On the easternmost edge of São Miguel Island, the municipality of Nordeste reveals some of the most striking landscapes in the Azores. Between dramatic volcanic cliffs, lush green slopes and the vast Atlantic Ocean, two viewpoints stand out as unmissable stops: the Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada and the Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego.

Located just minutes apart, they form a simple yet memorable route — ideal for those looking to explore Nordeste, São Miguel at a slower, more meaningful pace.

Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint: where the day begins over the Atlantic.

The Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint is widely regarded as one of the best places to watch the sunrise in São Miguel. Its fully east-facing position offers uninterrupted views over the ocean, making it a privileged spot to witness the first light of the day.

Steep cliffs drop dramatically into the sea, forming a natural amphitheater open to the horizon. On clear mornings, the sun rises directly from the Atlantic, gradually illuminating the rugged coastline and creating a striking contrast between the deep blue ocean and the island’s vibrant greenery.

The viewpoint is landscaped and well maintained, with benches, shaded areas and short walking paths. Arriving 30 to 45 minutes before sunrise allows you to experience the subtle transformation of colors across the sky, in an atmosphere that is usually calm and peaceful.

Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint: a garden suspended above the sea.

Just a short drive away lies the Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint, equally iconic but with a distinctly different atmosphere.

Arranged across several terraced gardens, the space features wide lawns, camellias, azaleas and other ornamental plants that bloom especially in spring and summer. From its various observation points, visitors can admire the Fajã do Araújo, the jagged coastline and the Atlantic waves crashing against the cliffs below.

The viewpoint offers free parking, picnic tables and resting areas, making it ideal for a longer stop during a day exploring Nordeste. In late morning or during the afternoon, the light enhances the vivid contrast between the lush vegetation and the open ocean.

If Ponta da Madrugada represents the energy of a new day, Ponta do Sossego invites you to slow down and linger.

Practical tips for visiting

Best time of day

• Ponta da Madrugada: sunrise (arrive before the sun rises).
• Ponta do Sossego: late morning or mid-afternoon.

Average visit time

• 20 to 40 minutes per viewpoint.
• Both can easily be visited in one morning.

Access

• Easy access by car.
• Free parking available.
• Short and well-defined walking paths.

Best time of year
Both viewpoints can be visited year-round, as the panoramic Atlantic views remain impressive in every season.
Spring and summer bring fuller gardens and more vibrant vegetation. On clear days — regardless of the season — visibility across the ocean is particularly wide.

An essential route in Nordeste, São Miguel

Combining sunrise at Ponta da Madrugada with a relaxed visit to Ponta do Sossego is one of the most complete ways to experience the eastern coastline of São Miguel. Their proximity allows for a natural route, without long drives and with time to appreciate each landscape in detail.

For those staying at Tradicampo Eco Country Houses, just minutes from these viewpoints, it is possible to enjoy the experience at your own pace — heading out before dawn to watch the sunrise and returning afterwards to the comfort of your house, continuing the day in harmony with the rhythm of Nordeste.

Between the energy of early morning light and the serenity of the afternoon, these two viewpoints beautifully express the natural identity of this part of the island.

Welcome to Tradicampo Eco-Country Houses. Your home in the Azores.