The Azores islands present a variety of undiscovered destinations featuring some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable. The most prominent and populous island, São Miguel, is often the initial stop on many visitors’ journeys through the Azores.

This island delivers a rich array of experiences, including exquisite cuisine, stunning vistas, fantastic hiking opportunities, and the charming yet burgeoning city of Ponta Delgada. Owing to its volcanic activity, São Miguel boasts some of the world’s finest natural hot spring pools.

Optimal Visiting Period

While the outdoor thermal pools consistently maintain warm water temperatures, your visit may depend on the experiences you seek. Winters bring frequent rainfall, which enhances the stunning beauty of the landscape. There is nothing quite like soaking in a thermal spring’s warm waters amidst a gentle rain.

Three primary locations on the island offer unique experiences with natural thermal pools.

Terra Nostra Gardens

The first location, arguably the most renowned hot spring, is situated in the town of Furnas within the Furnas Valley. Here, volcanic activity causes water to bubble in the caldeiras, filling the air with the distinctive scent of sulfur. Enveloped within the picturesque Terra Nostra Gardens lies one of the foremost thermal pools.

Initially established as an orange plantation in 1775 by Thomas Hickling, a prosperous Boston merchant, the property changed hands in 1848 when the Visconde da Praia acquired it. His passion for gardening led to the establishment of the current house and the lush botanical gardens surrounding the impressive hot spring.

The mineral-rich waters take on an orange hue, staining all that it touches, including swimwear. Nevertheless, the soothing warmth and revitalizing properties of the water make the coloration a minor consideration.

A short distance from the main pool, various hotter thermal baths lie concealed within the greenery. Surrounded by lush foliage, these milky blue pools evoke the sensation of entering a hot tub set in a tropical rainforest. Facilities for showers and changing rooms are conveniently located nearby; however, it is important to bring your own towel, as none are provided.

Furthermore, dining at the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel grants complimentary access to the gardens as well as the thermal pools. The local specialty, cozido—a unique dish comprised of assorted meats and vegetables slowly cooked in a caldeira for 5 to 7 hours—is highly recommended.

Caldeira Velha

Located to the west near Lagoa de Fogo (“Lake of Fire”) on the northern slope of the Fogo Volcano, Caldeira Velha transports visitors into an environment reminiscent of Jurassic Park. The rich, vibrant foliage envelopes various natural hot springs.

It is essential to consider seasonal variations when planning your visit; for instance, October may not be ideal due to frequent rain. However, the lower three pools maintain temperatures around 98 degrees and cascade into one another.

Entry is priced at 8 Euros per person and includes a 2-hour time limit, though this is often not rigidly enforced during the shoulder season. Amenities such as showers, changing rooms, and washrooms are available, alongside the Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Center that offers insights into the pools.

Termas da Ferraria

This historic location was once an old bathhouse, where a physician would travel biweekly via donkey along a narrow trail.

Today, there is no need for a donkey to navigate the perilously narrow roads leading to the spa. However, visitors must be cautious while traversing the sharp switchbacks along the coastal cliff.

For a four-hour indulgence at the spa, the cost is 29 Euros, but it is not necessary to use the spa facilities to appreciate this natural gem. During peak season, a fee of 6 Euros applies to access the hot spring by the sea.

During the shoulder and off-seasons, however, my experience suggests that entry is often complimentary. From the parking area, visitors proceed on foot to a rocky ledge by the sea where a natural thermal pool forms within the ocean.

Here, a small cove allows geothermal heat to warm the ocean water at low tide, achieving a perfect, soothing temperature for relaxation.

This area is equipped with ropes strung across the inlet, allowing you to hold on and enjoy the gentle rocking of the waves in this remarkably warm ocean spa. Amenities such as a small snack bar, showers, washrooms, and changing rooms are available for visitor convenience.

This location is particularly popular during low tide, and I was captivated by the diversity of languages spoken around me as I floated in the warm waters, sharing a moment of connection with individuals from various backgrounds. It exemplified a melting pot of cultures seeking relaxation and joy.

During that experience, we shared a common purpose and simply smiled and laughed together, fostering a sense of unity. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to extend such joy globally?

Final Reflections

Regardless of your preferences, there exists a natural hot spring suitable for everyone, making it an ideal activity even on rainy days.

For additional inspiration regarding the best experiences in São Miguel, feel free to explore this informative article .