Attractions and Places To See around Capelas - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Capelas include a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences on São Miguel Island. The village is situated on volcanic cliffs, offering views over the Atlantic Ocean and unique geological formations. Capelas also holds historical significance as a former whaling center, with remnants of its maritime past. The surrounding area features natural swimming pools carved into lava rock and access to the island's iconic crater lakes.
Best attractions and places to see around Capelas
- The most popular attractions is Vista do Rei viewpoint, a viewpoint that offers a regal view down into the Sete Cidades crater. From here, the northern Lagoa Azul appears blue and the southern Lagoa Verde appears green due to vegetation.
- Another must-see spot is Ponta Delgada City Gates, a man-made monument and historical site. This 18th-century landmark, consisting of three arches, is the calling card of Ponta Delgada and often hosts events.
- Visitors also love Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, a bridge and viewpoint. This unique location allows observation of the distinct colors of the two lakes, separated by a road embankment.
- Capelas is known for its dramatic volcanic coastline, natural swimming pools, and historical sites. Visitors can explore coastal trails, cultural landmarks like churches and whaling factory remains, and nearby crater lakes.
- The attractions around Capelas are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 960 upvotes and 270 photos shared across 13 highlights.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Vista do Rei viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
By the way, the origin of the name Vista do Rei is linked to the visit of King Carlos I and Queen Amélia on July 6, 1901.
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Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde
Highlight • Bridge
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Lake Canário
Highlight • Lake
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Ponta Delgada City Gates
Highlight • Monument
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Lagoa Verde Trail
Highlight • Trail
Fallen trees, paths torn away by landslides, sometimes you had to climb past ropes stuck in the ground in narrow places. It was a real climbing adventure and in places really dangerous. Strangely, the path is also closed from the opposite side of the car park, but not if you start from the car park.
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Tips from the Community
The main attraction in Ponta Delgada. A beautiful square in front of the old city gates, definitely worth a visit.
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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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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 up to the bridge is CLOSED! Private mountain bike path…
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Similar to Lisbon, the gate is the connection from the sea/harbor to the city. Since a cruise ship docked here today, the square was teeming with people
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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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We "hiked" the route yesterday. What was supposed to be an easy hike turned into an extremely dangerous one. We didn't see any closures. Some of the paths have collapsed, fallen trees have to be climbed, etc. Conclusion: not recommended at all
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Capelas?
Capelas is renowned for its dramatic volcanic coastline, featuring majestic cliffs and numerous *miradouros* (viewpoints) like Miradouro da Vigia and Miradouro do Navio. You can also discover unique natural swimming pools carved into the lava rock, such as Poços de São Vicente and Poços das Calhetas. A significant geological formation is Morro das Capelas, a tuff cone offering panoramic views. While not directly in Capelas, the stunning crater lakes of Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are highly recommended excursions a short drive away.
What historical and cultural sites are there in Capelas?
Capelas has a rich history, particularly linked to its whaling past. You can visit the 18th-century Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Apresentação, a typical Azorean church. In the town center, a statue commemorates Capelas' whaling history, and you can still see the remains of the old whaling factory and its port. The Arts and Crafts Workshop Museum offers insights into traditional island craftsmanship.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Capelas?
Yes, several attractions around Capelas are suitable for families. The natural swimming pools like Poços de São Vicente and Poços das Calhetas offer safe and refreshing swimming. Exploring the coastal viewpoints and easy sections of the cliffside trails can also be enjoyable for all ages. Nearby, Lake Canário is a beautiful small lake that is family-friendly, and the iconic Vista do Rei viewpoint and Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde are also considered family-friendly.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near Capelas?
Capelas offers access to various hiking opportunities, especially along its dramatic coastline. You can explore cliffside trails for breathtaking Atlantic views. For more structured routes, consider the easy hikes around Capelas, such as the 'Empadas Lagoon – View of Lagoa de Empadadas loop' or the 'View of Mosteiros Village – Azores Coastal Trail loop'. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes around Capelas guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Capelas?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning panoramic views, especially from viewpoints like Vista do Rei viewpoint, which offers a regal perspective of the Sete Cidades crater. The unique experience of seeing the distinct blue and green lakes separated by the Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde is also highly praised. Many enjoy the sense of discovery at places like the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel for its 'lost places' atmosphere and great views from the roof.
Are there opportunities for running or mountain biking near Capelas?
Yes, the area around Capelas provides excellent terrain for both running and mountain biking. For runners, trails like the 'Sete Cidades from Mata do Canário' or the 'Nascentes de Santo António Trail' offer diverse experiences. Mountain bikers can tackle routes such as the 'Sete Cidades Caldera Rim Loop' or the 'Sete Cidades, Lagoa Azul e Lagoa Verde' route. You can explore more options in the Running Trails around Capelas guide and the MTB Trails around Capelas guide.
What are some unique viewpoints to visit in the Capelas area?
Capelas is rich in viewpoints. Beyond the famous Vista do Rei viewpoint overlooking Sete Cidades, you can find several *miradouros* along the Capelas coast, such as Miradouro da Vigia, Miradouro do Navio, Miradouro das Pedras Negras, and Viewpoint of Beira Mar, all offering stunning ocean and cliff views. The Capelas Lookout is also a favorite spot, especially for observing powerful waves.
Can I go swimming in natural pools near Capelas?
Absolutely. Capelas is known for its natural swimming pools, or *poços*, carved into the dark lava rock along the coast. Poços de São Vicente and Poços das Calhetas are popular choices, offering refreshing and sheltered spots for swimming in the Atlantic seawater, often with concrete platforms for easier access and sunbathing.
What is the best time to visit Capelas for outdoor activities?
The Azores generally enjoy a mild climate year-round. For outdoor activities like hiking and exploring natural pools, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to October) are often preferred, offering more sunshine and stable weather. However, the dramatic coastal views and powerful waves can be particularly impressive during winter months.
Are there any significant landmarks in Ponta Delgada that are easily accessible from Capelas?
Yes, while Capelas offers its own charm, the capital city of Ponta Delgada is a short drive away and home to the iconic Ponta Delgada City Gates. This 18th-century landmark, consisting of three arches, is considered the calling card of the city and often hosts events, making it a worthwhile visit.
What is the significance of Morro das Capelas?
Morro das Capelas is a significant geological formation, a tuff cone created during a submarine volcanic eruption. It features interesting geological formations and lava flows with columnar jointing. It also provides a panoramic view over the Porto das Capelas - Ponta das Calhetas Protected Area of Resources Management, making it a key site for understanding the region's volcanic origins.
Most popular attractions around Capelas
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