Vista do Rei (King’s Viewpoint) is one of the most breathtaking panoramic viewpoints in the Azores, overlooking the legendary Lagoa das Sete Cidades - the famous twin lakes (green and blue) inside a volcanic caldera.

Located on the western side of São Miguel Island, this viewpoint sits at around 575 meters above sea level, offering a sweeping view of the crater, the village of Sete Cidades, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. It’s a must-visit stop for anyone exploring the island.

🛣️ Acess

🚗 By Car

• Easily accessible via the EN9-1A road

• Parking available right at the viewpoint

• Suitable for all visitors, including families and elderly travelers

🥾 Hiking Option

Vista do Rei is also part of the Sete Cidades Caldera Trail network, which connects several viewpoints around the crater.

Popular Trail Nearby:

• Lagoa das Sete Cidades Circular Trail (PRC4 SMI)

  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

  • Distance: ~12 km (full loop)

  • Highlights: Lakes, bridges, volcanic terrain, pastoral landscapes

Short Walks:

• Scenic paths around the viewpoint and along the crater rim

• Great for photography stops and quick nature walks

🌋 What Makes Vista do Rei Special

• Unmatched panoramic views of the caldera and lakes

• Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel, adding an eerie and photogenic atmosphere

• Frequent mist and cloud effects, creating dramatic landscapes

• One of the best sunrise and sunset spots in São Miguel (you won't be able to able to watch the sun during the sunrise, but the sky becomes amazing)

🚣 Activities in Sete Cidades

🌊 Water Activities (Lagoa das Sete Cidades)

• Kayaking & paddleboarding

• Pedal boats

🚴 Outdoor Adventures

• Mountain biking around the crater

• Jeep tours

• Hiking and nature trails

🏡 Village Experiences

• Explore the charming Sete Cidades village

• Visit Igreja de São Nicolau (St. Nicholas Church)

• Enjoy local cafés and Azorean cuisine

• Try local cheese, pineapple desserts, and seafood

🌅 Best Time to Visit

• Early morning: Less fog, soft light

• Late afternoon: Golden hour and sunsets

• Avoid very foggy or rainy days (views may be hidden)

👨‍👩‍👧 Who Is It Best For?

• Nature lovers & photographers

• Couples and solo travelers

• Families with kids (easy access viewpoint)

• Adventure travelers (hiking, biking, water sports)

• First-time Azores visitors—this is a top highlight

🧭 Practical Tips

• Weather may change fast - bring a jacket or windbreaker

• Fog can roll in suddenly; check the weather before going

• Early mornings often have the clearest views

• Respect nature - stay on marked trails

• Drone photography is amazing but check local rules

🤫 Visit the Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel

Next to Vista do Rei, you’ll find the Monte Palace Hotel, a once-luxurious five-star hotel that was abandoned in the early 1990s. Though officially off-limits, it has become a fascinating site for urban explorers and photographers.