Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Sete Cidades, Sao Miguel!

Sete Cidades

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure in Sete Cidades: A Day of Azure Lakes and Accessible Views

Embark on a sensory journey through the mystic landscapes of Sete Cidades, a sanctuary of natural beauty set on São Miguel Island in the Azores. This itinerary is tailored for accessibility, ensuring that everyone can soak in its stunning vistas and captivating tales.

Morning: Miradouro da Vista do Rei

Start your day at Ponta Delgada, where you can rent a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Drive 30 minutes to the iconic Miradouro da Vista do Rei, one of Azores" most celebrated viewpoints. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the twin lakes separated by a bridge, where one appears blue and the other green, due to reflecting different types of vegetation. This spot is accessible, with paved paths and viewing platforms, allowing you to enjoy the majestic scene in comfort.

Lunch: Lagoa Azul

Head down to the lakeside for a scenic picnic at Lagoa Azul. There are designated accessible picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal amidst nature. The serene environment makes for a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: São Nicolau Church

After lunch, visit the charming São Nicolau Church. Nestled in the village of Sete Cidades, this accessible site features quaint architecture with intriguing narratives of local lore. The church and its surroundings are smoothed and flat, making it easy to explore.

Evening: Ponte da Lagoa

Conclude your day with a gentle stroll or roll along Ponte da Lagoa, the bridge that offers a unique perspective of the two-colored lake phenomenon. The bridge and its adjoining paths are well-paved, ensuring ease of access as you capture the perfect sunset shot.

Getting Around

For getting around, specialized transport services such as Taxis for All can provide convenient and comfortable travel options. Always check ahead with venues and attractions for specific accessibility features to ensure a smooth experience.

Did You Know?

Legend has it that the two lakes represent the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love, adding a layer of romance to your picturesque visit.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Vila Franca do Campo

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day Tour in Vila Franca do Campo

Morning: Marina Stroll and Historic Insights

Start your day at the charming marina of Vila Franca do Campo. Wheelchair-accessible paths allow you to enjoy the serene sea views and bustling morning activities of local fishermen. Easily accessible public parking spots are available nearby. Begin with a visit to the local church, Igreja de São Miguel Arcanjo, an architectural gem from the 18th century, featuring ramps for easy access.

Midday: Quinta dos Sabores Organic Farm

For lunch, head to Quinta dos Sabores, just a 10-minute drive from the town center. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with an accessible entrance and facilities. Enjoy Azorean specialties prepared with organic ingredients directly sourced from the surrounding fields.

Afternoon: Cultural Center and Pottery Viewing

Post-lunch, explore the Vila Franca Cultural Center located in the heart of the town. The center provides ramped entrances and spacious interiors, perfect for exploring local art and historical exhibits. Don"t miss the live pottery demonstrations at Cerâmica Vieira, a 10-minute accessible drive away. They offer a fascinating insight into the traditional craft with wheelchair-friendly viewing areas.

Evening: Sunset at Praia da Vinha d’Areia

Conclude your day at Praia da Vinha d’Areia, a picturesque beach with a fully accessible boardwalk and viewing platforms. Located just 5 minutes from the town center, it"s the perfect spot to unwind and watch the sunset. Wheelchair-accessible parking and bathroom facilities are provided, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Throughout your journey in Vila Franca do Campo, each destination is equipped with adequate accessibility features, making it a stress-free, enjoyable day for those on wheels.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Pico do Carvão Viewpoint (Miradouro do Pico do Carvão)

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking journey to one of São Miguel"s most scenic spots, the Pico do Carvão Viewpoint (Miradouro do Pico do Carvão). Nestled in the heart of the Azores, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of both the north and south coasts of the island, as well as an array of volcanic cones and lakes that decorate the lush landscape of central São Miguel.

Getting There

Located conveniently between the towns of Ponta Delgada and Sete Cidades, the viewpoint is accessible by a well-maintained road, the EN9-1A. Rent a wheelchair-accessible vehicle from Ponta Delgada, and enjoy a scenic 20-minute drive. Ample parking is available close to the viewpoint, making it easy for those with mobility challenges.

At the Viewpoint

Pico do Carvão boasts a spacious viewing platform, complete with wheelchair-accessible facilities ensuring everyone can enjoy the majestic vistas. Interpretative signs in multiple languages explain the geological history and significance of the sights before you. Take in the sweeping views of the mystical Lagoa do Canário and the iconic Lagoa das Sete Cidades from this unique vantage point.

Interesting Facts

The viewpoint"s elevation at about 740 meters above sea level allows for unobstructed 360-degree views. The name "Pico do Carvão" translates to "Peak of Coal," harking back to a time when the surrounding forests were dense and reminiscent of coal.

Plan Your Visit

- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall offers the clearest views and the most comfortable weather.

- Accessibility: The area around the viewpoint is paved and mostly flat, ideal for wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

- Facilities: Accessible restrooms and picnic areas are available.

Pico do Carvão is not just a viewpoint; it"s a window into the soul of the Azores, offering a moment of tranquility high above the sea-soaked shores, accessible to all who seek its beauty.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Furnas

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Furna, Azores

Day 1: Discovering Furnas

Start your adventure in the charming village of Furnas by settling into one of the accessible hotels like the Furnas Boutique Hotel, well-equipped with facilities for wheelchair users. Post-check-in, take a gentle stroll or a short drive to the nearby Terra Nostra Park. This 18th-century garden offers smooth, flat pathways amidst lush, exotic flora and thermal springs. The park is famous for its geo-thermal heated pool, which is accessible via a specially designed hoist, ensuring everyone can enjoy a relaxing dip in its mineral-rich waters.

Lunch at Terra Nostra Garden Hotel offers a comfortable dining experience with accessible amenities and a chance to try cozido, a local stew cooked underground by volcanic steam.

In the afternoon, visit the Furnas Monitoring and Research Centre. Located within easy access from the village center, this center provides fascinating insights into the volcanic activity that shapes the landscape of São Miguel. The exhibitions are interactive and designed to be accessible for all.

Day 2: Exploring the Environs

Embark on a scenic drive to the Furnas Lake, a short distance from the village. Companies like Autatlantis offer accessible vehicle rentals to ensure a comfortable trip for those using wheelchairs or scooters. At the lake, accessible pathways allow you to navigate around and enjoy the stunning views and lush greenery.

Picnic by the Lake: Take advantage of the designated picnic areas which are designed to be accessible, offering you a chance to relax by the waterside and perhaps enjoy some more cozido.

End your day with a visit to Pico do Ferro viewpoint. While not all areas are accessible, there is a designated viewing platform for wheelchair users offering panoramic views of Furnas Valley and its lake, providing a serene spot to reflect on your visit to this magical place.

Essential Tips:

- Always check the latest accessibility information with attractions directly.

- Consider visiting during off-peak seasons (Spring or Autumn) for a more relaxed experience.

- Furnas can be cooler than coastal areas, so bring a light jacket.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.