Povoação is a well known district right down in the Southeast quarter of São Miguel island, one of the more popular of the Azores islands.
The question is, what will you do once you’re there? This blog is still relatively new but we figured a good way to share our experience of backpacking the Azores is to break the areas down into municipalities with a few recommendations of what to do once you’re there.
Salto do Prego, Faial da Terra
Why it’s a great spot:
- There is a great walk with two waterfalls and a stream!
- There are a few hiking routes you can take through the lush Azorean nature and treating you to views over the ocean and the tiny town of Faial da Terra.
- If you’re like me and try not to return using the same route you came from, you’ll be happy to know that the trail is a loop starting and ending in the same spot.
The trails are of varying toughness, rated as ‘medium difficulty’ and can take a few hours. Wear some good stomping shoes.
Did you want to check out some more waterfalls across the island? We compiled a few of our top picks right here.
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Do you prefer your water slow moving and volcanically heated? Go to Poça da Dona Beija .
Poça da Dona Beija, Furnas
Why it’s worth a visit:
- It’s a thermal spring complex! You can enjoy all five pools for a 6eur entry fee.
- It’s the locals choice for a reason. Natural, relaxing and plenty of pools to hop between.
- It’s in Furnas village, where the steam shoots from the earth giving you a wild post apocalyptic feeling in your bones.
Even though the Thermal Bath complex is in Furnas the baths sit amongst nature giving you the backdrop to suit how you feel soaking in the spa. I urge you to explore the village on foot and please try the local breads and snacks from the street stalls.
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
While you’re in the area, check the town itself out.
Furnas Town
Why you should spend some time here:
- Steam rises from the ground in an awesomely post apocalyptic way.
- It’s the place to try Cozido das Furnas, a stew made from local meat and vegetables are lowered into the volcanic soil for up to eight hours.
- It is not only the home to Poça da Dona Beija (previous suggestion) but also Terra Nosrta park with more hot springs (coming up)
The area of Povoação has great hikes, many epic views and some relaxing spots, but some would argue that Furnas has it all going on. It’s definitely worth the visit!
Sound like your kind of thing? Google maps will take you to the starting point.
Another great place to visit whilst you’re in Furnas is Terra Nostra.
terra nostra, Furnas
What’s it got to offer?
- The natural Thermal Springs One huge pool and two smaller pools.
- You can explore Terra Nostra Gardens for the real Azorean jungle vibes.
- Again, you’re in Furnas, an incredible place to eat, drink and explore.
Normally entry is 8euros but if you eat at the parks restaurant you get free entry into the park with the Thermal Baths included!
Sound like the spot you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Enough relaxing in Thermal Baths and walking around Furnas? Head up to Pico do Ferro viewpoint and take it all in.
Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
Why you should go:
- It’s a viewpoint. You can stand there and see the beautiful stretching Azorean countryside!
- There are some very nice hikes in the area. (the Pico do Ferro loop is a well known light hike that should only take about an hour)
- It’s (again) in Furnas so you can see it all in one day.
There is a good parking spot not far from the viewpoint and it’s rarely very busy. Enjoy.
Sound like what you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Hopefully you enjoy your visit to Povoação and the rest of your stay on São Miguel! Be safe out there and check us out more as the website develops.