Sao Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a haven for geothermal activity and natural thermal baths. The island’s volcanic landscape means countless opportunities to soak in warm springs while enjoying stunning views. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful thermal soak after a day of exploring or a full-day adventure with hikes and scenic overlooks, Sao Miguel offers a variety of memorable spa experiences. Among our favorites is the [Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner)]—a perfect blend of geothermal sights, local cuisine, and relaxing thermal baths at night, making it a top choice for those wanting an immersive experience. We also love the [Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip], which combines crater lake vistas with visits to Portugal’s oldest tea plantation and hot springs, for a full day of natural beauty. For those seeking a scenic hike combined with hot springs, the [Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha Hot Springs] stands out, offering both adventure and relaxation in a single trip.
In this guide, we’ll explore seven of the best Spa and Hot Springs experiences in Sao Miguel, each with its own special appeal. From guided tours that include geothermal baths, local culinary delights, and scenic viewpoints to more active options like hikes and nature walks, there’s something for every traveler wanting to unwind amid volcanic splendor.
The list below offers a variety of tours—from full-day explorations to evening thermal baths—each carefully selected for its unique features and value. Whether you want a luxurious night soak, a scenic drive with hot springs, or an adventurous hike that ends with a thermal swim, these options will help you find the perfect way to relax and enjoy Sao Miguel’s geothermal treasures.
1. Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner) – Hot Springs
At number 1 on our list is the [Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner)]—a six-hour journey into the heart of Furnas with a mix of natural sights, local cuisine, and thermal baths. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience. You’ll start with a walk around Lagoa das Furnas, where bubbling geothermal activity hints at the island’s volcanic core. The highlight is the Furnas geo-cooked stew “Cozido das Furnas”, prepared underground in volcanic soil, offering you a taste of authentic Azorean cuisine.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided wildlife viewing, scenic stops, and an evening soak at Poça da Dona Beija—a thermal bath complex where you can relax in mineral-rich waters at nightfall (entry charged separately). The tour also includes tasting mineral waters and local pastries, giving you a true flavor of Furnas. While flexible and led by knowledgeable guides, you should note that the night’s hot springs entry is separate.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want an all-in-one experience—culture, cuisine, nature, and relaxation—without rushing. Guests praise the attentive guides and the unique nighttime thermal bath experience. Bottom line: a balanced, sensory-rich tour that captures the essence of Furnas—and its geothermal magic.
2. From Ponta Delgada: Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip
At number 2, the [Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip] offers an all-day adventure for those eager to combine natural beauty with geothermal relaxation. Starting from Ponta Delgada, the tour explores the crater lake Lagoa do Fogo, which is nestled within the Água de Pau caldera. This spot is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic volcanic scenery—a must-visit for anyone wanting to see the island’s volcanic heart.
Along the way, the trip includes stops at the Caldeira Velha hot springs, a lush nature preserve with warm mineral waters, and the oldest tea plantation in Europe, where terraced fields provide a picturesque backdrop. Visiting the Cerâmica Vieira factory adds a cultural touch, as you can browse handcrafted pottery and learn about local craftsmanship. Several viewpoints along the route offer panoramic views of the island and Atlantic Ocean, making this trip a visual feast as well as a relaxing retreat.
The tour’s reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Miguel was a very good guide who showed us all the sights with great information.” Priced at $72, it offers excellent value for a full day of diverse experiences. It’s best suited for those who want a mix of scenery, culture, and thermal baths without spending too long on any one activity.
Bottom line: this trip provides a well-rounded taste of Sao Miguel’s natural and cultural highlights, with the added bonus of soothing hot springs.
3. Nordeste: Waterfall, Hot Spring and Viewpoints Full-Day Tour
Number 3 is the [Nordeste: Waterfall, Hot Spring and Viewpoints Full-Day Tour], a five-star-rated option for exploring Sao Miguel’s northeastern coast. Rated 5/5 with only 10 reviews, it’s a small-group adventure ideal for lovers of untouched nature and peaceful landscapes. The tour includes visits to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, where waterfalls and lush greenery reign supreme, and the scenic Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada viewpoints, with sweeping views over the Atlantic.
The tour also offers a relaxing stop at Terra Nostra Park’s hot springs, famous for their warm, mineral-rich waters. The itinerary is rich with scenic drives and photo stops, including the Vista dos Barcos lookout, which provides one of the island’s best vistas. The trip is designed for those who want a mix of light hiking, sightseeing, and thermal bathing in a more tranquil setting.
One reviewer appreciated the guide’s knowledge: “Miguel was a very good guide, and the scenery was stunning.” At $77 per person, this tour offers a balanced day out focusing on natural beauty and quiet relaxation. Its small-group size means a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: ideal for travelers looking for scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and a peaceful hot springs experience in a less touristy part of the island.
4. Furnas Volcano: Full Day Tour, Hot Springs & Waterfalls
At number 4, the [Furnas Volcano: Full Day Tour, Hot Springs & Waterfalls] combines volcanic vistas, lush waterfalls, and geothermal hotspots into an immersive full-day adventure. This tour includes a visit to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, renowned for its cascading waterfalls and scenic trails.
You’ll also explore one of Portugal’s few remaining traditional tea plantations, where you can taste freshly brewed tea and learn about local farming methods. The highlight is the volcanic landscape of Furnas, with fumaroles and hot springs, culminating in a visit to the “Veu da Noiva” waterfall—a stunning cascade that’s perfect for photos. The tour also offers the chance to sample the famous Furnas stew if you choose the optional culinary stop.
While some reviews mention extra costs (notably for the thermal baths), overall this trip is praised for its comprehensive itinerary and natural beauty. At around 8 hours, it’s suited for travelers wanting a full day immersed in volcanic landscapes and thermal relaxation.
Bottom line: a well-rounded tour for those eager to see waterfalls, volcanoes, and hot springs in one go, with opportunities for cultural and culinary experiences.
5. Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour
Number 5 is the [Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour], a shorter, four-hour experience that focuses on the magic of geothermal bathing after sunset. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing evening in natural thermal waters, with the added ambiance of nightfall and fumaroles glowing in the dark.
The highlight is bathing directly in natural thermal springs, creating a truly unique atmosphere. The tour also includes a thermal dinner, which adds a culinary dimension, making it almost a ritual of relaxation. All views during this experience are optional, but the highlight remains the soothing waters and the mystical night landscape.
Reviews mention the quality of the thermal baths as “paradisiacal,” and the tour’s intimate setting makes it great for those looking for a low-key, sensory experience rather than a full-day outing. At $136 per person, it offers a luxurious, focused experience for those pressed for time but wanting to indulge.
Bottom line: an excellent choice for night owl travelers or couples looking for a romantic thermal bathing experience under the stars.
6. Sanguinho Hike & Furnas Hot Springs Experience
Number 6 is the [Sanguinho Hike & Furnas Hot Springs Experience], an active day combining lush forest trails with geothermal soaking. This 8-hour tour is ideal for travelers who want a bit of exercise along with thermal relaxation.
Starting with a scenic Sanguinho trail hike through green forests and waterfalls, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Salto do Prego waterfall. After the hike, a hearty Furnas lunch awaits before you visit fumaroles and steaming fumaroles in Furnas. The day ends with a relaxing soak in the Terra Nostra hot springs, famous for their mineral-rich waters and lush surroundings.
Guests appreciate the guide’s kindness and the balance of activity and relaxation. The tour’s limited size (up to 8 participants) ensures a more personalized experience. For $119, you get a full day of both physical activity and hot spring indulgence.
Bottom line: perfect for active travelers who want a scenic forest hike combined with thermal baths in a tranquil setting.
7. Sao Miguel: Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha Hot Springs
Lastly, the [Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha Hot Springs] offers a seven-hour journey into Sao Miguel’s volcanic landscapes. Starting with a guided hike around Fogo Lake, you’ll witness stunning volcanic scenery and crater views. Afterward, unwind in the Caldeira Velha thermal waters, where warm mineral-rich pools await.
This tour is ideal for those who love outdoor adventures combined with relaxation. The hike offers a manageable challenge, and the thermal baths provide a well-earned rest afterward. The experience is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels who want scenic, active exploration with a soothing thermal finish.
Guests rate this experience highly for its scenic landscapes and the quality of the thermal waters. At $159, it’s a slightly pricier, but very rewarding, option for outdoor lovers.
Bottom line: a great pick for active travelers wanting a mix of hiking and hot springs in one day.
How to Choose Your Sao Miguel Spa & Hot Springs Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you prefer a luxurious, romantic night soak, the [Furnas Hot Springs Night Tour] might be perfect. For active travelers who want to hike and relax, the [Fogo Lake Hike with Caldeira Velha] offers a balance of adventure and thermal comfort. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the full-day [Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs] trip for its variety and value.
If your goal is a comprehensive exploration of geothermal sites, waterfalls, and local culture, the [Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner)] provides a well-rounded experience with excellent reviews. For those wanting a peaceful, scenic drive with fewer crowds, the [Nordeste full-day tour] is ideal.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, since these popular tours fill quickly. Think about how much time you want to spend relaxing versus exploring—some tours focus more on scenic drives and viewpoints, while others emphasize active hikes or immersive thermal baths.
Final thoughts
Sao Miguel offers a versatile range of spa and hot springs experiences that appeal to different tastes and activity levels. Whether you’re after a luxurious night soak, a full-day scenic adventure, or an active hike combined with thermal baths, you’ll find something to fit your travel style.
For pure relaxation, the Furnas night tour and the Terra Nostra hot springs are hard to beat. For a more comprehensive day of exploration, the Lagoa do Fogo trip and Nordeste tour cover a lot of scenic ground with plenty of opportunities to unwind in thermal pools. No matter your choice, booking early and planning ahead ensures you’ll enjoy these natural treasures to the fullest.
