Ponta Delgada
---Azores---Portugal.jpg "The astonishing Lagoon of the Seven Cities")
Ponta Delgada, the main town on the island of São Miguel, is the capital of the Azores archipelago of Portugal. The town’s cosmopolitan atmosphere belies its 500 year history, and the surrounding island boasts beautiful lakes, mountains, sandy beaches and the stunning crater lakes of the extinct Sete Cidades volcano.
A fine collection of buildings, narrow cobbled streets and squares, are a firm reminder that this was once a key staging post between Europe and the Americas.[ReadMoreMob] Intermingled are cool parks, enchanting squares, a modern marina, restaurants and waterside cafés. Its lakeside, whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs look out to enchanting mountain plains.
The striking, three-arched city gates, Portas da Cidade – which once stood in the harbour and now reside in Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square, were dedicated to the Portuguese navigator who discovered the Azores. [ReadMoreDesk]The Gothic Church of St. Sebastian and The Convent and Chapel of Our Lady of Hope, which is home to a revered image of Christ, are both worth uncovering. The Carlos Machado Museum offers diverse artefacts of Azorean culture, while Igreja Matriz Church, with its splendid clock tower, is one of many beautifully ornate towers to be found.
The ‘Green Island’ also offers canoeing and other sports activities on lakes located in the craters of its dormant volcanoes. The island’s beauty can also be enjoyed by horse riding or cycling.
Top Experiences
Sete Cidades Crater Lakes
These exquisite lakes are one body of water occupying two craters, separated just enough that their waters are distinct colours: green and blue. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, the lakes are surrounded by lush forest for a truly magical scene.
Cruises to Ponta Delgada
Whales & Volcanoes of Iceland & The Azores • S2210
- With ORCA, look for species of whale living in Atlantic waters
- Revel in the drama of awe-inspiring scenery
- Delve into history and culture, and explore historic cities
Vistas & Volcanoes of Azores & Madeira • S2217
- Dramatic volcanic landscapes
- Whale spotting from Horta
- Tropical blooms in Madeira
Vistas & Volcanoes of Azores & Madeira • T2221
- Spot Sperm Whales from Horta
- See dramatic volcanic landscapes in Ponta Delgada
- Take a flower safari tour in Madeira with a local enthusiast
Scenic Islands of the Azores • S2227
- Go in search of whales from Horta
- Visit dramatic volcanic crater lakes in Ponta Delgada
- Explore the pretty town of Cobh
Vistas & Volcanoes of Azores & Madeira • T2227
- Spot Sperm Whales from Horta
- See dramatic volcanic landscapes in Ponta Delgada
- Take a flower safari tour in Madeira with a local enthusiast
Exploration of South America and the Antarctic • L2301
- An unforgettable South American & Antarctic discovery
- Revel in the sights and cultural highlights of iconic cities
- Witness the wonders of the Galapagos, Andes and Patagonia
Around the World in 80 Days from Liverpool • S230405
- See Cherry Blossom in bloom in Japan
- Experience three Hawaiian Islands
- Visit the tomb of Tutankhamun
Around the World in 80 Days • S2305
- See Cherry Blossom in bloom in Japan
- Experience three Hawaiian Islands
- Visit the tomb of Tutankhamun
American Waterways & Canada in the Fall • L2323
- Experience the splendour of North America’s East Coast
- Admire scenes of autumn-coloured woodlands
- Sail by the Statue of Liberty and spend two days in New York