a carpet of soft vegetation to a beach of incredibly white sand, there is an enormous crater. Having the deep blue sea to the north and shiny waters to the south, this crater hides inside a long and oval lake, the Lagoa do Fogo.
Furnas
This village is known throughout the world for its hot springs, with a lake appearing amid gardens and forests, reminding us of our grandmother’s tales, with geniuses and fairies. In fact, Furnas offers its visitors flowers, many flowers, and water, much water, such as mineral, thermal, hot and cold... This water is recommended for every type of illness, rejuvenating the body and comforting the soul.
Nordeste
This is the western kingdom of Pico da Vara, as well as the less known region of São Miguel Island, but probably the best preserved and the most flowered and lovely one.
Vila Franca Islet
Located near Vila Franca do Campo, this islet is a natural reserve 1 km off the coast. For those who want to visit the islet, there is regular transportation, especially during summertime.
What to do
Diving
Mountaineering and speleology
Cetacean watching
Motor and sail boat tours
Walking trails
Sport fishing
Horseback rides
Scooters, mountain bike and quad-bike tours
Paragliding and ultra-lighting
Tennis
Golf
Hot springs
Tours through nature in motor vehicles
Festivities
Holy Ghost Festivals
Lord Christ of Miracles Festival
St. Peter’s Jousts