If you're looking for a unique, otherworldly experience, Fumarolas Furnas Lagoon should be high on your list. Picture this: steam rising from the ground, hot springs bubbling, and a lush, green landscape surrounding you. Sounds like something straight out of a dream, right? Well, this is the reality at Fumarolas Furnas Lagoon, one of the most stunning natural sites on the island. Let me take you through what makes this spot so special and why it's a must-see during your Azores adventure.

How to Get There 🗺️

Getting to Fumarolas Furnas Lagoon is pretty easy. It's located in the town of Furnas, which is about a 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada. If you’re coming from the city, rent a car and follow the signs towards Furnas. There’s parking available near the lagoon, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot.

Entrance Fee & Opening Hours

Visiting the fumaroles at Furnas Lagoon is free, but if you want to explore certain areas or try a geothermal-cooked meal (more on that below), there might be additional fees.

• Opening hours: The area is open year-round, 24/7, but it’s best visited during daylight hours for safety and the best views.

Details:

The Furnas Lagoon (Lagoa das Furnas) sits nearby, adding to the stunning scenery. The combination of the green crater lake and the geothermal activity makes for a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t forget. You'll find fumarolas (steam vents) scattered around the lagoon, giving off clouds of steam that create an eerie yet beautiful scene. It's like stepping into a natural spa, with the added bonus of jaw-dropping views.

The area is also home to a thermal spring that feeds into the lagoon, making it an excellent spot for those interested in the health benefits of the island's geothermal activity. This place is a goldmine with its steam-filled views and lush greenery.

The Steam and the Smell

Now, let’s be real: you’re going to smell sulfur. The natural geothermal activity does have a distinct sulfuric scent, so it’s something you should prepare for. But trust me, once you see the steam vents, hear the bubbling springs, and take in the beauty of the area, the smell won’t bother you as much. It’s all part of the experience.

Best Time to Visit 🌥️

The beauty of Fumarolas Furnas Lagoon is that it’s a great place to visit year-round. But here’s a little tip for getting the best experience:

Early Morning or Late Afternoon – If you want to avoid the crowds and experience the place in peace, these times are ideal. The soft, golden light of the morning or late afternoon makes for some stunning photos too.

Weekdays – If you can make it a weekday visit, you’ll likely have more space to yourself, as weekends tend to be busier with local visitors and tourists.

Try the Famous “Cozido das Furnas”

One of the coolest things about this area? Locals use the natural heat from the geothermal vents to cook Cozido das Furnas, a slow-cooked stew made with meat, sausages, potatoes, and vegetables. It’s buried in the steaming ground for 6–8 hours, absorbing all the rich, smoky flavors from the earth.

You can try this unique dish at restaurants in Furnas Village, like:

• Tony’s Restaurant

• Restaurante Banhos Ferreos

• Caldeiras & Vulcões

Pro tip: If you want to see them digging up the stew, head to the lagoon around midday. The restaurants retrieve their pots from the ground around this time, and it's fun to watch!

Fumarolas Furnas Lagoon is one of those places in the Azores that feels like a little piece of magic! I hope you enjoy it!