Caldeira Velha
The Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre is a green haven dedicated to the preservation and teaching of the natural heritage of the Caldeira Velha area, which has been designated as one of Portugal's Natural Monuments. What better way to disengage from social media, business emails, or city stress than to spend a day in a gorgeous natural park with naturally heated thermal pools? Enjoy, unwind, and create wonderful moments. You should go to the interpretation center to understand more about this remarkable natural phenomenon that distinguishes the Azores as a unique destination.
The naturally heated thermal pools are the main reason visitors come to Caldeira Velha Natural Monument. There are three swimming pools. Pool temperatures range from 24 to 38 degrees Celsius. Choose your preferred temperature, then sit back and enjoy the beautiful forest atmosphere. The pools were nice and pleasant during our March visit because it was raining. The pool farthest from the entrance is the coldest, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius. The Caldeira Velha waterfall cascades into this upper lake, bringing warmed water from the valley walls with it. The water spills into a stream below, similar to an infinity pool. This creek provides water to the middle pool.
The pools' water is sourced by hot springs and valley drainage in the surrounding region. Because this water is high in iron, wear dark colors to prevent turning your clothes orangey-brown. There are other hot springs surrounding the pools that bubble to the surface, but they are inaccessible. After a peaceful bath, learn about the area's volcanic history at the neighboring wood-sided structure, which complements the gorgeous, forested backdrop.
Location: Sao Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal
