Furnas: Morning Experience With Thermal Baths and Lunch

Nestled in the lush interior of São Miguel Island, the Furnas region beckons visitors to indulge in a morning of tranquility and culinary delight. Sinking into the mineral-rich waters of Poça da Dona Beija hot springs, one can’t help but feel the stresses of daily life melt away. But this is just the start of an immersive journey that unveils the unique volcanic landscape and vibrant culture of Furnas. As the morning unfolds, travelers will uncover the secrets behind the traditional cozido lunch, cooked underground, and gain a deeper appreciation for the Azorean way of life. With each step, the allure of this enchanting region becomes ever more captivating.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Lunch Experiences In Sao Miguel Island.

Key Points

• Explore the stunning Furnas region of São Miguel Island, including visiting the Poça da Dona Beija hot springs for 1.5 hours of relaxing thermal bathing.
• Discover the volcanic landscape and tranquil Furnas Lake, and enjoy a traditional cozido lunch slow-cooked in volcanic earth.
• Tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, with a duration of 5 hours for full immersion in Azorean culture and natural beauty.
• Relax in the soothing, mineral-rich waters of the Poça da Dona Beija hot springs, surrounded by lush vegetation and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Visit the Furnas village located in a volcanic caldera, with opportunities to explore lush gardens, parks, and the picturesque Furnas Lake.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Morning Experience Overview

This morning experience offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Furnas region of São Miguel Island.

After an early pickup, you’ll travel to the famous Poça da Dona Beija hot springs, where you’ll have 1.5 hours to soak in the therapeutic waters.

Then, it’s off to the village of Furnas to discover its volcanic landscape, including the tranquil Furnas Lake.

The highlight of the day is a traditional cozido lunch, a local specialty slow-cooked in the volcanic earth.

With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this 5-hour tour provides a hassle-free way to learn about Azorean culture and natural beauty.

Pricing Details

The Furnas Thermal Baths Experience offers an affordable way for visitors to indulge in the island’s natural wonders. Priced from €260.00 per group (up to 2 people), the 5-hour experience includes hotel pickup, entry to the hot springs, a traditional cozido lunch, and drop-off.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility. The package caters to various traveler types, from couples to solo adventurers, providing an ideal introduction to Furnas’ highlights.

With a duration of 5 hours, visitors can fully enjoy the Azorean experience, from relaxing in the thermal baths to exploring the scenic Furnas Lake and sampling the local cuisine.

Pickup and Itinerary

When does the tour begin? The morning experience starts with pickup at 8 AM from designated locations in Ribeira Grande or Ponta Delgada.

After a 30-minute car journey, guests arrive at the famous Poça da Dona Beija hot springs. Here, they can enjoy the soothing thermal waters for 1.5 hours.

The tour then visits Furnas village for a 30-minute exploration, followed by a stop at the picturesque Furnas Lake for another 30 minutes.

Finally, a traditional cozido lunch is served, allowing guests to savor a local specialty in a relaxed setting before the return journey to their original pickup points.

• Pickup at 8 AM from Ribeira Grande or Ponta Delgada
• 30-minute drive to Poça da Dona Beija hot springs
• 1.5 hours of thermal bathing
• 30-minute visit to Furnas village
• 30-minute stop at Furnas Lake

Relaxing Thermal Baths

After the drive through the lush countryside, guests arrive at the famous Poça da Dona Beija hot springs.

The steaming natural pools, surrounded by verdant vegetation, offer a truly tranquil experience. Guests can soak in the soothing geothermal waters, ranging from 28°C to 40°C. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic benefits, making this the perfect way to start the day.

Relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere, visitors can take in the stunning natural scenery and unwind before heading to the nearby town of Furnas.

The thermal bath experience provides a rejuvenating respite, preparing guests for the rest of the day’s adventures.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Furnas

From Poça da Dona Beija, guests drive the short 30-minute journey to the town of Furnas.

This quaint village nestled in a volcanic caldera is home to some of the island’s most unique natural wonders.

Visitors can:

• Stroll the lush gardens and parks surrounding the hot springs
• Peer into bubbling mud pots and fumaroles, where volcanic activity is on full display
• Explore the charming shops and cafes lining the central square
• Hike to the peaceful Furnas Lake, a picturesque crater lake
• Enjoy a traditional cozido lunch, a hearty stew cooked underground by the island’s geothermal forces.

This immersive experience allows guests to fully enjoy Sao Miguel’s volcanic landscape and local culture.

Lunch in Furnas

Guests enjoy a traditional cozido lunch, a hearty underground-cooked stew, after their exploration of Furnas. This local specialty simmers for hours in the volcanic vents, infusing the meat and vegetables with rich, earthy flavors. The lunch includes:

Item	Description
Main Course	Cozido (pork, beef, chicken, local sausages)
Sides	Potatoes, cabbage, carrots
Beverage	1 soft drink per person
Dessert	Coffee

This satisfying meal provides a taste of Azorean culinary tradition, complementing the relaxing morning at the thermal baths. Guests savor the local cuisine while reflecting on their unique Furnas experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Furnas Thermal Baths Experience package provides a comprehensive itinerary that ensures guests make the most of their time in the scenic Furnas region.

Included in the price are:

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande
• Entry ticket to the iconic hot springs
• A delicious traditional cozido lunch with a soft drink
• Use of lockers or showers at the thermal baths
• Guided transportation to key sites like Furnas village and Furnas Lake

While alcoholic beverages and additional food items at lunch aren’t included, the package offers excellent value by covering the essential elements for a relaxing and immersive morning in the Furnas valley.

Important Considerations

Travelers embarking on the Furnas Thermal Baths Experience should come prepared with a few essential items. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the day involves a decent amount of walking and exploration.

Don’t forget to pack a towel – you’ll want it for relaxing in the soothing hot springs. A lightweight jacket or sweater is also recommended, as the weather can be cooler in the Furnas valley.

The tour is offered in both English and Portuguese, catering to a wide range of visitors. With an impressive overall rating of 5/5 from previous guests, this experience promises an unforgettable morning of natural wonders and local cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Any Special Equipment for the Thermal Baths?

The thermal baths don’t require any special equipment. Visitors just need to bring comfortable shoes, a towel, and a light jacket or cover-up. The baths provide lockers or showers for changing and relaxing in the natural hot springs.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?

The activity doesn’t have a minimum age requirement. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, as long as they’re accompanied by a parent or guardian. The thermal baths experience is suitable for the whole family.

Are There Any Health Restrictions or Considerations?

There are no strict health restrictions, but travelers should consult a doctor if they have any pre-existing medical conditions. Those with heart, respiratory, or mobility issues may want to exercise caution when using the thermal baths.

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks During Lunch?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional food or drinks during the included lunch. The package covers the traditional cozido lunch and one soft drink per person, but any extra items, like alcoholic beverages, will be at the traveler’s own expense.

Is There Flexibility in the Pickup and Drop-Off Locations?

Yes, there’s flexibility in the pickup and drop-off locations. The activity includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, allowing travelers to conveniently start and end their day at their preferred location.

Recap

This enchanting Furnas tour offers a delightful blend of relaxation and culture. Theres some good the rejuvenating thermal baths, marvel at the volcanic landscape, and savor a traditional Azorean cozido lunch, all while experiencing the unique charms of this picturesque region. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, it’s an unforgettable way to discover the natural wonders and culinary delights of São Miguel Island.

You can check if your dates are available here: