Full-Day Furnas Tour: Hot Springs, Traditional Lunch & Tea

A Full-Day Adventure in Furnas: Hot Springs, Traditional Lunch & Stunning Views

If you’re heading to São Miguel Island in the Azores, this full-day Furnas tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious food. For $118.49 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring some of the island’s most iconic sights, with small group intimacy, expert guides, and a focus on authentic Azorean life.

What really stands out are the geothermal hot springs at Terra Nostra Park and the chance to see how locals cook their famous Cozido stew underground in volcanic soil. We also appreciate the opportunity to wander charming towns like Vila Franca do Campo and enjoy panoramic views from Pico do Ferro. That said, the tour is quite structured, so if you prefer total flexibility, it’s worth noting that your time at each stop is limited.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love nature, history, and local cuisine. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy small groups, personalized attention, and authentic Azorean scenery and flavors. Be prepared for some walking and a fair bit of sightseeing, but rest assured, it’s a well-curated journey that balances activity with moments of awe and relaxation.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Furnas Lake, geothermal sites, gardens, viewpoints, and a traditional tea factory
• Small group of up to 8 travelers for a more personal experience
• Includes lunch, featuring the famous volcanic-cozido stew, and entry to major sites
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts who share stories and anecdotes
• Scenic stops offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities
• Authentic local experiences like tasting pastries and walking through lush botanical gardens

Exploring São Miguel’s Unique Attractions

This tour is more than just a sightseeing list; it’s a taste of how Azoreans live harmoniously with their volcanic landscape. You’ll visit several sites that highlight the island’s geological activity, rich vegetation, and culinary traditions. Each stop adds a layer to understanding this extraordinary place.

Vila Franca do Campo: Charm and Pastries

Your day begins in Vila Franca do Campo, the first capital of São Miguel. It’s a lovely spot to stretch your legs and soak in the coastal vibe. The cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and lively harbor set the scene for an authentic Azorean town. Stop here for about 20 minutes, which is enough time to stroll and maybe try a Queijada da Vila, a sweet pastry with a history spanning centuries. One reviewer remarked, “We got to walk along the lake and through the beautiful hydrangea bushes,” demonstrating the town’s lush surroundings.

Lagoa das Furnas: Witnessing Geothermal Power

Next, you’ll head to Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater lake famous for its bubbling vents and steaming fumaroles. This is the heart of Furnas’s geothermal activity, where you feel the raw energy of the Earth. Here, you’ll observe locals cooking their Cozido stew underground, a process that takes hours and infuses the food with volcanic heat. The steam rising from the ground is a mesmerizing sight, and as one guest put it, “The bubbling pools are something you won’t forget!”

Caldeira das Furnas: Sulfur and Steam

A quick stop at Caldeira das Furnas lets you see the fumeroles and boilers in action, spewing vapors and smelling strongly of sulfur. It’s a reminder of the island’s active volcanoes and the powerful forces beneath our feet. The scene is a mix of natural beauty and an almost alien landscape, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

Terra Nostra Park: Thermal Bath and Botanical Wonder

The highlight for many is the Terra Nostra Garden, a sprawling botanical paradise filled with exotic trees, lush flowering plants, and winding paths. At its core is a rust-colored thermal pool, heated by volcanic activity. Taking a dip here is like soaking in the very heart of the Earth—the mineral-rich waters are reputed to have healing properties. One reviewer described it as “a rejuvenating dip,” which captures the essence of this experience. Spend about an hour here, enjoying both the scenery and the warm waters.

Miradouro Pico do Ferro: Panoramic Views

For breathtaking vistas, the Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers sweeping views over Furnas Valley. From this perch, you’ll see green hills, a shimmering lake, and wisps of steam rising into the sky. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a moment of peaceful reflection. Expect around 15 minutes here, but it’s enough to take in the spectacular scenery.

Gorreana Tea Factory: A Taste of Tradition

No visit to São Miguel would be complete without a stop at the Gorreana Tea Plantation, established in 1883. Walk through the rolling green hills of tea plants, learn about traditional processing methods, and sip a warm cup of fresh tea while gazing out at the Atlantic. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and offers a lovely blend of history, nature, and flavor. Several travelers noted how they enjoyed “the aroma of lush green hills” and the chance to see “how the leaves are still dried and packaged using traditional machinery.”

The Experience, Food, and Guides

A key part of this tour’s success is the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. One reviewer praised Leandro for sharing “fun anecdotes” alongside the sights, making the day both informative and entertaining. The small group size (maximum 8 travelers) fosters more personal interactions and allows for more flexible timing.

The included lunch is a true highlight. You’ll taste Cozido, a stew cooked underground in volcanic soil, which is both a culinary tradition and a visual spectacle. Many guests mention how good the local food tasted, emphasizing the value of a meal that’s as much about cultural experience as nutrition.

The tour also includes entrance fees to Furnas Lake and Terra Nostra Park, meaning you won’t need to worry about extra costs, and the price offers good value considering the number of stops and experiences packed into the day.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

A potential downside is the limited time at each stop, especially at popular sites like Terra Nostra. If you love lingering in gardens or wandering at your own pace, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, the tour is around 8 hours long, so it requires a fair bit of walking and some bus time, which could be tiring for some.

Weather can also impact the experience—if it rains, views from Pico do Ferro or walks in the parks could be less stunning, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone eager to experience authentic Azorean culture. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights, scenic viewpoints, and local cuisine. If you enjoy having a small group, personalized attention, and a mix of outdoor activities and cultural stops, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also perfect if you’re interested in geothermal phenomena and botanical gardens, or if you want a rundown of Furnas without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a well-organized, engaging day will find this tour a worthwhile investment.

The Sum Up

This Full-Day Furnas Tour offers a rich experience of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, cultural traditions, and lush scenery. With knowledgeable guides, delicious local food, and breathtaking views, it’s a well-rounded way to understand and appreciate the island’s unique character. The intimate size of the group enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible than larger tours.

While the schedule is quite full, it’s designed to maximize your time—so if you’re eager to see Furnas’s highlights without running around on your own, this tour provides excellent value. The chance to soak in thermal waters, taste a volcanic stew, and stand at a panoramic viewpoint makes it a memorable day for most travelers.

If you’re seeking an immersive, authentic taste of São Miguel that combines natural beauty, local culture, and a bit of adventure, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to learn from passionate guides and enjoy a genuinely local experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation with pickup offered from a specified meeting point in Ponta Delgada.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, providing a more personalized and engaging experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entry to Furnas Lake and Terra Nostra Park are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Bottled water is not included, so consider bringing some along.

Can I swim in the thermal pool?
Yes, you can take a dip in Terra Nostra’s thermal pool, which is rich in minerals and heated by volcanic activity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and the length of the day when planning for young children.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While available year-round, the best weather tends to be in spring and early summer when the scenery is vibrant, and the weather is mild.

What if it rains?
The tour goes on rain or shine; however, poor weather might limit some views or outdoor activities. Check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Choosing this tour means stepping into the heart of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape—where steam rises from the earth and lush gardens hide thermal springs. It’s a thoughtfully designed day that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery—perfect for travelers wanting a genuine taste of the Azores.