Furnas: Volcanic Landscapes, Thermal Springs and Gardens

The smell of sulphur, boiling springs and rising steam make the volcanic activity of the Furnas Valley a sensory experience. The volcanic complex includes Lagoa das Furnas, fumarole fields, and mineral and thermal springs. Since 2008, the complex has been designated a Ramsar site; it is also part of a Special Protection Area in the Natura 2000 network.

This landscape brings together a range of travel interests: thermal waters, viewpoints, gardens, architecture and local cuisine.

Volcanic Landscapes, Gardens and Views

Lagoa das Furnas is part of the volcanic complex. The lake is home to Parque da Grená, whose paths wind through a diverse variety of plant and animal life; waterfalls are also among the park’s landscape features. On the lagoon’s south shore, Mata-Jardim José do Canto encompasses Vale dos Fetos and the Salto do Rosal waterfall. Together, they offer different views of gardens and nature: paths by the lake, waterfalls and named garden areas.

Parque D. Beatriz do Canto offers a distinctive setting of its own. This 19th-century romantic park features lawns, a plane-tree avenue, a lake and a suspension bridge. The house and garden are classified as an “Imóvel de Interesse Público” (Property of Public Interest). Formerly known as Parque das Murtas, the park lies in the bed of the Ribeira das Murtas, a stream that runs through Furnas.

Those interested in architecture will find the Nossa Senhora das Vitórias Chapel on the western side of Lagoa das Furnas. This unique Neo-Gothic building in the Azores archipelago was built in the late 19th century by José do Canto, who is buried there. The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Alegria in Furnas provides another architectural landmark: its construction began in the early 20th century in the Neo-Romanesque Revival style.

Thermal Waters and Knowledge of the Volcano

At Terra Nostra Park, a thermal pool is set among a diverse variety of plants: the park is home to more than 2,000 different trees. Poça da Dona Beija is a thermal spa in Vale das Furnas, built around an iron-rich spring whose water is naturally heated by volcanic activity. The spa features five pools of different depths and temperatures; the average temperature is 39 °C. As bathing conditions can change, check the latest information before visiting.

Another way to explore the volcanic area is through interpretation and exhibitions. The Furnas Environmental Interpretation Centre focuses on the history and development of the Furnas volcano. It uses exhibitions, interactive tools, multimedia platforms and guided visits; the lagoon’s ecosystem is also among the topics covered. OMIC, the Observatório Microbiano dos Açores, is housed in the historic Casa de Banhos Termais building and offers permanent and temporary exhibitions as well as practical activities. Its focus is on the importance of microorganisms and the microbial biodiversity of Furnas’s thermal springs and the volcanic caves of the Azores.

Termas das Furnas offers another perspective on thermal waters as a thermal centre with around 30 types of water at different temperatures. The complex also includes pavilions and a 19th-century thermal hospital. Together, these places show how Furnas can be explored through both its landscape and the different ways of engaging with thermal waters.

Trails, Park Visits and Local Cuisine

Two hiking trails offer different views. PRC06SMI reaches Pico do Milho, whose summit offers a view over the Furnas Valley. PRC22 SMI Grená–Pico do Ferro starts at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint and offers views of the valley and lagoon. When choosing between the two trails, consider whether a view over the valley or views of both the valley and lake matter most to you.

Parque da Grená combines paths through flora and fauna with waterfalls and a ruined manor house. It has been transformed into the first tree-climbing park in the Azores. The park is open to visitors year-round according to a schedule and for an admission fee; check visiting hours in advance. The private José do Canto Garden can also be visited according to a schedule and for an admission fee. It is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility.

The local cuisine is also connected to volcanic heat: at the Furnas caldeiras, the traditional Cozido à Portuguesa is cooked using the internal heat of the Furnas volcano. Along with the thermal pools, trails, and range of gardens and architectural sites, this gives you a choice of different ways to shape your stay. These interests can help you find the right holiday rental in Furnas for your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Ponta Garca, São Miguel, Horta, Topo, Ginetes, Mosteiros, Fajã Grande, Urzelina.

For the main travel overview: Azores.