4.0
(451)
1,591
hikers
Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades Loop
04:00
13.0km
400m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 8.1-mile Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades Loop for panoramic views of the twin lakes and a full caldera experience.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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3.39 km
View of Sete Cidades and the Atlantic Coast
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
8.64 km
Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde
Highlight • Bridge
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Tip by
12.9 km
Vista do Rei viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
13.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.73 km
4.56 km
726 m
Surfaces
4.77 km
3.45 km
2.04 km
1.38 km
1.38 km
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Elevation
Highest point (610 m)
Lowest point (260 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 9 May
16°C
10°C
31 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 32.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to start and park for the Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades Loop?
The most common starting point for this loop is near the Vista do Rei viewpoint. There is usually parking available in this area. Starting here allows for an initial descent into the caldera.
Is the Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially given the presence of livestock (cows) in some areas and for the safety of other hikers and wildlife. Remember to pack out any waste.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The best time to hike is typically during spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is milder and the landscapes are lush. In spring and summer, you'll see vibrant hydrangeas. While accessible year-round, summer can be hot and busy, and winter may bring more rain and mist, making some sections muddy.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for this hike or the Sete Cidades Protected Landscape Area?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades Loop or to access the Sete Cidades Protected Landscape Area. However, always respect local regulations and leave no trace.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this loop trail?
The trail offers varied terrain. You'll encounter wide, exposed gravel roads along the rim, transitioning to dirt tracks and open ridges. There's also a paved road section when entering Sete Cidades village. Be prepared for rocky and potentially muddy sections, especially after rain. The climb back to the rim can be steep and 'jungly'.
What are the main sights and viewpoints along the route?
This loop is famous for its stunning views. Key highlights include the panoramic View of Sete Cidades and the Atlantic Coast, the iconic Vista do Rei viewpoint, and the picturesque twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, separated by a Dam Between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. You'll also pass through the charming Sete Cidades village.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, while primarily following the PR03SMI Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades route, sections of this loop also intersect with parts of the PR04SMI Mata do Canário - Sete Cidades trail and Rua das Setes Sidades.
What should I bring for a hike on the Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades Loop?
Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather, it's advisable to bring sturdy hiking shoes, layers of clothing (including a waterproof jacket), sufficient water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a camera for the incredible views. Trekking poles can be helpful for the steeper sections.
Are there any facilities like cafes or restrooms in Sete Cidades village?
Yes, the picturesque Sete Cidades village, located within the caldera, offers a few cafes and restaurants where you can grab a meal or a drink. Restrooms are also typically available in the village.
What is the recommended direction to hike the loop for the best experience?
Many hikers prefer to start at the Vista do Rei viewpoint and descend into the caldera first. This allows for a relatively easier downhill start and saves the steeper, more challenging climb for the return leg from the village back to the rim. This direction also offers continuous panoramic views as you descend.
Is public transport available to reach the trailhead?
Public transport options to the Vista do Rei area can be limited. While there are bus services to Sete Cidades village, reaching the Vista do Rei viewpoint directly by public bus might require transfers or a longer walk. Taxis or ride-sharing services are often a more direct option, or consider renting a car for flexibility.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Beautiful hike in general but be careful the path off the road on the right bank of the lake is now a downhill mountain bike trail that should not be taken. The King's viewpoint is however breathtaking. The hike on the path lined with hydrangeas is magical.
The way back from Sete Ciudades to the viewpoint is closed to hikers as it is a bike trail! In addition, the last part is no longer maintained. Bushes and fallen tree trunks make it difficult to get through and sometimes even very dangerous. This route should be avoided at all costs!
We've now completed part of the circuit around the two lakes (one of Portugal's Seven Natural Wonders). First on wide hiking trails, then along the two lakes on comfortable sidewalks, and then towards the end (after the bridge, the hiking trail running parallel to the road is closed), we also went off-road (heavy rainfall made some paths impassable). I enjoyed it. Others weren't so happy, but it didn't matter. The scenery was magnificent almost everywhere and more than made up for all the effort.
The tour starts at the car park and leads along the ridge to the lake. We took a break there at Green Love. Then we continued. I wouldn't recommend the climb. The initial narrow path became a via ferrata and was very difficult. But in moderate weather it was a beautiful tour with great views.
The initial part of the path marked by Komoot has a section that is impassable, we had to make a detour
Enjoyed the walk, but there is a lot of road to do the loop. Some of the other off-road loop routes take you on private mountain bike routes.
On the way back, after the bridge between the lake, you should not leave the road at the approximately 400-meter elevation gain, as indicated. This path is overgrown and no longer leads, probably due to a landslide. Now, continue along the road for a bend, and at the second hairpin bend, the new hiking trail continues to the right. The old trail would have joined this path again later. Then you're on the right track, and you're back on a very beautiful path.