Sao Miguel Attractions

Topography

The highest points on the island are the Pico da Vara (1,105m/3,626ft) in the east and the Pico da Cruz (846m/2,776ft) in the west; in the middle of the island, between these two peaks, are many basalt cones ranging in height between 200m/650ft and 500m/1,650ft. The volcanic character of this hilly island is reflected in the countless extinct craters, large and small, and the severe earthquakes and volcanic eruptions which have racked Sao Miguel since the 15th C. Some of the largest craters are now occupied by beautiful mountain lakes (Caldeira das Sete Cidades, Lagoa das Furnas, Lagoa do Fogo) which are now among the island's main tourist attractions. Warm and mineral springs are found, particularly in the valleys of Ribeira Grande near the north coast, and at Furnas near the south coast.