Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs

Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, local flavor, and relaxing thermal experiences. Starting with a scenic drive from Ponta Delgada, you’ll visit the iconic Lagoa das Furnas, explore the volcanic landscape, enjoy a traditional Cozido das Furnas cooked underground, and unwind in hot springs at night. Costing around the price of a good dinner and some thermal soak, it’s a well-rounded way to experience the heart of São Miguel in a single day.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines nature and gastronomy—you get to see volcanic activity firsthand and then taste it in the form of the famous stew. Plus, the outdoor thermal baths at dusk turn into an almost mystical experience, with the warm waters and night ambiance creating a memorable moment. The knowledgeable guides and personalized service are another major plus, making the experience feel authentic and engaging.

One thing to consider is that the thermal bath entry is an extra charge and must be booked in advance, with limited availability at certain times. This means planning ahead or budgeting a bit more for that relaxing soak. Also, if you’re not a fan of walking or outdoor exposure, you’ll want to be prepared for some light hiking and variable weather.

This tour suits travelers eager for authentic Azorean experiences—those who love natural scenery, local food, and a touch of nighttime magic. It’s especially ideal for curious explorers and food lovers, but not so much for travelers seeking a purely indoor or isolated experience.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Combines natural sightseeing, traditional cuisine, and thermal relaxation.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides provide rich stories and personalized attention.
• Stunning scenery: Views of volcanic lakes, lush gardens, and the night-time geothermal glow.
• Focus on gastronomy: The Cozido das Furnas is cooked underground, offering a taste of local tradition.
• Relaxing thermal baths: Poça da Dona Beija at night offers warm waters and therapeutic benefits.
• Flexible touring: Customizable stops and timing, with a focus on authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Furnas: The Mystic Tour

Starting the Journey: From Coastline to Volcano

We begin by leaving early morning or midday from one of three pickup points—Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada—to head toward the eastern side of São Miguel. The drive itself is scenic, set against the Atlantic coast and passing by Vila Franca do Campo. We loved the way the trip felt relaxed but not rushed, allowing us to soak in the landscape and chat with our guide about the island’s geology and history.

Vila Franca do Campo: Coastal Charm

Our first stop is at Vila Franca do Campo, an old fishing village with colorful houses and a small islet. Here, we snap photos of the coast, taking in the view of the island’s volcanic origins. The calm fishing harbor and the sea breeze set a peaceful tone for the day. This quick stop is a good chance to stretch, breathe in the salty air, and get our bearings before heading inland.

Lagoa das Furnas: The Heart of Volcano Island

Next, we arrive at Lagoa das Furnas, a vast caldera lake with warm, bubbling geothermal activity everywhere. The guide points out various endemic and invasive plants that thrive here, giving us insights into how the local environment is shaped by volcanic forces. The scene is both tranquil and slightly surreal—steam rises from the lake, and the surrounding lush greenery feels primed for magic.

We loved the way our guide explained how locals took advantage of this geothermal energy to cook Cozido das Furnas, a stew that’s slowly baked underground for hours. It’s a perfect example of resourcefulness—using nature’s heat to prepare a hearty, communal meal. The smell of the cooking is tempting, even before you sit down to taste.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Gastronomic Highlight: Cozido das Furnas

The lunch experience is one of the tour’s highlights. You’ll dine at a traditional local restaurant, where the stew is served along with starters, desserts, and drinks, with vegetarian options available. According to reviews, the quality of the food is excellent, and the experience of eating a stew cooked underground adds a special touch of authenticity. One traveler noted that the restaurant called ahead to prepare a vegetarian version, making it accessible for different dietary preferences.

Nature Walks and Photography Stops

After lunch, you’ll take a short walk through some of the lush gardens around the lake. These are the perfect spots for photos and appreciating the island’s flora. The guide points out interesting plants and wildlife, adding an educational element to the scenic walk. The balance of nature and quiet reflection here is especially appreciated in the late afternoon.

Soaking in the Thermal Waters

As dusk falls, it’s time for the hot springs at Poça da Dona Beija. This outdoor thermal bath area has pools kept at around 39°C (102°F), perfect for relaxing tired muscles after a day of sightseeing. The pools are surrounded by abundant vegetation and bird sounds, creating a tranquil, almost spiritual atmosphere. The transition from daylight to night makes the experience even more special, with the steam rising in the cooler air.

You must pre-book your entry online, and the preferred time slot is 20:30. For those who want an earlier soak, a 19:00 slot is available, but it’s not at night, which might lessen the enchanted effect of the experience. The extra fee for entry is approximately €17, but many reviews emphasize that it’s well worth it for the relaxing ambiance and therapeutic waters.

Nighttime Volcano Views and Geysers

To cap off the evening, the tour takes you to see the furnas boiling pools. The natural display of steam, smoke, and glowing lava-like phenomena under the night sky is unforgettable. It’s a raw, elemental display that’s hard to find elsewhere and a testament to the island’s volcanic activity. Travelers have described this as a “smoke and lights show given by nature,” a truly unique experience.

Additional Tastes and Experiences

Throughout the evening, you might sample some local mineral waters—each with different mineral compositions—and a sweet delicacy to cleanse your palate. The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor shine in these moments, making the experience feel personal rather than touristy.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated in a 9-seater van equipped with air conditioning and panoramic windows, ensuring comfort and great views. The group size is small enough to allow for personalized attention but large enough to feel lively and social. Pickups are coordinated with your accommodation, and the guide is fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Timing and Flexibility

At about 6 hours, this tour balances a full day without feeling overly exhausting. It’s flexible enough to adjust dinner and thermal bath times depending on your preferences and availability. Keep in mind that pickups at Ribeira Grande incur an extra fee of €10.

Cost and Value

For around the price of a good dinner, you get a comprehensive experience—scenic sightseeing, authentic local food, thermal relaxation, and vivid night-time views. Many reviews point out the excellent value, especially considering the personalized guide service and the variety of activities packed into a single day.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

What makes this tour stand out is the personalized attention and the way guides share stories and insights that elevate the experience. Travelers often mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge—one reviewer wrote, “Ivo was a great guide, so knowledgeable and he really loved the natural history of Furnas.” It’s clear that the guides aren’t just going through a script; they genuinely want you to understand and enjoy every aspect.

What Travelers Love Most

• The nighttime thermal baths are considered a highlight, especially for their relaxing and almost mystical quality.
• The cooking demonstration and tasting of the Cozido provide an authentic taste of Azorean life.
• The stunning views of volcanic activity, especially the steam and glowing pools at night, create a memorable spectacle.
• The opportunity to sample local mineral waters and sweets adds a fun, sensory dimension.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is that the thermal bath entry is an extra that must be booked separately and ahead of time, which can be a slight inconvenience. Also, since the experience involves walking outdoors and around volcanic sites, weather can impact comfort; bringing suitable clothing is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy natural wonders, local food, and relaxing thermal baths. It appeals especially to those who appreciate stories behind the sights and want a well-rounded, authentic Azorean experience. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, memorable outing at night. However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a purely indoor or quick visit type experience.

Summary

Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a carefully curated day combining scenic landscapes, local cuisine, and thermal relaxation under the stars. The tour’s highlights—like the underground-cooked Cozido, the dusk soak in the hot springs, and the natural display of volcanic activity—are truly unique to São Miguel. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it feel personal, informative, and genuine.

For those craving a taste of authentic Azorean culture combined with breathtaking scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers wanting a full, immersive day that ends with a peaceful soak under the night sky.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour is conducted in a 9-seater van with air conditioning and panoramic windows, ensuring comfortable travel between stops.

Can I book the thermal bath separately?
The entry to Poça da Dona Beija is an extra fee (~€17) and must be booked online ahead of time. The preferred time slot is 20:30 for a true nighttime experience.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including sightseeing, dining, and thermal baths, making it a full but manageable day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, weather-appropriate clothing, and toiletries are recommended. Be prepared for outdoor walking and potential weather changes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The info suggests it’s best for travelers over 1 year old. Check with the provider for specific family accommodations or options for children.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Do I need to pre-book the entire experience?
Yes, especially the thermal baths, as spots are limited. The tour can be booked with pay-later options for flexibility.

Is the dinner vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the restaurant calls ahead to prepare vegetarian options, and vegetarians are well catered for.

In sum, if you’re looking for an evening that combines volcanic wonder, local flavors, and therapeutic waters, this tour offers a rich, memorable slice of São Miguel’s magic—authentic, relaxing, and visually stunning.

You can check availability for your dates here: