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Furnas

Where Mother Nature shows its magic. Furnas is the entrance to another world full of geological mysteries. A peaceful shelter for locals to get away from the city and travellers to explore unconquerable unique nature. With boiling water coming from the volcanic ground, smoke that can be seen all around town and a very particular smell, Furnas is mesmerising.

About Furnas

Located in Povoação county, Furnas is about 30 minutes away from Ponta Delgada by car, in the countryside of the island. In fact, the valley of Furnas is situated inside a huge volcanic crater, one of the most active on the island.

The main sources of wealth in Furnas is agriculture and tourism, due to its unlimited beauty. This quiet place is well known by travelers but also by locals who choose to come here for the weekend or holidays. 

In Furnas, there is the Azorean Microbial Observatory, an interesting museum center where you can expand your scientific knowledge. 

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Nature & Geology

Inside Furnas, you can witness many phenomena of active volcanism, such as fumaroles, boilers, or hot springs. The last volcanic eruption of Furnas volcano was in 1630, but the volcano is still active, as you can see from the many pieces of evidence of its natural power. 

Did you know that Furnas is one of the richest hydrological regions of Europe? That is why there is lush vegetation. At Terra Nostra botanical garden, in addition to the hot springs, a wonderful variety of trees, plants, and flowers are shown. 

Also inside the municipality are to be found a big set of sources of medicinal waters. Some of them have gas, some of them are hot, but one thing is for sure, tasting some of the 20 different water sources is something unique and fun to do. 

Experiences and Tips

Furnas is like a big geological playground where everyone will get their mind blown by what nature is capable of doing.

Something not to be missed is the famous Cozido meal. This dish is cooked underground in the volcanic soil for hours before arriving to your plate. It is made of chicken, pork, and beef meat with several vegetables like sweet potato, yam, carrot, and so much more.

For the night hot spring experience, Poça da Dona Beija is a magical place to be. Observe the stars when soaking in a naturally warm pool. It is a unique experience to have in São Miguel Island.

Tip: take off your jewelry as it can turn into a different color due to the iron of the pools.

Why Futurismo

  • 100+ Breathtaking experiences

    Venture beyond the extraordinary. Unrivaled adventure

  • Azores Travel Experts

    Largest tour operator in the Azores with 30 years of experience

  • Helping Social Solidarity Institutions

    Apart from being a responsible tour operator, we also have a social commitment with many local organizations

  • Multicultural Team

    Our guides speak several languages, including English, Spanish, French and German.

    • Tours in Van Tour to Furnas – Thematic Tour

    Top 10 The Mystic Furnas Valley
  • Van Tours
  • Sao Miguel island
  • Furnas
  • Full day All season Easy
    • Per adult 79€
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    Things you must see in Furnas

    Plan your trip to Furnas

    Can I swim in Furnas lake?

    No, it is not allowed to swim in Furnas lake for conservation reasons.

    What is Cozido das Furnas?

    Cozido is one of the most typical and emblematic dishes of São Miguel. What is special about it is that all the ingredients are placed in a pan which is buried in the hot ground next to the natural boilers of Furnas. The average cooking time is 5 hours. The recipe usually includes chicken, beef, pig leg, bacon, pork chop, potatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, cabbage, kale, black pudding, chorizo, and yams. Check our video.

    Where is Furnas?

    Furnas is located about 43km (27 miles) away from Ponta Delgada Eastward. It takes approximately 40 minutes to go there without stopping.

    Frequently asked about Furnas

    Are there particular recommendations when taking a dip into the iron-rich hot pool?

    Yes, avoid white or light-colored swimsuit, because they could turn orange-yellowish. Don’t wear jewelry while in the pool because it could also turn into another color due to the iron inside the water. Also, avoid getting your hair wet especially if you have dyed hair because it can become dry or change the color. Otherwise, just enjoy this extraordinary experience.

    What is Cozido das Furnas?

    Cozido is one of the most typical and emblematic dishes of São Miguel. What is special about it is that all the ingredients are placed in a pan which is buried in the hot ground next to the natural boilers of Furnas. The average cooking time is 5 hours. The recipe usually includes chicken, beef, pig leg, bacon, pork chop, potatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, cabbage, kale, black pudding, chorizo, and yams. Check our video.

    Where is Furnas?

    Furnas is located about 43km (27 miles) away from Ponta Delgada Eastward. It takes approximately 40 minutes to go there without stopping.

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