Parque Terra Nostra - red and white koi fish
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Parque Terra Nostra

4.7
·18k reviews·Furnas, Portugal

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Parque Terra Nostra - red and white koi fish

Parque Terra Nostra

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.7
(18k reviews)

"A magnificent experience that will leave you recharged and relaxed at the same time!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thermal Baths

Thermal Baths

Central pool

Immerse yourself in the iron-rich, volcanically heated waters for ultimate relaxation.

Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens

Throughout the park

Wander through diverse plant collections and themed gardens, a peaceful green oasis.

Grottoes and Water Features

Grottoes and Water Features

Various locations in the gardens

Discover hidden grottoes and charming water features adding to the park's enchantment.

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Planning Your Visit

Thermal Baths Access

The iconic thermal baths are a major draw, but check their operating status, especially outside peak season. Some visitors report closures for maintenance, impacting the overall experience. Plan accordingly if swimming is a priority.

Garden Exploration

While the thermal baths are a highlight, don't miss the expansive botanical gardens. They offer a serene escape with diverse flora and winding paths, ensuring a less crowded experience even during busy times.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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:

reddit.com

Terra Nostra Park

reddit.com

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:

reddit.com

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

4.7
(18k reviews)

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

Beautiful botanical gardens
Unique thermal baths
Relaxing atmosphere

What People Dislike

High entrance fee
Expensive towel purchase

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. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near the park entrance. It can get busy, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Yes, the park is easily accessible on foot from the center of Furnas village, making it convenient for day-trippers. Reddit

Walking is ideal for exploring Furnas and reaching Parque Terra Nostra. Taxis are also available if needed. Reddit

Many guided tours of São Miguel include a stop at Furnas and Parque Terra Nostra, offering a convenient way to visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to potentially save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season. Reddit

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. Reddit

Typically, the entrance fee includes access to both the gardens and the thermal baths. Separate tickets for only one area are usually not available. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏊‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Definitely bring your swimsuit and a towel! Also consider water shoes for comfort and a waterproof bag for your belongings. Reddit

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. Reddit

Children are generally allowed in the thermal baths, but some visitors suggest it can detract from the relaxing atmosphere. Reddit

The thermal baths can get crowded, especially during peak times. Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon can offer a more peaceful experience. Reddit

The water temperature is naturally heated by volcanic activity and is typically warm and comfortable for swimming. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

The restaurant typically offers local Azorean cuisine. It's a good place to try regional dishes after exploring the park. Reddit

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. Reddit

Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas of large parks. However, it's best to confirm park rules regarding outside food and beverages. Reddit

Furnas village offers several restaurants and cafes serving local specialties, providing more dining choices if you prefer to eat outside the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The thermal baths, the diverse botanical gardens, the historic manor house, and the various water features offer excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed throughout the park. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially in more tranquil garden areas. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the gardens and baths. Reddit

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. Reddit

While general photography is permitted, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require special permits. Always adhere to park signage and staff instructions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parque Terra Nostra offers a unique experience for families, combining natural beauty with a fun thermal bath. The expansive gardens provide plenty of space for children to explore and burn energy, with interesting plants and water features to discover. Reddit

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. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While not the cheapest attraction, Parque Terra Nostra can be enjoyed on a budget by prioritizing. Focus on the extensive gardens, which offer hours of exploration for the entrance fee. Reddit Pack your own lunch and snacks to avoid on-site dining costs. Reddit

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. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Relaxation Seekers

Parque Terra Nostra is an ideal destination for couples seeking relaxation and a romantic escape. The thermal baths offer a unique opportunity to unwind together in the warm, mineral-rich waters, especially during quieter times. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Botanical Gardens

Parque Terra Nostra is home to one of the Azores' most significant botanical gardens, established in 1775. It boasts an impressive collection of plants from around the world, meticulously curated across various themed sections. Visitors can wander through camellia groves, fern valleys, and arboretums, discovering rare species and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The gardens are designed with winding paths and hidden nooks, offering a sense of discovery and peaceful seclusion. Reddit

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. Reddit

The Famous Thermal Baths

The heart of Parque Terra Nostra for many is its large thermal pool, fed by naturally heated, iron-rich volcanic waters. The water's distinctive orange-brown hue is due to its high iron content, which some believe has therapeutic properties. The pool is set within a beautiful garden landscape, surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a unique and relaxing bathing experience. Reddit

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. Reddit

Visiting Considerations & Community Tips

Real visitor experiences highlight practical tips for maximizing your visit. Many recommend wearing your swimsuit under your clothes to save time changing, and always bringing your own towel as rentals are expensive. Reddit The locker system has been noted as potentially frustrating, so packing light or leaving valuables at home is a common suggestion. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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