Mata do Canário - Sete Cidades - São Miguel PR4SMI

This trail begins near Mata do Canário, East part of the Sete Cidades ridges, and ends at the village.

Walk down the dirt road to your right until you reach the tarmac road. Turn left, continue along the aqueduct, known as Muro das Nove Janelas, rebuilt in 1830 in order to supply Ponta Delgada.

Proceed ahead by an ascending dirt road, with japanese cedars (Cryptomeria japonica) on the left side. Go up the hillside until you reach the first viewpoint to Sete Cidades lakes, Pico da Cruz.

Continue on the dirt road that not only accesses pastures, but also is one of the most fascinating stages of the Azores Rallye. Along the ridge it is possible to see the interior of the crater with its different lakes and volcanic formations, as well as all the north coast of the island.

Go round the Blue Lake, passing by detours to João Bom and Mosteiros, always following the main trail until reaching the fork with the trail PR 03 SMI - Vista do Rei/Sete Cidades.

Turn left, by the road of Arrebentões, heading Sete Cidades. This part of the trail is very slippery and inclined so we advise some caution going down, along the main road.

When in the village, profit to visit the requalification project of the lake banks and Casa do Parque. Finish the trail next to the church of São Nicolau at the village center.