Discovering Lagoa das Furnas
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Discovering Lagoa das Furnas

Volcanic crater lake and thermal valley in Furnas

1 day • Easy difficulty • Est. €68

Day 1: Volcanic Wonders & Traditional Cuisine in Furnas

A full day exploring the Furnas Valley, focusing on its unique geothermal features, the scenic Lagoa das Furnas, and the famous local cuisine cooked underground.

  • 09:00

    Arrival in Furnas

    Drive or take a bus from Ponta Delgada to Furnas (approx. 45-60 mins). Park near the center or your accommodation.

  • 10:10

    Visit Pico da Vaca

    Explore the Pico da Vaca natural pool and the surrounding thermal area. Enjoy the steam vents and the unique volcanic landscape. This is a free, accessible spot perfect for photos.

  • 11:55

    Lagoa das Furnas Scenic Walk

    Walk along the paved path surrounding Lagoa das Furnas. While swimming is prohibited, the views are stunning. You can rent paddle boats if desired (extra cost) or simply enjoy the lush greenery and volcanic steam rising from the water's edge.

  • 14:00

    Lunch: Cozido das Furnas

    Experience the famous 'Cozido das Furnas', a traditional stew cooked underground using the natural heat of the volcanic earth. Recommended restaurants include Restaurante Santa Bárbara or Restaurante O Tio. Book in advance as it takes time to prepare.

  • 15:10

    Caldeiras Vivas Thermal Pools

    Relax in the natural thermal pools of Caldeiras Vivas. The water is rich in minerals and has a therapeutic reputation. You can swim in the warm, natural pools surrounded by nature.

  • 16:50

    Explore Furnas Village

    Stroll through the charming village center. Visit the local artisan shops, see the traditional houses, and perhaps buy some local honey or corn products. Visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição.

  • 18:00

    Dinner: Local Azorean Cuisine

    Enjoy a lighter dinner at a local tasca or cafe. Try local cheeses, fresh fish, or the famous 'queijadas' (sweet cheese cakes).

Meals: Lunch at Restaurante Santa Bárbara or similar in Furnas , Dinner at Local Tasca in Furnas Village

Where to stay: Stay in Furnas to fully immerse in the thermal experience. Options range from hotels with thermal pools (like Vila Furnas Hotel) to rural tourism houses (Turismo Rural).

Getting around: A car is highly recommended for flexibility, though taxis or local buses can connect major points. Walking is sufficient within the village and around the lake.

Practical Information

Furnas is located in the eastern part of São Miguel, approximately 43 to 50 kilometers from Ponta Delgada. While the area is accessible year-round, it is best visited during spring or autumn to avoid peak summer crowds and extreme heat. The climate is generally mild, but weather can change rapidly in volcanic regions, so checking forecasts is essential. Reaching Furnas requires a car, as public transportation is limited and infrequent. Renting a vehicle from providers like Micauto or Wayzor is highly recommended for flexibility. Once in Furnas, the town is walkable, but exploring the surrounding volcanic features and hiking trails is most efficient with private transport. Accommodation in Furnas offers a serene, rural atmosphere distinct from the bustling capital. Staying in the town center or nearby valleys allows easy access to thermal pools and restaurants. Since Furnas is described as deserving at least a couple of days to fully appreciate, consider splitting a week-long stay between Ponta Delgada and Furnas to experience both urban and natural sides of the island. Budgeting should account for car rental, accommodation, and meals. Notably, the famous *cozido das Furnas* stew is a must-try local specialty, often cooked in the earth’s natural heat, and should be factored into dining costs. When visiting Lagoa das Furnas, note that swimming is prohibited to protect the ecosystem. Instead, visitors can rent paddle boats or hike the 5-mile loop around the lake. The PRC6SMI circular hike is a popular option for experiencing the crater lake views. Pack sturdy hiking shoes, waterproof jackets, and layers, as the volcanic terrain can be uneven and weather unpredictable. Bring swimwear if you plan to visit the thermal pools, which are renowned for their medicinal properties and have been used since the 18th century for treating rheumatism and skin conditions. Other essentials include sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the unique landscape of lush greenery mixed with volcanic steam holes. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance, as recommended for this remote destination. Finally, respect local guidelines by not feeding wildlife indiscriminately and staying on marked trails to preserve the delicate volcanic environment.

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