Parque Terra Nostra
Parque Terra Nostra, located in the heart of the Furnas Valley, is one of the most iconic natural spaces on São Miguel. This centuries-old park combines botanical heritage, tranquillity and well-being, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting the island.
Created in the 18th century, the park spans over 12 hectares and is home to one of the most important botanical collections in the world, with thousands of species of trees and plants from several continents. Its trails lead through different landscapes, where ornamental lakes, winding paths and centuries-old trees create an atmosphere of rare harmony.
Inside the park lies the famous iron-rich thermal pool, naturally heated to around 35–40 °C. With its brown colour due to the high mineral concentration, these waters are known for their therapeutic properties, providing a unique moment of relaxation in full contact with nature.
Poça da Dona Beija
Poça da Dona Beija is one of the most iconic spots in Furnas and an unmissable experience for anyone looking to relax in thermal waters in an intimate and welcoming setting.
This natural geothermal pool is fed by hot iron-rich waters, maintaining an average temperature of around 39 °C. The contrast between the warmth of the water and the cool air, especially at night, creates a unique atmosphere that makes evening visits particularly popular.
Surrounded by lush vegetation and enveloped in natural steam, Poça da Dona Beija offers an almost magical setting. The soft lighting and tranquil atmosphere provide a complete sensory experience, ideal for unwinding in full contact with nature.
Caldeira Velha
Caldeira Velha is one of the most impressive natural monuments on São Miguel, standing out for its unique combination of forest, hot water and volcanic activity.
Located on the slopes of Serra de Água de Pau, this protected area features a natural waterfall that feeds a thermal pool and several bathing zones at different temperatures.
Access is along trails that wind through dense vegetation, creating an almost tropical atmosphere. The main waterfall, surrounded by giant ferns and moss, offers the perfect setting to relax to the sound of running water and the wind in the forest.
Termas das Caldeiras
Termas das Caldeiras, located in the centre of the village of Furnas, is one of the places where the island's volcanic activity manifests itself most intensely and visibly.
Here you will find fumaroles, mud caldeiras and thermal water springs that continuously release sulphurous vapours, creating an impressive atmosphere deeply connected to the geology of the Azores.
This area also offers thermal baths in historic tanks, known for their therapeutic properties, particularly recommended for rheumatic and skin conditions. The constant presence of steam and the characteristic aroma of sulphur make the visit a unique sensory experience.
Ponta da Ferraria
Ponta da Ferraria is a unique location on São Miguel, where volcanic thermal waters meet the Atlantic Ocean, forming a natural pool of exceptional character. Located on the island's west coast, this area benefits from underwater thermal springs that naturally heat the sea, creating a pool enclosed by volcanic rock formations.
The water temperature varies with the tides: at low tide, it heats up significantly, allowing for a relaxing thermal bath in the open ocean; at high tide, the cooler and more turbulent water offers a different but equally memorable experience.
Surrounded by volcanic rocky landscape with a privileged view over the Atlantic, Ponta da Ferraria is especially impressive at sunset, forming one of the most striking settings on the island, a place where the force of nature and volcanic energy manifest themselves in spectacular fashion.
