Ponta Delgada to Furnas and Nordeste: Private day trip

Steaming springs, gorgeous gardens, and volcanic-inspired cuisine define this geothermal journey through Furnas village.

Main attractions

• Steaming fumaroles at Caldeiras das Furnas

• Terra Nostra Park’s warm mineral springs surrounded by a botanical wonderland, perfect for relaxation

• Poca da Dona Beija, featuring terraced thermal pools with stunning views

What to try

• Cozido das Furnas, a flavorful stew cooked with geothermal heat

Wander along jaw-droppingly beautiful trails surrounding this lake, taking in the sights through clouds of volcanic steam.

Main attractions

• Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitorias, a Gothic building tucked unexpectedly into the landscape

• The lake’s North Shore, where you can watch the steam rise from cooking pits for locally prepared Cozido das Furnas 

• Lakeside walking trails offering mirrored views and the relaxing sounds of birdsong

Take note

• Many of the walking trails around the lake can take several hours to complete; consider focusing on just the north shore section of the “Lagoa da Furnas Walking Trail” 

Land meets the sea at this natural masterpiece, replete with waterfalls and cliffside gardens.

Main attractions

• Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Natural Park, where watermills and dramatic waterfalls are tucked into the foliage

• Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada, two clifftop gardens with panoramic Atlantic views

• Farol do Arnel, the oldest lighthouse on the island

What to try

• Carne a Nordeste (a slow-cooked beef dish that is melt-in-your-mouth delicious)