The Azores’ Best-Kept Secret
Let me tell you about our experience at Parque Terra Nostra’s thermal pool and our cozy little hideaway in the Azores.
First things first – if you’re planning to visit, you might wanna think about renting a car. We learned the hard way that you should book one 4-5 months in advance, especially during busy seasons. Without a car, it can be pretty tough to explore the island, since the thermal waters are smack in the middle of São Miguel.
But don’t worry if you can’t get wheels – there are buses and tours that can get you there too!
Our Cozy Azorean Home
Now, about our home away from home – finding a place to stay was a bit of a challenge. There aren’t many hotels around, and houses for rent are pretty scarce. But we lucked out and found this cute little place in a village called Moinhos through Booking.com.
It was called Casa da Ribeira dos Moinhos, and it was just what we needed – simple, but cozy and comfortable.The house was in Porto Formoso, and we snagged it for about 250 euros a night. It wasn’t fancy, but it was clean and had everything we needed.
The best part?
It was super close to this huge, beautiful beach, which is why we picked it in the first place. Previous guests seemed to love it too – it had a 9.8/10 rating for location!
Diving into Parque Terra Nostra
Okay, now picture this: you’re stepping into this huge thermal pool with warm, orangey-brown water at Parque Terra Nostra. It might look a bit weird at first, but trust me, it feels amazing!
The water’s packed with all these minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium, which are supposed to be great for your health. We’re not scientists or anything, but it definitely left us feeling super relaxed and refreshed!
We visited in September, and it was just perfect. The weather in the Azores is pretty much always nice, so you can’t really go wrong. We paid about 16 euros each to get in, which wasn’t too bad for such a unique experience. The pool’s open from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to soak and chill.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
Now, here’s a pro tip: wear a dark swimsuit! The iron in the water can stain light-colored ones. Also, don’t freak out if your hair or nails look a bit different after – it’s just the minerals doing their thing.We had such a blast at Parque Terra Nostra.
It’s not just about the pool – the whole garden is like something out of a fairy tale. You’ve got all these exotic plants, and there’s this peaceful vibe that just makes you want to stay forever.
So, if you’re ever in São Miguel, do yourself a favor and check this place out. Just remember to plan ahead for your transportation and accommodation – whether it’s booking a car early or finding a cozy house like we did. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak up some of that magical Azorean nature. Trust us, your body and mind will thank you!
What is all about: Parque Terra Nostra, thermal pool, Azores, São Miguel, Furnas, botanical garden, hot springs, volcanic water, minerals, relaxation, camellias, exotic plants
