Heiße Quellen und Naturschwimmbecken auf São Miguel

Hot Springs and Natural Pools

São Miguel Island features unique geothermal activity, resulting in diverse bathing spots. Caldeira Velha offers iron-rich thermal pools tucked into a lush forest at the base of the Fogo Volcano, including a pool fed by a warm waterfall. At Ponta da Ferraria, volcanic vents heat the ocean water within a natural basalt cove, creating a therapeutic swimming area most effective at low tide. The island's coastline also includes basaltic rock pools where Atlantic waters collect in volcanic formations.

Hot Springs and Natural Pools — Karte

Николай Максимович / CC BY 3.0

A

Caldeira Velha

Thermal pools on the northern slope of the Fogo Volcano. Features iron-rich water and a waterfall pool surrounded by tree ferns and endemic Macaronesian vegetation.

Bruno / CC-BY-SA

B

Ponta da Ferraria

Natural ocean cove where geothermal springs heat the seawater. Features safety ropes for swimmers; best experienced during low or mid-tide when water temperatures are highest.

José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha… / Public domain

C

Caldeira Velha

Natural and Regional Monument featuring several thermal baths. Includes an environmental interpretation center detailing the volcanic activity and biodiversity of the Ribeira Grande region.

D

Ponta da Ferraria

Geothermal bathing site situated in a basaltic bay. Volcanic vents beneath the sea floor warm the ocean water, which is naturally contained by rugged lava rock formations.

Nuno Borges / CC BY 3.0

E

piscinas naturais

Natural swimming pools carved into volcanic rock. These basalt formations create sheltered enclosures for swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.