São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a paradise for nature lovers and those looking for unique moments. Known for its unique beauty and the amazing day tours that we provide to any Azores traveller, among its volcanic landscapes you’ll find some of the most beautiful and exotic thermal pools.

Its waters, naturally heated by volcanic heat and enriched by a variety of minerals, are a perfect refuge for those who want to escape their daily habits and connect with nature, enjoying an experience that combines natural beauty with tranquillity and health.

Poça da Dona Beija

Located in the mythical village of Furnas, “Poça da Dona Beija” is one of São Miguel’s most popular thermal destinations. With its thermal waters at an average temperature of 39°C, this place offers an experience of pure relaxation in a peaceful, exotic and cozy environment.

When you arrive, you will find a series of small hot water pools surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The water, which has a slightly yellowish hue due to its high iron content, is known for its therapeutic properties, especially for the skin.
The ideal is to visit this place at sunset, soak in the warm waters, relax your body, let the minerals take care of your skin and admire the magical and romantic atmosphere created by the lighting of the pools.

A bonus here is when a few raindrops fall, providing one of the most natural experiences in the Azores. The vast majority of visitors report feeling a deep sense of peace and well-being after this experience.

“Poça da Dona Beija is like a little piece of paradise on Earth. The waters are wonderfully warm and the atmosphere is incredibly relaxing”, Michael Pereira, 2024.

But beware, tickets are only purchased online via the official website, so pay attention to the time and date and be aware that in 2024, they adopted a strict refund policy.

Visit here: https://pocadadonabeija.com/

Terra Nostra Park

Terra Nostra Botanical Park & Thermal Pool, also located on the Furnas volcano, is considered one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Portugal, but what really attracts visitors is its large orange thermal pool, due to its richness in iron.

Can you imagine swimming in a huge pool of hot water (around 35°C to 40°C), surrounded by centuries-old trees, exotic flowers and rare plants? The water has a brownish hue, which may seem unusual at first glance, but that’s precisely what makes it special and beneficial.
The best way to fully enjoy this magnificent place is to arrive early to visit its garden in peace before taking a dip in the pool and relaxing in the iron-rich water, which is known to stimulate blood circulation and relax the muscles.

Don’t forget to bring older, dark-colored swimwear, as the iron-rich water can stain lighter clothes.

Know more: https://www.parqueterranostra.com/pt/?utm_source=google-my-business&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=parquetn_gmb

Ponta da Ferraria

Located on the west coast of the island near Mosteiros, Ponta da Ferraria offers a unique thermal experience, a natural seawater pool heated by an underwater thermal spring.

Here, depending on the height of the tide, the water can vary greatly in temperature. At low tide, you’ll experience an invigorating contrast, caused by the swell that mixes the cold waters of the sea with the warm waters of the thermal spring.

Check the tides and the state of the sea before you go. The best time to visit is during low tide, when the water will be warmer. Enjoy the spectacular view of the ocean and the surrounding lava cliffs. Dive into the waters and enjoy an energizing and invigorating bath.

“Bathing in Ferraria was a surreal experience! The mix of hot and cold water in such a wild and unspoiled setting is something I’ll never forget.”, Louise Pellier. 2023

 

Caldeira Velha

Hidden on the slopes of the Serra de Água de Pau, the “Caldeira Velha Natural Park” is a true natural monument. This protected area has four thermal pools, the main attraction being a small cascade of warm water and the spectacular natural pool at its base. Surrounded by lush exotic vegetation, Caldeira Velha looks like something out of a fairy tale.

The water falls gently down the cascade before forming a beautiful natural pool and the temperature varies between 26°C and 38°C, depending on the pool. Here, you will merge with nature as you bathe in the warm waters while admiring the exotic vegetation around you.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the place. Due to the limited number of visitors at the same time, it is strongly advisable to buy your ticket online, choosing the time you want to visit wisely.

You can buy your ticket here: https://parquesnaturais.azores.gov.pt/bilheteira/caldeiravelha/

Ribeira Grande Hot Springs

The “Termas da Ribeira Grande”, formerly known as the “Casa de banhos Real”, for being one of King Carlos’ favorite places, has an outdoor thermal pool, sauna and massage service, among others, and is perhaps the least known, but equally stunning. Here, the focus is on relaxation and healing.

Perhaps its greatest advantage is that most people are unaware of its existence. Lost in one of the valleys on the north coast of the Fogo volcano, its location sometimes goes unnoticed, and the ideal way to enjoy this place is at sunset, after hiking or to end your day with a relaxing moment.

Find out more here: https://www.facebook.com/termasdascaldeirasdarg/

 

The island of São Miguel hides many other treasures waiting to be discovered. iGoAzores is proud to be a small local company that offers the best experiences, guided with a true Azorean spirit. Short on time? How about a 2-day tour package that will take you to discover an island full of magical places?