Attractions and Places To See around Furnas - Top 20

Furnas is rich in natural wonders, primarily its geothermal activity and volcanic landscapes. You can visit the Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs) to witness bubbling mud pots and steam vents. The Furnas Lake, a volcanic crater lake, is another central highlight, offering scenic walks and views of fumaroles. Don't miss the Prego Waterfall, known for its well-signposted trails and pools where you can swim.

Yes, Furnas is famous for its thermal waters. You can relax in the iron-rich thermal pool at Terra Nostra Park, which maintains temperatures between 35°C and 40°C. Another popular spot is Poça da Dona Beija, featuring several smaller, scenic hot pools along a warm 'yellow' river, offering a natural spa experience.

For breathtaking panoramic views of the Furnas Valley, including the lake and village, consider visiting Pico do Ferro Viewpoint. Salto do Cavalo Viewpoint also offers excellent vistas of the crater valley, particularly beautiful at sunset. Miradouro do Lombo dos Milhos provides additional scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Beyond its natural beauty, Furnas offers cultural sites such as the Chapel of Our Lady of Victories, a photogenic neo-Gothic chapel on the southern shore of Furnas Lake. The Terra Nostra Park, established over 200 years ago, is a sprawling botanical garden with an impressive collection of plants and lush paths for strolling.

A must-try culinary experience in Furnas is the traditional 'Cozido das Furnas.' This stew is slow-cooked underground for about six hours using the natural geothermal heat from the fumaroles at the Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs). Many local restaurants serve this unique dish, and you can even witness its preparation.

Furnas offers several family-friendly options. The Furnas Lake is great for walks, paddle boating, and exploring the geothermal activity. Terra Nostra Park with its botanical gardens and thermal pool is also suitable for families. The village itself is charming to explore, and some easy walking trails are available.

Furnas provides a variety of hiking trails for different skill levels. You can find easy walks like the Terra Nostra Thermal Pool loop or the Furnas Caldeiras to Salto da Inglesa Waterfall loop. For more moderate options, consider the Lagoa das Furnas Trail or the Furnas Caldeiras to Furnas Lake loop. Explore more routes on the Hiking around Furnas guide.

The best time to visit Furnas generally depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and enjoying the natural landscapes, spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and lush scenery. Summer (July-August) is popular for warmer weather, ideal for thermal bathing, though it can be busier.

Yes, the village of Furnas has several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine, including the famous Cozido das Furnas. Many establishments are conveniently located near the main attractions, especially around the Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs) and within the village center.

Visitors frequently highlight the unique experience of seeing the geothermal activity at the Furnas Caldeiras and tasting the Cozido cooked underground. The beauty of Furnas Lake and the opportunity to swim in the thermal pools are also highly praised. Many appreciate the well-signposted trails, especially around the Prego Waterfall, despite some being slippery.

Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the region. You can find trails like the Furnas Caldeiras to Furnas Lake loop or the longer Faial da Terra and Água Retorta Loop. These routes offer a chance to explore the diverse landscapes on two wheels. For more details, refer to the MTB Trails around Furnas guide.

Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring Grená Park, known for its pristine natural environment, waterfalls, and an enchanting historic house. Jardim do Canto also offers a pleasant walk and access to the Salto do Rosal Waterfall. Furnas is also known for its numerous mineral water springs, and you can take a 'drinking water tour' to sample some of these unique waters.