🌿 Introduction
Lagoa das Furnas is one of the most authentic and peaceful places in São Miguel Island. Surrounded by lush vegetation and volcanic activity, this lake offers a unique experience in the Azores, far from the crowds of more famous viewpoints.
👉 Lagoa das Furnas in São Miguel is famous for its volcanic fumaroles, traditional underground cooking, and peaceful natural surroundings.
At Lagoa das Furnas, volcanic activity is still visible today, with steam rising from the ground where the famous traditional cozido is cooked underground.
🌄 What to see at Lagoa das Furnas
🌋 Fumaroles and traditional cooking
One of the highlights of Lagoa das Furnas is its geothermal activity.
- steam rising from the ground
- traditional cozido cooked underground
- unique volcanic atmosphere
This is one of the few places in the world where you can see food cooked naturallyusing the heat of the earth
⛪ Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias
Located on the quieter side of the lake, this small neo-Gothic chapel is one of the most beautiful and unexpected spots in São Miguel.
- peaceful atmosphere
- perfect for photos
- easy access from the free parking
🌳 Parque Grena
Parque Grena is a hidden gem you should not miss.
- tropical vegetation
- waterfalls and viewpoints
- immersive nature experience
👉 At the entrance, you will find a small bar, perfect for a relaxing break.
🌲 The park near the chapel
Close to the church, another green park offers a quieter and less crowded atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful walk.
🚶 Things to do
🥾 Walk around the lake
Walking around Lagoa das Furnas is one of the best ways to explore the area.
- relatively easy trail
- beautiful views all around
- perfect for photography
🌉 Adventure park (zip lines)
On the other side of the lake, after the fumaroles, you will find a small adventure park with:
- zip lines
- tree-top courses
👉 about 10 minutes on foot
🚣 Pedal boats and kayaks
You can also rent pedal boats or kayaks to enjoy the lake from a different perspective.
🚗 Parking & practical information
🅿️ Parking near the fumaroles
- 💰 paid: about 3€ per person
- toilets (men / women) available
- souvenir shop
- bar near the parking
🅿️ Free parking (other side of the lake)
There is another parking area on the opposite side of the lake.
- ✔️ free
- ✔️ quieter
- ✔️ toilets available
👉 From there, you can easily walk to the chapel.
🍹 Where to eat and drink
You will find a few convenient places:
- bar at the entrance of Parque Grena
- bar near the fumaroles and souvenir shop
💡 Tips
- best time to visit: morning (beautiful light and mist)
- weather changes quickly → bring a jacket
- wear comfortable shoes
- plan at least 1–2 hours
🎯 Conclusion
Lagoa das Furnas is more than just a lake — it is a complete experience combining nature, volcanic activity, and local culture.
With its walking trails, parks, and unique geothermal features, it is one of the best places to visit in São Miguel.