I felt very comfortable in the hotel from the very first day. The rooms are modern and clean. The staff are friendly and courteous. The breakfast was sumptuous and delicious. I can also recommend the restaurant to anyone.

However, the absolute game changer is the spa / wellness area, which is open 24/7 and consists of various pools, saunas and steam baths. As I had a bad cold, I made good use of the warm, soothing thermal baths.

I bought a small whale - the heraldic animal of the Azores - in the hotel's own store.

I stayed at the Octant Furnas Hotel in August 2024, and unfortunately, I must say that for the price, the experience was more than disappointing. The hotel is outdated and in need of renovation in many areas. The wellness area does not invite relaxation; tiles and plaster are peeling off in the pool and on the walls. The rooms are old, and the bathroom is also in dire need of refurbishment. Many tiles are cracked, and there are orange stains everywhere.

The restaurant area was also disappointing: bird droppings everywhere, dirty glass windows, damaged chair covers, and plastic plants on the ceilings. The service was slow. One morning, it took over 20 minutes before I could order coffee, and another 15 minutes for it to arrive at the table.

What was good: the air conditioning works, and the reception is staffed 24/7. However, for over €450 per room per night, I expect much, much more!

I can't understand where the good reviews come from. I would definitely not recommend it and would never stay there again.

Conclusion: Unfortunately, a very disappointing experience, and you feel quite ripped off. An overpriced hotel with very poor value for money.

Truly one of the best hotel stays I can remember. If you are on Sao Miguel, you absolutely cannot miss this hotel.

Service: First, Tomas staffing the front desk is an absolute gem. He helped us check in, led us to our room, helped us with car issues, and was a shining light in the lobby. Everyone was attentive, kind, and friendly.

Location: This hotel is in Furnas, near several hot springs, hikes, and beautiful lookouts. There’s not a spectacular view from the property per se, but that is made up 100 times over by the amenities of this hotel.

Room: We were greeted by a bottle of exceptional sparkling wine and small signature pastries. The room was well appointed, including luxury fixtures and full bathroom amenities, fluffy robes, and a very comfortable bed.

Pools and Spas: These are the real attractions. There are two natural pools that are warmed by the nearby hot springs — truly incredible. These pools are clean and well maintained, and are alongside a steam room, sauna, outdoor showers, and plenty of nice lounge chairs. There was poolside drink service and the pool area was constantly attended to by staff to keep things neat and tidy.

Restaurant: We enjoyed breakfast and dinner at this hotel. Breakfast is a true Azores experience with local cheeses, fresh juices, made-to-order coffee… truly exceptional. For dinner, the menu was also true to the Azores and was all delicious. The wine and cocktail menus were also exceptional.

Parking: easy, free, but no EV charging despite mentioning that on their website. If you rent an EV, there’s no charging around Furnas, so plan accordingly.

Overall, a truly remarkable stay that you cannot miss.