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Lagoa do Fogo, Azores © Portuguese Department of Tourism
Overview: Sao Miguel, largest in the Azores group, is scenically spectacular with green pastures and forest-covered volcanic peaks. The island may be the largest, but it is still very small - just 40 miles (64km) long and 7.5 miles (12km) wide. Its most alluring attraction is Sete Cidades, a 15 square mile (40 sq-km) volcanic crater containing two lakes, one deep blue, and the other emerald green. The town of Ponta Delgada on the island is the largest in the archipelago, and features an historic centre with pretty whitewashed houses dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. There are numerous low-key accommodation establishments and good restaurants. The island also features a tropical garden at Terra Nostra Park, where it is possible to bathe in therapeutic spring water, as well as the only tea plantation in Europe, sited at Gorreana. The island is famed for its delicious pineapples and intricate embroidery.