Explore Furnas in São Miguel: A Hidden Gem in the Azores
During our time on São Miguel, my husband and I chose to stay in Furnas—a decision that felt almost fated. Nestled in the heart of the island, Furnas is a place where the earth’s raw power and tranquil beauty coexist in perfect harmony. Though it’s about a 40-minute drive from the airport, the journey feels more like an introduction to São Miguel’s soul. You wind through picturesque villages, past rolling green hills, and glimpses of the vast Atlantic, each turn offering a glimpse into the island’s story. If you’re visiting São Miguel, Furnas is a must-see destination, and you won’t want to miss experiencing Sao Miguel Furnas.
Furnas itself is a world unto its own. Known for its geothermal wonders, this village feels alive in a way few places do—steam rises from the earth, mineral-rich waters flow from its springs, and the air carries a sense of ancient magic. Visitors can soak in natural hot springs, taste the traditional Cozido das Furnas (a stew cooked by volcanic heat), and explore the lush Terra Nostra Garden, a botanical paradise that seems to have leapt from a dream.
Staying in Furnas offers more than just convenience; it provides an immersive experience into São Miguel’s volcanic heart and a perfect base to explore the wonders of this enchanting island.
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1. Soak in the Furnas Hot Springs
Step into the mystical warmth of the hot springs in Furnas. At Poça da Dona Beija, reserve your spot to immerse in therapeutic waters, surrounded by whispers of volcanic steam. No reservation is needed at Terra Nostra Garden, where you can freely explore the geothermal pools set amidst lush greenery, connecting deeply with the earth’s fiery heart in a serene embrace.
2. Visit Terra Nostra Garden
Step into the mystical embrace of Terra Nostra Garden, a world-renowned botanical sanctuary and a gem in Furnas of São Miguel. Wander its serene paths, surrounded by exotic plants and the scent of lush greenery, leading to a mineral-rich thermal pool at its heart. This natural spa, fed by volcanic earth, offers a healing, contemplative experience that connects deeply with the ancient, soothing forces of nature. Here, each visit is not just a walk but a profound communion with the earth’s quiet majesty.
3. Try Cozido das Furnas
Savor the mystical flavors of Cozido das Furnas, a traditional Portuguese stew steeped in the ancient cooking traditions of the Azores. Prepared in the earth’s embrace, this unique dish is slowly cooked underground, infused with the heat of volcanic steam. Each bite is a profound connection to the primal forces of nature, offering a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting you to taste the very essence of the islands’ volcanic spirit.
Be sure to call a day ahead to reserve, allowing the stew to be perfectly prepared underground all day, capturing the full depth of its flavors. Here are some popular spots to try Cozido das Furnas:
Tony’s Restaurant
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
À Terra
4. Explore the Lagoa das Furnas
Embark on a mystical journey around Lagoa das Furnas, a serene volcanic lake enveloped in profound tranquility. Wander or cycle along its shores, where the earth whispers through bubbling geothermal vents, weaving a tapestry of natural wonder. Visit the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, a silent sentinel of spirituality and grace standing watch over the lake. Each corner of this enchanted landscape offers a vista of incredible beauty and peace, inviting you to connect deeply with the soul of the Azores, where nature and serenity are in eternal embrace.
5. Discover Caldeiras das Furnas
Venture into the heart of the village of Furnas, where the earth’s raw power surfaces in a mesmerizing display at Caldeiras das Furnas. Here, steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools paint a surreal landscape, revealing the vibrant geothermal energy pulsing beneath the ground. As you wander through this mystical setting, feel the ancient energy envelop you, offering a profound connection to the primal forces shaping our world. It’s a place where the veil between the natural and the mystical thins, inviting you to witness the earth’s untamed beauty in its purest form.
6. Drink from the Mineral Springs
Embark on a profound journey of rejuvenation and discovery by sampling the unique, naturally carbonated waters of the Azores’ mineral springs. Each spring offers a distinct taste, infused with the earth’s own essence, providing varied health benefits that have been revered for centuries. As you drink from these sacred waters, imagine the slow filtration through ancient volcanic rocks, enriching each drop with minerals and elements that embody the mystical energy of the islands. It’s a ritual that not only quenches thirst but also connects you to the deep, elemental forces of nature, inviting a moment of reflection on the profound interplay between earth and water.
7. Enjoy a 5 Course Meal at Lake Furnas Restaurant
Indulge in a dining experience that transcends the ordinary at Lake Furnas Restaurant, where each dish is a chapter in a story of culinary enchantment. Savor a five-course meal meticulously crafted to harmonize with the mystical surroundings of Lake Furnas. Each course, inspired by the lush, volcanic landscape, invites you to a deeper appreciation of the island’s bounty. As you dine, let the serene views of the lake and the subtle whispers of nature enhance your experience, weaving together taste and tranquility into a profound gastronomic journey. This is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to feast amidst the elements, where each bite connects you to the soul of the Azores.
8. Enjoy Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
Ascend to the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, where the earth unveils its grand spectacle. Whether you drive or hike, the journey to this pinnacle offers a passage into a realm of profound vistas. Standing atop this vantage point, you are greeted by panoramic views that sweep across the Furnas Valley and its mystical lake, cradled by ancient volcanic terrain. Here, the world opens up, revealing its core, where the land has been sculpted by fiery forces deep beneath its surface. The air is thick with the spirit of the island, inviting you to pause and absorb the overwhelming majesty and serenity of this sacred landscape. It’s a place where the horizon stretches beyond sight, whispering ancient secrets of the natural world.
As our adventure in Furnas draws to a close, it’s clear that this enchanting corner of São Miguel offers far more than the eye can see or words can describe. From the mystical steams of Caldeiras das Furnas to the serene waters of Lagoa das Furnas, each experience has been a deep dive into the soul of the Azores. Drinking from the ancient mineral springs, dining amidst the breathtaking scenery, and standing atop Pico do Ferro with the world unfurled below us, we’ve been continuously reminded of the raw and powerful beauty of nature.
Furnas is not just a destination; it’s a journey through the vibrant pulse of the earth itself, a place where every path and every moment is imbued with the magic of the islands. Whether you’re seeking healing, adventure, or simply the peace that comes from profound natural beauty, Furnas offers a gateway to experiences that resonate deeply and linger long after you depart. So, come and find your place in this magical tapestry, where the land sings with the energy of the earth and the spirit of the Azores.
