Furnas Village Sao Miguel Azores Complete Guide: Amazing hikes, things to do, places to eat and Unique Hotels
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Hidden in the lush eastern highlands of São Miguel Island, the village of Furnas offers a rare blend of natural wonder, cultural heritage, and thermal wellness. It’s one of my favorite spots in Sao Miguel, and every time I go back to this island, I always save a few days to explore this area. There’s always something new to discover.
This quiet, steam-filled valley lies nestled within a dormant volcanic crater, where the earth still breathes visibly through bubbling mud pots and sulfurous fumaroles. It’s one of the few places on Earth where you can walk through a botanical garden, dine on food cooked underground by volcanic heat, and soak in thermal waters—all in a single afternoon.
Though Furnas may seem like a sleepy village at first glance, it is in fact a dynamic landscape shaped by geological forces and centuries of human adaptation. Its hot springs and fertile soil have long attracted settlers, botanists, and wellness seekers alike. Today, the village has become one of the Azores’ most captivating destinations—ideal for slow travelers looking for nature, local traditions, and the healing power of geothermal energy.
Among my favorite things to do in the tiny village is walking around the tranquil volcanic lake Lagoa das Furnas, watching steam rise from the caldeiras, and enjoying spectacular views from the lookout points in the hills surrounding the lake. But there’s much, much more to do.
And this guide will take you through all the beautiful places to visit, activities to try, and hidden details that make Furnas not just a stop on your itinerary, but a destination worth savoring.
In fact, you should save at least two days of your trip to explore this area, and if you are looking for an itinerary idea, I’ve got you covered as well. 🙂
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✔️ 34 Lookout points
✔️ 10 hot springs + hikes and other sites
✔️ Hiking tours
✔️ Towns and attractions
✔️ Descriptions + link to related posts and pictures
✔️ Ongoing updates
Things to Do in Furnas, São Miguel, Azores
1. Wander Through the Village and Discover Hidden Corners
Furnas is, first of all, a cute, tiny village sitting in the crater of a dormant volcano. Walking through the pretty town, you will enjoy narrow stone-paved streets, whitewashed houses with volcanic rock trim, and bursts of flowers in every season.
One of the more whimsical sights is the Casa Invertida, a small art installation that features an upside-down house façade, roof at the bottom, and a door in the air. It’s quirky and great for a quick photo, tucked near the center of town.
As you stroll, take a break in one of Furnas’s cozy cafés—many serve local pastries like queijadas de leite and bolo lêvedo, along with robust Azorean coffee. It’s a chance to slow down and experience the rhythm of village life. My favorite cafe is indeed Bolo Levedo. Guess what their specialty is. However, they serve a wide variety of delicious pastries and quick lunches.
While you walk around the gardens and aquarium, you can stop by the local gem, Pozas da Tia Silvina, and wander around the smoking calderas. As they require more explanation, I have dedicated a specific section to each.
2. Relax at the Pozas da Tia Silvina
Tucked along the river that winds through the heart of Furnas village, the Pozas da Tia Silvina are small, natural geothermal basins where hot spring water bubbles up between rocks.
Unlike the more structured thermal complexes, this is a simple and authentic local experience: sit on the stone edge, dip your feet in the warm mineral water, and relax as the sulfur-rich springs soothe tired legs. (Check out my video to see how to enjoy it best).
These thermal foot baths are freely accessible and especially appreciated after a walk around town or a long hike. The water here can be quite hot in places, so test the temperature carefully before stepping in.
It’s one of Furnas’s most charming and understated wellness rituals—often missed by those who stick to the major sites.
Feeling more visual? Check out my video on things to do in Furnas
3. Explore the Caldeiras das Furnas
In the center of Furnas village, geothermal forces rise to the surface in dramatic form. The Caldeiras das Furnas are a cluster of steaming vents and bubbling mud pools that hint at the volcanic activity below.
Walking through this landscape feels like entering a natural laboratory—sulfur-rich vapors swirl through the air, the ground hisses with pressure, and pools gurgle with boiling water. Clearly marked paths and wooden walkways allow you to observe the phenomena up close without compromising safety.
4. Walk Around Lagoa das Furnas
It’s actually a beautiful hike, just on a flat path that takes you around the lake. The circuit (PRC6SMI) starts in town and takes you all the way down to the lake and around. I enjoyed it very much. I have linked to the official Azores Trail sites, where you can download the map and check the circuit details.
A short walk from the village brings you to Lagoa das Furnas, a crater lake bordered by thick vegetation, fumaroles, and volcanic soil. A scenic trail encircles the lake, stretching about 9 kilometers and offering panoramic views, secret paths among bamboo, ferns, and giant trees, quiet picnic spots, and direct encounters with nature.
Along the path, you’ll pass sulfur springs and the Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas, where additional fumaroles bubble beside the water’s edge. That’s where you also find the Grena’ park and waterfall for another fantastic (and steep) hike. More about it later.
One of the lake’s most photogenic landmarks is the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, a 19th-century neo-Gothic structure built by a local landowner as a tribute to his late wife. Its dramatic architectural feature and the lush, serene setting offer a quiet place to pause along your hike and make one of the best photography spots in the Azores.
5. Hike the Trails around Furnas Lake
Furnas offers some of the most rewarding hiking routes on São Miguel, with trails that blend forest, waterfalls, volcanic terrain, and serene lakeside settings.
Lagoa das Furnas Circuit (PRC6SMI)
I already mentioned this moderate trail that forms a circular route around Furnas Lake, starting and ending in the village. It passes geothermal zones, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, and offers access to side trails leading to viewpoints and picnic areas. The terrain varies from forest path to gravel road and is suitable for most walkers.
Cascata de Grená and Parque Grená
A hidden gem near the eastern shore of Lagoa das Furnas, Parque Grená is a private nature reserve open to visitors, home to the striking Cascata de Grená, a tall waterfall located in the forest.
The trail to the waterfall is a peaceful walk through old-growth trees, moss-covered stone, and seasonal wildflowers.
The park also features footbridges, wooden staircases (with lots of steps), and scenic spots that are perfect for a quiet break. The entrance fee is 8 Euros, and you can pay at the machine at the entrance.
Nearby, you can find a charming restaurant for a quick lunch or snack, offering spectacular views of the caldeiras and the lake.
Jardim do Canto and Salto do Rosal Waterfall
At the western edge of town, the Jardim do Canto, by the Gothic church, is a shaded riverside park that leads to Salto do Rosal, a waterfall nestled among ferns and basalt cliffs.
The path is gentle and easy and ideal for a short escape into nature, if you are seeking a low-impact stroll. Once you enter the park (4 Euros at the time I am writing this), you can explore the vast area amongst tall trees, flower gardens, and ducks roaming around.
Right in front of the entrance, there is a house for rent, The Lake House, if you want to spend a couple of nights in this bucolic setting. More hotel options in Furnas are further below in this article.
6. Soak in Thermal Pools at Poça da Dona Beija
Set into a leafy gorge just off the main street, Poça da Dona Beija is one of the most popular hot spring sites in Sao Miguel.
Poça da Dona Beija is one of Furnas’s most popular thermal bathing spots—and it’s easy to see why. It has five open-air pools filled with naturally warm, mineral-rich water, which gets its rusty orange color from the iron content. The setup is simple but beautiful, with stone-edged basins surrounded by lush plants that give the place a calm, tucked-away feel.
The water is comfortably warm—some pools are hotter than others, so you can pick what suits you. It’s open from morning until late at night, and evening is a great time to visit when the steam rises and the lights create a relaxing atmosphere.
There are changing rooms, lockers, and showers on-site, and everything is well-kept. It’s an easy and affordable way to enjoy Furnas’s geothermal side.
Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. with a 1.5-hour time limit.
The cost is €8 for adults and €6 for children under 6. Last entry is at 10:15 p.m., and visitors must leave the pools by 10:45 p.m.
7. Spend a few hours in the Parque Terra Nostra
Parque Terra Nostra is more than just a park—it’s a huge garden filled with rare trees, tropical plants, and peaceful walking paths.
It’s been around since the 1700s and has grown into one of the most impressive botanical gardens in the Azores. You’ll find all sorts of plants from around the world, as well as ponds, bridges, and quiet corners perfect for a break.
Right in the middle is the large thermal pool. The water is naturally heated and rich in iron, which gives it a dark orange tint. It stays between 37 and 40°C and is excellent for relaxing after a walk.
There are also a few smaller pools nearby if you’re looking for a bit more privacy. Please keep in mind that the minerals can stain lighter swimsuits, so consider bringing a dark one if possible.
There is an entrance fee of 10 Euro, bathrooms, lockers, and changing rooms. Opening Hours – 9 am – 4 pm.
Guests of the Terra Nostra hotel have full free access to the park and hot springs at any time.
8. Try the Cozido das Furna
If you’re in Furnas, you have to try cozido. It’s a traditional Azorean stew that’s cooked underground using natural geothermal heat. Every morning, large pots filled with meat, sausages, and vegetables are buried in the hot ground near Lagoa das Furnas. They stay there for about six hours, slowly cooking in the steam.
By lunchtime, the pots are dug up and taken to restaurants around town. The result is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly smooth—nothing too spicy or overpowering, just rich and satisfying.
Some of the best places to try it are Tony’s, Caldeiras & Vulcões, and the restaurant at Terra Nostra Garden Hotel.
If you’d like to witness the cooking process firsthand, head to the lake area in the late morning—but be sure to make a lunch reservation in advance. This dish is popular and spots fill up quickly.
9. Stay at a Thermal Spa Hotel
Two of Furnas’s hotels offer more than just a place to sleep—they’re gateways to relaxation and wellness.
The Terra Nostra Garden Hotel grants guests exclusive early and late access to the park’s thermal pools, allowing for tranquil swims under starlight or amid morning mist. Its rooms are elegant, service is attentive, and the in-house restaurant serves a refined menu highlighting local flavors.
Meanwhile, the Furnas Octant Hotel offers a more contemporary take on wellness, featuring sleek indoor-outdoor thermal baths, a spa menu centered on volcanic minerals, and a design that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with the warmth of Azorean culture. Both provide unique ways to immerse yourself in Furnas’s geothermal essence.
10. Enjoy the Views from Furnas Lookout Points
Furnas is best appreciated not just from the valley, but also from above—where the full scope of its volcanic geography comes into view. Two primary viewpoints offer unforgettable perspectives over the crater, lake, and surrounding hills, but I discovered a third one on my last trip. Here they are.
Miradouro do Pico do Ferro
This is the most iconic viewpoint overlooking Lagoa das Furnas. Located on the northern rim of the caldera, Pico do Ferro sits at approximately 570 meters above sea level and provides a sweeping, unobstructed view of the lake, the village, and the distant Atlantic horizon.
From here, the layout of the volcanic crater is clearly visible: the circular basin, the steam rising from the lake’s caldeiras, and the patchwork of green fields shaped by centuries of agriculture.
It’s a popular spot at sunrise or sunset, when low-angle light casts long shadows and golden hues across the landscape. Access is easy, with a parking area just meters from the viewpoint.
Miradouro do Salto do Cavalo
Less frequented but equally stunning, Salto do Cavalo sits at a higher elevation, offering panoramic views not only of the Furnas valley but also across to the northeastern coast of São Miguel.
On clear days, visitors can see the Ribeira dos Caldeirões region, the distant village of Nordeste, and even the ocean cliffs.
This viewpoint is slightly more remote, reached by a winding road that climbs through forests and pastures. The lookout is especially atmospheric in the morning, when mist hangs over the crater and breaks gradually to reveal the layers of terrain below.
Miradouro do Lombo dos Milhos
Often overlooked by tourists, Lombo dos Milhos provides a peaceful view over Furnas village itself, with the rolling hills and smoking vents laid out in perfect balance. It’s a fantastic alternative for sunset or quiet moments away from the busier viewpoints. The location is easily accessible and features a small parking area adjacent to the lookout.
Where to Stay in Furnas, São Miguel, Azores
Staying in Furnas offers not only a great way to explore the crater in tranquillity but it’s also a great base for exploration of the surroundings. Accommodations in Furnas range from Luxury Boutique Hotels to more affordable yet charming options. Here are my favorite options, ranging from the more luxurious to the more wallet-friendly.
Octant Hotel Furnas: Design Meets Wellness
Part of the luxury Octant Hotels collection, this property—formerly Furnas Boutique Hotel—offers a contemporary spa experience in the center of the village. With the highest concentration of thermal waters in Europe running beneath it, Octant Hotels Furnas features both indoor and outdoor thermal pools, a full-service wellness center, and stylish rooms with volcanic-inspired interiors. The spa offers treatments using local minerals, and the in-house restaurant serves reimagined Azorean cuisine in a refined, warm setting. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want a balance of modern design and holistic healing.
Hotel Terra Nostra Furnas: Thermal Elegance in a Botanical Garden
Set within the historic Parque Terra Nostra, this landmark hotel offers unmatched access to one of Europe’s finest thermal gardens. Guests can swim in the amber-hued thermal pool at any hour, before or after public entry times, and stroll through 12 hectares of exotic trees and ornamental gardens.
The hotel’s Art Deco details and serene atmosphere make it especially popular with couples and wellness travelers seeking a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature.
Furnas Lake Forest Living: Nature-Focused Luxury
Located near the southern edge of Lagoa das Furnas, Furnas Lake Forest Living offers a collection of eco-friendly villas and bungalows nestled in native woodland. Designed for privacy and immersion in the landscape, each unit blends contemporary architecture with natural materials, offering terraces, fireplaces, and forest views.
Some accommodations include kitchens and private hot tubs, making them perfect for families or longer stays. The property also features walking paths, garden areas, and its own restaurant with fresh, locally sourced menus. Staying here provides a sense of solitude and closeness to nature, while remaining just minutes from major attractions.
Atlantic 3 Bicas – Furnas
An affordable hotel in the heart of Furnas Village, Atlantic 3 Bicas is the only hotel I found in the area that offers rates below $ 100. It’s a small guest house with a few rooms, with a modern look and outstanding reviews from previous guests.
Guesthouses and Local Lodging: Simple, Cozy, and Authentic
Beyond spa hotels, Furnas is dotted with guesthouses and traditional Azorean homes converted into vacation stays. I always choose those because I find them more convenient than a hotel, and I love to cook my meals sometimes. I find that Booking.com now has a great variety of options, and it’s much better than Airbnb, with more straightforward prices without any unpleasant tax-related surprise.
Where to Eat in Furnas: Local Flavors from Fire and Earth
Dining in Furnas is about more than having a meal; it’s a way to connect with the island’s volcanic soul and traditions. The region’s fertile soil and geothermal heat shape both the ingredients and the techniques, resulting in meals that are slow-cooked and intensely flavored.
Cozido das Furnas: A Must-Try Meal from the Ground Up
The most iconic dish of the region is undoubtedly cozido das Furnas as I mentioned before. This hearty stew of meats, sausages, root vegetables, and cabbage is sealed in metal pots and buried in the steaming ground near Lagoa das Furnas.
After about six hours of natural cooking in volcanic soil, the dish is unearthed and served around lunchtime at several restaurants in town. Each version reflects the kitchen that serves it—some more rustic, others refined, but all infused with a faint, earthy depth that can only come from geothermal cooking.
Among the most respected places to try cozido is the restaurant at Hotel Terra Nostra Furnas, which offers a more elegant presentation in a garden-view setting. For a traditional, no-frills version favored by locals, Tony’s is a reliable choice. Caldeiras & Vulcões, situated near the village’s fumaroles, offers another excellent interpretation, often accompanied by house-made sauces and locally grown accompaniments.
Other Local Dishes and Lighter Fare
Beyond cozido, Furnas offers fresh Atlantic fish, cheese from nearby São Jorge, and a variety of local produce such as taro, yam, and tropical fruits.
Many menus reflect seasonal availability, with soups and stews warming the colder months and lighter seafood dishes appearing in summer.
If you prefer lighter meals or plant-based options, cafés such as À Terra, attached to Octant Hotels Furnas, serve modern takes on traditional ingredients using local herbs and vegetables.
Many eateries also offer wines from Pico Island or Azorean liqueurs infused with passionfruit and ginger.
Cafés and Sweet Treats
For a coffee break or a sweet bite, Furnas’s cafés offer a relaxed atmosphere and strong espresso. Azorean cakes like bolo lêvedo—a slightly sweet, muffin-like bread—and queijadas made with fresh cheese are common, often served with herbal tea or fresh juice.
Sidewalk cafés around the central square and near the thermal river are perfect for resting your feet, especially after a dip in the Pozas da Tia Silvina or a walk through the village. Bolo lêvedo cafe’ is located between the town center and the Calderas, great for a nice lunch or afternoon break.
Furnas itinerary
If you want to plan a Furnas Itinerary, and you don’t know where to start, I’ve got you covered. I have dedicated a whole article to crafting the perfect itinerary to help you decide what to do and where to go first, and optimize your time in the beautiful Azores Islands.
