3. Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint (Santiago Lagoon Viewpoint)
The Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint is another of the impressive viewpoints on São Miguel Island. From this lookout point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Lagoa de Santiago, a lagoon closely linked to the volcanic formation of the Sete Cidades Massif. In fact, this lagoon is one of the most photographed in the Azores, doesn't the photo on this page look familiar to you?
The Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint is located between the Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint and the bridge of the Sete Cidades village that separates the two lagoons of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades. It's easily accessible by car, and there's parking near the viewpoint. You can also reach the viewpoint on foot or by bike from the town of Sete Cidades.
From this lookout point, you can enjoy not only a wonderful view but also a short walk along forest trails that lead to the shores of the impressive Lagoa de Santiago. The time to walk this 1 km linear trail, classified as easy, is about 30 minutes round trip. It's an excellent option for those who have time for a leisurely stroll and feel like exploring a bit beyond the viewpoint.
Once you've visited the viewpoint, continuing along the road towards the famous Vista do Rei Viewpoint, don't forget to stop before at the Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint, a perfect spot to enjoy the Sete Cidades Lagoon from another perspective.
By the way! Don’t forget all the ways you have to enjoy Lagoa das Sete Cidades and its viewpoints with these activities:
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Rent a kayak for 2 people for 1 hour (€20 total)
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Rent a bike for 1 hour (€10 per person)
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Rent a bike and then a kayak for about 3 hours (€30 per person)
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Or join this group bike tour with a local guide, perfect for discovering viewpoints like this one.