Ponta Delgada in Sao Miguel offers a wonderful mix of volcanic landscapes, lush gardens, and naturally heated thermal waters—making it a prime destination for anyone seeking Spa & Hot Springs Experiences. The island’s volcanic activity isn’t just a dramatic backdrop; it’s the foundation for some truly soothing hot springs and thermal parks. Among the experiences we highlight, the Terra Nostra Park stands out not just for its thermal pools but for its botanical charm, while the Furnas Valley offers bubbling fumaroles, volcanic cooking, and cultural flavors. If you’re after a comprehensive day combining nature, culture, and relaxation, the Furnas Volcano Tour is an excellent choice. You can explore nature’s geology, enjoy a traditional Cozido cooked in volcanic heat, and unwind in thermal springs—all in one day.
For those preferring a private, tailored experience, the Ponta Delgada: Furnas Hot Springs & Food Private Tour offers a more personalized look at the island’s volcanic activity, local cuisine, and scenic spots. If you’re short on time but want a more active adventure, the São Miguel: Salto do Cabrito Hike and Hot Springs Tour combines hiking through lush forests with relaxing dips in geothermal waters. Each of these options provides a distinct way to experience Sao Miguel’s volcanic energy and natural beauty.
Below, you’ll find an in-depth look at each of these top spa and hot springs tours, helping you choose the best fit for your interests, time, and travel style.
1. Furnas Volcano Tour: Hot Springs, Bubbling Fumaroles & Tea
At number 1, the Furnas Volcano Tour offers a full day immersed in volcanic wonders and authentic Azorean culture. This 8-hour tour is perfect if you want a bit of everything, from breathtaking viewpoints to relaxing thermal springs. The tour includes highlights like Furnas Lake viewed from the Pico do Ferro lookout, a visit to Europe’s only tea plantation, and tasting Cozido, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground with volcanic heat. The experience at Terra Nostra Park is genuinely memorable, with its famous thermal springs inviting you for a soothing soak amidst lush gardens. Plus, tasting water from Caldeiras Park or boiling corn in a caldera adds a fun, local twist.
The tour’s itinerary weaves together natural beauty and cultural insights. It starts with a panoramic stop at Miradouro de Santa Iria, then continues with visits to the Gorreana Tea Factory and Furnas Lake, culminating in a relaxing session at Terra Nostra. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a rich, all-in-one day that balances sightseeing, local cuisine, and thermal bathing. Priced for value, it provides an immersive experience that’s perfect for first-timers. Expect some walking, but the pace is relaxed enough to enjoy the scenery.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive day of volcanic landscapes, culture, and thermal springs, all with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Ponta Delgada: Furnas Hot Springs & Food Private Tour
Coming in at number 2, the Furnas Hot Springs & Food Private Tour offers a more intimate, customizable experience. Over 7 hours, this tour takes you behind the scenes of Furnas’ volcanic activity, including a traditional Cozido lunch cooked underground, a visit to a local cheese farm, and a professional photo session to capture your trip. Unlike larger group tours, this private option provides flexibility and personal attention, making it perfect for couples, families, or travelers who prefer tailored experiences.
The tour begins with a scenic drive in a private SUV, with stops at Pico do Ferro for panoramic views and Furnas to explore bubbling calderas and steaming vents. The highlight is the Cozido, a true Azorean culinary tradition, cooked for hours in volcanic heat. You’ll also visit a cheese farm, meet the cows, and sample local cheeses—adding a delicious farm-to-table element. The relaxing time in Terra Nostra Park with its thermal waters is included, along with tastings of local wine and cheese at the lake.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach, including a photoshoot with professionally edited images—a unique souvenir. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, in-depth look at Furnas with a focus on local food and culture. The private setting ensures a more flexible schedule, but it comes at a higher price point compared to group tours.
Bottom Line: This is a top pick for those seeking a personalized, culinary, and photographic experience that takes in the volcanic scenery and hot springs without the hustle of group tours.
3. São Miguel: Salto do Cabrito Hike and Hot Springs Tour
Our third choice takes a different approach. The Salto do Cabrito Hike and Hot Springs Tour is perfect for active travelers who want to combine outdoor adventure with relaxation in thermal waters. It’s a shorter, 4-hour experience focusing on hiking through volcanic landscapes and lush forests, ending with a soak at Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande.
This guided hike covers rugged terrain with volcanic vents, streams, and stunning views of Lagoa do Fogo if time permits. The trail lasts around 2 hours and offers a close-up look at the island’s volcanic forces. After the hike, you’ll relax in the geothermal pools, enjoying the warm waters after your exertion. The tour includes transportation in a white van, making logistics straightforward, and is limited to small groups for a more personal experience.
This option is best for fit travelers eager to see the island’s natural beauty up close while ending with a well-earned soak. The combination of physical activity and thermal relaxation makes it a unique way to experience Sao Miguel’s volcanic essence. One potential downside is that it’s a shorter tour, so it’s less comprehensive overall but perfect if time is tight.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want to hike volcanic trails and enjoy thermal springs without a lengthy commitment.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sao Miguel Spa & Hot Springs Experience
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much of the island you want to see. If you crave a full day of sightseeing, culture, and thermal bathing, the Furnas Volcano Tour is a top pick. For a more private and relaxed experience, go for the Furnas Hot Springs & Food Private Tour, especially if you want personalized attention and excellent photo opportunities. Active travelers with limited time should consider the Salto do Cabrito Hike and Hot Springs Tour for its combination of outdoors and relaxation.
Consider your budget, too. The full-day group tour offers great value for a broad experience, while the private tour delivers customization at a higher cost. Think about your fitness level—if you’re comfortable hiking, the third option offers a rewarding adventure.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability. Many tours include pickup from Ponta Delgada, simplifying logistics.
To sum it up, Sao Miguel offers a range of incredible Spa & Hot Springs experiences that suit different travel styles. Whether you’re after a comprehensive day exploring volcanic landscapes and thermal springs, a private culinary adventure, or an active hike with a soak, you’ll find a tour that fits your mood and schedule. For a truly memorable trip, consider combining these experiences if time allows. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unique ways to relax and connect with the island’s volcanic heartbeat.
