Furnas: Experience of hotsprings, Botanical Gardens, Lake

Explore the captivating landscape of Furnas in the Azores with this thoughtfully designed 6-hour tour led by Jorge Dias. This tour offers a rich blend of natural wonders, volcanic activity, and local culture, making it an ideal choice for visitors eager to experience hot springs, lush gardens, and stunning views. Expect visits to Vila Franca, a tea plantation, and visits to famous volcanic sites where the traditional “cozido” stew is cooked in geothermal waters.

This tour departs from Ponta Delgada, with pick-up and drop-off options at Avenida Infante Dom Henrique, Forte de São Brás, or the airport/harbor. No matter the weather, it promises a magical experience filled with scenic views, cultural insights, and relaxing thermal baths. Keep in mind that the experience involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure, making comfortable shoes and rain gear recommended. This tour suits those who appreciate nature, volcanic landscapes, and a mix of scenic stops and cultural visits.

Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours with flexible pick-up and drop-off options in Ponta Delgada
• Includes visits to Furnas lake, volcanic hot springs, and botanical gardens
• Highlights the volcanic activity where “cozido” stew is cooked using geothermal heat
• Tour visits Vila Franca, a scenic village, and a historic tea factory
• Options for swimming at the fire beach depend on weather conditions
• Small group experience limited to 8 participants ensures personalized attention

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Discover Furnas’ Thermal Springs and Volcano Craters

The Furnas tour centers on exploring a volcanic caldera filled with a serene lake surrounded by exotic gardens. The mineral springs here flow from lava walls at various temperatures and flavors, offering a unique chance to taste the waters. Locals cook the famous “cozido” stew in these geothermal vents, a culinary tradition that visitors can observe or enjoy in a local restaurant.

The volcanic activity in the area creates a dramatic landscape with active geothermal features and lush vegetation. The crater of the volcano is a key highlight, providing a sense of the area’s geological vitality. The tour emphasizes the relaxing energy of Furnas and its unique hydrological richness, which makes it a standout spot in the Azores.

Scenic Stop at Vila Franca and Its Scenic Views

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Vila Franca, a charming village famous for its scenic vistas. The stop here lasts about 20 minutes, offering photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the quaint local atmosphere. The sea views from Vila Franca are impressive, especially if the weather is clear enough to swim at the fire beach, a natural spot where the sea meets volcanic activity.

This village adds a touch of local charm and offers insights into Azorean coastal life. The stop is brief but packed with visual beauty and potential for wildlife spotting. It’s a perfect chance for a quick walk along the coast and some memorable photos.

Visiting the Gorreana Tea Factory and Plantation

A highlight on the route is the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest black and green tea factory in Europe. The guided tour of the factory takes about one hour, with a chance to see traditional tea processing and enjoy a tea tasting session. Visitors can also shop for fresh tea to take home, making this stop both informative and practical.

The tea plantation itself showcases rows of lush tea plants, set against the volcanic landscape. This visit offers a glimpse into Azores’ agricultural history and the artisanship behind tea production. It’s a peaceful pause amid the more active volcanic sights.

Exploring the Grotto of the Lava and Hot Springs

In Furnas, the tour takes you to hot springs and geothermal areas where you can observe the lava walls and mineral fountains. These springs are of various temperatures and flavors, and some are suitable for soaking if you choose to enjoy thermal baths. The guide explains the volcanic process, adding a scientific perspective to the natural beauty.

The thermal baths provide an optional relaxing break, letting visitors soak in warm waters amid the volcanic landscape. The proximity to active volcanic features makes this part of the tour both educational and rejuvenating.

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Scenic Drive Along the South Coast

The tour includes a scenic drive along most of the south coast, with multiple viewpoints where you can take photos and enjoy breathtaking vistas. The drive offers a chance to appreciate the diverse landscapes of the Azores, from cliffs to lush valleys.

Stops are made at viewpoints, where the landscape unfolds in all its volcanic glory. These scenic stops are not only perfect for photos but also for resting and soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

Visiting Santa Iria Lookout for Panoramic Views

The Santa Iria Lookout offers a 30-minute scenic stop with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an ideal spot for photo opportunities and to get a sense of the scale and beauty of the volcanic terrain. The viewpoints here help visitors appreciate the scope of Furnas’ volcanic activity and local flora.

Optional Swimming at the Fire Beach (Weather Permitting)

If the weather allows, the tour offers an opportunity to swim at the fire beach, a natural seawater spot where volcanic activity heats the water. The beach provides a unique experience of bathing in the sea amid a volcanic setting. Visitors should be aware that weather conditions influence this activity, and it may not always be possible.

The Experience of a Local Guide

Led by Jorge Dias, the tour benefits from a local guide who speaks English, Portuguese, and Spanish. The guide shares insights into the geological features, local customs, and culinary traditions, enriching the experience. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions.

Practical Details and Recommendations

The tour includes hotel, airport, or harbor pick-up and drop-off, making it straightforward to join regardless of where you’re staying in Ponta Delgada. It runs rain or shine, but travelers are advised to bring rain gear, comfortable shoes, and sun protection. The activity is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most physical levels, provided mobility is manageable.

Participants should bring cash or credit card for shopping, personal medication, and a charged smartphone to capture photos. The tour does not permit food or drinks in the vehicle, and it’s wise to carry biodegradable sunscreen and raincoat.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas Experience

This 6-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at the natural wonders of Furnas, combining volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and local culture. The visit to the tea factory and stops at scenic viewpoints add depth and variety to the experience.

The small group size and knowledgeable guide Jorge Dias make this a personalized and informative outing. While weather dependence for activities like swimming at the fire beach** is a consideration, the overall experience remains engaging and diverse.

Ideal for nature lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting a well-rounded exploration of Furnas and the southern coast of São Miguel, this tour offers lasting memories of the Azores’ volcanic beauty and rich culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including all stops and sightseeing.

What are the departure and return points?
The tour departs from Avenida Infante Dom Henrique, Ponta Delgada, with options for hotel, airport, or harbor pickup and drop-off.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible; however, some walking and outdoor activity might be involved, so mobility should be considered.

Can I swim at the fire beach?
Yes, if the weather permits, you can swim in the sea at the fire beach, but activity depends on weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, sun protection, cash or credit card for shopping, a charged smartphone, and personal medication are recommended.

Is food included in the tour?
Lunch is at a local restaurant, and food tasting is included at the Gorreana Tea Factory. No food or drinks are allowed in the vehicle.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates year-round, regardless of weather, but always check availability beforehand.

How many people are in a small group?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of geothermal activity, scenic drives, cultural visits, and the chance to relax in thermal baths makes this tour a comprehensive and memorable way to experience Furnas.

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