Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs

Our review of Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a glimpse into a truly memorable Azorean adventure. This six-hour journey combines natural wonder, local gastronomy, and evening relaxation, making it a favorite among travelers seeking an authentic taste of São Miguel. The tour’s focus on geothermal hotspots, scenic landscapes, and a traditional Cozido das Furnas — cooked underground using volcanic heat — makes it a unique experience you won’t find elsewhere.

Two things I particularly like about this experience: First, the knowledgeable guides like Ivo and Zico, who don’t just take you around but bring the island’s stories to life with warmth and insight. Second, the evening setting adds a magical touch that turns ordinary sightseeing into a contemplative, almost mystical, journey. Watching the bubbling calderas and steaming pools at night feels like witnessing the planet’s hidden power in action.

One potential consideration is the timing for the thermal baths—you need to book in advance, and the entry fee is charged separately. If soaking in thermal waters as the sun sets sounds appealing, scheduling this part of the tour is essential and might require some flexibility. Also, the tour’s pace is quite full, so if you prefer a more leisurely exploration, you may find the schedule tight.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Local Experience: This tour combines scenic drives, geothermal walks, and culinary delights, offering a well-rounded look at Furnas.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ivo and Zico are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness, enriching the experience.
• Nighttime Magic: Visiting the thermal pools and volcano calderas after dark transforms the landscape into a surreal and calming environment.
• Gastronomic Highlight: The Cozido das Furnas—cooked underground using volcanic heat—is a must-try, with vegetarian options available.
• Limited Spots for Thermal Baths: Pre-booking the Dona Beija thermal baths is mandatory, with a separate entry fee, but you’ll love the peaceful, starry soak.
• Authentic Flavors and Nature: The tour includes tasting mineral waters, local pastries, and exploring lush gardens—an immersive experience in Azorean culture.

An In-Depth Look at the Furnas Mystic Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins with a pickup from one of three convenient locations: Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada. The tour uses a comfortable 9-seater van equipped with A/C and panoramic windows, perfect for enjoying the views along the scenic drive. Expect a friendly, professional guide—like Ivo—who will keep the mood lively and informative without overwhelming you.

You’ll spend roughly 45 minutes on the road, passing through some of São Miguel’s most charming coastal landscapes, including the islet of Vila Franca do Campo. This detour offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the island’s varied scenery from the outset.

Vila Franca do Campo: Coastal Charm

The first stop is Vila Franca do Campo, a picturesque fishing village and former capital. With its rugged coastline and small harbor, this spot sets a tranquil tone for the day. Visitors often comment on the scenic drive and the visual contrast between the coast and inland volcanoes. It’s a quick stop but a lovely way to start soaking in Azorean atmosphere.

Lagoa das Furnas: The Heart of the Geothermal Activity

Next up is Lagoa das Furnas, the crown jewel of the tour. This volcanic lake is famous for its bubbling fumaroles and endemic flora and fauna—some of which are invasive but fascinating to observe. The surrounding landscape is lush and alive, a reminder of the island’s geothermal activity. Guides like Ivo explain how locals have harnessed this heat for culinary purposes, notably the Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground for 6-7 hours.

Many reviews highlight this as a major highlight: “Furnas was absolutely stunning, but what made the trip special was how Ivo shared stories and explained the history behind everything,” says a traveler. The combination of natural scenery and cultural insight makes this stop educational and visually captivating.

Authentic Cozido Dinner

Post-walk, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant. The Cozido das Furnas is a standout dish—slow-cooked in volcanic steam, creating tender meats and flavorful vegetables. The tour includes a full meal with starters, drinks, desserts, and coffee or tea, with vegetarian options available. This is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Azorean life and ingenuity. One reviewer fondly recalls being called ahead to ensure their vegetarian needs were met, which shows the tour’s attentive approach.

Gardens and Scenic Walks

After dinner, there’s a brief stroll around some of the prettiest gardens on the island. These lush spaces amplify the sense of tranquility and natural beauty. It’s a good chance to digest before heading to the thermal pools.

Evening Thermal Bath Experience at Poça da Dona Beija

The evening’s highlight is a relaxing dip in Poça da Dona Beija thermal pools. The water temperature hovers around 39°C (102°F), and the pools are set amid vibrant greenery and bird sounds, creating a soothing, almost spiritual atmosphere as dusk turns into night. Booking in advance is crucial, and the extra fee (around €17) secures your entry during the night-time hours, which many reviewers say is worth every penny for the peaceful ambiance.

Many visitors praise this part of the tour: “Entering the baths at night was amazing,” writes one traveler, adding that soaking under the stars with the thermal waters working their magic is a uniquely Azorean moment.

Nighttime Boiling Pools and Geysers

After the baths, the tour concludes with a visit to the Caldeiras Vulcânicas — steaming, bubbling pools that erupt with clouds of smoke and glowing lights in the darkness. Watching this natural display is a powerful reminder of the island’s volcanic heartbeat. Tasting mineral waters and enjoying traditional local sweets after this spectacle caps off the experience with sensory richness.

Final Remarks on Logistics and Value

This tour is priced to reflect its inclusiveness: transportation, a guided experience, dinner, and the thermal bath entry—plus the opportunity to see some of the island’s most impressive geothermal sites at night. Given the reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and depth of knowledge, you’ll likely feel well cared for throughout.

It’s suited for travelers who enjoy natural landscapes, culture, and a touch of relaxation in a stunning environment. The pace is full but not rushed, making it a good choice for those who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Furnas.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a blend of sightseeing, local food, and relaxation, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly appealing if you’re intrigued by geothermal activity or appreciate dining experiences rooted in local tradition. The night-time thermal bath adds a magical element, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring.

On the other hand, if you prefer a slower, more leisurely pace or have mobility issues, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, be prepared to book the thermal baths early and pay an extra fee.

Practical Tips

• Book the thermal baths in advance—availability is limited and essential if you want the night experience.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and cooling off in thermal waters.
• Bring swimwear, a towel, and toiletries for the baths.
• Use weather-appropriate clothing; evenings can be cooler, especially after sunset.
• Arrive 15 minutes early for pickup and be prepared for a small extra charge if your pickup is at Ribeira Grande.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and the tour offers alternative dishes for younger guests. Keep in mind, the thermal baths and some walking may be better suited for older kids.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, a guided tour, dinner featuring Cozido das Furnas, local pastries, water, and tour insurance are included. Entry to Dona Beija thermal springs is optional and charged separately.

How long is the thermal bath experience?
The thermal pools are typically a 1.5-hour experience, but booking in advance ensures you get the evening slot you prefer.

Can I do this tour if I don’t want to eat the Stew?
Vegetarian options are available, and the tour guides will note your dietary preferences if informed ahead.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, weather-appropriate clothes, toiletries, and perhaps a small camera. Avoid high heels, large bags, and sharp objects.

Is the tour offered in English?
Yes, guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, providing a friendly environment for international travelers.

Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a fantastic slice of Azorean life—earth’s fiery power, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality all rolled into one. Perfect for curious travelers eager to experience the island’s volcanic soul, this trip promises both discovery and relaxation. Whether you’re there for the geothermal wonders, the local cuisine, or the peaceful glow of thermal waters at night, this tour makes for an unforgettable day on São Miguel.