Things to Do in Azores

An ancient volcanic zone that has been active for more than 100,000 years, Furnas is a hotbed of thermal activity. The lush area has been attracting spa visitors seeking the water’s healing properties since the 19th century. Close to three active volcanos, citizens of the Portuguese parish use the hot springs, geysers, and other hotspots for a variety of activities—including the cooking of a traditional meal of vegetables and stew underground, called cozido. Heated by the volcanic steam, the dish can take up to seven hours to prepare.

Towns sit scenically in and beside large calderas or volcanic craters. There are more than 30 different hot springs, each with their own varying temperature and level of volcanic activity. The heated thermal mineral waters and mud baths are thought to still have therapeutic properties. Furnas makes up one of several small towns on the largest and most populated island of the Azores. There is also a beautiful lake in Furnas that is worth seeing.

With its gurgling streams, cascading waterfalls and bursts of colorful Hydrangeas, the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park (Parque Natural dos Caldeirões) shows off the natural beauty of the Nordeste region to its best. It's also idyllic spot for adventurous hikers, with rock-cut paths winding through the mountains, rainforest trails to explore and endless photo opportunities along the way.

The park's main draw is its beautiful series of waterfalls, framed by the looming cliffs and lush rainforest, and offering the ideal terrain for canyoning and rappelling activities. The waterfront is also dotted with historic water mills, many of which have been restored and repurposed. Look out for the fascinating Ethnographic Museum housed in one of the mills and the old miller's house that now serves as a handicrafts shop.

Founded in the 15th century, Vila Franca do Campo rose to become the largest on the island of São Miguel. It served as the capital of the Azores in the 16th century when it was tragically hit by a major earthquake. The capital was moved after the earthquake and subsequent mudslides destroyed much of the settlement as it was then. Following its reconstruction, it became an agricultural hub, particularly for orange and pineapple plantations. Some of the most beautiful architecture on the island can be found in its modernist lighthouse and many churches and convents. 

There is also a small caldera (volcanic crater) just off its shore forms a popular natural swimming pool. The isle is green and lush, the beach is lovely and clean, and the lake at its center forms a nearly perfect circle. The Islet of Vila Franca do Campo is classified as a nature reserve, which helps to maintain its raw beauty.

Nature lovers will find their bliss among the otherworldly volcanic landscape of Sao Miguel Island’s Sete Cidades. What you’ll find there is more than just lush green mountains that fall into an endless blue ocean but also a giant, 5-kilometer-wide volcano caldera, home to some of the most spectacular views around.

Sete Cicades’ two lakes are among the area’s most loved sights: first there’s the Lago Azul and its brilliant shade of blue, and then the Lago Verde, known for its often tree-green waters. A visit to the massive, now-dormant crater also promises those endless amazing vistas, appreciated from various viewpoints accessed by car, hike (as there are many trails) or even 4x4. Meanwhile, relax from all your adventuring by making a stop at the nearby Termas da Ferraria, where seawater mingles with volcanic hot springs — and where you can take an especially soothing dip.

With its startling blue-green waters fringed by forested-hillsides and dotted with hot springs, fumaroles and bubbling mud pots, the crater lake of Furnas Lake (Lagoa das Furnas) is one of Azores’ most enchanting natural wonders. Located in one of Furnas’ two ancient calderas, the lake offers the opportunity to explore a volcanic landscape up close. Hiking and canoeing tours are popular ways to get around.

As well as soaking up the other-worldly scenery, a tour to Furnas Lake is best combined with a visit to the nearby Terra Nostra thermal springs, famous for their mineral-rich waters, and a stop at Furnas village, where you can taste local specialty, cozido, a meal cooked up on sizzling-hot volcanic soil.