Information
Landmark: Poca da Dona BeijaCity: Azores
Country: Portugal
Continent: Europe
Poca da Dona Beija, Azores, Portugal, Europe
Overview
In the town of Furnas on São Miguel Island in the Azores, Poça da Dona Beija draws visitors to its steaming, mineral-rich pools set amid ferns and flowering trees.At this geothermal site, steam curls into the cool air while lush hills frame the view, blending the raw power of volcanic activity with the calm beauty of the Azores.Number one.Poça da Dona Beija takes its name from Dona Beija, a figure from local legend said to have soaked in the warm, mineral-rich waters to keep her beauty and strength; for generations, people have come here to bathe just as she once did.Locals once called the springs “Poça da Juventude,” or Pool of Youth, believing the warm, mineral-rich water could heal aches and weariness.Fed by volcanic heat deep under São Miguel, they bubble up in the Furnas Valley, where steam curls from fumaroles and the air smells faintly of sulfur.The water stays pleasantly warm, averaging about 35–39 °C (95–102 °F), like stepping into a sun‑heated pool.Poça da Dona Beija offers five thermal pools, each with its own depth and temperature-from a shallow, warm soak to a deeper, steaming bath.The water flows in on its own and keeps cycling through, so it stays clean and full of minerals.Most pools feel warm, but the heat shifts a little from one to the next, letting you pick the exact warmth you like.Rich in iron, the water carries a soft reddish hue that can leave a faint stain on pale fabrics.Tropical plants, feathery ferns, and dark lava stones ring the edges, wrapping the springs in a quiet, natural calm.Changing rooms, showers, lockers, and bathrooms are all on hand, so it’s easy to settle in and relax.The facilities stay in excellent shape, and the pools sparkle with clear, fresh water.Rich in minerals-especially iron-the waters are said to boost circulation, melt away stress, and soothe aching muscles.Surrounded by quiet greenery, you can hear only the soft rustle of leaves as you relax.In the evening, when the pools glow under soft lights, visitors slip into the warm water for a soothing soak, the steam curling into the cool night air; the calm setting and gentle heat melt away stress, while Poça da Dona Beija’s bubbling springs remain a living part of Furnas’ geothermal wonders-fumaroles, mud pools, and geysers all close at hand.For centuries, volcanic forces have carved this land, leaving behind rich, dark soil where bright green plants thrive.The hot springs run deeper than the earth-they’re woven into local life, with Azoreans long trusting the geothermal waters to heal and restore.Locals treasure these springs, and they’re a favorite stop on tours and wellness getaways in the Azores.Poça da Dona Beija stays open every day, even after dark, so you can slip into the warm pools while stars scatter across the night sky.Evenings draw the most visitors, thanks to the calm atmosphere and the soft glow of the lit pools.There’s a small admission fee that helps keep the water sparkling and the space inviting.Bring a dark swimsuit so the mineral-rich water won’t leave stains, plus a towel and some sandals for the walk between pools.Many visitors carry a reusable water bottle to sip from as they explore, and Poça da Dona Beija puts sustainability first-watching its water use closely and protecting the lush green slopes that frame the springs.The water naturally drains and refills on its own, keeping the environmental impact low.Visitors are asked to follow simple rules-like skipping lotions or oils before entering the pools-so the water stays clear for everyone.Just a short walk away, Furnas Lake offers another geothermal wonder, where the famous “Cozido das Furnas” stew simmers slowly underground in the earth’s heat.Scenic trails wind around the lake, where steam curls up from hidden fumaroles.In Terra Nostra Park, a sprawling botanical garden, a warm thermal pool shimmers under the shade of exotic plants and towering trees.It’s the perfect follow‑up to a soak at Poça da Dona Beija, giving you one more taste of Furnas’ steaming geothermal waters.In the village, you can wander past small shops, grab a coffee that smells rich and dark, or sit down to local dishes at a cozy restaurant.After a long, soothing soak, it’s the perfect spot to delve into São Miguel’s vibrant culture and rich cuisine-maybe with the scent of grilled limpets drifting from a nearby café.For a quieter, more peaceful visit, head there early in the morning or later in the evening when crowds thin out.Skip light-colored swimsuits, as the iron-rich waters can leave stubborn stains; dark colors hold up best.At night, the pools glow under soft lights, turning the place into something magical and irresistibly photogenic, which is why both locals and travelers cherish Poça da Dona Beija as a haven of relaxation and volcanic history.Its warm, mineral-rich waters, peaceful surroundings, and deep cultural roots make it a must-see for anyone exploring the Azores.
