If you’re heading to São Miguel Island in the Azores, Terra Nostra Park should definitely be on your radar. Located in the charming town of Furnas, this lush botanical garden is one of the island’s top attractions, and for good reason. Between the natural beauty, the famous thermal pool, and the peaceful vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind and take in some of the best scenery the Azores has to offer. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Terra Nostra Park.
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What Makes Terra Nostra Park Special?
Terra Nostra Park is a massive 12-hectare garden full of all kinds of exotic plants and greenery, set in the volcanic region of Furnas. It’s been around since 1780, and while it’s a serene spot to wander around, it’s also steeped in history. The whole area is geothermally active, meaning the park has natural hot springs bubbling up from the earth, which gives it a truly unique feel.
What really makes Terra Nostra stand out, though, is the iconic thermal pool – a huge, naturally heated swimming pool filled with iron-rich water. It’s a bit of an odd shade (kind of a rusty, yellowish color), but the warm water feels amazing, and it’s said to have therapeutic benefits. So, it’s the perfect place to take a dip and let all your stresses melt away.
What to See and Do in Terra Nostra Park
- Take a Dip in the Thermal Pool: Let’s start with the obvious highlight – the thermal pool. This giant pool, fed by geothermal springs, stays at a toasty 36-42°C. The water has a brownish hue due to the iron in it, which is actually part of its charm. Not only is it a relaxing spot to unwind, but the pool has a mystical vibe, surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees. So, definitely pack a swimsuit and spend some time here! My advice is to do it at the end of your visit to Terra Nostra Park.
- Explore the Beautiful Botanical Gardens. The park is home to all kinds of plants from around the world, and as you wander through, you’ll notice everything from giant ferns to vibrant flowers. There’s even a few century-old trees scattered throughout the park, including the impressive Japanese cedar. The paths are well-marked, so you can easily take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and just take in the beauty of it all. Every season, the park suggests a unique itinerary for you to follow. You will be given the map at the ticket office.
- Check Out the Geothermal Features. Since Terra Nostra is in Furnas, an area known for its geothermal activity, you’ll find hot springs scattered throughout the park.
How to Get to Terra Nostra Park
Getting to Terra Nostra Park is pretty straightforward. It’s located in Furnas, about a 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada, the main city on São Miguel. Renting a car is the easiest way to get there, and parking is available near the entrance. If you’re relying on public transport, you can catch a bus from Ponta Delgada to Furnas, but they don’t run as frequently, so renting a car might be your best bet.
Address:
Parque Terra Nostra
Furnas, São Miguel, Azores
GPS Coordinates: 37.767° N, 25.312° W
Best Time to Visit Terra Nostra Park
The best time to visit Terra Nostra is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the park is looking its best with flowers in full bloom and the greenery at its peak. But don’t worry if you’re visiting in winter – while it may be a little cooler, the thermal pool is especially inviting during the colder months, and the park’s beauty doesn’t fade. Consider visiting early or on weekdays if you want to beat the crowds.
Tickets and Opening Hours
The park is open every day from 10:30 to 16:30, but you can stay until 17:00. As of now, the general admission fees are:
- Adults: 16€
- Children (6-12 years old): 13.5€
- Children (under 6 years old): free
- Thermal Pool Access: The pool is included in the entry fee.
Tickets are bought at the ticket office, no prior reservation is needed. Make sure to double-check the opening hours before you go, especially during the off-season.
Practical Tips for Visiting Terra Nostra Park
- Swimwear: Definitely pack a swimsuit if you want to take a dip in the thermal pool. The older and darker the better, because it will likely get stained.
- Towels and flip-flops: You should pack them as well since they are not provided by the park. They are not mandatory, but the small path you will have to walk is slippery, cold and uncomfortable for your feet.
- Hair: The iron-rich water in the thermal pools can affect your hair, especially if it’s dyed. To avoid any issues, consider keeping your head above the water.
- Facilities: Free changing rooms and showers are available next to the thermal pool, but be prepared for COLD water! If you’re visiting on a chilly day, I recommend heading to the natural jacuzzis at the end to rinse off most of the yellow tint from your skin and swimsuit. Note that there are no lockers, just a few hangers outside. While the area is generally safe, bringing a padlock can add an extra layer of security. If rain is in the forecast, it’s also a good idea to pack something to cover your bags.
- Comfortable Shoes: The park is large, and there’s a lot to explore, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Plan for a Relaxed Day: Terra Nostra Park isn’t a rush-around kind of place. Give yourself plenty of time to explore, swim, and just enjoy the peaceful surroundings. That should take you about 3 hours.
- Check the Weather: While the park is gorgeous year-round, the weather can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you go.
- Maintenance work: Recently, Terra Nostra Park had some areas closed for maintenance and construction, which made visitors disappointed about the experience. Check with the park about any ongoing maintenance work to decide if this is the ideal time to visit.
Things to Do Nearby
If you’ve got time to explore beyond the park, the Furnas area is full of things to see and do. Here are a few ideas for the rest of your day:
- Furnas Lake: Just a short distance from the park, this picturesque lake in a volcanic crater is perfect for a peaceful walk or a boat ride.
- Poça da Dona Beija: Another famous hot spring in the area, this one has a series of outdoor pools where you can soak and enjoy the surrounding nature.
- Cozido das Furnas: Don’t leave without trying the local specialty, cozido, a stew slow-cooked in the geothermal heat of the earth. It’s hearty and delicious, and you can find it at several local restaurants.
- Gorreana Tea Plantation: If you’re a tea lover, don’t miss a visit to Europe’s oldest tea plantation, where you can tour the fields and sip on some fresh Azorean tea.
Terra Nostra Park is one of those places that just makes you feel like you’re in a different world, one where nature takes the lead, and you’re free to relax and let time slow down. It’s a truly unique experience that’s not to be missed when visiting São Miguel.
I hope this article “Exploring Terra Nostra Park in São Miguel, Azores: A Complete Travel Guide” helped you plan your trip to São Miguel, Azores! Leave your opinion in the comments and follow me on social networks so you don’t miss my next trips. Use #travelplannerholic to get noticed.
With Love,
Catarina Vieira
