Vista do Rei

Vista do Rei turns the celebrated Sete Cidades panorama into a 7.5-kilometre crossing along the south-western rim of the caldera. The starting viewpoint recalls the visit of King Carlos and Queen Amélia in 1901. From here the Blue and Green lakes are framed by volcanic walls, pasture and the village settled close to the water.

As the track follows the rim, the composition changes constantly. The lakes, Caldeira Seca and later Lagoa do Alferes appear towards the interior, while the opposite side opens to São Miguel’s western and north-western coast. Although the route remains high above the basin, farm tracks and grazed parcels reveal a worked landscape, showing how rural activity occupies both the crest and slopes of the old volcano.

The final section leaves the ridge and descends Caminho dos Arrebentões into Sete Cidades, finishing near São Nicolau Church. The contrast between the elevated opening, the long rim panorama and arrival at lake level gives this linear route its character. Rated easy and expected to take about two hours, it mainly demands care on the descent and a transport plan between its separate endpoints.

Begin at Vista do Rei viewpoint and take the marked track along the western side of the rim. Continue with the caldera on your right, passing a succession of views over the lakes and interior landforms. Keep to the main line where farm accesses and secondary tracks branch away. Near the Mata do Canário connection, follow the sign for Sete Cidades and descend Caminho dos Arrebentões. Finish beside São Nicolau Church, having arranged return transport in advance. Allow about two hours for the 7.5-kilometre crossing and keep a margin of daylight to the finish, including time for signed branches and stops.