Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras

The Cerrado das Freiras viewpoint is often forgotten although you pass by all the time.

Located at approximately 514 meters above sea level, it offers a perspective of the famous Blue and Green Lagoons and the Lagoa de Santiago.

While the famous Vista do Rei viewpoint (I will write something about that later on) shows the caldera from afar, Cerrado das Freiras brings you much closer to the Blue Lagoon, allowing you to see the details of the banks and the dense vegetation surrounding the Green Lagoon and the village.

The name "Cerrado das Freiras" comes from a legend (and local history) about a group of nuns who supposedly took refuge in this isolated area to escape pirate attacks in the 16th century.

It's an excellent and more tranquil alternative to more touristy viewpoints like Boca do Inferno or Vista do Rei, but in this season there are not many tourists around.

It's located on the regional road (ER9-1) that descends to the village of Sete Cidades. There's a small free parking lot nearby. So like I already wrote, you pass by anyways.

Like mostly the best time for visit is sunrise or sunset, since the soft light enhances the contrast between the blue and green of the waters.

You can also reach it on foot via trails that connect to the Santiago Lagoon or even by bicycle from the village.Read more