Sao Miguel Island in the Azores offers more than just lush landscapes and volcanic scenery; it’s a haven for relaxation and wellness. With its natural hot springs, geothermal pools, and scenic lakes, the island is a perfect destination for anyone craving soothing waters and stunning views. We particularly love the full-day Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha Hot Springs — not just for the natural beauty, but for the chance to combine gentle exercise with relaxing thermal waters. Whether you prefer a guided hike or a leisurely soak, these experiences deliver a genuine taste of Azorean relaxation.
Sao Miguel’s hot springs and spa tours cater to all tastes—from half-day visits to evening thermal baths, and even full-day adventures with scenic hikes. We’ve rounded up six standout options, each with its own unique charm and appeal, to help you decide how best to unwind on this volcanic island.
Quick Overview
This list features a mix of full-day tours, like the From Ponta Delgada: Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip, which combines crater lake sightseeing with visits to hot springs and local crafts, and specialized evening tours such as the Furnas Hot Springs Night Tour that focus on nighttime geothermal bathing. There are also guided hikes like the Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha Hot Springs for active travelers. Below, each experience is detailed to help you find the ideal mix of scenery, relaxation, and adventure.
1. From Ponta Delgada: Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip
This full-day tour offers an excellent blend of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation. Starting from Ponta Delgada, the trip takes you to Lagoa do Fogo, one of the island’s most breathtaking crater lakes, set in the Água de Pau Massif caldera. As you soak in the views, your guide helps you understand the geological forces that created this stunning feature.
The tour’s highlight is the visit to Caldeira Velha, a famous hot springs preserve, where you can enjoy warm pools amid lush surroundings. The guide also takes you to the oldest tea plantation in Europe, Gorreana, where you can stroll through terraced fields and sample local teas. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day—incorporating scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and a relaxing soak.
What sets this tour apart is its well-rounded itinerary: from pottery shopping at Cerâmica Vieira to panoramic viewpoints, it balances sightseeing with wellness. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the variety of experiences packed into 8 hours.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you want a full day of diverse sights and the chance to relax in thermal waters amid stunning scenery.
2. Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs
This tour takes you deep into the mystical heart of Furnas, known for its geothermal activity and lush landscapes. It includes a nature walk around Lagoa das Furnas, where the bubbling fumaroles and steaming vents create a surreal setting. The highlight is the Furnas stew, cooked underground with volcanic heat and enjoyed during a regional dinner.
After dinner, the tour allows you to experience thermal baths at night—a rare chance to relax in mineral-rich waters under the stars. Entry is paid separately, but the combination of scenic, cultural, and culinary experiences makes it a memorable outing. The guide’s local knowledge shines, with personalized touches such as tasting mineral waters and traditional pastries.
This tour suits those interested in geothermal wonders combined with authentic Azorean cuisine, and the evening soak adds a magical touch. One reviewer shared, “Ivo made the experience special with stories and a vegetarian version of the cozido.”
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a blend of nature, culture, and a unique thermal soak in a peaceful nighttime setting.
3. Nordeste: Waterfall, Hot Spring and Viewpoints Full-Day Tour
For those craving off-the-beaten-path scenery, this tour explores São Miguel’s quiet northeastern corner. It combines visits to waterfalls, viewpoints, and natural hot springs for a relaxing yet active day. The tour starts with a drive through Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, where waterfalls and lush greenery dominate the landscape.
You’ll also visit scenic lookout points like Vista dos Barcos, Ponta do Sossego, and Ponta da Madrugada, each offering breathtaking views of the coast and volcanic terrain. The thermal waters at Terra Nostra Park provide a soothing soak amid the lush gardens, making this a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation. The guide’s personal insights make the experience more enriching.
This tour appeals to travelers interested in natural landmarks, waterfalls, and tranquil hot springs. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guide and the high-quality scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a scenic, active day with plenty of natural thermal waters and panoramic views.
4. Furnas Volcano: Full Day Tour, Hot Springs & Waterfalls
If you want to see Furnas volcano up close, this 8-hour tour covers the main sights, like Ribeira dos Caldeirões and Veu da Noiva waterfall. It includes visits to a working tea plantation where you can taste fresh Gorreana tea, and scenic stops at Pico do Ferro lookout.
The tour’s core is a guided exploration of volcanic landscapes, fumaroles, and hot springs. The highlight is visiting the Furnas Lake, with its steaming fumaroles and thermal activity, plus a chance to walk in the volcanic terrain. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and the chance to see the area’s natural beauty without feeling rushed.
The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a full day of volcanic scenery, cultural experiences, and hot springs. Although the price isn’t specified, the comprehensive itinerary and expert guidance justify a higher value.
Bottom line: Best suited for those eager to explore volcanic landscapes and relax in natural hot springs with a knowledgeable guide.
5. Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour
For a truly atmospheric experience, this evening tour focuses solely on enjoying natural thermal waters at night. It’s a short, 4-hour tour, perfect if you’re short on time but still want to indulge in geothermal bathing under the stars. You’ll arrive at a thermal spring site where you can soak in mineral-rich waters that sparkle in the moonlight.
The highlight is the dinner—a regional thermal meal—offering a taste of local cuisine along with the relaxing waters. The guide creates a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere, making this a perfect choice for couples or anyone looking for a calm, intimate experience.
Guests note that this tour is a “paradisiacal space,” ideal for unwinding after busy sightseeing. The nightly geothermal activity combined with dinner makes it both relaxing and culturally enriching.
Bottom line: Great for those seeking a romantic, relaxed evening in thermal waters with authentic local flavors.
$136 per person
6. Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha Hot Springs
This active tour combines a guided hike to Fogo Lake with a visit to Caldeira Velha’s thermal pools, making it perfect for adventurous travelers. The hike offers an up-close look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, with panoramic views of Fogo Lake, one of the island’s most iconic lakes.
Post-hike, you get to unwind in the warm waters of Caldeira Velha, soaking away any fatigue. The tour includes a light meal, ensuring you stay energized. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to combine physical activity with relaxation.
This experience is best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and interested in a full-day outdoor adventure that ends with a soak in thermal waters. The guide’s expertise makes the hike informative and enjoyable.
Bottom line: Excellent for active travelers who want a scenic hike plus thermal relaxation in one day.
$159 per person
How to Choose the Best Spa & Hot Springs Experience
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and preferred style of relaxation. For a comprehensive day with scenic drives and cultural stops, the Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip offers great value. If you’re after a romantic evening soak, the Furnas Hot Springs Night Tour provides a peaceful, atmospheric experience.
Active travelers may prefer the Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha, which combines outdoor adventure with wellness. Those interested in geothermal culture should consider the Furnas: The Mystic Tour, which pairs geothermal activity with regional cuisine.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, as these popular tours tend to fill up quickly. Also, check availability and start times to match your travel plans, since some tours are full-day while others are shorter or focus on evening relaxation.
To sum it up, Sao Miguel offers a diverse array of spa and hot springs experiences, whether you want a scenic day of sightseeing with thermal pools, a guided hike ending with a soak, or a peaceful night in mineral waters. If your trip allows, try combining a couple of these options to maximize both adventure and relaxation. Whatever your style, booking your preferred tour early will ensure your time on São Miguel is both refreshing and memorable.