Miradouro das Cumeeiras, or the ‘Ridges viewpoint’, literally translated, is perched on the rim of a volcanic crater. It provides expansive views of the surrounding land and the infinite ocean. The crater itself is part of the larger volcanic complex on São Miguel Island.
From Miradouro das Cumeeiras, you can enjoy panoramic views. They include high green hills, agricultural fields, dense forests, the village of Sete Cidades, the Green and Blue Lakes, the coastline, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. The contrast between the vibrant greenery and the deep blue waters creates a stunning visual experience.
What is Miradouro das Cumeeiras?
Miradouro das Cumeeiras is a well-known viewpoint located on São Miguel Island, Azores. The islands in the middle of the Atlantic are known for their stunning natural landscape. For instance, beautiful lakes, volcanic craters, and lush vegetation are all visible at Miradouro das Cumeeiras. Enjoy the view over Lagoa Verde and Azul, one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders.
Also known as the Vista da Rainha viewpoint (Queen’s View) — as opposed to the famous Vista do Rei (King’s View) on the other side of the crater. This is a great spot to take in the island’s natural beauty. It is much less popular than the other one, which is great because it allows you to have the place to yourself. It is worth noting that the viewpoints were named after King Dom Carlos I and Queen Dona Amélia. They were the first king and queen to visit the islands, back in 1901.
The Azores are a paradise for nature lovers, with many viewpoints, hiking trails, and unique geological formations to explore. The islands have a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty. Miradouro das Cumeeiras, located in the western part of São Miguel Island, is undoubtedly one of the highlights for those seeking stunning views.
Plan Your Visit to Miradouro das Cumeeiras
How to Get to Miradouro das Cumeeiras
The viewpoint is accessible by car via a dirt road, provided you have a 4×4 vehicle or are confident enough to drive on it, or by an official hike called Mata do Canário or Cumeeira Grande. The linear trail is 11.8 km long, taking about 3 hours to walk, and offers stunning views over some lakes within the Sete Cidades volcanic complex.
Quick Info
If you want the complete Western São Miguel experience, you can also choose our guided tour, which takes you up and down to Sete Cidades village. We can even stop for a kayaking or stand-up paddling trip.
Best Time To Visit Miradouro das Cumeeiras
The viewpoint at Miradouro das Cumeeiras is worth visiting at all times. You can enjoy unique views at sunrise, or eat a picnic lunch at the top, but it is exceptionally excellent during sunset hours when the sky shows vibrant colors. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from this vantage point is an unforgettable experience, for sure. Plus, if you go early or late, you will have fewer people around.
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
Pro Tips
Many visitors bring along picnic food to enjoy a meal with stunning views. It’s a fantastic way to relax and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of São Miguel. This spot features tables and benches where you can sit and admire the view.
While the hike to the viewpoint is relatively easy, it’s always a good idea to wear comfortable footwear and bring water. Additionally, weather conditions in the Azores can change rapidly, so dressing in layers is advisable.
Nearby Attractions
Vista do Rei Viewpoint
From Vista do Rei’s viewpoint, you are standing on the spot of some of the most famous postcards of the Azores. The green and blue lakes are one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders. And once you look at it from Vista do Rei, you can truly understand why.
From this viewpoint, you can also look out at Sete Cidades village on the shore of the blue lake and the stone bridge that separates the colors of the lakes, which are actually two distinct lakes. Indeed, the water runs under the bridge, so it is a two-colored lake.
On a sunny day, the color difference is very noticeable. There is a scientific explanation for the blue and green lake, as well as a love legend. The facts are that the colors vary due to the depth of the lake.
On the green side, it is shallower, and on the blue side, it is deeper. The sky reflecting on the lakes reveals these beautiful colors. On the other hand, the local legend says that a blue-eyed princess fell in love with a green-eyed peasant. When her father, the King, forbade their love, they met at the bridge and cried so much that the color of their eyes created the lake.
Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades is a picturesque little town with only about 800 inhabitants. Located at the bottom of the volcanic crater, this village by the lake is peaceful and relaxing for a stroll. Don’t forget to visit its well-known Church of São Nicolau.
Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest in Sete Cidades: Caldeira Seca | Janela do Inferno | Miradouro da Grota do Inferno | 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 | Pico da Vara
Kayaking in Sete Cidades
One of the funniest things you can do at Lagoa das Sete Cidades is rent a kayak with Futurismo and go see the lake from another perspective. Pass under the bridge and make sure you see all of it. For the bravest souls, you can also rent a paddleboard and try some yoga poses. If you fall, you will get refreshed by the clear waters of the lake.
What a wonderful feeling to be on the water on a warm day. The shop is located on the shore of the blue lake. Our guides will tell you everything you need to know before you venture out on your own. They will also provide you with all the equipment.
Dive into Poço da Pedra — Mosteiros Natural Swimming Pool
Poço da Pedra (or Caneiros) is a natural pool of volcanic origin with crystal-clear water coming from the ocean. As you might expect, this pool is one of the most attractive spots in the parish of Mosteiros.
Did you know
These natural pools feature waters with medicinal properties derived from the algae found within.
Curiously, although Poço da Pedra is one of the main tourist attractions in the parish of Mosteiros, it is undoubtedly the least known natural pool on the island and in the archipelago. That’s why you can enjoy moments of leisure in peace.
Complementary Information
Best Season to Visit the Azores
The Azores Archipelago boasts a unique climate that shapes its lush landscapes, making it a splendid year-round destination. With mild temperatures and minimal fluctuations, each season offers something unique. 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 available to São Miguel (PDL), Terceira (TER), Faial (HOR), Pico (PIX), and Santa Maria (SMA). To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms enable you to compare prices and schedules from various airlines in one convenient location.
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!
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 provides live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, allowing you to 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
There are so many things to see up there, from the quiet village of Sete Cidades to its famous tow-colored lake worthy of postcards. Whether it’s the beautiful ocean or the typical greenery of the cliffs and lands around, you will love this place.
Overall, Miradouro das Cumeeiras offers a relaxing and captivating escape into nature, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural wonders of São Miguel island. Whether you are an avid hiker, a photography enthusiast, or someone who enjoys looking at stunning views, this viewpoint is a must-visit destination on the island.
