Excursion to Furnas and Nordeste with Cozido das Furnas

Key Points

• Expert local guide provides personalized insights and flexible stops
• Includes visits to iconic sites like Ribeira dos Caldeiroes, Gorreana Tea Plantation, and Lagoa das Furnas
• Highlights panoramic views at Pico do Ferro and Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada
• Relax in thermal baths at Poca da Dona Beija, with optional entry
• Price of $150.34 per person for an approximately 8-hour day with lunch included
• Limited group size of 8, ensuring a personalized experience

Excursion to Furnas and Nordeste with Cozido das Furnas: An In-Depth Review

This full-day tour from Ponta Delgada offers an immersive experience into the natural beauty and local culture of São Miguel Island. Priced at $150.34 per person, it is designed for those who want a comprehensive look at the island’s most photogenic spots, with the added benefit of a local guide. The tour lasts around 8 hours, including several stops that showcase the island’s lush landscapes, unique attractions, and traditional culinary practices.

One of the key features of this tour is its flexibility and personalized approach. The guide’s local knowledge ensures visitors visit the best spots for photos and insights, avoiding crowded areas and making the experience more intimate. While the tour includes lunch, it does require paid tickets at certain attractions, such as the thermal baths, which are not included in the price.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, cultural stops, and a relaxed pace. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, with many of the stops being brief but impactful, and offers a rich blend of nature and local traditions.

Key Points

• Personalized guided experience with local expertise
• Highlights scenic viewpoints and natural attractions
• Includes visits to Ribeira dos Caldeiroes and Gorreana Tea Plantation
• Stops at iconic sites like Pico do Ferro and Lagoa das Furnas
• Optional thermal baths at Poca da Dona Beija
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle

Pickup and Group Size for a Comfortable Day

The tour begins at 9:00 am with a convenient pickup service, making logistics simple for participants. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, which promotes a more personalized experience and better interaction with the guide.

This small group setting allows the guide, Artur, to tailor the stops based on the group’s interests and to provide detailed commentary at each location. The tour’s maximum size also helps avoid the crowds typical of larger tourist groups, allowing for more relaxed exploration.

Visiting Ribeira dos Caldeiroes in Nordeste

The first stop on the tour is the Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes. Here, visitors enjoy spectacular waterfalls, water-powered mills, and vibrant natural scenery. The admission is free, and the site offers a quick but impressive introduction to the lush northeast region of São Miguel. The waterfalls and mills exemplify the natural energy of the landscape, making it an excellent spot for photos.

This stop sets a tone of calm and natural beauty, allowing visitors to appreciate the pristine environment of the Nordeste municipality. The short 10-minute visit maximizes time for subsequent stops while leaving a memorable impression.

Exploring the Gorreana Tea Plantation

Next, the tour takes visitors to the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, established in 1883. It’s the only tea plantation in Europe, making it a distinctive stop. Visitors can walk through the beautiful landscape of tea fields and visit the factory, where the aroma of freshly produced teas fills the air. The visit is free, and tasting different tea aromas is a highlight.

This location offers a glimpse into traditional Azorean agriculture and the long-standing history of tea production. It also provides excellent photo opportunities of the lush fields stretching across the landscape.

Breathtaking Views from Pico do Ferro

From the tea plantation, the tour ascends to Pico do Ferro, a panoramic viewpoint over the furnas lagoon and the surrounding crater. The spectacular vistas here are a perfect spot to take in the volcanic landscape and capture dramatic photos. The 10-minute stop is brief but leaves a lasting impression of the island’s volcanic origins.

The viewpoint offers a breath-taking perspective of both the crater and the lush vegetation surrounding it, making it one of the tour’s most memorable moments.

Lagoa das Furnas and the Famous Fumaroles

The journey continues to Lagoa das Furnas, where visitors observe the famous fumaroles and the geothermal activity that makes this site unique. The tour includes entry to the lagoon area, where the thermal fumaroles are visible and provide an atmospheric backdrop to the scene.

An important highlight here is the Furnas stews, cooked in thermal caves using natural heat. Visitors see the pans being drawn from local restaurants, including those on the tour, which contributes to understanding local culinary traditions. Entry to the caves is not included, and tickets must be purchased separately.

This stop showcases the island’s volcanic activity and the way it influences local cuisine, making it a fascinating blend of natural forces and cultural practices.

Panoramic Views from Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada

The Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada offers a magnificent view over the sea and mountains. This free stop allows visitors to pause and admire the natural grandeur of the Azores, with sweeping vistas that seem to stretch endlessly. It’s an ideal moment for photography and reflection.

The vantage point emphasizes the dramatic geography of São Miguel, and the guide’s commentary enriches the experience with insights into the landscape’s formation and ecological significance.

Exploring Nordeste Village and the Centenary Bridge

In the heart of the Nordeste municipality, the tour visits the village center to see the Centenary Bridge, characteristic houses, and the local church. This stop provides a taste of traditional Azorean village life, with charming architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. Like other stops, it’s free of charge and lasts just enough to appreciate the local vibe.

It’s a chance to notice how the town’s history and community are woven into its architecture and layout, offering a quiet contrast to the natural sights.

Relaxing Thermal Baths at Poca da Dona Beija

The final relaxing feature of the tour is a 1 hour 30 minutes visit to Poca da Dona Beija, renowned for its thermal baths where water temperatures reach up to 38°C. The thermal pools are a perfect way to unwind after the day’s sightseeing, with many pools to choose from. Entry tickets are not included, so booking in advance or paying on the spot is necessary.

The thermal baths are a popular spot for relaxation, and the warm waters provide a soothing end to an active day. The natural setting and warm temperatures make it an inviting experience, especially on cooler days.

Practical Details: Transport, Lunch, and Booking

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the approximately 8-hour tour. Included in the price is a lunch, which offers a break and a chance to sample local flavors.

The tour departs at 9:00 am, with a pickup service available. The small group size of up to 8 travelers guarantees a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and tailored stops.

Bookings are typically made about 32 days in advance, reflecting the demand for this popular day trip. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

Why Choose This Tour with Artur Azores Tours

Led by the renowned guide Artur, known for his patience and kindness, this tour receives glowing reviews. Travelers consistently praise the guide’s local knowledge and ability to make the day special. The personalized approach ensures visitors see the best spots for photos and receive informative commentary.

The tour’s combination of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation opportunities makes it a well-rounded way to experience São Miguel. The focus on stunning views, authentic sites, and scenic stops sets it apart from larger group excursions.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas and Nordeste Tour

This 8-hour guided tour from Ponta Delgada offers a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel’s northeast and central volcanic landscapes. The balance of nature, cultural stops, and leisure makes it suitable for those seeking a relaxed but enriching day.

While the tour’s price includes lunch and transport, some attractions like thermal baths and caves require additional tickets. Its small group size and local guide ensure an intimate experience, ideal for travelers who value personalized attention and insider knowledge.

If you want to witness spectacular viewpoints, explore geothermal phenomena, and experience traditional Azorean culture, this tour provides a well-organized and memorable day on the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, lunch is included in the $150.34 fee, providing a convenient meal during the day.

Are tickets to paid attractions included?
No, tickets for attractions like thermal baths at Poca da Dona Beija and fumaroles at Lagoa das Furnas are not included and need to be purchased separately.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personal experience with the guide.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Who is the guide?
The tour is led by Artur, who is highly praised for his patience, kindness, and local expertise.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, considering the stops are brief and focus on scenic views and cultural sites. Some walking is involved but is generally manageable.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, an alternative date or full refund will be offered.