Top 20 Natural Monuments around Capelas

Capelas is renowned for its volcanic origins and Atlantic coastline. You can explore dramatic volcanic cliffs, unique natural swimming pools carved from lava rock like Poços das Calhetas and Poços de São Vicente, and distinctive geological formations such as Morro das Capelas, an ancient submarine volcano.

Yes, several natural monuments are family-friendly. The Vista do Rei viewpoint, offering stunning views of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, is a great option. Additionally, the natural swimming pools in Capelas provide a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all ages, often with lifeguards during the bathing season.

For spectacular panoramic views, visit the volcanic cliffs and viewpoints (miradouros) along the coast. The Capelas Lookout is a prominent example, perched on a tall cliff over 100 meters above the Atlantic, offering breathtaking vistas of the ocean and rugged shoreline.

Morro das Capelas is a distinctive geological formation, an ancient submarine volcano made of basalt. It's a significant geosite of the Azores Geopark, holding national relevance and scientific, educational, and cultural interest. It offers unique insights into the island's volcanic past and provides panoramic views from its vicinity.

Yes, you can experience a unique thermal swimming experience at Ponta da Ferraria Natural Thermal Pools. Here, Atlantic seawater is naturally heated by a thermal spring, creating a warm wave pool. It's recommended to wear bathing shoes due to the rocky bottom.

The natural monuments in Capelas can be enjoyed year-round. For swimming in the natural pools, the bathing season from June to September is ideal, as lifeguards are often on duty. In winter, the volcanic cliffs and viewpoints become prime spots for watching powerful waves crash against the basalt cliffs, offering a different kind of dramatic beauty.

Absolutely! Capelas offers various hiking opportunities. For example, you can explore routes like the 'Rasa Lagoon – Mares' Peak loop from Pico do Carvão' or the 'View of Mosteiros Village – Azores Coastal Trail loop from Capelas'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Capelas guide.

Visitors frequently praise the dramatic natural beauty, especially the unique experience of swimming in the natural lava rock pools and the breathtaking panoramic views from the coastal viewpoints. The distinct geological formations, like the two-toned lakes seen from Vista do Rei viewpoint, are also highly appreciated.

Yes, there are several easy hiking trails available. You could try the 'Empadas Lagoon – View of Lagoa de Empadadas loop from Sete Cidades' or the 'Rasa Lagoon – Empadas Lagoon loop from Pico do Carvão'. More easy routes are detailed in the Easy hikes around Capelas guide.

The highest point in the west of São Miguel island is Mares' Peak, standing at 873 meters. It offers expansive views and is a challenging but rewarding natural monument to visit.

Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts will find trails nearby. Options include the 'Sete Cidades Caldera Rim Loop' or the 'Sete Cidades, Lagoa Azul e Lagoa Verde — percurso na Ilha de São Miguel'. For more MTB routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Capelas guide.

The Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde is a unique spot where the two lakes are largely separated by a road embankment. It's the best place to observe the distinct color difference between Lagoa Azul (blue, reflecting the sky) and Lagoa Verde (green, due to vegetation).

Yes, Lake Canário is a beautiful small lake that is often overlooked but well worth a visit. It's a great starting point for walks around the Caldeira and can be visited on the way to Lago Azul.