Furnas

A charming village famous for its geothermal activity, with hot springs, fumaroles, and the unique culinary tradition of cozido à Portuguesa cooked underground by volcanic heat. The lush botanical gardens and natural spa facilities make it a one-of-a-kind destination showcasing the Azores' volcanic character.

Things to do

• Cozido à Portuguesa Underground Cooking — Experience the traditional method of cooking this hearty stew using volcanic steam vents, where meals are buried in the ground for hours and emerge perfectly cooked by geothermal heat.
• Terra Nostra Botanical Garden — Wander through this 12-hectare garden filled with exotic plants from around the world, set on the slopes of Furnas valley with stunning views and lush native vegetation.
• Caldeira das Sete Cidades Hiking — Trek to the dramatic volcanic crater with its famous green and blue lakes, offering panoramic views of the Azores landscape and dramatic geological formations.
• Hot Springs and Natural Spa Bathing — Soak in naturally heated thermal pools scattered throughout Furnas village, where mineral-rich geothermal waters provide relaxation and wellness benefits.
• Fumaroles and Steam Vents Exploration — Walk among the active volcanic fumaroles releasing steam and sulfurous gases throughout the valley, a striking reminder of the island's active geothermal nature.
• Poça da Dona Beija Natural Pool — Visit this picturesque natural hot spring pool surrounded by lush ferns and vegetation, offering a warm therapeutic bathing experience in a serene garden setting.

Food to try

• Cozido à Portuguesa — A traditional Portuguese stew of beef, pork, chicken, sausage, and vegetables slow-cooked underground using volcanic steam, served with cornbread and sweet potato.
• Milho Cozido (Boiled Corn) — Fresh corn cooked in the same geothermal vents as cozido, resulting in tender, naturally steamed kernels with a subtle mineral flavor from the volcanic heat.
• Batata-Doce (Sweet Potato) — Local sweet potatoes cooked alongside cozido dishes in volcanic steam vents, emerging soft and naturally sweetened, often served as part of the traditional meal.
• Pão Açoriano (Azorean Bread) — Dense, slightly sweet bread made with cornmeal, traditionally served alongside cozido and other geothermal-cooked dishes at local restaurants.
• Espetada (Skewered Meat) — Grilled cubed beef or pork on bay leaf skewers, a regional specialty often found in Furnas restaurants and local taverns with simple seasoning.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Geothermal Activity — Stay on marked paths near fumaroles and hot springs, as thin ground crusts can be unstable and scalding steam vents pose genuine hazards to the unaware.
• Book Cozido Experiences in Advance — Most restaurants serving traditional geothermal-cooked cozido require advance reservations, as they cook meals in batches according to bookings rather than demand.
• Embrace Slow Dining Tradition — Meals in Furnas are unhurried social events; expect leisurely service and plan to spend several hours enjoying the food, conversation, and company as locals do.
• Bring Sun Protection and Layers — The volcanic landscape offers little shade and weather changes rapidly; sunscreen, hats, and a light jacket are essential even on seemingly clear days.