Nestled in the lush, volcanic landscape of São Miguel Island in the Azores, the Sete Cidades Lakes are one of the most iconic and stunning natural attractions in the archipelago. These twin lakes, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake), are situated within a massive volcanic caldera, offering visitors breathtaking views and a unique experience in the heart of nature.
Table of Contents
1. Geological Formation
The Sete Cidades Lakes were formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The caldera, approximately 5 kilometers in diameter, was created by the collapse of a volcanic cone following a series of eruptions. Over time, rainwater filled the depression, creating the two lakes. Despite their close proximity, the lakes exhibit different colors – a phenomenon that has fascinated scientists and visitors alike. The blue and green hues are attributed to varying depths, mineral compositions, and the way light reflects off the water’s surface.
2. Legends and Myths
The Sete Cidades Lakes are steeped in local legends. One popular tale tells the story of a romantic tragedy between a blue-eyed princess and a green-eyed shepherd. Forbidden to be together, their tears formed the lakes – one blue and one green, reflecting their eye colors and eternal love. These myths add a layer of mystique and cultural significance to the natural beauty of the area.
3. Activities
Visitors to the Sete Cidades Lakes can enjoy a range of activities that immerse them in the stunning surroundings:
- Hiking and Walking Trails: Several trails around the caldera offer varying levels of difficulty, providing opportunities to explore the lush vegetation, panoramic viewpoints, and the serene lakes. The Vista do Rei viewpoint is particularly popular, offering a spectacular vista of both lakes and the surrounding landscape.
- Canoeing and Paddleboarding: The calm waters of the lakes are perfect for canoeing and paddleboarding. These activities allow visitors to experience the lakes up close and appreciate their tranquility.
- Cycling: Biking around the caldera and through the small village of Sete Cidades is a great way to explore the area. The trails are well-marked and suitable for different skill levels.
In my opinion, the Sete Cidades Lakes are one of the most breathtaking places in the Azores. With their stunning landscapes, rich nature, and fascinating legends, they truly leave a lasting impression. If you love nature and adventure as much as I do, you’ll surely enjoy exploring these magical lakes, whether it’s through hiking, canoeing, or simply soaking in the view. Visiting Sete Cidades will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip.
By the way, don’t forget to check out my guide to São Miguel and Flores. Creating this maps has been a labor of love – it includes top destinations and hikes, various activities, hidden gems, mesmerizing waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, among many other treasures.
While most visitors stick to the well-trodden paths, there’s a secret part of this ancient forest that 99% of tourists miss.
Mist-covered trees, untouched trails, and a silence that feels otherworldly.
Step off the beaten path and discover a world where nature reigns supreme.
📍Ancient Fanal Forest, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
💡👉🏼Detailed directions to this part of Fanal Forest can be found in my INTERACTIVE GUIDE WITH MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗Link in bio☝️
#FanalForest #HiddenGem #Madeira #VisitMadeira #Fanal
While most visitors stick to the well-trodden paths, there’s a secret part of this ancient forest that 99% of tourists miss.
Mist-covered trees, untouched trails, and a silence that feels otherworldly.
Step off the beaten path and discover a world where nature reigns supreme.
📍Ancient Fanal Forest, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
💡👉🏼Detailed directions to this part of Fanal Forest can be found in my INTERACTIVE GUIDE WITH MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗Link in bio☝️
#FanalForest #HiddenGem #Madeira #VisitMadeira #Fanal
🌅✨ This road curve might just be the most photogenic spot in Madeira, and it has captured the hearts of many photographers thanks to the dramatic cliffs in the background. During the summer, you can catch the sunset here, adding even more colors and stunning light to the scene. 😍
This hidden gem is located near 📍 Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto — make sure not to miss it on your Madeira adventure! 🌿👆
For those looking to get the most out of their trip, be sure to check out my INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️🌍 – your perfect travel companion for the journey ahead 💫
🔗 Link in bio 👌🏼
#madeiraisland #visitmadeira #pontadorosto #sunsetvibes #madeiratravel #epicviews #discovermadeira #madeira #islandparadise #TravelMap #visitportugal #madeiralovers #naturephotography #travelinspirations #landscapevideo #adventureawaits #portugaltravel #madeiraislands #mountainvibes #oceanviews #offthebeatenpath
🌅✨ This road curve might just be the most photogenic spot in Madeira, and it has captured the hearts of many photographers thanks to the dramatic cliffs in the background. During the summer, you can catch the sunset here, adding even more colors and stunning light to the scene. 😍
This hidden gem is located near 📍 Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto — make sure not to miss it on your Madeira adventure! 🌿👆
For those looking to get the most out of their trip, be sure to check out my INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️🌍 – your perfect travel companion for the journey ahead 💫
🔗 Link in bio 👌🏼
#madeiraisland #visitmadeira #pontadorosto #sunsetvibes #madeiratravel #epicviews #discovermadeira #madeira #islandparadise #TravelMap #visitportugal #madeiralovers #naturephotography #travelinspirations #landscapevideo #adventureawaits #portugaltravel #madeiraislands #mountainvibes #oceanviews #offthebeatenpath
I never get tired of hiking the PR1 trail. Every time feels like a brand-new experience. The weather, the time of day, the season, the way the light falls — it’s always different. Even the clouds add to the magic. They’re never the same, constantly shifting in shape and hanging at different levels, making the landscape even more dynamic.
And the sunsets? They change with the season, casting their light differently on the cliffs and valleys, transforming the scenery in unexpected ways. No matter how many times I return, PR1 always feels like something new. It’s no wonder this trail is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. 🌅☁️✨
📍Location: PR1 Hike, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
💡👉🏼 For even more incredible locations, check out my INTERACTIVE GUIDE+MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗You can find the link in my bio🌍☝️
#MadeiraIsland #PR1Trail #HikingAdventure #Madeira #Cloudscapes #VisitMadeira #ScenicViews #SunsetMagic #MountainHike #AdventureHike #ExploreMadeira #HikingAddict #GoOutdoors #TravelMap
I never get tired of hiking the PR1 trail. Every time feels like a brand-new experience. The weather, the time of day, the season, the way the light falls — it’s always different. Even the clouds add to the magic. They’re never the same, constantly shifting in shape and hanging at different levels, making the landscape even more dynamic.
And the sunsets? They change with the season, casting their light differently on the cliffs and valleys, transforming the scenery in unexpected ways. No matter how many times I return, PR1 always feels like something new. It’s no wonder this trail is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. 🌅☁️✨
📍Location: PR1 Hike, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
💡👉🏼 For even more incredible locations, check out my INTERACTIVE GUIDE+MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗You can find the link in my bio🌍☝️
#MadeiraIsland #PR1Trail #HikingAdventure #Madeira #Cloudscapes #VisitMadeira #ScenicViews #SunsetMagic #MountainHike #AdventureHike #ExploreMadeira #HikingAddict #GoOutdoors #TravelMap
I’ve found it — a real-life Jurassic Park! 🌿🦕
📍Cascata da Ribeira do Ferreiro on Flores Island, Azores, feels like stepping into another world. Hidden deep within a lush, emerald jungle, these breathtaking waterfalls look straight out of a movie scene.
It’s the kind of place where nature reigns supreme, and you can’t help but feel small in the best possible way.
If there’s one destination you should add to your bucket list, it’s this one. Trust me, you’ll be blown away. 🌍💧
💡Thinking of visiting Flores Island and need some tips?
👉🏼 Great news: My Interactive Guide + Map of Flores Island is officially live! 💫
🔗 Find the link in my bio to start your adventure! 😉
#JurassicPark #Azores #FloresIsland #IslandParadise #HiddenGems #waterfallsofinstagram #ExploreAzores #ScenicViews #NatureAtItsBest #WaterfallHike #DiscoverAzores #TravelGoals2024 #TravelPortugal #BucketListTravel #Açores #Acores #Acoresislands
I’ve found it — a real-life Jurassic Park! 🌿🦕
📍Cascata da Ribeira do Ferreiro on Flores Island, Azores, feels like stepping into another world. Hidden deep within a lush, emerald jungle, these breathtaking waterfalls look straight out of a movie scene.
It’s the kind of place where nature reigns supreme, and you can’t help but feel small in the best possible way.
If there’s one destination you should add to your bucket list, it’s this one. Trust me, you’ll be blown away. 🌍💧
💡Thinking of visiting Flores Island and need some tips?
👉🏼 Great news: My Interactive Guide + Map of Flores Island is officially live! 💫
🔗 Find the link in my bio to start your adventure! 😉
#JurassicPark #Azores #FloresIsland #IslandParadise #HiddenGems #waterfallsofinstagram #ExploreAzores #ScenicViews #NatureAtItsBest #WaterfallHike #DiscoverAzores #TravelGoals2024 #TravelPortugal #BucketListTravel #Açores #Acores #Acoresislands
