Parque Terra Nostra
A historic botanical garden and thermal bath complex set in a volcanic crater, offering a serene escape with lush flora and rejuvenating waters.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Parque Terra Nostra
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic botanical garden and thermal bath complex set in a volcanic crater, offering a serene escape with lush flora and rejuvenating waters.
"A magnificent experience that will leave you recharged and relaxed at the same time!"
Bring Your Own Towel!
Towels are not provided and buying one is expensive. Pack your own to save money! :beachwithumbrella:
Swimsuit Under Clothes
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes to save time changing. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thermal Baths
Central pool
Immerse yourself in the iron-rich, volcanically heated waters for ultimate relaxation.

Botanical Gardens
Throughout the park
Wander through diverse plant collections and themed gardens, a peaceful green oasis.

Grottoes and Water Features
Various locations in the gardens
Discover hidden grottoes and charming water features adding to the park's enchantment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Thermal Baths Access
Garden Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Parque Terra Nostra
Bring Your Own Towel!
Towels are not provided and buying one is expensive. Pack your own to save money! :beachwithumbrella:
Swimsuit Under Clothes
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes to save time changing. :athletic_shoe:
Terra Nostra Park
Worth staying at Terra Nostra
Book Tickets Online
Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid potential queues. :ticket:
Secure Your Valuables
Locker system can be frustrating; consider leaving valuables at home or using a small bag. :moneybag:
6 Days Sao Miguel
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel!
Towels are not provided and buying one is expensive. Pack your own to save money! :beachwithumbrella:
Swimsuit Under Clothes
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes to save time changing. :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets Online
Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid potential queues. :ticket:
Secure Your Valuables
Locker system can be frustrating; consider leaving valuables at home or using a small bag. :moneybag:
Explore the Gardens
Don't just focus on the baths; the gardens are vast and beautiful. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning botanical gardens and the unique, relaxing experience of the iron-rich thermal baths. While some find the entrance fee steep for the size of the bathing area, most agree the natural beauty and rejuvenating waters make it a worthwhile visit. Practical tips like bringing your own towel are frequently shared.
"This hotel allows you to enjoy the thermal baths without all the crowds. At the end of the day you have a huge pool of thermal water almost all to yourself and loved one. A magnificent experience that will leave you recharged and relaxed at the same time!"
Eduardo Massoud Hervas
"We only visited the hot water pool and the grounds. Though we did walk through the hotel instead of going through one of the normal entrances. Worth doing to see what lounges are like in a hotel that charges over €350 a night. Right in the bottom of a volcanic crater, with opaque iron rich waters feeding a large pool, surrounded by beautiful grounds, pools, trees and curated paths. Well worth the €17 entrance fee, go early, stay late, check out the restaurant on site- looked good as we went through."
simon jones
"Stunning gardens with plenty of paths so it never feels crowded.
Warm volcanically heated pools a delight. Ample showers and changing rooms. But be warned: there are no towels to borrow or rent—bring your own, or you’ll have to BUY a huge towel for 25 euros!"
Alma Gottlieb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parque Terra Nostra is located in Furnas, São Miguel Island, Azores. You can reach it by car or public bus from Ponta Delgada. Parking is available nearby.
Yes, there is parking available near the park entrance. It can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, the park is easily accessible on foot from the center of Furnas village, making it convenient for day-trippers.
Walking is ideal for exploring Furnas and reaching Parque Terra Nostra. Taxis are also available if needed.
Many guided tours of São Miguel include a stop at Furnas and Parque Terra Nostra, offering a convenient way to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary, but typically range around €17 per person for garden and thermal bath access. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to potentially save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the gardens are open daily, but the thermal baths might have specific hours. Always check the official website before your visit.
Typically, the entrance fee includes access to both the gardens and the thermal baths. Separate tickets for only one area are usually not available.
Information on discounts for children or seniors is not always readily available. It's best to inquire directly with the park or check their official website for any applicable concessions.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Definitely bring your swimsuit and a towel! Also consider water shoes for comfort and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
Yes, lockers are available, but they can be small and sometimes frustrating to use. It's recommended to bring a small bag for your items.
Children are generally allowed in the thermal baths, but some visitors suggest it can detract from the relaxing atmosphere.
The thermal baths can get crowded, especially during peak times. Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon can offer a more peaceful experience.
The water temperature is naturally heated by volcanic activity and is typically warm and comfortable for swimming.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on-site that looked good to visitors. It's a convenient option for lunch or a snack during your visit.
The restaurant typically offers local Azorean cuisine. It's a good place to try regional dishes after exploring the park.
While there's a main restaurant, smaller cafes or snack bars might be available depending on the season. It's good to check upon arrival.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas of large parks. However, it's best to confirm park rules regarding outside food and beverages.
Furnas village offers several restaurants and cafes serving local specialties, providing more dining choices if you prefer to eat outside the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The thermal baths, the diverse botanical gardens, the historic manor house, and the various water features offer excellent photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed throughout the park. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially in more tranquil garden areas.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the gardens and baths.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and botanical gardens to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. Check park regulations before flying.
While general photography is permitted, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require special permits. Always adhere to park signage and staff instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the thermal baths are a highlight, be aware that some visitors find the presence of younger children can impact the relaxing atmosphere. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience. Bringing snacks and drinks is a good idea, though check park policies. Ensure children have appropriate swimwear and towels.
💰 Budget Travelers
Crucially, bring your own towel to avoid the high cost of purchasing one. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays to potentially find fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience without paying extra for premium access.
❤️ Couples & Relaxation Seekers
Beyond the baths, the beautifully landscaped gardens provide serene walking paths and secluded spots for quiet conversation. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden hour light filtering through the trees, enhancing the romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Botanical Gardens
Beyond the sheer variety of flora, the gardens are a testament to landscape artistry. Ancient trees provide shade, while vibrant flowerbeds add bursts of color. The park's location within a volcanic crater contributes to its unique microclimate, allowing for the cultivation of a wide array of subtropical plants. It's a place where you can truly escape and connect with nature, making it a highlight for many visitors.
The Famous Thermal Baths
While the main pool is the star, there are also smaller thermal springs within the park. Visitors often describe the experience as incredibly rejuvenating, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. It's important to note that the iron-rich water can stain light-colored swimwear, so wearing darker or older suits is advisable.
Visiting Considerations & Community Tips
While the thermal baths are a major draw, some visitors feel the entrance fee is high for the size of the bathing area, especially if children are present and disrupt the tranquility. However, many still find the gardens and the unique thermal experience well worth the cost, particularly if they visit during less crowded times like weekday mornings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit