Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, nestled in the mystical Furnas Valley of São Miguel Island, Azores, has been an icon of luxury hospitality since 1935. This Art Deco-inspired hotel features 86 elegant rooms and suites, seamlessly integrated within the spectacular 18th-century Terra Nostra Garden.
The property is renowned for its thermal pool filled with mineral-rich volcanic waters at 104°F (40°C), recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the world’s best “Green Retreats.”
Their story
Established in 1935, Terra Nostra Garden Hotel emerged as a pioneering hospitality project in the Azores. The hotel, built in Art Deco style, was created by the Terra Nostra Society to promote the region as a tourist destination. Over decades, it welcomed politicians and film stars, even during World War II’s tourism decline.
After a major renovation in 2013, it evolved into an iconic 86-room property nestled within the historic 18th-century Terra Nostra Garden. The hotel seamlessly blends its rich heritage with modern luxury, offering thermal pools, exquisite dining, and award-winning botanical gardens. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The hotel operates with strong environmental consciousness, utilizing renewable energy sources including biomass and geothermal power for water heating.
- Water conservation measures, including flow reducers and sensor taps, have led to a noticeable reduction in water consumption per guest.
- The hotel promotes local sustainability by prioritizing regional products and suppliers.
- Sustainable practices extend to their restaurant operations with farm-to-table dining concepts and traditional cooking methods using natural geothermal heat for their signature Furnas Cozido stew.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The property uses biomass and geothermal energy for water heating, fully eliminating the need for diesel. A significant portion of its electricity is sourced from renewables such as wind, hydro, and geothermal energy.
- The hotel implements LED lighting, energy sensors, double glazing, and scheduled climate control in common areas. Regular monitoring and an efficient equipment management system help optimize energy usage.
Pioneer in waste management
- The property sorts waste using dedicated containers in all departments and guest rooms. It maintains a refrigerated chamber for organic waste, and partners with licensed waste management companies for proper disposal.
- The hotel focuses on waste reduction through packaging optimization and higher capacity containers.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The hotel emphasizes organic and natural products, particularly in their restaurant where they source ingredients directly from their own garden for farm-to-table dining.
- Their commitment extends to using eco-friendly cleaning products, natural thermal waters rich in minerals for their pools, and organic tea from local plantations.
- The property maintains the surrounding botanical garden without pesticides or artificial fertilizers.
Actively protects nature and community
- The hotel protects the historic Terra Nostra Garden’s biodiversity, maintaining over 600 rare plant species and operating thermal pools responsibly.
- They support local producers, hire from the community, and preserve Azorean cultural traditions.
- The hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends to comprehensive staff training in environmental practices and human rights, ensuring both ecological preservation and social responsibility throughout their operations.
Most Popular Activities Near Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
- Thermal swimming in 104°F volcanic pool rich in iron and minerals.
- Access to the world-renowned Terra Nostra Garden with over 600 camellia species.
- Wellness treatments including sauna and Turkish bath.
- Indoor heated pool and gym facilities.
- Tea plantation visits at nearby Gorreana estate.
- Hot spring experiences at Poça da Dona Beija.
- Hiking around Furnas Lake crater.
- Garden tours featuring rare botanical species.
- Whale watching excursions.
- Exploring and relaxing on the beautiful nearby beaches.
Best Time To Visit Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
- The best time to visit Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is from June to September when the Azores experiences its warmest and driest weather. During these months, visitors can fully enjoy the hotel’s famous thermal pools, explore the lush Terra Nostra Garden, and participate in outdoor activities throughout Furnas Valley.
- Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, though occasional rainfall is common.
- The thermal pools maintain a constant temperature year-round, making them enjoyable even during cooler months.