Miradouro da Grota do Inferno (“Hell’s Cave” viewpoint), also known as Boca do Inferno (“Hell’s Mouth”), is located in the western part of São Miguel Island. It is one of the most popular and picturesque viewpoints on the green island. Don’t be fooled by the name; this place is more like paradise.
From here, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views over the verdant countryside, with the surrounding mountains and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. They will also have a wonderful panorama of the famous twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades, which are considered one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders.
This place is one of the most popular tourist spots on the island. It is so spectacular that you can see this image everywhere on the internet or on many postcards. Due to its altitude of 730 meters above sea level, it offers one of the most beautiful landscapes. Let’s see all you need to know about Miradouro da Grota do Inferno.
What is Miradouro da Grota do Inferno
Geology & Volcanology
Everything at the viewpoint was created by volcanic eruptions, which is why the name refers to hell. All the volcanic craters inside the big Sete Cidades volcanic complex make the landscape authentic. From there, you can see Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa Rasa, Sete Cidades village, and the two-colored lake inside.
Sete Cidades Volcano, as we know it today, formed about 36,000 years ago when the central part collapsed. It has had around 17 eruptions in the last 5,000 years, making it the most active volcano in the archipelago.
History & Geography
Sete Cidades was settled relatively after the East of the island. But eventually became an important center for agriculture, with farmers cultivating corn, wheat, and tobacco mostly in this fertile volcanic soil. Since the 19th century, Sete Cidades has played a key role in the development of the dairy industry in the Azores. The rich milk from the cows raised outside is used to make various delicious cheeses.
Miradouro da Grota do Inferno, overlooking these green pastures, is located in the Northwest Part of São Miguel island. It is right on the volcanic walls of the crater, allowing us to observe a large part of the volcanic complex.
Fauna & Flora
Grota do Inferno’s viewpoint is located inside the Protected Landscape Area of Sete Cidades. This is a rich spot in terms of biodiversity. The forest surrounding the viewpoint displays beautiful Macaronesia endemic vegetation. That is why we ask visitors to please walk only on the track and not destroy plants around. At the viewpoint, you will be able to see several bird species, like the blackbird or the common chaffinch. If you are lucky, you might even find rabbits.
What to Do at Miradouro da Grota do Inferno
Admire the View Over the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex
There is a lot you can see from Miradouro da Grota do Inferno. The view is breathtaking. Indeed, enjoy unique scenery, from the green Lagoa do Canário to the blue Lagoa Rasa, and finally, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, which is divided between blue and green.
You will also see the small village of Sete Cidades by the lake and part of Serra Devassa, a beautiful trail leading through the forest. Let’s not forget the deep blue Atlantic Ocean behind the high green walls of the crater — in one word: magical.
Take Sunset Pictures
A wonderful time to visit Miradouro da Grota do Inferno is at sunset. The sky changes colors and turns into a beautiful live painting with the sun setting behind the volcano over the ocean. If you like taking pictures, then enjoy this incredible scenery in such a unique place. Finally, it’s not every day that you get to be inside a volcano, watching the sun go down.
Explore the Forest Paths Around
Locals love to be at the Forest Park of Canário, the site where Grota do Inferno is located. It is great to walk, have a picnic, or enjoy the views surrounded by beautiful nature. Inside the forest around the viewpoint, there is rich flora to be explored.
If you enjoy hiking, there is a trail called Mata do Canário, also called Cumeeira Grande. It goes from the parking lot near Lagoa do Canário around Sete Cidades crater down to the village. This hike offers fantastic views from various angles around the volcano. Note that it is about 3 hours long, for 12 km.
Discover Lagoa do Canário
Only a few minutes away from the main road, Lagoa do Canário is a beautiful lagoon surrounded by forest with an interesting shape. You will need to walk down to the edge of the lake. The trail can be muddy, especially if it has rained before.
After visiting the lake, you will have to walk for about 15 minutes to reach Miradouro da Grota do Inferno. If the gate is open, you can go back to the parking lot on the main road and take your car to the viewpoint.
Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest in Sete Cidades: Caldeira Seca | Janela do Inferno | Grota do Inferno Viewpoint | Lagoa das Empadadas | Sete Cidades | Lagoa das Sete Cidades | Lagoa de Santiago | Lagoa do Canário | Lagoa do Congro | Miradouro das Cumeeiras | Monte Palace Hotel | Sete Cidades Legend | Miradouro da Vista do Rei | Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint
Plan Your Visit To Miradouro da Grota do Inferno
Best Time to Visit
For a spectacular end to the day, choose to visit the viewpoint in the late afternoon for a stunning sunset. Photography-wise, it is also fascinating to come early in the morning for the first hours of light of the day. Another good reason to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon is that, mainly during the summer, this place quickly gets crowded with tourists. If you like to enjoy the viewpoint for yourself, then avoid the rush hour.
Check all our articles about the weather in the Azores throughout the year 🌤️ ☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
How to Get to Miradouro da Grota do Inferno
Miradouro da Grota do Inferno is located inside the Parque Florestal da Mata do Canário. It belongs to the parish of Santo António, Ponta Delgada county. From the city of Ponta Delgada, follow the main road EN1-1A until you will see directions towards Sete Cidades right after Relva village. You will pass by the town of Covoada. Always follow the main road up the mountains until you reach the parking lot. It is a 40-minute drive for about 20 km.
From there, if the gate is closed, you can go on foot to the viewpoint of Grota do Inferno. It is about 15 to 20 minutes, for only 5 minutes by car. Although it is easily accessible, it has a well-maintained, relatively flat trail. The gate is usually open from 8:30 am to 7 pm on the weekdays of summer, 10 am to 7 pm on the weekends and special holidays, and 8:30 am to 3 pm in the wintertime (November to April), although the times can be subject to changes.
What to Bring
When visiting Miradouro da Grota do Inferno, it is essential to be prepared for the natural environment and the weather conditions. Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the area around the viewpoint can be muddy and uneven. Moreover, as the weather in the Azores can be unpredictable, it is a good idea to bring layers of clothing that you can add or remove depending on the temperature. A waterproof jacket is a must-have!
Depending on the weather, some sunscreen and a hat can be helpful. Always have snacks and water with you if you wish to explore further. There are no facilities near the viewpoint, so it’s crucial to be self-sufficient. Finally, your camera will be indispensable for capturing the picturesque view from Miradouro da Grota do Inferno.
Where to Eat
If you need somewhere to eat near Miradouro da Grota do Inferno, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where to Stay
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Pro Tips
The main tricky thing about this viewpoint, similar to any viewpoint in the Azores, is the weather. If it is too cloudy, the most probable scenario is that the view will be all white, and you won’t see the lakes. So, how is this a pro tip? Well, first, you can check the camera for Sete Cidades on the website or app Spot Azores before heading there. This is very helpful for knowing where to go to have the best view. If it is sunny, then you are good to go.
Did you know
If you arrive on the spot and you see nothing, just be patient. Occasionally, the clouds can pass very fast and give you a 20-second interval of awe when you can see the lakes.
Nearby Attractions
See the Aqueduct of Muro das Nove Janelas
The Muro das Nove Janelas (Nine Window Wall) is an aqueduct built between the 17th and 18th centuries. This significant work, currently considered a heritage of historical value, was built to combat the scarcity of water that was felt in that area (who would say…).
This aqueduct captured water in the area of Lagoa do Canário and later distributed it to the surrounding parishes. The Nine Windows Wall was submitted to several restoration works by the Municipal Services of Ponta Delgada, which allowed it to return to this place a monument once forgotten in time.
Hike the Serra Devassa Trail
The trail starts near the Mata do Canário Forest Park through the entire mountainous area southwest of the Sete Cidades Volcano Caldera and ends at what was your starting point.
It is considered a trail with an easy difficulty level despite its 10.4 km length and duration of approximately 7 hours. During this time, you will have the opportunity to glimpse countless landscapes of exceptional natural beauty and enjoy the tranquility of the place.
The place allows people of any age to visit — from 8 years of age. Soon, this will be an excellent option for sharing leisure time with family and friends regardless of their age or physical condition.
Visit Sete Cidades Village
Sete Cidades is a small village of about 700 inhabitants living inside a volcano by a beautiful lake. You can walk inside the town and see typical Azorean houses, and don’t miss the picturesque São Nivolau church. You can also walk around the smaller green lake and to the sides of the blue lake. On the shore of the bigger lake, you will find Futurismo’s activity center. There, you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Go to Monte Palace Abandoned Hotel
Monte Palace was a sumptuous 5-star hotel on São Miguel island in the Azores. It is located at the Vista do Rei viewpoint in Sete Cidades — Ponta Delgada county. The viewpoint is particularly renowned for its panoramic view over the lakes of Sete Cidades and the village inside the volcanic crater.
Built into the hillside to take advantage of the view over the Atlantic Ocean or the colored lakes, the hotel had a great chance to attract plenty of visitors and be successful. However, it was abandoned in 1990 and was only open for 18 months.
Monte Palace received the award for being Portugal’s finest hotel in the same week that it closed its doors for good. What was once one of the most luxurious achievements of the islands is now in a deteriorated state that one cannot imagine unless one sees it themselves.
Complementary Information
Best Season to Visit the Azores
The Azores Archipelago enjoys a unique climate that shapes its lush landscapes and makes it a splendid year-round destination. With mild temperatures and minimal fluctuations, every season has something unique to offer. Spring averages 16 °C, summer reaches 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter remains mild at 14 °C.
→ For a detailed breakdown of the weather by month, check the following links: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
How to Get to the Azores
The Azorean Archipelago is easily accessible through numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights to São Miguel (PDL), Terceira (TER), Faial (HOR), Pico (PIX), and Santa Maria (SMA) available. To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms allow you to compare prices and schedules from different airlines in one place.
For more details on how to get to the Azores, take a look at our complete guide. But what if you want to explore beyond your arrival island? We’ve got you covered!
- Azores airports 🛬
- Flights between islands ✈️
- Ferries between islands ⛴️
- Which island to choose? 🏝️
- What airlines fly to the Azores 🛩️
→ Once you’ve found the perfect route, book your tickets and get ready to experience one of the world’s most stunning island groups!
Azorean Travel Essentials
Essential Information for Your Azores Trip: Azorean Language & Phrases 🗣️ | Currency & Banks 💵 | Credit Cards & Traveler’s Cheques 🏧 | Driving in the Azores 🚗 | Electricity 🔌 | Experiences & Tours 🗺️ | Health & Safety 🩺 | Internet & Wi-Fi Access 🛜 | Phones & Mobile Service 📞 | Post Offices & Buying Stamps ✉️ | Public Holidays 🏖️ | Shopping 🛒 | Time & Daylight 🕒 | Whale Watching Guide 🐳 | Best Island to Visit 🏞️
Useful Tools & Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores offers live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, letting you check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.
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Conclusion
Overall, Grota do Inferno viewpoint is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to São Miguel Island. It offers some of the most awe-inspiring views of this beautiful green island in the Azores. It is considered one of the most stunning viewpoints in the whole archipelago. Once you are there, you will understand why. We hope this article answers all your questions about this wonderful place. If this spot wasn’t on your must-see list for your stay on São Miguel Island, you should add it.
Authors’ Note
I’m pleased to inform you that all the recommendations in this article are based on my experience and observations. As the author, I have personally visited each attraction mentioned, ensuring that every suggestion is grounded in first-hand knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.
FAQs
The viewpoint is located in the parish of Santo António, in the municipality of Ponta Delgada, within the Mata do Canário Forest Park.
From this viewpoint, you can admire the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa de Santiago, Serra Devassa, and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
From Ponta Delgada, take the EN1-1A road toward Sete Cidades. After passing through Covoada, continue to the Mata do Canário Forest Park. If the gate is closed, a 1.2 km trail leads to the viewpoint.
It is recommended to visit at dawn or dusk, avoiding peak times to enjoy the view in peace.
