4.5
(984)
4,884
hikers
Lagoa das Furnas Trail
02:40
9.55km
170m
Hiking
Hike the Lagoa das Furnas Trail, a 5.9-mile circular route around Furnas Lake, featuring geothermal activity and lush scenery.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.25 km
Furnas Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.40 km
Bamboo Pathway in Área de Paisagem Protegida das Furnas
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.91 km
Chapel of Our Lady of Victories
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
9.55 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.47 km
2.75 km
2.00 km
1.28 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.04 km
3.47 km
2.00 km
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Tuesday 19 May
19°C
16°C
91 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 31.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to hike the Lagoa das Furnas Trail?
The classic loop around Furnas Lake is approximately 8 km (5 miles) and generally takes about 2 hours to complete. If you opt for the extension into Parque Grená, the trail extends to about 11 km (7 miles) and can take up to 3 hours.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the Lagoa das Furnas Trail?
The trail offers varied terrain, including lakeside gravel paths, wooden boardwalks through geothermal areas, and peaceful forest paths. You might also encounter sections with cobblestone roads and flat dirt roads. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended, especially after rain, as some parts can become muddy.
What are the main points of interest along the Lagoa das Furnas Trail?
You'll encounter diverse scenery, including the picturesque Furnas Lake, dramatic geothermal activity with fumaroles and hot springs, and lush forest paths like the Bamboo Pathway in Área de Paisagem Protegida das Furnas. The Neo-Gothic Chapel of Our Lady of Victories reflecting in the lake is a notable landmark. You can also explore the José do Canto Botanical Garden and modern wooden sculptures.
Where can I park for the Lagoa das Furnas Trail?
Parking is available at various points around Furnas Lake. A common starting point is near the geothermal area where the 'Cozido das Furnas' is cooked, or close to the main entrance points to the trail. Specific parking areas are usually well-marked.
Is the Lagoa das Furnas Trail dog-friendly?
While the trail is generally accessible, specific regulations regarding dogs, especially in protected areas like the Área de Paisagem Protegida das Furnas, can vary. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash and ensure you clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to hike the Lagoa das Furnas Trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant flora. Summer is popular but can be warmer. The Azorean weather is unpredictable, so be prepared for changing conditions regardless of the season.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Lagoa das Furnas Trail?
Hiking the main Lagoa das Furnas Trail (PRC06SMI) typically does not require a permit or entrance fee. However, some specific attractions along the route, such as the José do Canto Botanical Garden or Parque Grená, may have separate entrance fees.
What should I wear for the Lagoa das Furnas hike, considering the weather?
Due to the unpredictable Azorean weather, it's wise to wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket, even on sunny days. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended for the varied terrain, which can become muddy after rain. Sun protection is also advisable.
Is the Lagoa das Furnas Trail suitable for families with children?
Yes, the Lagoa das Furnas Trail is generally considered an easy hike with modest elevation gain, making it suitable for families. The varied scenery, including geothermal activity and lake views, can keep children engaged. The optional Parque Grená extension might be more challenging for very young children due to potentially muddy sections.
Are there places to eat or drink near the Lagoa das Furnas Trail?
Yes, the town of Furnas, located very close to the lake, offers several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine, including the famous 'Cozido das Furnas' stew cooked underground. There are also picnic areas around the lake.
Does the Lagoa das Furnas Trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the route primarily follows the official PRC06SMI Lagoa das Furnas trail. It also briefly intersects with sections of the Trail to Grená house, Bridges trail, Trail to Waterfall, and Grena Trails, especially if you choose to explore the Parque Grená area.
What's an insider tip for making the most of the Lagoa das Furnas Trail experience?
To fully immerse yourself in the unique environment, consider taking the optional detour into Parque Grená. This extension offers a 'proper jungle detour' with incredibly lush greenery and the photogenic Salto do Rosal waterfall, adding a different dimension to the hike beyond the lake loop.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
It is one of the recommended excursions on the island of Sao Miguel. All almost flat, partly on the road and partly on the paved pedestrian lakefront. No difficulty, not particularly interesting from a naturalistic point of view or in terms of panoramas. It can be avoided. The fumaroles by the lake are interesting, from which you can access the hot pools with waterfalls. I would also like to point out some particularly ancient araucarias along the route and a curious Gothic chapel in a garden (entrance fee).
The pictures of the tea plantations are from Chá Gorreana and were not on the hike.
A round with the certain smell :) The Lagoa das Furnas is a crater lake. The landscape is beautiful and interesting. The lake itself is bubbling everywhere and it smells a little. I haven't seen that either. Definitely a recommendation.
Very nice round. Without any stress. The Lagua and the surrounding area are simply wonderful. One can only enjoy. great way.
The climb from Furnas to the Miradouro do Lombo dos Milhos is a challenge, but the view makes up for it. We recommend taking a lunch break at the Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas and eating Cozido, the national dish of the Azores cooked in the hot earth. Tip: one portion is enough for two.
Go for a nice walk as an alternative to the planned Pico climb.
Nice hike, although less spectacular than other crater lakes on the island. The hot springs and steaming fumaroles are nice, but also generate a lot of car traffic along some passages. The natural thermal bath in the park will be renovated in winter 2024/25.
After the soup pots at Furnas, the sulfur couldn't be smelled, I went for a lap around the lake. It's pretty quiet there, hardly anyone goes that "far". The world's second tallest araucaria tree could be seen in a small valley. Surrounded by other trees and ferns, it didn't look so spectacular either. Furnas is then quite full of tourists again.