Ponta Delgada is the capital and gateway of the Azores — the elegant city of black basalt and white render, with its iconic three-arched city gates, is the starting point for exploring São Miguel's extraordinary volcanic landscapes. The twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades, the thermal springs of Furnas, the hydrangea-lined roads and the hot springs beach of Ferraria make São Miguel one of the most dramatic islands in the Atlantic.