There are so many wonderful things to do when visiting São Miguel. Consider adding Ponta da Ferraria to your bucket list, in case you are looking for an exceptional Azorean experience!
Can you imagine an authentic Atlantic Spa? Yes, that is right! An underwater geothermal spring that heats the ocean. Ferraria is an imperative stopping place that will certainly surprise you.
What is Ponta da Ferraria
Located on the west coastline of São Miguel, in Ginetes, only a few miles from Ponta Delgada city, Ponta da Ferraria is a protected geosite. And has one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays: A natural pool where thermal water merges with the ocean.
The atmosphere here is pure harmony between the azure sea and dark basaltic rocks. It’s ideal for those who seek an eccentric experience.
How was Ponta da Ferraria formed
Ponta da Ferraria happens to be a fajã, a unique phenomenon called pseudocrater. These can be found in hardly any places in the world aside from the Azores.
The Ferraria pseudocrater was formed a long time ago when hot lava flowed over the sea, causing steam explosions.
This volcanic phenomenon of the existence of two thermal springs is the driving force behind the ocean temperature. It varies from 18 to 28 degrees, depending on the tide and time of year.
RELATED TOURS Discover all our amazing tours that include a visit to Ponta da Ferraria. View more!
What to do in Ponta da Ferraria
Whether you come for the unique experience or the impressive basaltic cliffs. Here you will find a bit of everything for everyone, from the most adventurous to those who love relaxing in a spa.
Ponta da Ferraria viewpoint
For instance, the Ferraria viewpoint, also known as the Sabrina Island viewpoint. It is an idyllic place to enjoy the beautiful and life-changing moments of a sunset.
Magnificent views of great cliffs precede the deep blue ocean. There is another delightful sight at this viewpoint of a charming red lighthouse. It is the second-oldest lighthouse on the island of São Miguel, and is also the largest in the Azores.
Incredible, otherworldly landscapes, Ponta da Ferraria Viewpoint is worth a quick stop.
Natural Swimming Pool with Thermal Water
Once you have taken the drive down a cliff, you only need to follow an asphalt path that will lead you to a small natural pool surrounded by dramatic, sharp volcanic rocks.
Here a free geothermal spring seeps into the sea, a rare natural force phenomenon. They heat water from below, providing pleasant temperatures, usually around 18 degrees to 28 at a low tide.
Be aware that the water can come out of thermal springs up to 61ºC. This means that, at the peak of the low tide, the water, close to the spring, might be too hot.
At the bottom of this peak, near the said pier, towards the east, a beautiful river, with water so hot that piglets are skinned in it, fish boils and limpets are removed from stones; this river gets covered at high tide, but when it’s empty, it shows well its greatness, sweetness, and warmth.
Gaspar Frutuoso.
Unfortunately, Ferraria’s enchanting waters are not exactly peaceful. Even though there are ropes to allow you to hold on, the currents and crashing waves can still be too strong, depending on the weather.
Undoubtedly, for those who seek adventure and nature over relaxation. For one thing, nothing beats soaking in a natural thermal spring in the middle of the Atlantic.
Ferraria Thermal Spa
This is a complex with a pool of thermal water and a restaurant, great for relaxing.
If you are looking for a more relaxing experience, Termas da Ferraria should be your pick. It is a thermal complex that includes pools and a restaurant. One of the wonderful things about this complex is that it uses volcanic thermal water from two springs.
Here you can spoil yourself and try one individual or group treatment, such as massages or half or full-day programs.
Due to its composition, it is said that thermal waters have therapeutic qualities. Studies suggest several health benefits in easing symptoms of conditions like:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- osteoarthritis
- psoriasis
- inflammatory skin pathologies
CONTACTS Phone: +351 296 295 669 Email termasdaferraria@gmail.com | geral@termasferraria.com Address Rua Ilha Sabrina, Edifício Termas da Ferraria, 9555-102 Ginetes, Açores
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What is the best time to visit Ponta da Ferraria
It is advisable to visit Ponta da Ferraria when the tide is rising or lowering to enjoy the pleasant temperatures. If the tide is high, the water will be cold, and if the tide is low, it may be hotter but uncomfortable.
Difference between seasons
You can visit Ferraria in any season, whether it rains or not it will not affect the water temperature if the tide is low.
GOOD TO KNOW During winter or days with rough seas, waves can be quite aggressive and impose danger.
Furthermore, only during summer, a lifeguard is patrolling to keep swimmers safe. As for winter, no lifeguards are on duty.
Best time of the day
The best time to visit Ponta da Ferraria for a bath in the thermal natural pool is between two hours before and after the low tide.
Furthermore, during the second low tide, it is believed to have less affluence of people.
How to check the tide
There are a couple of websites reporting on the Azores’s tides. We selected some of them for you:
- IPMA (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera);
- Spotazores.
Plan your visit
Firstly, time your visit to Ponta da Ferraria just right to ensure you can make the best out of this experience in this stunning warm water pool.
Be prepared for inconveniences such as the affluence of people, rough seas, and parking lot space.
How to get to Ponta da Ferraria
From Ponta Delgada, head southwest on EN1-1A towards the airport. Follow EN1-1A to Ginetes, then just follow the signs to Ponta da Ferraria.
GOOD TO KNOW Please be aware the road down is a very steep hill.
If you travel with kids or elder people
Due to the rocky formation and, at times, rough sea conditions, Ferraria’s natural pool might not be ideal for everyone. It is best for good swimmers, comfortable in the water.
No matter what, always check sea conditions first!
At the same time, the Termas da Ferraria complex is an adequate option for everyone, including families with small kids.
Above all, certainly, all the volcanic scenery is worth visiting whether you take a swim or not.
What to bring
Due to the mineral-rich water and jagged rocks on the way and bottom of the pool, be sure to bring:
- Dark old bathing suit;
- Towel;
- Suncream;
- Water shoes,
- Change of clothes (especially off Summer) to avoid having a cold.
It is also important to know that there are changing rooms and showers. So you might want to bring a change of clothes.
Video — Ponta da Ferraria (São Miguel Island, Azores)
FAQs
What is Ponta da Ferraria?
Ponta da Ferraria is a promontory on São Miguel Island, Azores, renowned for its natural thermal pools and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Where is Ponta da Ferraria located?
Ponta da Ferraria is located on the west coast of São Miguel Island, near the parish of Ginetes, Azores, Portugal.
How to get to Ponta da Ferraria?
To reach Ponta da Ferraria, take the road leading to the parish of Ginetes and follow signs to the viewpoint and natural pools. It is accessible by car, with parking available.
What are the attractions of Ponta da Ferraria?
The main attractions of Ponta da Ferraria are its natural thermal pools, perfect for swimming and enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the water. Additionally, the viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the island’s west coast and the Atlantic Ocean.
Conclusion
Visiting Ponta da Ferraria is an absolute must during your vacation on São Miguel Island.
This magical island is renowned for its thermal hot springs, but being able to swim in the Atlantic waters heated by a volcano is mind blowing.
Hop on one of our tours that have this unique place on the itinerary, and enjoy the ultimate relaxing experience. Waiting for your visit!
