You’ll soak in Furnas’ glowing thermal baths under night skies, taste volcanic-cooked cozido with regional starters and dessert, and wander steamy paths with a local guide who knows every story. Pickup is included so you can just relax into the warmth—and maybe bring an old swimsuit for those iron-rich waters.
I didn’t expect the air to smell like earth and something faintly metallic as we stepped out into Furnas that night. Our guide, Tiago, grinned at my hesitation—he said you get used to the sulfur after a while, though I’m not sure I ever did. The steam from the caldeiras drifted right over our shoes as he explained how the whole village sort of hums because of the volcano underneath. It was weirdly peaceful, like the ground was breathing.
We wandered through the dark towards Poça da Dona Beija, and honestly, I’d never gone swimming at night before—let alone in water heated by a volcano. The pools glowed orange from the lamps, and there was this gentle hiss everywhere. Slipping into the hot spring felt like sinking into warm velvet (though my old swimsuit still has rust-colored stains). I remember closing my eyes and just listening to people laughing softly in Portuguese around me. Someone handed me a bit of pineapple—sweet and cold against all that heat—and for a second I forgot about everything else.
Dinner was up the hill, where they serve cozido das Furnas cooked right in those steaming pits outside. Tiago showed us how they pull up these huge pots from underground—it’s kind of theatrical, honestly. The stew tasted earthy and rich; potatoes were almost creamy from all that slow cooking. Li tried to say “obrigado” but got it backwards—everyone laughed, including our waiter who brought us tiny queijadas for dessert. I still think about that meal when it rains back home.
Yes, pickup and drop-off inside Ponta Delgada city are included.
A dark or old swimsuit is best due to iron-rich water; bring flip-flops and a towel.
Yes, dinner includes regional starters, cozido das Furnas stew, dessert (pineapple or queijadas), plus coffee or tea.
You can arrange vegetarian meals beforehand—just let them know in advance.
The drive typically takes about 40-50 minutes each way.
Yes; infants can ride in a stroller or sit on an adult’s lap. Specialized infant seats are available.
Dress in layers and bring a light sweater or jacket; weather can change quickly between November and March.
Prenant women should consult their physician before using thermal pools.
Your evening includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Ponta Delgada, guided transport by air-conditioned vehicle with a local driver-guide, entry to Poça da Dona Beija hot springs for your night bath, full dinner featuring regional starters and volcanic-cooked cozido with dessert plus coffee or tea—all covered before you head back under starlit Azorean skies.
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