Top 8 Lakes around Santana

The lakes around Santana, particularly on São Miguel Island in the Azores, are known for their volcanic origins and geothermal activity. You can witness bubbling and steaming geothermal features at Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs), explore the volcanic Furnas Lake with its surrounding geothermal areas, and discover the intensely blue waters of the Blue Pool, which is also a natural monument.

Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs) offers an exciting view of geothermal activity. Furnas Lake is great for exploring its surroundings. The Terra Nostra Thermal Pool provides a unique warm water bathing experience, and the Stone Pier at Lagoa das Furnas offers scenic views.

You can enjoy swimming in the intensely blue waters of the Blue Pool, which is ideal for relaxation. The Terra Nostra Thermal Pool also offers a warm water bathing experience. However, it's generally advised not to swim in the larger volcanic lakes like Furnas Lake due to high nutrient content, potential algae, and natural hot springs in the ground. You can, however, dangle your feet in the water from places like the Stone Pier at Lagoa das Furnas.

The region around Santana offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, with options ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Salto do Cabrito Waterfall loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs) – Lake Furnas loop'. Additionally, there are cycling routes available, including challenging rides like 'From Nordeste to Lagoa de Furnas'. For more details on routes, you can check the guides for Hiking around Santana, MTB Trails around Santana, and Cycling around Santana.

Yes, there are several scenic viewpoints. The Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs) offers a fascinating view of the geothermal landscape. The surroundings of Furnas Lake provide picturesque vistas, and the Stone Pier at Lagoa das Furnas offers a great view of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias across the lake.

Cozido das Furnas is a traditional stew cooked underground using the natural heat from the geothermal activity. It consists of vegetables, meat, salami, and rice, gaining a special flavor from the mineral-containing steam. You can experience this unique culinary tradition near Furnas Caldeiras (Hot Springs) and Furnas Lake, where it is prepared.

The Terra Nostra Thermal Pool is a unique experience with warm, mineral-rich water. It's highly recommended to wear old or dark-colored bathing suits, as the water can stain lighter fabrics. The color might also temporarily affect your skin. The large garden surrounding the pool is also worth exploring.

Near Furnas Lake, you can find the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, adding a cultural element to the natural landscape. The area also features the Furnas Monitoring and Research Center (CMIF), which is dedicated to ecological recovery and environmental education, offering insight into the region's conservation efforts.

Visitors particularly enjoy the unique geothermal phenomena, such as the bubbling and steaming at Furnas Caldeiras. The serene beauty of places like the Blue Pool for relaxation and swimming is also highly appreciated. Many find the overall experience of exploring volcanic lakes and natural pools amidst lush vegetation to be very special and immersive.

For Furnas Lake, there might be an entrance fee, typically around three euros, if approaching from the direction of Furnas. However, if you are also visiting the nearby waterfall park, this fee might be counted towards the park's entrance fee. It's advisable to check local signage or information centers for the most current details on fees.

The lakes and surrounding areas are part of a rich biodiversity, particularly on São Miguel Island. While specific wildlife sightings are not detailed, the region's lush vegetation and natural monuments suggest a healthy ecosystem. The Furnas Monitoring and Research Center (CMIF) at Furnas Lake is dedicated to ecological recovery, indicating efforts to preserve the local flora and fauna.