Furnas Lake, Volcanic crater lake in São Miguel, Azores, Portugal.
Furnas Lake occupies a volcanic caldera at 925 feet (281 meters) elevation on São Miguel Island, featuring active geothermal vents and hot springs around its shores.
The lake formed within a caldera created by ancient volcanic eruptions, with the surrounding region continuing to be shaped by ongoing geothermal processes over centuries.
Local residents use the natural geothermal heat around the lake to cook traditional dishes like cozido, a stew buried underground in volcanic soil for several hours.
Walking trails circle the lake, providing access to fumaroles and hot springs, with local facilities offering thermal baths utilizing the mineral-rich geothermal waters from the area.
Scientists actively monitor the geothermal activity beneath Furnas Lake to study volcanic processes and assess the potential for developing renewable energy sources in the region.
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