The parish of Furnas, located on the island of São Miguel, 40 km from Ponta Delgada, is one of the most fascinating and unmissable tourist attractions in the Azores archipelago.
The village has approximately 1,500 inhabitants and is known for its unique volcanic landscapes, thermal waters, and a culture centred around geotourism. It is considered by experts to be the largest hydropolis in the world, with 22 classified types of mineral-medicinal waters.
Visiting Furnas offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking relaxation and contact with nature.
What are the Caldeiras of Furnas?
The Caldeiras of Furnas are an area of hot springs and fumaroles resulting from geothermal activity, located on São Miguel Island in the Azores. They are characterized by boiling waters, bubbling mud, and steam emissions, offering a unique geological and natural landscape.
When is the best time to visit Furnas?
Furnas can be visited year-round, but it’s best to avoid rainy days. Whenever possible, plan to spend a full day exploring the region properly. There’s a lot to see and do, and with the islanders’ relaxed pace, the goal is to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.
Gastronomy
- Cozido das Furnas: This is undoubtedly the most iconic dish of the Azores. Made with meats and vegetables, it is cooked using the natural heat of the volcanic ground. The result is a succulent and flavourful dish. This cooking method is a local tradition that draws visitors from around the world.
Where can you eat Cozido das Furnas? What is the cooking temperature and time? How deep is it buried? All these answers and more can be found in our dedicated post about Cozido: azoresgps.com/furnascozido - Bolo levedo: This traditional specialty is a type of sweet, thick, and soft bread that can be served plain or with savoury fillings such as cheese or ham, or sweet toppings.
- Maçarocas de milho: Boiled corn. Cooked in the caldeiras in large sacks. After a short period, the corn is removed already cooked and then rinsed to eliminate any traces of sulfur from the ground. Prepared and sold today for 1 euro each during the months of June, August, and September.
Hot Springs
- Terra Nostra: Within this beautiful park, you’ll find a thermal pool rich in iron — one of the main attractions of the area. Swimming in these warm waters is a relaxing and invigorating experience.
- Dona Beija: Another spot highly appreciated by visitors, perfect for revitalizing both body and mind.
Suggested read: 5 Thermal Pools in São Miguel
Other Attractions
- Casa Invertida: Upside-Down House. A curious electricity transformation station built in the shape of a house — but upside down. It’s original and fun, making it a great photo opportunity.
- Jardim & Lava pés: Garden & Foot Soak Area. A pleasant and well-kept garden filled with plants and flowers, featuring a lovely waterfall, a fish aquarium, and a small bridge. It’s also a fun place for children. At the end of your visit, take a moment to soak your feet in Poça da Tia Silvina, a small thermal pool known for its therapeutic waters, especially beneficial for treating skin issues on the feet and legs. dermatológicos nos pés e pernas.
- Capela Nossa Senhora das Vitórias: Chapel. Located on the shores of Furnas Lake, this chapel is an impressive example of neo-Gothic architecture, unique in the Azores. Commissioned in the late 19th century by José do Canto, a notable Azorean, the chapel stands as a masterpiece of its time.
- Miradouro Pico do Ferro: Viewpoint. One of the most famous viewpoints in São Miguel and the Azores, offering a breathtaking panoramic view over Furnas Lake, the fumaroles, and the entire parish of Furnas. From here, you can fully appreciate the vast volcanic crater.
How to Get There
- By car: The road to Furnas has many curves, so it’s important to drive carefully. If you’re starting from Ponta Delgada, one suggestion is to take one route there and return via another, to enjoy different landscapes. For example, you can go north, passing through Ribeira Grande, and return via the south, through Vila Franca do Campo. Either way, the trip takes approximately 45 minutes.
Recommended reading: Driving Rules and Tips for São Miguel
- Excursão em Jeep ou Van: These tours usually include a visit to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, the fumaroles, a stop for a thermal bath, and a visit to Furnas village. They often make two additional stops along the way: one at a tea plantation and another at the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz, a stunning viewpoint in Vila Franca do Campo.
Full-day tours departing from Ponta Delgada currently cost 80€ per person, including lunch. You can find more information and book a group tour here: azoresgps.com/tour-furnas
Is It Worth Booking a Private Tour?
Yes! Private tours are always an excellent choice, especially if you have a good guide. A qualified guide can make the experience much more engaging and tailored to your interests. More information: click here.
How to find a good local guide?
Besides being polite and communicative, the guide should be licensed, insured, and fluent in English to ensure clear communication throughout your time together.
Ideally, this should be someone local or someone who knows the history and geography of the region very well and can share interesting facts and stories.
If you are looking for a guide who speaks a specific language (Russian, French, German, Spanish, etc.) please contact us by WhatsApp for recommendations.
Accommodation in Furnas
If you’re planning to stay in Furnas, expect peaceful days and plenty of charm. Below we’ve listed some recommendations based on research we conducted with tourism professionals, as well as traveler reviews and different visitor profiles.
Here are the prices we found for December 2024, for two people:
50 – 120 euros per night:
120 – 200 euros per night:
200 euros or more per night:
