On the island of São Miguel, driving along twisting, turning mountain roads lined with wild pink azaleas, purple African lilies, blue hydrangeas, and red roses built with black lava bricks brings you to breathtaking views of several lakes such as Sete Cidades, an unusual emerald green and sapphire blue color, Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire) which varies in color as the clouds roll in and out, and Logoa Congro surrounding you with every shade of green imaginable, slowing your pulse, and connecting you immediately with nature. Miradouros (view points) from your car or hiking steep and winding trails affords you more astonishing views of lakes, lighthouses, sunsets, and the cliffs along the ocean that will stop you in your steps, soaking in the wonder of this land.
Thermal pools abound, some more rustic than others, beckon you to soothe your aching muscles and truly relax in Zen-like manner. The Poça da Dona Beija is mystical and luxurious, while the Caldeira Velha has a more natural feel, and the pool in the town of Caldieras feels more private. Venturing on the path less traveled and actually closed off due to landslides at Piscina Natural da Ponta da Ferraria, is an ever-filling ocean pool with water heated by the thermals below. Bathers hold on to ropes to keep from being swept out to sea or beneath the volcanic rock.