Vila Franca Do Campo is the oldest city on San Miguel and its former capital. It was founded by the first settlers in the 15th century. But after an earthquake in 1522 the city was destroyed and most of the inhabitants died. Ponte Delgada then became the capital of the Azores.
Unfortunately you can’t make a complete tour around Lagoa do Fogo. We tried to go back another way that we found on our map, but after the first 200 meters it became more and more unpassable so we turned around and walked back the same way we came from.
The hike around Lagoa das Furnas is rather a walk than a hike (maybe 7km, I didn’t keep trek)
Wonderfully arranged garden in the center of Furnas with a huge hot spring basin with naturally warm water. Bring your speedos!
The Fumaroles of Furnas
If it weren’t for the view – definitely the best view of the Azores – the hike itself would be rather dull. We climbed up the steep mountain from the center of the village of Sete Ciudades and made the tour around the craters on country roads (yes, there were even cars).
This was probably the most beautiful hike of the Azores, but at least it’s in my top 3.
We had the pleasure to stay in this wonderful building for several nights and as it was low season we had it for our own most of the time. The owners carefully restored it and filled it with antiques.
What a feeling to walk through those honorable halls.
