Go up and fly over the beautiful landscape of São Miguel island to enjoy the best panoramas. We suggest the following must-see Miradouros. Miradouro is a Portuguese word, and it means “viewpoint”. Enjoy every spot where you stop!
1.Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
It is the most photographed Miradouro of the island. It is a viewpoint that overlooks Sete Cidades and Lagoa Azul. The area around the outlook was created by volcanic eruptions, which is where the name is derived. From the viewpoint, several volcanic craters are surrounding the area that makes the landscape very unique. These craters include Lagoa do Santiago, Lagoa Rasa, Caldeira do Alferes, Caldeira Seca.
2.Miradouro da Logoa do Fogo
You can enjoy a fantastic view of the lake from the Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo, and of both the North and South shores of the island from a single point. From this miradouro, there is a trail you can hike down to a beach along the shore of the lake. With its intense blue colour, the lake, so crystal clear that it seems to be suspended in the sky, stands out amid bright green vegetation, with the Atlantic Ocean in the background. It is supposed to be the largest volcanic lake in the area and one of the youngest volcanoes, having erupted in the 16th century.
3.Miradouro da Vista do Rei
Along the road to Sete Cidades is a cluster of flowering hydrangeas of all sizes. From the top, you can see two lakes, called twin lakes: one green and one blue, separated by a road that you can follow if you continue driving to Sete Cidades. It is located on the road next to an abandoned hotel. It is also close to a hiking trail. This trail starts at the viewpoint and ends in the village of Sete Cidades after about 2 hours of walking. It is such a picturesque scene! It was called like that after that the King D.Carlos I and the Queen D. Amélia visited it on the 6th July 1901. Check the weather on SpotAzores to choose the best weather and having the best view.
4.Miradouro da Vista dos Barcos
Here, you can get a view of Farol do Arnel lighthouse. This viewpoint is located nearby the village of Lomba do Moio. From this angle, you get a good idea of how steep the cliffs are. If you have time, we recommend hiking down to the lighthouse to get a closer look. This miradouro is also the first place on the coast from which it is possible to see the boats approaching the coast from the East.
5.Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado
On the western side of the island, this miradouro is located at halfway between Mosteiros and Ferraria. You can enjoy two fantastic views, from one side you can see the village of Mosteiros, a small fishing village famous for its natural swimming pools, waterfalls and from the other one, you can enjoy the view of Ferraia. Climb up on to the wall to take your shots and jump back in again!
6.Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa
In this viewpoint, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lagoa do Fogo and both the North and South shores of the island. This Miradouro is located in Vila Franca‘s territory, on the road that crosses the island from north to south from Ribeira Grande. Take your time to enjoy the beautiful view. If you arrive at the viewpoint to find your view of the lake obscured by cloud, don’t despair; the weather can and does change quickly on São Miguel.
7.Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego
This viewpoint is located along the western coast in direction to Povoacao, amidst some verdant, well-manicured mountainside gardens and it offers outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean. There, there is a large number of felines with whom to make friends. It is a flowery park with benches and tables, an ideal spot for a picnic. It is a colourful oasis. In a tile composition, you can read a poem by an Azorean who emigrated to America.
8.Miradouro do Castelo Branco
Castelo Branco is a small tower located between Furnas and Vila Franca do Campo. This viewpoint is easy to reach, not far from Lagoa das Furnas. A climb to the top of the watchtower will give you a stunning view of the lake. It is funny to explore, and you can enjoy beautiful views. The legend says that some people erected this tower in order to control the adjacent land. Today, this building is used as a miradouro. Inside the tower, you will find a photogenic window where you can take beautiful pictures playing with silhouettes.
9.Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras
This is a spot located in the Cerrado das Freiras that offers you lovely views of the lagoons and the neighbouring villages. Here, you can get the picture of Sete Cidades‘ two lakes. From this viewpoint, you get a closer view of the Blue Lagoon and surrounding land. Unless you visit São Miguel in summer, it is very unlikely you will be able to see anything from here. Cloud seemed to build more readily around this part of the island and brought heavy wind and rain.
10.Miradouro de Santa Iria
Here you can find the loveliest viewpoints along the north coast. Miradouro de Santa Iria offers incredible views along São Miguel’s entire northern stretch of coastline. It is wild, rugged, and dramatic, and when the last few rays of sunlight up the tops of the cliffs, stunning.
Have you ever visited São Miguel? Do you have any more incredible viewpoints to suggest?
If you have not yet explored this island, which of these 10 viewpoints are you most excited about visiting?
Please comment below!