Terra Nostra Thermal Pool, Portugal

The classic Furnas soak inside a botanical garden

The Terra Nostra thermal pool sits inside Parque Terra Nostra in Furnas. It’s one of the most straightforward ways to get a warm-water soak on São Miguel because it’s fully set up for visitors: ticketed entry, changing rooms, showers, lockers, and a clearly defined bathing area.

Water and temperature

The park describes the water as geothermally heated, with thermal water temperature ranging between 38 and 42°C, and notes high mineralization that gives the pool its orange color. If you like a proper hot soak, this is one of the warmer options in the Azores, and you’ll feel it quickly.

What the visit feels like

You’re soaking in an iconic, amber-toned pool with trees and garden paths around you. It’s not wild, and that’s the appeal. If you want a calm, predictable experience, it’s a good choice, especially in the first part of the day when the garden is quieter.

Where it is
The thermal pool is inside Parque Terra Nostra in Furnas (São Miguel). You enter through the park gates and follow internal paths to the bathing area, which is signposted on-site.

Getting there
Furnas is reached by road from the main towns on São Miguel. Once you’re in the village area, access is simple, and the park is a known landmark. Plan for a short walk within the garden to reach the pool, some paths are damp and shaded.

Hours and planning
The park states the thermal pool and jacuzzis keep the same hours as Parque Terra Nostra: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The park also notes that guests of Terra Nostra Garden Hotel can enjoy the garden (including the thermal pools) 24 hours a day, which changes the crowd feel in the evening if you are staying there.

What to bring
The park recommends a dark swimsuit because the iron-rich water may stain light-colored swimwear, and it notes contact may change the color of hair, nails, and nail polish. Bring a towel and simple footwear, and plan to use the on-site changing rooms, showers, and lockers for valuables.

Terra Nostra works best for travelers who want a controlled soak with facilities, plus a garden visit that fills the rest of the time. It’s especially good on a Furnas day when you’re also planning viewpoints, fumaroles, or a long lunch.

Families
Family friendly in the practical sense: there are facilities, clear rules, and easy access. The main reality is comfort, the water is hot. Younger kids may prefer short dips and breaks, so plan a visit where you can rotate between the pool and garden paths.

Couples and solo travelers
Couples get an easy “soak plus stroll” date without complicated logistics. Solo travelers do well here too because it’s a safe, organized environment and you can spend as much time as you want in the garden once you’ve soaked.

Accessibility
I would not assume full wheelchair access without confirming current routing, because garden paths can include narrow sections, damp surfaces, and small grade changes. Facilities exist, but if you require step-free pool entry or specific locker access, confirm directly with the operator before relying on it.

Expectations vs reality
It’s a real hot soak, but it’s not a sprawling multi-pool resort. You’re here for one signature pool, a rinse, and then the garden.

Heat management
The park notes thermal water temperatures range between 38 and 42°C. Treat that like a hot bath: ease in, take breaks, and keep the first soak short if you’re not used to hot water. If you feel lightheaded, get out and cool down.

Staining and personal items
The park recommends dark swimwear, warns that iron-rich water may stain light-colored textiles, and notes possible color changes to hair, nails, and nail polish. It also advises using lockers and keeping a close eye on your belongings. Skip jewelry you care about and rinse off after.

Slip hazards
Expect wet decks and wet feet. Walk, don’t rush, and use handrails where you find them. Keep kids within arm’s reach on steps and edges.

Etiquette
Rinse off products before you enter. Don’t bring lotions or oils that film the water. Keep voices low, take photos quickly, and avoid blocking the main edge where people enter and exit.

Respect the setting
This is a garden first and a bath second. Keep noise down on paths, stay on durable surfaces, and don’t drag muddy shoes into changing areas.

What are the Terra Nostra thermal pool opening hours?

The park states the thermal pool and jacuzzis operate on the same hours as Parque Terra Nostra: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

How hot is the water?

The park states the thermal water temperature ranges between 38 and 42°C.

Will the water stain my swimsuit or affect hair and nails?

The park recommends a dark swimsuit because iron-rich waters may stain light-colored swimwear, and notes contact may change the color of hair, nails, and nail polish.

Are there lockers and changing rooms?

Yes. The park states there are changing rooms equipped with showers and lockers designed for thermal pool visitors.

Can hotel guests use the pool outside public hours?

The park states guests of Terra Nostra Garden Hotel can enjoy the garden (including thermal pools) 24 hours a day.