Sete Cidades Village & Wine Tasting

by coach & on foot

During this experience, visit one of the oldest villages on the island and take in the scenic beauty of the impressive Caldeira of Sete Cidades. This extinct volcano stands 575m (1,886ft) above sea level, and with its 12km (7.5 miles) diameter, it is the most spectacular volcanic site in the Azores.

Under the Miradouro da Vista do Rei, from which King Charles I of Portugal contemplated this impressive panorama in 1901, there are two volcanic lakes – the Green and the Blue, separated by a narrow bridge. The lakes have a combined area of 482 hectares (1,191 acres) and reach a depth of 19m (62ft).

Legend has it that the lakes’ coloured waters were formed by two separated lovers, although in reality, the variance in colour is caused by the spectacular vegetation surrounding the lakes and the colour of the sky, which changes constantly with passing clouds.

On the shores of the Blue Lake lies the village of Sete Cidades, surrounded by the dark forest of the Caldeira, where you will be able to admire views of the lake from close quarters, before continuing to a viewpoint to admire the lakes from above.

Returning to Ponta Delgada, a stop will be made at a hotel overlooking the harbour, offering an enviable view of the city’s port and marina. Here you will be invited to sample a selection of Azorean or Portuguese wines, accompanied by some local cheese, before the short transfer back to the port.