The 3 Best Spa & Hot Springs Experiences in Sao Miguel
Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, offers much more than just stunning cliffs and lush green valleys. It’s a place where geothermal activity creates natural hot springs and thermal baths that are perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. Whether you want a full-day adventure among volcanoes or a tailored private experience, Sao Miguel has options that cater to all preferences. Our favorite is the Furnas Volcano Experience, which combines volcanic scenery, thermal waters, and cultural stops in a single day. It’s a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the island’s geothermal power firsthand.
For those who prefer a more private, personalized approach, the Full-Day Private São Miguel Tour with Furnas and Hot springs offers a tailored experience that includes tasting the famous cozedo (Furnas stew) and soaking in Terra Nostra Park’s hot pools. And for travelers eager to dive deep into volcanic activity and thermal baths, the Azores: 1 Day Private Tour Furnas Volcanic Activity & Hot Springs packs in immersive sights and authentic experiences into a compact day.
1. Furnas Volcano Experience – Nature, Hot Springs & Scenic Views
This full-day tour is a wonderful way to explore Furnas, one of Sao Miguel’s most captivating volcanic zones. It combines a variety of scenic stops, from smoky boilers and colorful geothermal pools to lush parks and waterfalls. The day begins at Miradouro de Santa Iria, where the panoramic view over the north coast makes it clear why this spot is a favorite. You’ll also visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, the only natural tea plantation in Europe still producing tea, which offers a fun walk through the plantation and a chance to taste fresh brews.
Next, the tour takes you to the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park and the famous Véu da Noiva waterfall—an enchanting spot for photos and relaxation. The highlight is the geothermal activity in Furnas itself, where you can observe bubbling geysers and steaming hot springs. The tour also offers opportunities to soak your feet or even swim in thermal waters, making it a perfect mix of sightseeing and unwinding. The reviews praise the tour’s informative guides and breathtaking views, with many saying it’s a highlight of their trip.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want to see volcanic landscapes, learn about geothermal activity, and enjoy several different scenic stops, all in a comfortable, well-organized day.
2. Full-Day Private São Miguel Tour with Furnas and Hot springs
For travelers who prefer a more personalized experience, this private tour allows you to customize your day while exploring Sao Miguel’s highlights. It starts with a visit to the Miradouro de Santa Iria, offering a stunning view of the north coast. The tour then moves on to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, where you can walk among the tea bushes and learn about the production process that’s been ongoing since 1883.
One of the more unique stops is the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, perched at about 570 meters above sea level, which provides an impressive view of the volcanic crater and Furnas lake. The most distinctive feature is the chance to see the cozido, a traditional Portuguese stew cooked underground using volcanic heat, at Lagoa das Furnas. Afterward, optional visits include relaxing in the geothermal hot springs, which is an excellent way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, with one reviewer noting the knowledgeable guide and personalized attention. The private format makes it perfect for families or small groups who want a relaxed, tailored experience without rushing.
Bottom line: If you value a flexible schedule, private guiding, and the opportunity to focus on your interests, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day immersed in Sao Miguel’s volcanic landscapes.
3. Azores: 1 Day Private Tour Furnas Volcanic Activity & Hot Springs
This private day tour is a deep dive into Sao Miguel’s volcanic activity combined with authentic local experiences. It kicks off at the Miradouro de Santa Iria, giving a sweeping view of the island’s northern coast. The guide then takes you to Gorreana Tea, where non-stop production since 1883 makes it Europe’s oldest tea factory—an interesting stop for tea lovers and history buffs alike.
The next highlight is Pico do Ferro, offering a panoramic view of the crater and the Furnas Lake, which is famous for the underground cooking of the traditional cozido. Later, the tour includes a visit to Furnas, where you can observe bubbling geysers and steaming hot springs, then relax in the Iron Hot Pools at 39°C for a true volcanic bath. The experience is rounded out with a local lunch featuring traditional Azorean dishes, making this a comprehensive cultural and geothermal immersion.
Guests mention how Carlos, the guide, makes the day memorable with his engaging storytelling and flexibility. Perfect for anyone seeking a full-on volcanic experience in a comfortable, private setting, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with genuine relaxation.
Bottom line: This tour offers a rich, immersive look at Furnas’ volcanic activity, combined with cultural delights and a soothing hot spring soak, ideal for those who want an authentic experience.
How to Choose the Best Spa & Hot Springs Experience in Sao Miguel
When selecting the right tour for your trip, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re after a comprehensive day that mixes sightseeing and geothermal relaxation, the Furnas Volcano Experience offers a fantastic balance at around $79. For a more personalized journey, the private options like the Full-Day Private São Miguel Tour provide flexibility and comfort, albeit at a higher price—up to $277.82 for a group.
If you’re especially keen on experiencing volcanic activity firsthand and want an immersive, all-in-one tour, the Azores: 1 Day Private Tour stands out, especially with the included hot pools and traditional cozido cooking. Booking early is advised, particularly in peak season (spring and summer), to secure your preferred times and guides.
Consider also your fitness level—these tours involve some walking and outdoor activity. For those who prefer sitting back and enjoying views comfortably, private tours with flexible itineraries are the best fit.
Final Thoughts
Sao Miguel’s spa and hot springs tours range from lively full-day explorations to exclusive private experiences. If you want a diverse adventure with scenic stops and geothermal wonders, the Furnas Volcano Experience is hard to beat. For travelers who prefer a tailored approach with the comfort of a private guide, options like the Full-Day Private São Miguel Tour or the more intensive Azores 1-Day Private Tour provide excellent value and memorable experiences.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a mix of spectacular volcanic scenery, authentic local flavors, and warm thermal waters—the perfect recipe for relaxing and discovering Sao Miguel’s geothermal magic. Be sure to book early, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare for some truly volcanic relaxation!