Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour with Lunch

Exploring the Wonders of Furnas: A Full-Day Thermal and Tea Adventure

This 8-hour guided tour of São Miguel Island offers a rich taste of the Azores’ natural beauty, history, and flavors. For $85 per person, you’ll visit Furnas’ thermal springs, soak in natural pools at Terra Nostra Park, sample the iconic cozido cooked underground, and explore the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest and still traditional tea producer. Your guide, whose knowledge and friendly manner come highly recommended, will take you from the lively town of Vila Franca do Campo to the volcanic caldeiras, all while sharing stories that bring these landscapes to life.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see and feel the island’s volcanic power firsthand—whether it’s the bubbling fumaroles or the steaming hot springs. The lunch at a local eatery, which includes the famous cozido, gives you a genuine taste of Azorean cuisine, cooked with earth’s natural heat. Another highlight is the Gorreana Tea Factory, where you can learn about traditional tea-making methods still employed today, offering a unique European perspective on tea production.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of driving and walking, which might be tiring for some. Also, entry to Terra Nostra Garden itself isn’t included, so plan accordingly if that’s a priority.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and local flavors. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences and scenic beauty, this is a great way to tick several boxes in one day.

This experience made our article of Sao Miguel Island’s 14 Best Lunch Experiences (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

• Natural thermal pools and fumaroles showcase the island’s volcanic activity.
• Traditional cozido offers a delicious, earth-cooked local meal.
• Gorreana Tea Factory is a rare, traditional European tea experience.
• The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Guided commentary enriches the experience with local insights.
• The journey is well-paced, with plenty of photo opportunities and tasting stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Tour

Setting the Scene

From the moment we were picked up in our hotel lobby—promptly and comfortably—the tour felt like a well-organized way to see the highlights of São Miguel. The 8-hour itinerary is thoughtfully curated, balancing scenic drives with engaging stops that reveal the island’s volcanic heart and agricultural traditions. The price of $85 includes transportation, a guiding hand, and some delicious culinary and tasting experiences. When we consider the value, it’s a reasonable investment for a day packed with sights and stories.

The Journey Begins

We started with a short drive to Vila Franca do Campo, a charming coastal town with lovely views and a relaxed vibe. Our guide shared local insights, making the journey feel personal rather than just a bus ride. From there, the group headed towards Furnas, the volcanic hub of São Miguel—famous for its boiling springs and bubbling fumaroles.

The landscape here feels alive. You’ll notice the sulfuric smell in the air and steam rising from the earth—proof of the island’s active volcanoes. The Furnas Fumaroles and Caldeiras Vulcânicas are captivating: steaming vents and bubbling mud pools that remind you just how geologically active this part of the world is. Our guide explained the geothermal activity’s significance, turning what might seem like simple steam vents into fascinating geological features.

Terra Nostra Park: A Botanical Oasis

The highlight at Furnas is undoubtedly Terra Nostra Park, a lush botanical garden with over two centuries of history. Here, the highlight is the natural hot water pools, which are heated by the volcanic activity underneath. We loved the sensation of soaking in these naturally warm waters, surrounded by exotic plants and the peaceful sounds of nature.

A standout moment was trying the cozido, a hearty stew cooked underground using volcanic heat. The local restaurant prepared it for us, and we appreciated how the tour seamlessly combines natural phenomena with local culinary traditions. The cozido isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience rooted in the island’s volcanic landscape, cooked slowly over several hours underground. The rich flavors and tender meat showcase authentic Azorean cuisine.

Furnas Boilers and Hot Springs

After lunch, we visited the Furnas boilers, where hot springs bubble up along the roadsides. It’s a busy little scene—locals and visitors alike stopping to fill bottles with sparkling water or simply marvel at the steaming vents. Our guide shared stories about the history of these springs and their uses, making the visit both educational and enjoyable.

Pico do Ferro Lookout and Scenic Views

Next, we headed to Pico do Ferro, a viewpoint that offers sweeping views of the volcanic crater and the lush landscape below. The scenery here is spectacular, with rolling hills, patchwork fields, and the distant Atlantic Ocean. It’s a perfect spot for photos and appreciating how the island’s volcanic origins shape its natural beauty.

Gorreana Tea Factory: Europe’s Only Traditional Tea Maker

The tour’s final major stop is the Gorreana Tea Factory, the only tea plantation in Europe still using traditional methods. Walking through the tea fields, we felt like we were stepping into a different world—where centuries-old methods are still in use. The guided tour explained the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to drying and packaging, which adds depth to the tasting experience.

Sampling the freshly brewed tea was a highlight. It’s easy to forget how much care goes into such a simple cup, especially in a place where tradition remains vital. The tea factory provides a fascinating insight into the island’s agricultural side and offers a calm, verdant break after the geothermal adventures.

Final Stops and Photographic Moments

The last part of the tour includes stops at Santa Iria Lookout and Ribeira Grande, giving us time to take photos of the coastline and small towns. These scenic points provide a peaceful conclusion to a busy day.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

The transportation is comfortable, with a small group size making the experience intimate. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel simplify logistics, especially if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada or nearby. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, making the stops lively and educational. The timing allows for a relaxed pace—ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

One thing to keep in mind: Terra Nostra Garden entrance isn’t included, so if you want to explore the botanical garden further, you’ll need to pay separately. Also, wear comfortable shoes since walking around volcanic sites and gardens is involved, and bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas.

Reviews highlight enthusiastic guides, stunning scenery, and the value of including lunch and tea tasting. Several travelers praised the personalized experience, especially when the tour was small enough for a more tailored visit. One noted, “Being the only two booked, we had an exceptional personal tour,” which hints at how flexible and attentive the guide can be.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re eager to see São Miguel’s volcanic features, enjoy authentic local cuisine, and learn about traditional tea-making, this tour ticks all those boxes. It suits people who appreciate nature, culture, and history in one package. The mix of scenic views, hot springs, and culinary delights makes it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, yet manageable, taste of the island’s highlights.

For those with limited mobility, note that some walking and uneven terrain are involved, but the tour is generally accessible. If you’re traveling with family, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy active and educational experiences, this day trip offers excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, making it easy to start and end the day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, depending on traffic and the group.

What’s the price?
It costs $85 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, lunch, and tea tasting. Entry to Terra Nostra Garden is not included in the price.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, as long as they’re comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain. It’s a good choice for families and seniors looking for a relaxed yet informative day.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, camera, and comfortable shoes. If you want to explore Terra Nostra Garden more thoroughly, consider bringing extra cash for entry.

Are there vegetarian options?
The tour includes a traditional dish cooked underground; if dietary restrictions are a concern, it’s best to inquire directly with the provider in advance.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case plans change.

Is there a language barrier?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, so communication should be smooth for most travelers.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and ensure smooth logistics.

What makes this tour special?
It combines geothermal marvels, authentic cuisine, and traditional tea-making into one memorable day—delivering a well-rounded Azorean experience.

To sum it up, this Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour offers an absorbing mix of natural beauty, local flavor, and cultural insight. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of São Miguel’s volcanic character without feeling overwhelmed. With expert guides, scenic stops, and an authentic culinary experience, it’s a solid choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: