The Furnas Night-Time Experience offers visitors a chance to unwind and indulge in the natural wonders of the Azores. Soak in the soothing thermal baths of Poça da Dona Beija, with temperatures ranging from a relaxing 28°C to a rejuvenating 40°C. After a guided nature walk through the serene Furnas Valley, savor the flavors of a traditional Azorean Cozido das Furnas – a slow-cooked stew that tantalizes the senses. With convenient pick-up and drop-off from Ponta Delgada, this personalized adventure promises to immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of the islands. But the true allure lies in the untold stories waiting to be discovered.
Key Points
- Enjoy a relaxing evening at the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths in Furnas, featuring soothing warm waters and lush, verdant gardens.
- Savor a traditional Azorean Cozido das Furnas stew, a hearty and comforting meal after your thermal bath experience.
- Set out on a guided nature walk through the Furnas Valley, exploring volcanic formations and the serene natural beauty of the Azores.
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off from Ponta Delgada, ensuring a hassle-free transportation experience for the event.
- Intimate group size of up to 8 participants, providing a personalized and immersive adventure.
Overview of the Experience
The Furnas Night-Time Experience invites visitors to enjoy a relaxing evening at the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths in Furnas, where they’ll indulge in a traditional Azores meat and vegetable stew known as Cozido das Furnas after a guided nature walk.
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from Ponta Delgada, ensuring a seamless experience. Travelers will have the opportunity to soak in the therapeutic thermal waters, surrounded by the serene natural beauty of the Azores.
With a maximum group size of 8, the experience offers an intimate and personalized adventure. Vegetarian options are available, and medical conditions may require a physician’s consultation before using the thermal pools.
Highlights of the Furnas Thermal Baths
Nestled in the lush Furnas valley, the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths offer visitors a serene and rejuvenating experience, with their soothing warm waters and stunning natural surroundings.
Visitors can look forward to:
- Soaking in the geothermal pools, where the temperature ranges from 28°C to 40°C, providing a therapeutic and relaxing experience.
- Exploring the various pools, each with its own unique mineral composition and temperature.
Visitors can also enjoy:
- Admiring the lush, verdant gardens and waterfalls that surround the baths, creating a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere.
- The opportunity to unwind and disconnect from the stresses of daily life.
- Experiencing the restorative and rejuvenating benefits of the thermal waters, which are known for their healing properties.
Guided Nature Walk Details
During the Furnas Night-Time Experience, visitors can also look forward to a guided nature walk through the stunning landscapes surrounding the thermal baths. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the walk allows guests to enjoy the serene natural beauty of the Furnas valley, taking in the lush vegetation, babbling streams, and volcanic features that characterize this unique setting.
| Highlights of the Nature Walk | Duration |
|---|---|
| Explore Furnas Valley | 1-1.5 hours |
| Witness Volcanic Formations | Moderate Difficulty |
The guided nature walk is the perfect complement to the relaxing thermal bath experience, providing an opportunity to fully appreciate the natural wonders of the Azores.
Cozido Das Furnas Dinner
Visitors to the Furnas Night-Time Experience can savor a traditional Azorean meal of Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew cooked underground using the region’s geothermal heat. This unique dish features a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, as well as potatoes, cabbage, and other vegetables.
The stew is slow-cooked for several hours, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish.
Guests can expect:
- A delicious, slow-cooked stew
- A variety of tender meats and vegetables
- A traditional Azorean culinary experience
- A warm, comforting meal after a relaxing evening
- A chance to taste the unique flavors of the Azores
Pickup and Drop-off Arrangements
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from Ponta Delgada, making it convenient for participants to access the Furnas Night-Time Experience.
This service ensures that guests don’t have to worry about transportation logistics, allowing them to fully enjoy the relaxing thermal baths and traditional Azorean dinner.
The air-conditioned vehicle provides a comfortable ride to and from the event location.
This pickup and drop-off arrangement is especially helpful for those who are unfamiliar with the area or prefer not to drive themselves.
With this added convenience, travelers can focus on enjoying the highlights of the Furnas experience without the hassle of navigating the roads on their own.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour’s inclusions cover a range of amenities to enhance the Furnas Night-Time Experience, while certain items are excluded, requiring guests to provide them.
The included features encompass:
- Local guide/Driver
- Delectable dinner with food, drinks, dessert, and coffee/tea
- Insurance
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Local taxes
Plus, the tour provides commission and optional locker/hot shower rentals.
However, guests must bring their own towels and swimsuits, and purchase a separate ticket for the geothermal hot springs facility, which costs €8.
Ultimately, the inclusions ensure a well-rounded and convenient experience, while the exclusions allow guests to personalize their visit.
Confirmation and Accessibility
Confirmation of booking is provided at the time of reservation, and the tour caters to guests of varying mobility levels, as it’s both stroller accessible and able to accommodate infant seats.
While the thermal baths and nature walk experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, the overall tour offers flexibility for travelers.
Guests should note that they’ll need to bring their own towels and swimsuits, as these items aren’t provided. Plus, there’s an optional fee of €8 to access the geothermal hot springs facility.
With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the experience offers a more intimate setting. Vegetarian options can also be arranged for those with dietary restrictions.
Medical Considerations
Visitors with certain medical conditions may need to consult a physician before using the thermal pools, as the high mineral content and temperature can affect some individuals.
The operator recommends that those with the following conditions speak with a doctor:
- Cardiovascular or circulatory issues
- Diabetes
- Respiratory problems
- Skin conditions
- Pregnancy
The thermal pools can be contraindicated for some medical concerns, so it’s best to get clearance from a healthcare provider before partaking in this relaxing experience. Following the advice of professionals will ensure visitors can safely enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the Furnas thermal baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food to the Thermal Baths?
The thermal baths facility generally doesn’t allow outside food or drinks. Guests are expected to purchase food and beverages from the on-site facilities. Bringing your own food to the thermal baths is typically not permitted.
Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?
Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour company’s policy prohibits bringing pets to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Service animals may be permitted with prior notice and approval.
Is There a Time Limit for the Thermal Bath Experience?
There’s no time limit for the thermal bath experience. Guests can enjoy the soothing waters as long as they’d like. The tour company recommends spending 1-2 hours to fully relax and unwind in the thermal baths.
Can I Visit the Thermal Baths Separately From the Tour?
Yes, visitors can access the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths separately from the tour. The thermal baths facility charges an admission fee of €8 and offers access to the hot springs without the guided tour and dinner.
Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?
There may be discounts available for this tour, such as for seniors, students, or groups. It’s best to check with the tour provider directly to inquire about any special offers or promotions that could apply to your booking.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
Recap
The Furnas Night-Time Experience offers a unique opportunity to unwind in the soothing thermal baths, explore the Furnas Valley, and savor a traditional Azorean meal.
With convenient transportation and a seamless itinerary, this excursion allows visitors to enjoy the serene natural beauty of the Azores, providing a truly memorable and relaxing experience.
