Furnas: bubbling mud and hot springs

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Furnas, Sao Miguel
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 318.- per person

What makes Furnas special? It's located on top of an active volcano! Bathe here in healing hot springs surrounded by bubbling mud pools and steaming sulphur springs, and sample traditional stew, cooked in the volcanic soil.

Day 1 – Welcome to Vale das Furnas

Like all other islands in the Azores, São Miguel is of volcanic origin. There is no better place to experience and feel this than in the town of Furnas in the east of the island. The special thing about Furnas is that the place is located on an active volcano. Don’t worry, the last time there was an eruption was in 1630!

To get to Furnas from Ponta Delgada we can arrange a rental car for you or a transfer. Speak to us for more information and costs. As you enter the crater, the sulphur smell hits you and you’ll see bubbling mud pools, steaming springs and geysers everywhere. You will stay in a comfortable hotel, with its own hot pools, in Furnas for the next few nights. Because you will be staying at an altitude of over 800 metres, it can cool down considerably in the evening, especially in winter, so don’t forget to bring warmer clothing.

Day 2 – Walking the crater lake

Furnas seems like one big tropical garden, created by the fertile volcanic soil and the humid climate. Today you will have plenty of time to explore. We can happily give you tips on walking routes in the area. In less than two hours you can drive around deep cliffs, rolling landscapes, lighthouses and waterfalls. We would recommend a walk along the green-blue crater lake of Lagoa das Furnas where you can alternate walking among ferns, colourful flowers and dense forests with swimming in ponds or bathing in mud pools.

Near your hotel there are many hot springs that have medicinal properties where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful view. Also an ideal activity for a rainy day.

Although the Furnas area already has many special swimming and bathing spots, there is also a beautiful beach nearby. At the quietly located Praia Moinhos you can combine a dip in the sea with a walk to waterfalls and beautiful viewpoints.

This evening we suggest trying the speciality of the region – ‘Cozido das Furnas’ – a traditional stew that is simmered for hours in the volcanic ground. Most local restaurants have it on the menu.