Explore Ponta Delgada: A Guide to the Best Attractions
The capital of the Azores is situated on the southern coast of São Miguel, aptly dubbed the “Green Island.” There are numerous activities available in the city, including picturesque monuments, charming historical churches, a 16th-century fort, and a museum that chronicles the fascinating natural history of the Azores.
From the harbour, you can embark on an excursion to observe the whales and dolphins that congregate in the archipelago’s waters.
Moreover, for those seeking day trips, the landscapes of São Miguel Island are renowned for their stunning beauty: ancient volcanic craters are now adorned with lakes surrounded by vibrant wildflowers and lush woodlands.
Let us explore the top attractions in Ponta Delgada:
1. Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Arguably the most remarkable natural feature of the Azores is located just 15 kilometres away.
The Lagoa das Sete Cidades comprises twin lakes within a volcanic caldera, with steep walls embellished with conifers and ferns surrounding the shore.
A distinct separation exists between the two bodies of water, and one can drive along the 9-1 road for breathtaking photographs.
If you choose a clear day, make your way to the Miradouro do Rei, positioned high on the south side of the caldera.
The panoramic view from this vantage point, adjacent to the remains of the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel, is truly exceptional.
2. Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança
This convent, established in 1545, holds significant spiritual importance, not only in the Azores but also throughout Portugal.
The statue of Santo Cristo dos Milagres, bestowed upon the convent’s founders by Pope Paul III during the early decades of the 16th century, lends to its prominence.
Each April or May, this statue is the focal point of the Santo Cristo celebrations.
The architectural structure is notable as well, featuring an unusual quadrangular tower with three tiers of windows.
Inside the church, a Baroque altar adorned with gilded woodwork and exquisite tile panels enhances its charm.
3. Portas da Cidade
This three-arched gate, situated near the waterfront in the São Sebastião parish, stands as Ponta Delgada’s iconic landmark and is featured on the city’s coat of arms.
Dating back to 1783, it is part of the former defensive structure. Originally located along the quayside, it was relocated to Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square when the waterfront promenade was constructed in the 1940s and 50s.
Composed of local volcanic stone, the gate is characterized by its whitewashed masonry.
The square in front showcases a Portuguese mosaic pavement, arranged in an ornamental design.
4. Gruta do Carvão
Situated just outside the city lies another of São Miguel’s volcanic treasures.
This is the largest lava tunnel on the island, extending over 1.6 kilometres underground.
For those interested in geology, this site is a must-visit, featuring unique concretions similar to stalactites and stalagmites exhibiting a reddish-brown hue.
The basalt walls display areas of oxidation, imparting an unusual yellowish sheen.
A video presentation precedes the tour, during which participants must traverse some narrow passages, so attire appropriate for hiking is recommended.
5. Igreja de São José
Located on the same square as the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, this substantial church was once part of the long-extinct Convent of St. Francis.
Construction began in 1709, encompassing elements characteristic of colonial Portuguese architecture along with the Baroque style prevalent during that period.
The interior is expansive, featuring three naves leading to three chapels adorned with intricate gilded woodwork.
Visitors should take note of the blue and white tiles covering the walls, the 17th and 18th-century statues, and furniture crafted from jacaranda wood.
6. Museu Carlos Machado
This museum, established in 1876 within the former Santo André Convent, is the oldest in the Azores.
Founded by Carlos Machado, a renowned 19th-century naturalist, the museum reflects the growing interest in the Azores that emerged following Darwin’s theory of evolution.
Visitors will encounter a comprehensive overview of Azorean natural history, featuring exhibits on geology and mineralogy, along with numerous plant and animal specimens, many of which were categorized by Machado himself. Additionally, the former convent houses liturgical art at the adjacent Jesuit college, including paintings, silverwork, and azulejos.
7. Forte de São Brás
Construction began in 1552, this fortification protects the western segment of Ponta Delgada’s port and continues to serve as a base for the Portuguese Navy.
Despite undergoing significant renovations in the 1800s, it remains a captivating vestige of colonial history, a reminder of Ponta Delgada’s vulnerability to pirate incursions.
Visitors can ascend to the upper platforms, which now house both cannons and contemporary artillery. Within the fort, a small military museum showcases weaponry, vehicles, uniforms, and models spanning nearly five centuries.
8. Pico do Carvão
Located ten kilometres from Ponta Delgada, this summit offers expansive views of the island’s western landscape.
The scenery is both pastoral and grand, featuring rolling hills dotted with livestock and crowned with coniferous forests, while the extent of the island’s volcanic cones becomes readily evident.
This vantage point also provides sightings of both the northern and southern coastlines, along with various lakes nestled in the surrounding craters.
The dramatic landscape to the east is highlighted by the Água de Pau Massif stratovolcano, which rises nearly 1,000 metres.
9. Lagoa Empadadas
Located slightly downwind from Pico do Carvão, this stunning crater merits a visit en route to Sete Cidades.
When the weather permits, this idyllic location is perfect for a picnic, drawing fewer visitors than São Miguel’s more renowned lakes.
The seclusion is particularly captivating; until one steps into the crater, the lake remains completely concealed by cedar forests.
For those visiting during spring, the setting is especially picturesque, with pink azaleas adorning the shoreline.
10. Pinhal da Paz
Just a few minutes from Ponta Delgada lies a beautifully designed park, established in the early 20th century.
Originally private property, the initial owner cultivated exotic species, including the Japanese sugi pine, eucalyptus, and bamboo across 49 hectares of rugged volcanic landscape.
Following its abandonment in the 1990s, the area was restored and transformed into a public park.
Interspersed among the pines are hydrangeas and azaleas, and the park now boasts various amenities, including enclosures for guinea fowl, a hedge maze, and designated picnic areas.
11. Dolphin and Whale Watching
Engaging in the lively activity of whale watching is an extraordinary experience you will not want to miss.
The Azores serve as a critical whale sanctuary, with numerous species present throughout the year, including bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, and Risso’s dolphins.
However, the optimal months for whale sightings are April and May, when pilot whales, sei whales, fin whales, and even the immense blue whales migrate through the region.
No matter when you visit, there is a high likelihood of encountering these remarkable marine mammals.
12. Lagoa do Fogo
This enchanting location can be reached within half an hour from Ponta Delgada, and alongside Lagoa das Sete Cidades, it represents one of São Miguel’s essential natural attractions.
This majestic lake, formed by an eruption in 1563, is aptly named “Lake of Fire.” The cobalt waters, measuring one by two kilometres, are encircled by green basalt mountains, rendering it the highest lake on the island.
If time allows, it is advisable to plan the hike for a day with clear skies to ensure unobstructed views of the lake from this elevation.
13. Quinta Augusto Arruda
On days when the beauty of Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo is hidden by fog, a search for another signature product of São Miguel may be in order: pineapples! The island’s volcanic soil is particularly well-suited for this fruit, although inconsistent sunlight can be a challenge.
Consequently, around 6,000 greenhouses cultivate the renowned Azorean pineapple, distinguished by its small crown and exceptionally sweet flesh.
Quinta Augusto Arruda, conveniently located from Ponta Delgada, allows visitors access to these warm greenhouses where pineapples are cultivated from flower to fruit in just two years.
Guests receive informational leaflets outlining the history and cultivation process and may visit the shop featuring pineapple-based products.
14. Santo Cristo
Each fifth Sunday after Easter, the statue of Santo Cristo dos Milagres processes from its chapel within the convent, making its way around Ponta Delgada’s churches.
This tradition, which began in 1700, arose when the statue was credited with halting tremors during its circuit around various churches and convents in the city.
During this occasion, the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança is beautifully illuminated with thousands of small bulbs, and the procession route along the city’s main thoroughfare is adorned with a carpet of flowers.
15. Sports and Activities
The verdant landscape of São Miguel is ripe for exploration in various forms, provided by local companies headquartered in Ponta Delgada.
Options abound for traversing the calderas and lakes on horseback or mountain bike.
For those seeking adventure, there are opportunities for thrill-seeking activities, including 4X4 tours, quad biking excursions, or aerial paragliding experiences, all of which can be captured on GoPro cameras for lasting memories.
Additionally, kayaking and canoeing excursions on the tranquil lakes are available, while the northern coastline features beaches that consistently attract surfers due to reliable wave conditions.
