São Miguel Island Map

Description:
This map shows cities, towns, villages, main roads, secondary roads, museums, monuments, beaches, points of interest, tourist attractions and sightseeings on São Miguel

About São Miguel Island

São Miguel Island, located in the North Atlantic Ocean, is the largest and most populous island in Portugal's Azores archipelago. With an area of 293 square miles (759 square kilometers), it is often referred to as "The Green Island" due to its lush landscapes and abundant vegetation. The island was discovered and settled by Portuguese navigators in the 15th century and has since developed into a significant tourist destination.

The island's capital and largest city is Ponta Delgada, which serves as the economic and administrative center of the Azores. The city features distinctive Portuguese architecture, including the iconic Gates to the City and the Church of São Sebastião. Other significant towns include Ribeira Grande, Vila Franca do Campo, and Nordeste.

One of the island's most remarkable natural attractions is the Sete Cidades volcanic complex, featuring twin lakes - one blue and one green - surrounded by steep crater walls. The Vale das Furnas is another notable geological site, known for its active fumaroles, hot springs, and the traditional cooking of "cozido" in underground geothermal ovens. The Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake) is a pristine crater lake situated at the center of the island, surrounded by protected natural reserves and hiking trails.

The island's temperate maritime climate, with year-round mild temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 25°C (77°F), supports various agricultural activities, particularly pineapple cultivation in greenhouses and tea plantations. The Gorreana Tea Factory, established in 1883, is Europe's oldest tea plantation still in operation. Terra Nostra Garden, a historic botanical garden in Furnas, showcases an impressive collection of native and exotic plants, along with a popular thermal pool.

São Miguel's coastline features several black sand beaches and natural swimming pools, with Praia de Santa Bárbara and Praia do Pópulo being popular spots for surfing and swimming. The island is also renowned for whale watching opportunities, with various marine species frequently spotted in its waters, including sperm whales, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins.