Miradouro do Pico do Carvão is a must-stop viewpoint on São Miguel Island, right along the main road connecting Ponta Delgada and Sete Cidades. The name translates to “Peak of Coal”—probably a nod to the dark volcanic rocks in the area, though no one’s completely sure of the exact origin.

This spot is fantastic for capturing the island’s varied landscapes all in one view. From here, you can see a series of volcanic cones stretching across São Miguel, along with some beautiful lakes like Lagoa das Empadadas and Lagoa de Santiago. On clear days, you can even catch glimpses of both the northern and southern coastlines.

What makes this viewpoint especially convenient is its location; you can easily pull over and enjoy the scenery, whether you’re a photographer or just out to soak in the views. The mix of lush green hills, volcanic formations, and shimmering lakes gives you a real sense of the island’s unique geography. Definitely worth a quick stop if you’re exploring this part of the Azores!