Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour with Lunch

Explore São Miguel’s Thermal Village and Tea Factory for $85

This full-day tour, priced at $85 per person, offers an engaging journey through Furnas on São Miguel Island in the Azores. With a duration of 8 hours, it covers iconic locations like Terra Nostra Park, Furnas Fumaroles, and the Gorreana Tea Factory. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guide, a delicious lunch, and a tea tasting experience, making it an excellent value for those interested in natural wonders and local flavors.

While the famous Terra Nostra thermal pools and the unique Gorreana tea manufacturing process are standout features, it’s worth noting that entrance to Terra Nostra Garden is not included, which visitors should plan for separately. This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive day of natural beauty, culinary experiences, and cultural insight. The reviews highlight the expert guides and the balance of sightseeing and tasting opportunities.

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Key Points

• Full-day guided tour on São Miguel Island, covering key sites in Furnas
• Includes lunch and tea tasting at the Gorreana Tea Factory
• Visit Terra Nostra Park, Furnas Fumaroles, and Caldeiras Vulcânicas
• Transport and hotel pickup/drop-off included for convenience
• Price of $85 offers good value considering the variety of experiences
• Tour duration is 8 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability

The Itinerary Starts with Convenient Pickup Options in Four Locations

This tour begins with hotel pickup from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, Vila Franca do Campo, or Ribeira Grande, making it easy to join no matter where a guest is staying. After a brief 15-minute van ride, the first stop is Vila Franca do Campo for a quick 10-minute photo break, offering views of this charming coastal town.

Next, the journey continues with a 20-minute drive to Furnas, where the main attractions unfold. The itinerary includes a 15-minute photo stop at Furnas, giving visitors a chance to capture the scenery before settling into a 1.5-hour visit that combines a lunch break, cheese tasting, and food tasting at a local eatery.

Discover the Natural Wonders at Furnas

Once in Furnas, the tour leads to Caldeiras Vulcânicas, a site showcasing the hot springs and volcanic activity of the area. Visitors are led through the hot springs, with the chance to see the Furnas Fumaroles and learn about their geological significance.

A highlight of this visit is the opportunity to taste the cozed, a traditional dish cooked using the earth’s heat. This classic Furnas delicacy is prepared by burying ingredients in volcanic heat, creating a unique culinary experience that adds an authentic flavor to the day.

Panoramic Views from Pico do Ferro Lookout

The tour includes a 15-minute stop at Pico do Ferro, where sweeping views of the Furnas valley and surrounding landscapes are sure to impress. This lookout offers a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate the volcanic terrain that defines this region.

Following this, travelers are driven to the Gorreana Tea Factory for a guided tour and tea tasting. As Europe’s only remaining traditional tea factory, Gorreana employs authentic methods that have been preserved over generations, making it a fascinating visit for tea lovers.

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Gorreana Tea Factory Visit and Tasting Experience

At the Gorreana Tea Factory, visitors have roughly an hour to explore the factory, learn about tea production, and sample different local teas. This experience emphasizes traditional methods, and the chance to try tea directly from the source adds a meaningful touch to the trip.

The factory’s location also offers scenic views of the lush tea plantations, providing a picturesque backdrop for the tour. The guided visit ensures that guests understand the history and craftsmanship behind the tea production.

Scenic Stops at Santa Iria and Ribeira Grande

The tour continues with photo stops at Santa Iria and Ribeira Grande, each lasting about 15-20 minutes. These stops allow for capturing more island scenery and appreciate the coastal landscape, giving a well-rounded perspective of São Miguel’s diverse terrain.

These scenic points are perfect for snapping pictures and enjoying the fresh island air before concluding the day.

Practicalities and Accessibility

This tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. It is wheelchair accessible, and travelers are advised to bring items like a towel, camera, and beachwear for optional activities. The cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for flexible planning.

The guided experience is conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for international visitors. The tour’s pacing is balanced, with enough time at each site to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and participate in tastings.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike tours that focus solely on natural sights, this experience combines thermal springs, volcanic geology, and culinary delights like cozido and tea tasting. The inclusion of Gorreana Tea Factory—Europe’s only traditional tea producer—adds a unique cultural element.

The personalized reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative. The value is consistently highlighted, with many noting the lunch and tastings as excellent inclusions.

Limitations and Considerations

A key consideration is that entrance to Terra Nostra Garden is not included, so visitors planning to use the thermal pools should budget for this separately. The 8-hour schedule means the day is quite full, so travelers should be prepared for a busy but rewarding experience. Those with mobility challenges should verify accessibility options, although the tour is generally wheelchair accessible.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Tour

This guided tour offers a diverse look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and local culture. The combination of natural hot springs, volcanic sites, and traditional tea production makes for an enriching day that balances scenic beauty with culinary exploration.

The value for money is clear, especially with lunch and tea tasting included. The high ratings and positive reviews underscore the quality of the guides and the overall experience. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to see the highlights of Furnas and enjoy authentic local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entrance to Terra Nostra Garden?
No, entrance to Terra Nostra Garden is not included in the tour price.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local lunch and cheese and food tastings are part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Visitors should bring a towel, camera, and beachwear if they wish to enjoy the thermal pools.

When do I need to cancel for a full refund?
Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, the reserve & pay later option allows booking now with no upfront payment.

This tour stands out as a well-rounded, value-packed day that combines natural wonders, cultural insights, and local flavors—perfect for those wanting a meaningful exploration of São Miguel.

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