Furnas: Traditional Stew and Thermal Pools at Octant Furnas

If you’re looking for a genuine taste of Azores culture combined with some well-deserved relaxation, this tour offers a pretty compelling package. It’s not just about eating or soaking—it’s about feeling connected to the land and its traditions. You get to enjoy a hearty, regional Furnas stew with a uniquely local twist, then drift into a calming thermal bath experience that highlights the island’s natural riches.

What really attracts us about this activity is how it marries authentic cuisine with well-being—a truly holistic experience. Plus, the fact that it’s limited to small groups makes it feel intimate and unhurried. That said, it’s not a tour for someone expecting a fast-paced adventure; it’s more about savoring each moment. If you’re after a taste of local life, combined with some relaxation in a beautiful setting, this might be just the right fit.

One thing to keep in mind is the need to bring a wetsuit if you want to fully enjoy the thermal pools. While this isn’t a strenuous activity, it’s still worth noting if you’re not used to natural thermal waters or cold swims. This experience suits travelers who appreciate food, culture, and tranquility—ideal for those wanting a slower-paced day that feels rooted in the Azores’ natural and culinary heritage.

Key Points

• Authentic Azorean Cuisine: Savor the Cozido À TERRA, prepared in natural underground cauldrons using regional ingredients.
• Relaxation in Natural Thermal Pools: Unwind in the iron-rich waters of Furnas, fed by the island’s geothermal activity.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to just six participants, ensuring a personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• Cultural and Well-being Blend: Combines traditional food with relaxing thermal therapy for a holistic experience.
• Flexible Booking: Fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.
• Ideal for Slow Travelers: Perfect for those who want to enjoy local flavors and natural beauty at a leisurely pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Day in Furnas

This tour aims to give you a comprehensive taste of Furnas—not just the sights but the flavors and sensations that define the area. Starting at the Octant Furnas Hotel, you’ll quickly get a sense of the authentic local vibe. The highlight here is the Cozido À TERRA—a regional stew cooked in underground earth ovens using the volcanic heat of the land. Unlike typical stews, this version emphasizes local ingredients like yam, sweet potato, Santa Maria alheira, beef brisket, and fresh vegetables from Bio Kairos, all prepared with a chef’s special touch.

The preparation process is part of the experience. Watching the cauldrons buried in the earth, slowly cooking for hours, connects you directly with ancestral traditions. It’s a food event that’s as much about storytelling as it is about flavors. According to reviews, this stew offers a “journey through flavors around earth, fire, and water”—a poetic way of describing how the different elements of the land come together in the meal.

Once your appetite is satisfied, the experience shifts to pure relaxation. You’ll head to the hotel’s thermal pools, which are naturally fed by the volcanic activity of Furnas and known for their iron-rich waters. These pools have been cherished for generations for their supposed healing properties, and many travelers find them incredibly soothing. The thermal circuit includes sauna and relaxation areas, making it easy to unwind fully.

The Flavor of Furnas: The Stew

The Cozido À TERRA isn’t just a meal; it’s a window into regional life. We loved how the traditional cooking method—using the earth’s heat—connects to the land’s volcanic nature. The ingredients, sourced from Bio Kairos, ensure freshness and local authenticity. Expect a hearty, rustic dish with tender beef and vibrant vegetables that reflect the seasonal harvest.

Some reviews mention that the chef’s “exclusive touch” elevates the dish beyond simple comfort food, turning it into a memorable culinary experience. The stew is described as “more than just a meal, it’s a journey of flavors”—a sentiment that rings true for anyone who appreciates food rooted in place and tradition.

Relaxing in Furnas’ Thermal Pools

The thermal pools are the perfect way to end your day, especially after a flavorful lunch. The mineral-rich waters are said to have therapeutic benefits, and many visitors find them remarkably calming. The pools’ temperature varies, but they’re generally warm enough to soak in comfortably. You might find that the pools get busier during peak times, but with only six participants per group, you’ll often find a peaceful corner.

The pools are fed by Furnas’ geothermal waters, which have been used for centuries for relaxation and healing. You’ll also have access to sauna and relaxation areas, allowing you to stretch, breathe deeply, and enjoy a moment of tranquility amid nature.

How the Tour Is Structured

This experience lasts around four hours, making it a manageable, half-day activity. Your guide, available in French, Italian, and Spanish, will walk you through each part of the process—explaining the traditions behind the stew and the natural properties of the thermal waters.

The tour’s small group size—capped at six—means you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of chances to ask questions or just soak in the atmosphere. It’s a laid-back pace, ideal for those wanting to savor each part of the experience without feeling rushed.

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Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the inclusion of a traditional, locally sourced meal prepared with care, plus access to thermal pools and wellness facilities, the tour offers solid value. It’s not a high-energy adventure, but it’s rich in authenticity and relaxation. The flexibility of booking—free cancellation and pay later options—adds peace of mind, especially if you’re planning your trip from afar.

Authenticity and Authentic Experience

What truly sets this tour apart is its focus on local tradition and natural wellness. From the earthy cooking method to the mineral waters, you’re engaging with Furnas’ most natural and cultural elements. The reviews echo that sentiment, often highlighting how grounded and genuine the experience feels—“a perfect blend of tradition and relaxation”.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited to travelers who enjoy food with story, appreciate natural healing qualities, and prefer a slow, meaningful pace. It’s not designed for those seeking adventure or high-energy activities but for those wanting to connect with the land, its history, and its natural resources in a relaxed setting.

If you love discovering local cuisine, enjoy soaking in thermal waters, or simply want a peaceful, authentic day in Furnas, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s particularly good for curious travelers who want a well-rounded, culturally rich experience without the crowds.

The Sum Up

In the end, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of culinary tradition and natural relaxation. The experience of watching a regional stew cook underground, then cooling off in geothermal pools, really captures the essence of Furnas. It’s a genuine, unpretentious way to connect with the land’s history and natural bounty.

For those who value authentic flavor, slow-paced discovery, and well-being, this activity stands out as a good choice. It’s not flashy but feels intimate and sincere—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the real heart of Azores.

If you’re after a memorable, calming, and flavorful day, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s a slice of local life that you’ll carry with you long after you leave the island.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately four hours, making it a relaxed half-day activity that fits nicely into most itineraries.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, you’ll want to bring a wetsuit if you plan to fully enjoy the thermal pools. The pools are fed by natural geothermal waters, which can be quite warm but also refreshing.

What languages are available for the tour?
The guide or host speaks French, Italian, and Spanish, providing a friendly, multilingual experience.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your travel plans shift.

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or specific dietary needs?
While the main dish features regional ingredients like beef and local vegetables, the description emphasizes regional ingredients and traditional preparation, so vegetarians might want to check with the provider beforehand.

What’s the price range like?
While specific costs aren’t listed here, the tour includes a full meal and thermal pool access, which indicates good value for a cultural and relaxing experience.

Is the tour family-friendly?
The tour is generally suitable for adults and older travelers who appreciate slow, cultural experiences. For children, it depends on their interest in food and thermal baths, but the small group setting and relaxed pace are welcoming.

How crowded does it get?
With only six participants maximum, the experience remains intimate and avoids large crowds, allowing everyone to enjoy the setting peacefully.

This Furnas experience combines tradition, flavor, and relaxation into a memorable day—perfect for those wanting to slow down and embrace the authentic Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: