Furnas – the land of geysers, hot springs, and culinary wonders

There are places where the Earth breathes beneath your feet. Where the air is heavy with the scent of sulphur and smoke, and hot springs tell ancient stories of fire and water. Furnas in the Azores is such a place—both wild and welcoming, harsh yet soft as an embrace.

Here, nature is not a backdrop. It is the main character.

The Heart of Furnas – the Land that Boils

All of Furnas is like a living organism. In the centre of the village, you'll find calderas—earth craters from which steam and water erupt with astonishing force. The geysers bubble under the open sky, and the scent of minerals is everywhere, reminding you that you've arrived at a place where the Earth remembers how to be young.

Thermal Springs – the Warmest Embrace

After absorbing the energy of the geysers, Furnas invites you to sink into one of its hot mineral baths. The most famous is located in Parque Terra Nostra—a natural pool with orange-brown water, rich in iron, surrounded by a botanical garden from another world.

• Water temperature: about 35–40°C

• Effect: deep relaxation and a magical sense of time stopping

The Culinary Wonders of Furnas

In this living volcanic world, not only the earth simmers—so do the pots. Furnas is home to the legendary cozido das Furnas—a dish slow-cooked in the ground using the natural geothermal heat.

• A large clay pot filled with meat, vegetables, and spices

• Slow roasting in dug holes for about 6–7 hours

• Result: flavours infused with earth, fire, and ancient magic

To try cozido is not just a meal. It is a way to become part of the rhythm of Furnas.

What Not to Miss in Furnas

• Lagoa das Furnas lagoon – a picturesque lake around which geysers and cooking fields unfold.

• Parque Terra Nostra – one of Europe's most beautiful botanical parks, with trees from all continents.

• Small thermal springs like Poça da Dona Beija – for evening bathing under the stars.

When is the Best Time to Visit Furnas?

Furnas is a wonderful destination year-round. Thanks to the mild climatic influence of the Atlantic Ocean:

• Spring and Autumn – Ideal for walks and bathing without the crowds.

• Winter – The most magical time for thermal baths when the steam dances in the cool air.

• Summer – Busier, but Furnas remains peaceful compared to larger tourist destinations.

Practical Tips for Furnas

• Bring a swimsuit and a dark towel – the minerals can stain fabrics.

• Try the traditional cozido at one of the local restaurants – the authentic experience is only here.

• Stroll slowly – Furnas is not a place to rush, but to feel.

Furnas – Where the Earth Speaks

Visiting Furnas is a return to something ancient, powerful, and true. To feel the breath of the Earth, the warmth of the waters, and the tastes born from its depths.

Join Panic Frame & Travel and together let’s discover Furnas—the gentle song of the Earth that still resonates within us, if we only stop to hear it.