A set of open-air thermal pools fed by natural hot springs on the edge of Furnas, landscaped with small waterfalls and changing facilities. The iron-rich water runs warm year-round, and the pools are popular with both visitors and locals for a soak after exploring the surrounding valley.
Poça da Dona Beija is a set of open-air thermal pools on the edge of Furnas, fed continuously by natural hot springs and landscaped with small cascades, wooden walkways, and changing rooms. The iron-rich water runs a warm, mineral-tinted brown and stays at a comfortable soaking temperature year-round, drawing both visitors and local residents for a soak after a day exploring the Furnas valley's craters and gardens. The complex has several linked pools of varying depth and temperature, connected by short stone paths, and most visitors spend around an hour to ninety minutes moving between them. Unlike the larger Terra Nostra pool, Dona Beija has no garden to walk, making it a quicker, more focused stop. The pools are busiest around midday and in the early evening after tour groups finish other Furnas sights; arriving early in the morning or after sunset, when the pools are lit for night bathing in season, tends to be quieter.
| Admission | Adult Approx €8 (approx $8.65) · Child Reduced rate, verify current pricing locally |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, approx 7AM-11PM |
| Typical visit | 1-1.5 hours |
| Best time | Early morning or after sunset, when the pools are less crowded |
| Getting there | Short walk or drive from central Furnas |
| Address | Rua Dr. Frederico da Silva Machado, 9675-113 Furnas, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal |
Weather through the year in Portugal
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Portugal.
Location
Rua Dr. Frederico da Silva Machado, 9675-113 Furnas, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
37.7683, -25.3244 View on map
Highlights
- Several linked thermal pools of varying depth and temperature
- Iron-rich mineral water landscaped with small waterfalls
- Changing rooms and stone walkways connecting the pools
- Popular with both visitors and local residents
Tips for visiting
- Bring a swimsuit and towel, and expect the mineral water to stain light fabrics
- Visit early morning or after sunset to avoid the midday crowds
- Lockers are available for valuables; bring small change if needed
- Combine with other Furnas sights, such as Terra Nostra Park, on the same day
When to visit
Early morning or after sunset, when the pools are less crowded than the midday tour-group period.
Accessibility
Stone walkways connect the pools but include some steps and uneven surfaces, so the site is only partially manageable for visitors with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 1 to 1.5 hours moving between the linked pools.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, the shallower pools suit families, though water temperature varies by pool so it is worth checking before children enter.
Is photography allowed?
Yes outside the pools, though visitors should be mindful of others while bathers are in swimwear.