São Miguel Signature Golf & Gin

From 10 AM to 4 PM

Located in one of the most scenic areas of São Miguel Island, Furnas Golf Course offers a distinctive golfing experience set within the island’s volcanic heart, just a 25-minute drive from Ponta Delgada. The course lies near Lagoa das Furnas, a natural landmark renowned for its geothermal activity, hot springs, and tranquil surroundings.

The layout unfolds across the Furnas Valley, an area shaped by volcanic origins and defined by lush vegetation, mineral waters, and a mild climate that allows golf to be played comfortably throughout the year. The atmosphere is calm and immersive, with the landscape playing an integral role in the overall experience.

Originally designed by Mackenzie Ross and opened in 1936, Furnas is the oldest golf course in the Azores. In 1992, the course was expanded to 18 holes under the supervision of Cameron & Powell, creating a par-72 championship layout that blends classic design with the island’s natural contours.

Set among majestic Japanese cedars, the course features gently undulating fairways, subtly elevated plateau greens, and carefully placed bunkers filled with volcanic lava sand and pebbles. While the terrain is only slightly hilly, the course demands accuracy, finesse, and thoughtful shot selection. Its playing characteristics are often compared to traditional Scottish parkland courses.

Course Overview

• Par: 72 | 18 holes
• Course Length:
  • Championship tees: 5,965 m
  • Yellow tees: 5,687 m
  • Blue tees: 5,027 m
• Difficulty: Medium
• Terrain: Slightly hilly
• Architects: Mackenzie Ross (original 9 holes) & Cameron & Powell (additional 9 holes)
• Year Opened: 1936
• Maximum Handicap:
  • Men: 28
  • Ladies: 36

A round at Furnas Golf Course is defined as much by its natural setting and history as by the quality of play — a refined and balanced experience in one of São Miguel’s most iconic landscapes.

Please note: Golf rounds may be scheduled consecutively or spaced across your stay, depending on your preference. Just reach out to us.

Suggestion for first part of the day: Drive to Lagoa do Fogo

• Lagoa do Fogo (A Crater Lake of Tranquility): Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into Lagoon of Fire, is a crater lake at the center of São Miguel Island. This Protected Natural Reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far from the whir, hum, and hurry of civilization below. 
• Caldeira Velha Hot Springs: Caldeira Velha is an official natural monument, and the best thing about this lovely locale is not even the thermal pools (although they are divine), but rather the verdant vegetation. Visitors will find that Caldeira Velha is so lush and tropical that you’ll almost find it hard to believe you are even in Portugal.

Lagoa do Fogo is approximately a 25–30 minute drive from Portas da Cidade de Ponta Delgada.

Azorean Gin Masterclass (Included)

1-Hour Experience 

Enjoy a refined tasting experience at Solar do Branco, home to the world’s largest gin bar and private collection. Hosted by gin expert Ali Bullock, this masterclass explores the history of gin and its modern renaissance, with a focus on Azorean and Portuguese gins.

The experience includes a guided tasting of three Azorean gins, each paired with selected tonics and garnishes, plus light snacks in a relaxed, adults-only setting. Guests may also bring a craft gin not yet in the collection for the chance to enjoy the tasting free of charge (up to two people).

From 10 AM to 4 PM

This flexible golf day allows you to return to the course that best suits your style. Choose between the Furnas Golf Course or the Batalha Golf Course and enjoy another round at your own pace, either to refine your game or simply to savour the setting once more.

Please note: Golf rounds may be scheduled consecutively or spaced across your stay, depending on your preference. Just reach out to us.

Suggestion for the day: Drive to Sete Cidades Lake & West Side

São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and Sete Cidades is one of its most captivating gems. Today, embark on a journey through volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and charming villages, and discover the essence of this enchanting island.

• Sete Cidades (A Realm of Twin Lakes): Begin your adventure in Sete Cidades, a village nestled within a vast volcanic crater. As you descend into the caldera, prepare to be awestruck by the sight of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a mesmerizing twin-lake complex. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping crater full of lakes has become one of the signature and most famous images of the Azores. 
• Mosteiros & Ferraria: Venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a photographer's paradise known for its breathtaking sunsets. As you explore the western region, don't miss the chance to rejuvenate at Ferraria's unique ocean thermal baths. Remember, these thermal pools are best enjoyed during low tide when warm spring water mixes with the ocean for a truly luxurious experience.

Vista do Rei Viewpoint is around a 30-minute drive from Ponta Delgada.

Suggestion for the day: Furnas & Tea Plantations

The thermal hot spot of the Azores! Furnas Valley is the center of São Miguel's unique geothermal activity. Here you can visit two active volcanic sites to see the boiling calderas in action, as well as the gorgeous Terra Nostra Park and so much more.

Don’t Miss:

• Lagoa das Furnas: Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails around the lake, as well as several beautiful parks and the iconic Neo-Gothic Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias.
• Cozido das Furnas Lunch: A longstanding tradition among the locals, this beloved popular dish is a Portuguese stew (cozido) cooked in holes known as fumaroles that are dug in the hot volcanic soil in Furnas. 
• Caldeiras das Furnas: In the center of town, Furnas boasts close to 30 bubbling, steaming calderas and fumaroles of different temperatures and biological compositions, the strong smell of sulfur wafting through the air at every turn. 
• Terra Nostra Park: Terra Nostra Park is one of the Azores’ main attractions and with good reason. From its super cool thermal pools to its lavish and rich botanical gardens, Terra Nostra is at the top of every tourist’s itinerary. 
• Poça da Dona Beija: Also located in Furnas is the lovely Poça da Dona Beija, which offers visitors an exotic and unique array of six natural thermal pools. Each of Poça da Dona Beija’s pools rests at different temperatures, making it possible for every single person to find their perfect fit. 
• Gorreana Tea Plantations: Immerse yourself in history and nature at Gorreana Tea Plantations, Europe's oldest still-operating tea farm (established in 1883). Explore verdant fields, breathe in the fresh scent of tea leaves, and learn the secrets behind Azores' world-renowned tea.

Lagoa das Furnas is approximately a 40–45 minute drive from Portas da Cidade de Ponta Delgada.

One last stop: returning your rental car.

Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!