Best lakes around Candelária are found on São Miguel Island in the Azores, a region known for its volcanic landscapes. The area features iconic crater lakes, including the visually distinct Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. These natural features offer diverse experiences, from panoramic viewpoints to challenging trails. The Candelária civil parish serves as a gateway to exploring these significant natural attractions.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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Part of the trail is quite challenging. I wouldn't rate it "easy"; it gets steep, slippery, and requires some climbing. Not recommended without hiking boots, and not suitable for small children or dogs. But it was a lot of fun :)
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Great views of Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul. However, a more beautiful view is located a little away from the crowds. Additional parking is available just below the viewpoint.
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The middle third of the trail is quite challenging and only recommended in dry weather. It's definitely not a leisurely stroll; it's a bit adventurous with ropes and slippery, steep steps, but doable.
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1/3 of the trail is a survival trail and sometimes the trail is no longer clear. Good footwear is required
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An impossible path! We were there today. The weather was dry, and so were the paths. We had planned a walk around the lake, as both sides have beautiful trails. We started on the eastern side; the path narrowed, and suddenly trees lay across it. The crossing was easy; the path certainly looked like it had been used often, and the obstacles piled up. Sometimes up, then down to the waterline (the water level was very high), and over and under trees. Since we're pretty good at navigating the mountains, it was an adventure. About 90 minutes long. As I wrote, it was supposed to be a walk. Hiking poles and boots were in the trunk. Would have been helpful. But there are no signs or barriers. If you dare, when the paths are dry(!), continue. Everyone else should turn back at the first obstacle.
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The path remains difficult to navigate due to large, fallen trees and roots, and is also somewhat slippery in places. If you know this and are up for a little adventure, go for it.
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The path up to the bridge is CLOSED! Private mountain bike path…
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Anyone with decent hiking boots and a bit of fitness and surefootedness will get their money's worth here. There were three other groups on the tour with us, all of whom were a bit dirty at the end but enjoyed the adventure. Another group came towards us, which had gone the other way. You have to assess your abilities correctly.
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The most iconic lakes are Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, nestled within a volcanic caldera on São Miguel Island. They are famous for their striking visual contrast, with Lagoa Azul appearing blue and Lagoa Verde appearing green due to vegetation. You can get a fantastic view from Vista do Rei viewpoint.
For regal panoramic views, visit the Vista do Rei viewpoint, located on the crater rim. Another highly recommended spot is the View of Lagoa Azul from Sete Cidades Ridge, considered one of the most famous lookout points on the island for its extensive views of Lagoa Azul.
These two lakes are unique because of their distinct colors: Lagoa Azul appears blue due to the reflection of the sky, while Lagoa Verde appears green from the vegetation within it. They are largely separated by a dam, with a narrow channel connecting them under a road, which you can observe from the Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde.
Yes, Lake Canário is a beautiful small lake that is often overlooked by visitors. It's a great starting point for walks around the Caldeira and is considered a worthwhile stop on the way to Lago Azul.
Many viewpoints and areas around the Sete Cidades lakes are considered family-friendly. The Vista do Rei viewpoint, the Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, and the View of Lagoa Azul from Sete Cidades Ridge all offer accessible experiences for families. Lake Canário is also a good option for families.
You can find a variety of trails, from easier walks to more challenging routes. For instance, the Lakeside Trail at Lago Verde, Sete Cidades is known for being quite challenging due to fallen trees, roots, and slippery sections, requiring good footwear and surefootedness. There are also many other trails around the crater rim offering stunning views.
The area offers excellent opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling, touring cycling, and mountain biking. Popular routes include the 'Sete Cidades Caldera Loop' for touring bicycles and the 'Sete Cidades Caldera Rim Loop' for mountain biking. For more cycling options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Candelária, Cycling around Candelária, and MTB Trails around Candelária guides.
The lakes around Candelária are primarily volcanic crater lakes, characterized by their distinct colors—blue reflecting the sky and green from vegetation. They are set within a dramatic volcanic landscape, offering unique geological formations and lush surroundings.
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views, especially the panoramic vistas of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde from the crater rim. The distinct colors of the lakes and the unique experience of walking or cycling around them are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects of their visit.
Yes, the Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde is an excellent spot to observe both lakes simultaneously. From this point, you can clearly see the difference in their water colors and how they are connected by a narrow channel beneath the road.
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, visitor tips suggest that the lakes offer 'super nice impressions in good weather.' Clear days will provide the best visibility for appreciating the distinct colors of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde and the expansive views from the viewpoints.


Still not found your perfect lake around Candelária? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.