Mary Catherine & Gabriel
Things To Do
GMC's Google Map
We've loaded some of favorite spots from our trip in March 2024
Poça da Dona Beija - Swim in the Hot Springs of Furnas
Reservations are required and bring a towel! Very much worth the visit. They have changing rooms with coin paid showers. Towels and lockers available for a fee.
Gorreana Tea Factory
Must see! The only (and oldest) tea producer in Europe since 1883. See the free museum about the manufacturing process, walk and/or hike the gorgeous plantation, enjoy the cafe and beautiful views.
Mercado da Graça
Farmer's Market! Get your pineapple and other produce here
Natural Pools in Mosteiros - Piscinas Naturais Caneiros
Incredible lava rock formations and natural pools - definitely bring water shoes and take care!
Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões
One of our favorite parks we found - a MUST stop for the beautiful garden, waterfalls and picnic spots. Double check the address - there's a duplicate location in google maps that is not the right place!
Sótão d'Avó Antique Store
We love our antiques! Check out this store of local Portuguese treasures
Pineapple Plantation A Arruda
Historic pineapple plantation with free tours & a gift shop selling pineapple products.
Farol do Arnel - Easternmost point of the island & Lighthouse
Beautiful lighthouse but DO NOT drive your car down. This is a 25% grade incline that is best hiked and then celebrated with a beer in the next closest town. Reach the Easternmost point of São Miguel island, marked by a very picturesque view of the lighthouse Farol do Arnel at the bottom of a high cliff
Queijaria Furnense
We recommend a visit to this award winning Queijaria Furnense – a small family run cheese factory located in the centre of the village. Their cheese is uniquely brined using water from the local geothermal hot springs and the friendly atmosphere and taste before you buy service is outstanding. Grab something to go or dine-in with their full menu.
Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara
Wide shoreline of dark sand with craggy cliffs & brisk waters, popular with surfers & bodyboarders
Praia do Lombo Gordo
Secluded black sand beach on the east side of the island. Involves a steep drive and walk down to the water.
Pastelaria Pizzaria Guida
Freshly made pizza! Order a pie to go, and sit on the dock overlooking the ocean. Perfect road trip break stop.
Boca Aberta
Beautiful oceanside bar with fresh seafood and ample patio space.
Bar Caloura
Enjoy the freshest seafood right on the edge of the water - simple, delicious preparations of the day's catch. There's a sea water swimming pool right next to the restaurant!
Restaurante O Baco
One of our favorite restaurants where we ate. Delicious, modern take on Azorean cuisine with local ingredients and the warmest service we experienced on the island. Nice cocktail list and extensive local wine options in a relaxed setting.