A Day of Discovery in Sete Cidades

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I am always on the lookout for experiences that are both enriching and enjoyable for the whole family. When I heard about the Sete Cidades Adventure, I knew it was something I had to try. The promise of exploring the stunning landscapes of São Miguel with a local guide was too tempting to resist.

Our adventure began with a warm welcome from our guide, Rita, who immediately made us feel at ease. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and it was clear from the start that she was passionate about sharing the beauty of her island with us. We set off on our journey, eager to see what the day had in store.

The first stop was the breathtaking Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the caldera and lakes. The walk to the viewpoint was a gentle hike, perfect for families with children. As we stood there, taking in the stunning scenery, Rita shared stories about the history and geology of the area, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

Hidden Gems and Secret Spots

One of the highlights of our day was visiting some of Rita’s “secret spots.” These were places off the beaten path, known only to locals, and they offered a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty. We visited Lagoa do Canário, a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery, and Lagoa de Santiago, where the vibrant colors of the water seemed almost unreal.

Rita’s knowledge of the island was impressive, and she had a knack for tailoring the tour to our interests. She was always ready to stop if something caught our eye, whether it was a field of wildflowers or a quaint village. Her ability to read our interests and anticipate our reactions made the tour feel personalized and special.

We also had the chance to explore the black sand beaches of Mosteiros and the natural swimming pools, where the kids had a blast splashing around. Even though the weather was a bit foggy, the beauty of the coastline was undeniable, and the mist added a mystical quality to the landscape.

A Taste of Local Culture

Our day wouldn’t have been complete without a taste of the local culture, and Rita made sure we experienced it in the best way possible. We visited the Pineapple Plantation, where we learned about the unique way pineapples are grown on the island. The kids were fascinated by the process, and we all enjoyed sampling the sweet, juicy fruit.

Throughout the day, Rita shared her insights into the island’s culture and traditions, giving us a deeper understanding of what makes São Miguel so special. Her stories and recommendations for other places to visit and things to try were invaluable, and we left with a list of must-see spots for our next trip.

As the day came to an end, we felt grateful for the unforgettable experience we had shared as a family. The Sete Cidades Adventure was everything we had hoped for and more, thanks to Rita’s exceptional guidance and the island’s breathtaking beauty. We left with a newfound appreciation for São Miguel and a promise to return, hopefully with more time to explore and enjoy all that this incredible place has to offer.