PONTA DELGADA HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Ridges, Lagoons and a Hidden Gullies: An 8‑Hour Traverse of Serra Devassa to Grota do Inferno
A full‑day circular hike across the volcanic Sete Cidades complex that details route, viewpoints and practical guidance for the Serra Devassa & Grota do Inferno loop.
Ridges, Lagoons and a Hidden Gullies: An 8‑Hour Traverse of Serra Devassa to Grota do Inferno.
Adventure brief
Ridges, Lagoons and a Hidden Gullies: An 8‑Hour Traverse of Serra Devassa to Grota do Inferno
This full‑day walk threads a challenging circular route across the Sete Cidades volcanic complex, passing crater lagoons, aqueducts and endemic vegetation before climbing to the summit ridge at Pico das Éguas and visiting the Miradouro Grota do Inferno—an immersive way to learn the island's geomorphology while taking in seldom‑seen angles on the lakes.
Sete Cidades, a volcanic caldera on Portugal’s Azores archipelago, offers one of the most visually striking landscapes in the Atlantic. Futurismo Azores Adventures guides outdoor enthusiasts through an 8-hour panoramic circuit that showcases the island’s geological and botanical wonders. This hike is designed for those seeking a challenge, traversing rugged trails that reveal cascading lagoons, historic aqueducts, and endemic flora amid volcanic terrain.
Starting from the lush surroundings of the Caldeira, the trail weaves through verdant forests and rocky outcroppings, each turn offering sweeping views of the twin lakes: Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul—named for their distinctive colors. Hikers ascend to Pico das Éguas, a commanding viewpoint that overlooks the caldera’s edge. Along the way, the guide highlights volcanic features like lava flows and basalt formations, adding depth to the journey.
A highlight is the Miradouro Grota do Inferno, a hidden gem with a dramatic overlook that captures the rugged charm of this volcanic landscape. Rest stops include a scenic picnic spot where hikers can refuel and soak in the surroundings. The trail’s combination of geological interest and natural beauty makes it a standout adventure for those eager to experience the Azores' raw wilderness.
Futurismo Azores Adventures emphasizes safety and immersion, making sure participants leave with lasting memories and a true sense of connection to the land. This guided day trip offers a fulfilling way to experience Portugal’s volcanic heartland—perfect for adventure seekers interested in hiking, nature, and authentic landscapes that remain untouched by modern development.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops and sights on the circular Serra Devassa — Grota do Inferno route.
Muro do Carvão (Briefing & Start)
The walk begins at the Muro do Carvão with an introductory briefing covering the route and local features before setting out.
Lagoa do Caldeirão and Pico das Éguas
The trail visits Lagoa do Caldeirão en route to the highest point in the Sete Cidades, Pico das Éguas, offering broad crater and lake views.
Lagoa das Éguas and Lagoa do Canário
A sequence of crater lakes—Lagoa das Éguas and Lagoa do Canário—appear along the ridge, each framed by volcanic slopes and endemic vegetation.
Picnic Pause
Midway the group stops for a pause to recover energy and eat a picnic before continuing to the viewpoints.
Miradouro Grota do Inferno & Nascentes do Canário
The famous Grota do Inferno viewpoint and the nearby springs of Canário are visited—highlighting local geomorphology and water sources.
Return via Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa das Empadadas
The descent and return traverse Lagoa Rasa and enter the Lagoa das Empadadas park to complete the circular route back to the starting point.
This is an approximately 8‑hour, somewhat challenging circular hike; participants should be prepared for a full day on varied volcanic terrain and be aware the operator provides a route briefing and may adapt the itinerary as conditions require.
What the day feels like
How the Day Feels
Expect a sustained, energetic day on volcanic terrain: the operator begins with a briefing at the Muro do Carvão before the group follows Serra Devassa across ridgelines and through pockets of native vegetation, pauses for a picnic, visits the Miradouro Grota do Inferno and the springs of Canário, then returns through Lagoa Rasa and the Lagoa das Empadadas park to complete the circuit.
THE LANDSCAPE
Volcanic Crater Lagoons and Endemic Vegetation
The route reveals multiple crater lagoons—Lagoa do Caldeirão, Lagoa das Éguas and Lagoa do Canário—woven with aqueducts, springs and patches of endemic Azorean flora, forming the hike's defining panorama.
THE ROUTE
A Complete, Circular Serra Devassa Traverse
This circular trail starts at the Muro do Carvão with a briefing, climbs the Serra Devassa ridge up to Pico das Éguas, includes a picnic pause, and returns via Lagoa Rasa and the Lagoa das Empadadas park to the point of departure.
THE VIEWPOINT
Grota do Inferno and the Springs of Canário
Among the hidden gems on the route is the Miradouro Grota do Inferno; the trail also passes the nascentes (springs) of Canário, offering intimate geological and hydrological sights off the main tourist circuit.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day‑long hike suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Full‑day hike lasting approximately 8 hours.
Meeting at Futurismo Azores Adventure before the briefing and start at Muro do Carvão.
A picnic for the scheduled pause is part of the route; plan for provisions you will eat during the picnic.
The trail is a circular route through Serra Devassa that visits multiple lagoons, Pico das Éguas and Grota do Inferno, finishing at the original departure point.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the hike?
The hike is approximately 8 hours in total.
Where do we meet before the hike?
The meeting point is Futurismo Azores Adventure.
Is there a picnic or food stop?
Yes—there is a scheduled pause during the walk for a picnic.
What are the main sights on the route?
Key sights include Lagoa do Caldeirão, Pico das Éguas, Lagoa das Éguas, Lagoa do Canário, the Miradouro Grota do Inferno and the nascentes do Canário.
Is the trail suitable for inexperienced walkers?
The route is described as somewhat challenging and lasts a full day, so it is best suited to hikers accustomed to prolonged effort rather than complete beginners.
Does the route return to the starting point?
Yes—the trail is circular and returns to the point of departure after passing Lagoa das Empadadas park.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-15T00:34:07.661Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.