Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs

Planning a trip to the Azores and curious about exploring one of the most iconic geothermal zones on São Miguel? This Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a well-rounded glimpse into the volcanic heart of the island. Whether you’re after scenic views, authentic local flavors, or a soothing thermal experience, this tour covers a lot.

What makes it stand out? First, we love the way it combines nature, culture, and relaxation in one package. Second, the knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with stories and insights that go beyond standard sightseeing. On the downside, the thermal baths require an additional fee and need to be booked in advance, which might slightly complicate plans if you’re tight on time.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, loving scenic outdoor walks, and getting a taste of Azorean hospitality. If you’re after a genuine, moderately paced day that blends natural wonders with culinary delights, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Authentic geothermal experience with guided walks and scenic views
• Traditional Azorean cuisine, featuring the famous “Cozido das Furnas” cooked underground
• Relaxing hot springs at night, with an optional thermal bath entry
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories and island insights
• Flexible itinerary with stops at Vila Franca do Campo, Furnas lagoon, and boiling pools
• Authentic local flavors with pastry tastings and mineral waters

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

The Furnas tour offers a full day of exploring one of São Miguel’s most captivating volcanic areas. It’s about 6 hours long, with pick-up and drop-off at three main locations—Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada—making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying. This approach minimizes long drives and maximizes your time enjoying the sights.

From the start, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the island’s north coast, stopping at Vila Franca do Campo for a quick photo and view of the islet, which adds a picturesque touch to the morning. After that, the focus shifts to Furnas, where the geothermal activity is both a natural spectacle and a culinary wonder.

The Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Vila Franca do Campo

This charming seaside town is the first stop, offering lovely views and a chance to snap photos of the islet. It’s a perfect introduction to São Miguel’s rugged coastline and historic fishing villages.

Lagoa das Furnas

The second stop is the Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater filled with geothermal waters, surrounded by lush greenery. Here, you’ll walk with a guide to observe endemic and invasive flora and fauna. The endearing aspect of this area is how locals have harnessed the geothermal energy for cooking—the famous “Cozido das Furnas”.

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Cooking the Cozido

This traditional Portuguese stew is cooked by burying a pot in the hot ground for 6-7 hours. It’s a culinary show of ingenuity, turning volcanic heat into tasty, slow-cooked food. The tour includes a sit-down meal at a local restaurant, with options for vegetarians and children’s dishes—an essential detail for travelers with dietary restrictions.

Gardens and Nature Walks

Post-dinner, you’ll stroll through some of the island’s most lush gardens, soaking in the aromas and vibrant colors. It’s a gentle way to digest and take in the flora that makes the Azores so distinctive.

The Night-time Thermal Experience

The jewel of this tour is the hot springs at Poça da Dona Beija. Surrounded by dense vegetation and bird sounds, you’ll dip into pools maintained at about 39°C (102°F), perfect for unwinding after a busy day. The experience is absolutely worth the extra fee—€17 for entry, which must be booked in advance via their website.

The switch to nightfall enhances the ambiance, making the thermal pools feel like a natural spa illuminated by moonlight and volcanic smoke. Several reviews praise this part as a “relaxing, memorable” highlight. It’s a chance to unwind physically and mentally, soaking in waters believed to have therapeutic and cosmetic benefits.

Evening Boiling Pools

As night falls, you’ll witness the boiling water pools erupting with steam and flashes of volcanic activity—a natural spectacle that’s both wild and beautiful. This awe-inspiring display, combined with mineral tastings and a local sweet, rounds out the experience perfectly.

The Practicalities and Value

The transportation is via a comfortable 9-seater van with panoramic windows, which makes it easy to appreciate the views. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.

While the dinner and thermal baths are separate costs, the overall value is notable. The tour includes a local guide, transport, dinner, pastry tasting, and water bottles, making the price quite reasonable considering the variety of experiences.

Timing is flexible, but booking the thermal baths for the 20:30 slot is recommended for the full night experience. If you prefer an earlier soak, an alternative time is available, but that won’t give you the same nighttime ambiance.

Authenticity and Experience

What truly elevates this tour is its focus on authentic local life. From the geo-cooked cozido to the guided explanations of geothermal activity, you’re not just observing but participating in the island’s traditions. Many travelers, based on reviews, highlight how guides like Ivo and Gonçalo add a personal touch with stories, making the day not only educational but also genuinely fun.

The thermal baths are often described as “unbelievable,” with visitors appreciating how the experience blends nature’s power with relaxation. The night-time setting makes it unique among thermal experiences, turning an ordinary bath into something quite special.

What to Know Before You Go

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, and weather-appropriate clothing. Since part of the tour involves walking and outdoor exploration, packing layers is wise.

The entry to Dona Beija is an additional fee and must be booked online in advance. The bath capacity is limited, so timely reservations help avoid disappointment.

People with circulatory problems or low blood pressure should consult a physician before using hot thermal waters, as the heat can impact health.

The Value of This Tour

This experience offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation. The guided walks reveal the geothermal richness of Furnas, while the dinner showcases local ingenuity. The thermal baths provide a restorative finish, especially at night, making it a full-sensory treat.

Compared to other Azores experiences, it provides a comprehensive snapshot—covering nature, gastronomy, and wellness—without feeling rushed. The reviews confirm that guides like Ivo and Gonçalo elevate the experience, making it memorable beyond just the sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates local traditions and authentic flavors, this tour will hit the right notes. It’s perfect for nature lovers who enjoy gentle walks and stunning landscapes, as well as relaxation seekers keen on thermal baths.

Travelers with an interest in geothermal activity and volcanic landscapes will find this especially engaging. It’s also suitable for families (with prearranged vegetarian or kid-friendly meals) and those who value small group, personalized tours.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour offers alternative dishes for children and is generally family-friendly. Just ensure children can handle walking and thermal baths.

Do I need to pre-book the thermal baths separately?
Yes, entry to Dona Beija is charged separately (€17) and must be booked online in advance. The 20:30 slot provides the full night experience.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, weather-appropriate clothes, and toiletries are recommended. Pack layers for changing temperatures.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak English?
Guides are fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. If you speak these languages, communication should be smooth.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour may adjust timings for dinner and thermal baths based on availability. The core stops remain consistent.

What if I have health issues?
People with circulatory problems or low blood pressure should consult their doctor before entering hot thermal waters, as the heat may not be suitable.

How big is the group on this tour?
It’s a small group experience, with a 9-seater van ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a well-rounded look at one of São Miguel’s most alluring volcanic zones. From geothermal walks and a traditional stew to relaxing nighttime thermal baths, it’s a chance to connect with the island’s natural and cultural essence.

Travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy scenic outdoor exploration, and seek relaxation combined with education will find this tour rewarding. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach are often highlighted as key ingredients that turn a good day into a memorable one.

While it involves some extra costs—thermal baths and optional meals—the overall experience offers excellent value for a full day on the island. With stunning views, tasty food, and soothing hot springs, this tour makes for a meaningful addition to any São Miguel itinerary.

In short, if you’re after an authentic, moderately paced adventure that blends nature, culture, and relaxation, this tour is worth considering. It’s a chance to see the volcanic magic of Furnas, taste its flavors, and unwind under the stars—all with the comfort of expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here: