The ponds

The lagoons were formed over the centuries and originated in the craters of volcanoes that erupted.

Today, they are the main attractions on the island of São Miguel and true natural monuments.
Most of the lagoons take on a special charm when seen from a privileged vantage point.
There are countless viewpoints and trails around the lagoons that provide a totally holistic view of these “sleeping volcanoes”.

From Lagoa do Fogo to Lagoa do Canário, passing by Lagoa das Sete Cidades, there are many options.
With different silhouettes and surrounding flora, each landscape is more breathtaking than the next.

Lagoa do Fogo – located near Ribeira Grande, this is the second largest lagoon on the island and the highest of all. It is surrounded by stunning flora and fauna and to get there you can follow a steep but fabulous trail. The nearest viewpoint is Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa.

Lagoa das Furnas – located in the Furnas area, close to Poça Dona Beija, Parque Terra Nostra and Caldeiras. On its shores you can find the Furnas Lagoon Garden, the preparation of Furnas Stew and the magnificent Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias. The Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of the area.

Lagoa das Sete Cidades – considered to be the most beautiful of the lagoons and consists of Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul. Considered one of the 7 natural wonders and classified as a protected landscape. Full of natural beauty and surrounded by magnificent viewpoints. From the Vista do Rei viewpoint to the Grota do Inferno viewpoint and the Cerrado das Freiras viewpoint, there are many breathtaking views of this natural monument.

We can add Lagoa das Empadadas, Lagoa do Canário and Lagoa de Santiago to the list.

It’s hard to choose. The right decision is to visit them all!