Adapted Van tour – Furnas (Full day)

Exploring Furnas in Comfort and Style: An Adapted Van Tour from Ponta Delgada

If you’re visiting São Miguel Island and want to experience the thermal wonders, lush botanical gardens, and local flavors without the hassle of planning every detail, this full-day adapted van tour is an excellent choice. Priced at around $138.82 per person, it offers a well-rounded day exploring Furnas, with convenient pickup, small-group intimacy, and accessible transportation suited for travelers with lesser mobility.

What we love about this tour are two key aspects: First, the chance to see lunch cooked underground in the volcanic soil—cozido das Furnas—a unique culinary experience you won’t find elsewhere. Second, the visit to Parque Terra Nostra where thermal pools and botanical gardens combine to create a truly relaxing and scenic atmosphere.

A possible consideration is the seven-and-a-half-hour duration; while manageable for most, it might be long for those who prefer shorter, more leisurely outings. But if you’re eager to see a variety of sights in one day, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate accessible transport, authentic local cuisine, and scenic viewpoints, as well as those keen on small-group intimacy for a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Accessible transportation makes this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility.
• All-inclusive tickets mean no surprise costs at the key stops like Furnas and Terra Nostra.
• Delicious local cuisine, especially the traditional cozido, is a central highlight.
• Stunning viewpoints offer panoramic vistas of Furnas Lake and the north coast.
• Small-group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• The tea tasting at Gorreana adds a charming local flavor to the day.

A Deep Dive into the Furnas Full-Day Tour

This adapted van tour from Ponta Delgada is a perfect way to explore Furnas without the stress of self-driving or juggling multiple bookings. Operated by Azores For All, it costs around $138.82 per person and lasts approximately 7.5 hours. The tour is designed with accessibility in mind, offering pickup service and a vehicle suited for those with limited mobility, making it an inclusive option for most travelers.

The Comfort of Adapted Transportation

What sets this tour apart is the focus on comfortable, accessible transport. The van accommodates travelers who might find regular bus tours too restrictive, ensuring everyone can enjoy the day comfortably. This small-group experience, limited to no more than 15 travelers, promotes a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and personalized attention is possible.

The Itinerary: A Rich Tapestry of Natural and Cultural Gems

The day begins with a pickup around 9:30 am, setting the tone for a well-paced exploration. Here’s what you’ll encounter:

Lagoa das Furnas:
This is the heart of the volcanic activity. Here, you’ll witness the famous cozido being cooked underground—a sight as tasty as it is fascinating. The geothermal heat cooks local ingredients for hours underground, resulting in a hearty stew loaded with local flavors. This stop offers about an hour of exploration, with admission included, so you can get close enough to see how the magic happens.

Parque Terra Nostra:
Next, you’ll visit this renowned botanical garden with a thermal water pool. The lush greenery of the park is a feast for the eyes, and the thermal pool invites you to relax. Remember to bring your swimsuit because you’ll want to spend some time soaking. The entry is included in your ticket, and the hour here offers a chance to unwind amid stunning surroundings.

Miradouro Pico do Ferro:
This spectacular viewpoint provides sweeping views of Furnas Lake and the surrounding hills. It’s a perfect spot for photos, especially if you enjoy panoramic vistas. Expect about 20 minutes here, with admission included, enough time to soak in the scenery and capture memories.

Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana:
A highlight for tea lovers—visit the oldest tea factory in Europe. Gorreana has been producing tea for generations, and a brief 30-minute stop allows you to sample their fresh teas. The factory tour is a treat for those curious about local produce and traditional manufacturing.

Miradouro de Santa Iria:
Your final stop offers a view of the lush northern coast of São Miguel, with plenty of opportunities for photos and simply absorbing the beauty of this verdant landscape. This 30-minute stop closes out the day.

Authentic Flavors and Scenic Views

One of the biggest draws is the chance to enjoy local cuisine and stunning landscapes. The cozido cooked underground is not just a meal but a culinary spectacle—it exemplifies how volcanic activity influences Azorean cuisine. Reviewers have raved about how “the cozido was really good” (Valeria_G), making this a memorable taste of local tradition.

The thermal pools at Terra Nostra are another highlight; many travelers highlight their relaxation and the spectacular setting. The gorgeous viewpoints also provide ample photo opportunities, making this tour ideal for capturing the natural beauty of São Miguel.

Authentic Experiences and Small-Group Benefits

A major advantage here is the small-group setting, which makes the day more personal and flexible. You’re not just another face in a large bus; instead, you’re part of an intimate group, often sharing laughs and stories. Many have noted their guide’s professionalism and warmth, which adds significantly to the overall experience.

Price and Value

At just under $139 per person, this tour offers good value considering the admission tickets, transportation, and guided experience. You’re paying for a comprehensive day that covers natural wonders, cultural highlights, and delicious local food—all arranged for your comfort.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate comfort and accessibility without sacrificing authenticity. If you’re intrigued by thermal pools, volcanic cooking methods, and scenic viewpoints, this tour hits all those marks. It’s also a fantastic choice if you want a small-group experience that feels more personal than a large bus ride. Foodies and photography lovers alike will find plenty to enjoy here, especially at the viewpoints and during the sampling at Gorreana.

The Sum Up

This adapted van tour of Furnas is a thoughtfully curated day that blends natural beauty, cultural insight, and local flavors. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value accessible transportation, small-group intimacy, and authentic Azorean experiences. The stops at thermal pools, botanical gardens, scenic viewpoints, and a historic tea factory provide a well-rounded glimpse into what makes São Miguel special.

For those eager to see the volcanic depths of the island’s cuisine and natural landscape without the fuss of self-driving or rigid schedules, this tour delivers excellent value. The combination of delicious food, stunning scenery, and relaxed pace makes it a highlight for many visitors—and a memorable way to connect with the island’s unique character.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Yes, the transportation is adapted for those with lesser mobility, making it accessible and comfortable throughout the day.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring your swimsuit for the thermal pools, a camera for the viewpoints, and comfortable shoes for walking around the gardens and volcanic sites.

Are meals included?
The tour includes the experience of seeing how the cozido is cooked underground, and you’ll enjoy the dish itself. The Gorreana Tea Factory stop offers tastings as part of the visit.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 20 minutes at Miradouro Pico do Ferro to an hour at Furnas and Terra Nostra, providing enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly marketed for children, the accessible nature and varied stops make it suitable for families with older children comfortable with walking and thermal pools.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with your guide.

What if I want to cancel?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so be sure of your plans before booking.

How is the guide?
From reviews, guides like Eduard are praised for their professionalism, warmth, and passion—making the experience more engaging and memorable.

By choosing this tour, you’re signing up for a smooth, memorable day exploring some of the best natural and cultural sights São Miguel has to offer, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of accessible transport.