Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs

Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs — a beautifully balanced mix of natural beauty, local cuisine, and relaxation gets consistently high praise from travelers. With a 4.9-star rating based on 45 reviews, this tour offers a full sensory experience in the Azores, combining stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and authentic local flavors. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or seeking a peaceful thermal soak, this experience promises memorable moments.

What sets this tour apart? We love its comprehensive itinerary that takes you from scenic coastlines to volcanic geothermal sites, the authentic local meal cooked underground, and the chance to unwind in thermal hot springs at nightfall. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, sharing stories and insights that deepen your appreciation of the region. Plus, the chance to enjoy the thermal baths under the evening sky adds a special touch.

A possible consideration? The entry to the thermal springs is charged separately, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge in a soak. Also, the tour’s schedule can be flexible depending on availability, especially for the thermal baths, so advance booking is recommended.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day in Furnas, combining sightseeing, local cuisine, and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided insights, scenic walks, and a taste of authentic Azorean life.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Combines nature, culture, and relaxation in one tour.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share insightful stories and tips, enriching your visit.
• Gourmet Food: Enjoy traditional “Cozido das Furnas,” geo-cooked in volcanic steam.
• Thermal Baths: Relax in the Poça da Dona Beija hot springs at night (entry charged separately).
• Flexible Schedule: Tours run for about 6 hours with options to adjust timing.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Experience the night-time volcanic activity and natural thermal pools.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Azores’ Hidden Gems with the Furnas Mystical Tour

The Azores are full of surprises — dramatic landscapes, geothermal activity, and vibrant local culture. This tour is designed to give you a deep dive into Furnas’ volcanic soul, while also offering time to relax and indulge.

Starting with Coastal and Island Views

You’ll begin your adventure with a scenic drive from your hotel, with options from Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada. The first stops include a quick look at Vila Franca do Campo, a charming islet that offers stunning photo opportunities and a glimpse of island life. As you move toward Furnas, the views of the coastline and volcanic landscapes set a breathtaking backdrop for the day ahead. Multiple reviews, like one from Smit, highlight how the guide’s storytelling and local insights make these stops even more meaningful, transforming simple sightseeing into a richer experience.

The Heart of Furnas: Lagoa das Furnas

At the center of this tour is the Lagoa das Furnas — a volcanic crater lake teeming with endemic flora and fauna. This site is not only visually stunning but also scientifically fascinating, thanks to the geothermal activity that powers the area’s cooking methods. Here, you’ll learn about how locals have harnessed natural heat to cook their famous “Cozido das Furnas” — a stew that’s slowly cooked underground for about 6-7 hours using volcanic steam.

This geo-cooking process isn’t just a culinary quirk; it’s a symbol of the Azores’ resourcefulness and harmony with nature. As one reviewer noted, the guide called ahead to ensure a vegetarian version of the cozido was prepared, highlighting how personalized and attentive the experience can be. You’ll enjoy this hearty meal at a local restaurant, complete with starters, drinks, desserts, and coffee or tea, making it a true taste of Azorean hospitality.

Scenic Walks and Gardens

Post-dinner, you’ll take a leisurely walk through lush gardens filled with exotic and native plants, soaking in the tranquility of the island. These moments give you a chance to appreciate the vibrant greenery and volcanic soil that sustain such lush landscapes. The guides often share interesting tidbits about local flora, making this part as educational as it is peaceful.

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The Nighttime Thermal Experience

The highlight for many visitors is the Poça da Dona Beija thermal springs. Surrounded by vibrant vegetation and serenaded by bird sounds, these outdoor pools are maintained at a cozy 39°C (102°F). Visiting during sunset or after dark turns the experience into something almost otherworldly. The warm, mineral-rich waters are renowned for their therapeutic and cosmetic benefits, making this a favorite stop among those looking to unwind.

Booking ahead is essential, as availability is limited. The tour guides typically arrange your ticket in advance, and the visit is strictly scheduled for the 20h30 slot — a time that feels perfect for seeing the geothermal activity in its night-time glow. Reviewers like Marianne and Gerald describe entering these pools at night as “unbelievable” and “a relaxing way to end a full day,” confirming how special this experience feels.

Witnessing the Volcanic Show

As night falls, you’ll gaze at the boiling water pools of Furnas, watching nature’s fiery display of smoke and steam, a reminder of the area’s volcanic roots. After soaking, you might sample some mineral waters, each with unique tastes and supposed health benefits, according to local tradition. A sweet local delicacy follows, helping cleanse your palate and add a touch of sweetness to your day.

End of the Day and Practical Info

Your guide will ensure you’re comfortably driven back to your accommodations, keeping you safe and relaxed after your adventures. The entire experience lasts about six hours, with pickup and drop-off included from major locations.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the package includes transportation, a guided tour, dinner, and a thermal bath experience, the overall value is notably high. The dinner itself, featuring a regional dish cooked in volcanic steam, is a culinary highlight that many reviewers found memorable — especially as it can be tailored to dietary preferences.

The thermal baths, often praised as a “must-do” activity, are an extra cost but well worth it for the relaxation and health benefits. The fact that the guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive adds significant value, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the region.

The tour’s flexibility and the limited group sizes contribute to a personalized experience, making it ideal for those who want a deeper connection with the island’s natural and cultural bounty without feeling rushed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, local cuisine, and relaxation in one day. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate guided insights, beautiful landscapes, and authentic food experiences. Families with children (pre-warned about the meal options) are welcome, and the adult thermal baths provide a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

It’s less ideal for travelers with health concerns related to thermal baths or mobility issues, due to the walking involved and the separate entry fee for the thermal pools.

FAQ

Is the thermal bath entry included in the tour price?
No, entry to Poça da Dona Beija is charged separately. You need to book in advance, and the guide can assist with reservations for the 20h30 time slot.

Can I opt for vegetarian or other dietary preferences?
Yes, the tour guides coordinate with local restaurants to prepare special versions of the cozido, including vegetarian options.

What’s the best time to visit the thermal pools?
The recommended time slot is 20h30 to enjoy the thermal pools at night, when the experience feels most magical. If unavailable, a 19h00 slot is an alternative but won’t be at night.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately six hours, including sightseeing, dinner, and the thermal bath soak.

Are pickups available from all major locations?
Yes, from Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, and Ponta Delgada. Note that pickups from Ribeira Grande incur an extra fee of €10 per booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, with prior warning for meal options. The thermal baths and sightseeing are family-friendly, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, weather-appropriate clothing, and toiletries.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and engaging storytelling.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a thoughtfully curated journey into the heart of the Azores. From scenic coastal drives and volcanic lakes to a hearty regional meal cooked in geothermal steam, this experience captures the island’s natural and cultural essence. The night-time thermal bath soak is the perfect way to unwind and absorb the atmosphere, especially with the added bonus of watching the geothermal activity glow in the dark.

Travelers who cherish authentic local experiences, enjoy scenic walks, and value insightful guides will find this tour a fantastic way to deepen their understanding of Furnas. Its combination of visual beauty, flavorful cuisine, and soothing thermal waters makes it a compelling choice for a full day on São Miguel.

If you want to see the island’s volcanic heart and leave feeling relaxed and full of local flavor, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to book your thermal bath entry in advance and prepare for a day packed with natural wonders and cozy, warm relaxation.

You can check if your dates are available here: