Enchanted Christmas in Furnas: Nativity Trail & Dona Beija

Enchanted Christmas in Furnas: Nativity Trail & Dona Beija

This 6-hour tour offers a unique way to celebrate Christmas in the Azores, specifically on São Miguel. Priced with the convenience of booking now and paying later, it begins with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada around 5:30 PM, ensuring a relaxed evening. The tour combines festive illumination, volcanic landscapes, local cuisine, and thermal waters, making it ideal for visitors seeking a balance of cultural tradition and natural beauty during the holiday season.

The event is exclusive to the Christmas period and features a carefully curated itinerary that includes a visit to Vila Franca do Campo’s nativity scene, a traditional Cozido dinner cooked in volcanic heat, and a magical night walk around Furnas’ caldeiras. Highlighted by a warm soak at Dona Beija hot springs, this tour captures the spirit of Christmas with carefully crafted moments that emphasize local customs and volcanic scenery. The only notable consideration is that the pace is leisurely, making it accessible for most travelers, though comfortable shoes and warm clothing are advised.

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Key Points

• Exclusive Christmas night experience with festive lights and volcanic scenery
• Includes visit to Vila Franca do Campo’s nativity scene, illuminated and set against the evening sky
• Traditional Cozido das Furnas cooked underground using volcanic heat
• Relax in the thermal waters of Poça da Dona Beija for 1.5 hours
• Visit the Furnas Nativity Scene, where lights shimmer through volcanic steam
• The tour departs from Ponta Delgada with hotel pickup included

Starting the Enchanted Christmas Journey from Ponta Delgada

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada around 5:30 PM, with the guide arriving at your accommodation or a nearby meeting point. This convenient pickup saves travelers from worrying about transportation logistics and ensures a smooth start to the evening. The van journey to Vila Franca do Campo takes approximately 20 minutes, allowing guests to settle comfortably before exploring.

Once in Vila Franca do Campo, a 30-minute stop features a photo opportunity at the beautifully illuminated nativity scene. As the lights shimmer through the night fog, the scene truly comes alive, setting a festive tone for the evening ahead.

Visiting Vila Franca do Campo’s Magnificent Nativity Scene

The highlight of this stop is the Vila Franca do Campo nativity scene, which is renowned for its spectacular illumination. The scene is set near the coast, with festive colors lighting up the village in a way that radiates holiday cheer. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the decorated streets, feeling immersed in the seasonal atmosphere.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time for photos and to soak in the magical ambiance, especially as the evening mist and lights create a surreal backdrop. The nativity scene is a joyful display that reflects the local Christmas traditions.

Savoring the Traditional Cozido in Furnas

Next, the tour heads into the Furnas volcano area, famous for its steam vents and bubbling fumaroles. Here, a cooked underground using volcanic heat, the Cozido das Furnas is a hearty, flavorful dish that epitomizes local gastronomy.

Guests enjoy a 75-minute dinner in a festive setting. The Cozido is slow-cooked in the geothermal soil, resulting in tender meats and vegetables brimming with local flavors. The meal offers a genuine taste of the Azorean culinary tradition and provides a warm, satisfying break during the evening.

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Exploring the Volcanic Landscape and Nighttime Illumination

Following dinner, the tour takes a 40-minute break to explore the Caldeiras de Furnas, where steam vents and colorful lights create a captivating scene. The misty surroundings and the glow from the volcanic activity give the area a magical holiday feel.

Guests are encouraged to take photos, enjoy the scent of sulfurous waters, and experience the unique tradition of tasting different natural mineral waters directly from the springs. Visitors can also try preparing tea or coffee using the naturally boiling volcanic water, adding an interactive element to the experience.

Night Walk and the Enchanting Furnas Nativity Scene

One of the tour’s main highlights is the walk around the Furnas Nativity Scene, set near the caldeiras. As Christmas lights dance through the volcanic steam, this nighttime display offers a truly magical holiday sight, blending nature and tradition.

The lights shimmer against the steaming vents, creating a surreal scene that captures the essence of a volcanic Christmas. This stop provides great photo opportunities and emphasizes the uniqueness of celebrating Christmas amid geological wonders.

Relaxing in Poça da Dona Beija’s Mineral Waters

The tour concludes with a relaxing soak at Poça da Dona Beija, where warm mineral-rich waters invite guests to unwind under the night sky. The 1.5-hour visit to this hot springs features soft lighting and a tropical setting, making it an ideal way to end the evening.

Guests can soak, unwind, and reflect on the day’s sights, experiencing the therapeutic benefits of the mineral waters. The warmth and tranquility of Dona Beija offer a peaceful finale to a festive, volcanic adventure.

Convenient Return to Ponta Delgada

After the thermal waters, a 40-minute van ride takes guests back to Ponta Delgada, arriving around 11 PM. The tour ends with the comfort of transportation and plenty of memories of the magical Christmas night in Furnas.

The Experience Provider and Booking Flexibility

Operated by iGoAzores Tours & Activities, this tour is designed to accommodate flexible bookings with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later, providing peace of mind and convenience for holiday plans.

The tour features a live guide speaking English and Portuguese, ensuring clear explanations and local insights throughout the evening.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This exclusive Christmas experience is perfect for those wanting an authentic Azorean holiday. It suits visitors interested in volcanic landscapes, local gastronomy, and festive illuminations. The leisurely pace, with stops for dinner, photos, and hot springs, makes it accessible to most travelers, including families and older guests. Comfort items such as warm clothing and swimwear are recommended for the best experience.

Final Thoughts on Enchanted Christmas in Furnas

This tour offers a beautiful blend of tradition, natural scenery, and holiday magic. The nighttime illumination, steam vents, and hot springs create a surreal setting that elevates a typical Christmas celebration. The Cozido dinner adds an authentic local flavor, and the visit to Poça da Dona Beija provides relaxing relief after exploring.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, its leisurely pace is suited to those who enjoy strolling, photography, and thermal waters. The exclusive nature of the experience, combined with knowledgeable guides, makes it a memorable choice for celebrating Christmas in the Azores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and warm thermal waters make it suitable for children, especially since it includes a comforting meal and gentle walks.

Do I need to bring my own swimwear?
Yes, guests are advised to bring swimwear and a towel for the Poça da Dona Beija visit.

What should I wear for the night walk around Furnas?
Warm clothing is recommended as the walk occurs at night and in an area with volcanic steam, which can feel cooler.

Are there any health considerations?
Guests should be comfortable walking and standing, and those with skin sensitivities might want to avoid prolonged exposure to mineral waters.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is recommended as the experience is seasonal and exclusive, with options for free cancellation if plans change.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility details; travelers with mobility concerns should inquire directly with the provider.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
The tour guides speak English and Portuguese.

Can I participate if I don’t want to soak in the hot springs?
Yes, participation in the hot springs is optional; you can enjoy the other stops and sights.

What is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours from pickup to return.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of festive lights, volcanic landscapes, local cuisine, and hot springs during Christmas creates a truly special and intimate holiday experience.

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