Ponta Delgada: Furnas Hot Springs & Food Private Tour

Explore Furnas with a Private 7-Hour Tour from Ponta Delgada

This 7-hour private tour from Ponta Delgada offers an in-depth look at the natural and culinary treasures of Furnas in the Azores. For travelers interested in volcanic landscapes, local food, and relaxing thermal waters, this experience provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and photo opportunities. The tour is led by a professional guide in English and Portuguese, ensuring educational and engaging commentary throughout.

Highlights include a Cozido lunch cooked underground, visits to a cheese farm, and relaxing in Terra Nostra Park‘s thermal waters. The tour also emphasizes capturing memories with a professional photo session and taste-testing the famous thermal spring waters. The entire experience is tailored as a private group, making it ideal for those seeking personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

While the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, travelers should be prepared for some walking, the use of comfortable shoes, and bringing cash for extra purchases. This tour suits those who want a detailed, cultural, and scenic day exploring Furnas with expert guidance.

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Key Points

• Private 7-hour experience from Ponta Delgada that covers volcanic sights, culinary delights, and thermal baths.
• Traditional Cozido lunch cooked underground, included in the itinerary.
• Visits to Caldeiras and Furnas Lake highlight the volcanic activity and lush scenery.
• Cheese farm visit includes meeting cows, milking experiences, and tasting local cheeses.
• The professional photo session offers edited images sent after the tour.
• Relax in Terra Nostra Park’s thermal waters for a soothing end to the day.

Starting Point and Transport: Private Pickup in Ponta Delgada

The tour begins with a private transfer from Ponta Delgada to Furnas, typically in a Jeep or SUV. The transfer lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing a comfortable start to the day. The vehicle used for transportation is a green Peugeot 5008, offering a smooth and scenic ride across the island.

This private pickup ensures a relaxed pace and flexibility for scheduling, making it a convenient choice for visitors staying in Ponta Delgada. The transfer time also allows travelers to enjoy the landscapes and start the experience without the rush of group tours.

Visiting Pico do Ferro for Panoramic Views

A key stop is the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, which provides spectacular panoramic views of the Furnas Valley. This 30-minute guided stop includes a walk and sightseeing, where visitors can appreciate the volcanic landscape and lush greenery. The guide offers insights into the volcanic activity that shaped the area.

This lookout is ideal for photos, with expansive views over the volcanic crater and surrounding hills. It’s a perfect introduction to the day’s activities, setting the scene for the geological wonders ahead. The stop is brief but impactful, offering a memorable photo opportunity.

Witnessing Volcanic Activity at Caldeiras

The Caldeiras of Furnas is a standout stop, where visitors can see active volcanic phenomena up close. The one-hour visit includes a walk through the geothermal area, where thermal springs and bubbling mud pots are visible. Tasting the thermal spring waters adds a sensory element to this part of the tour.

This site offers an authentic look at the island’s volcanic activity, with natural steam vents and mineral-rich waters. It’s both educational and fascinating, providing a deeper understanding of Furnas’ unique landscape. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, as walking over uneven terrain is involved.

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Relaxing in Terra Nostra Park’s Thermal Waters

Terra Nostra Park is a highlight for relaxation and botanical beauty. The two-hour visit features a guided tour of the gardens, a professional photo session, and time in the famous thermal pool. The thermal waters are rich in minerals and are known for their soothing properties.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a towel, jacket, and comfortable clothes for the thermal bath. The park’s lush gardens and historic architecture offer excellent photo opportunities, especially with the included professional photographer. Snorkeling is also mentioned as an activity, adding to the variety of experiences within the park.

Enjoying the Traditional Cozido Lunch at Furnas Lake

At Furnas Lake, the tour stops for a traditional Cozido lunch, cooked underground by local chefs using volcanic heat. The 1.5-hour meal includes food tasting and wine or cheese tasting, enhancing the culinary experience.

The Cozido is a signature dish of the Azores, combining various meats and vegetables, all slow-cooked underground. This meal offers a genuine taste of local cuisine and provides a hearty break after sightseeing. The lakeside setting complements the experience with scenic views.

Visiting a Local Cheese Farm for Tasting and Milking

A visit to a cheese farm is included, where the tour features meeting the cows, milking, and enjoying cheese tasting. An hour-long visit allows travelers to learn about traditional cheese-making methods and sample various cheeses produced on the farm.

This stop offers an authentic look at rural life in the Azores and emphasizes local craftsmanship. The milking experience adds an interactive element, making it suitable for those interested in food production and farm life.

Final Exploration of Furnas and Additional Tastings

The tour wraps up with a walk around Furnas, allowing visitors to explore more sights and enjoy additional cheese tastings. This 30-minute walk permits a further appreciation of the volcanic town’s atmosphere and natural beauty.

The last stop is a chance to take in the scenery and perhaps buy extra local products before the journey back. The smooth pace ensures the tour ends comfortably, with time to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Logistics, Group Size, and Flexibility

This private group tour offers a personalized experience, with a focus on comfort and flexibility. The pickup and drop-off are included, and the itinerary can adapt to the group’s pace. Travelers should bring cash for additional purchases and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

The tour’s duration of 7 hours strikes a balance between thorough sightseeing and relaxation, making it suitable for those who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The live guides in English and Portuguese enrich the journey with detailed explanations.

Professional Photography and Photo Delivery

A distinctive feature is the professional photo session, where a photographer captures the scenic moments and takes portraits at key stops. The edited photos are sent to participants after the tour for download, providing high-quality souvenirs of the experience.

This service adds a personal touch and helps travelers preserve memories of their time exploring Furnas. The photo session is typically integrated into the visits to Terra Nostra Park and other picturesque locations.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, personalized experience of Furnas, combining natural beauty, culinary delights, and photo opportunities. The focus on a private group makes it suitable for couples, families, or small groups wanting dedicated attention.

Participants should be prepared for some walking and bring comfortable footwear, cash, and appropriate attire for thermal baths. The tour is not suited for those with mobility issues, as walking over volcanic terrain is involved.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day in Furnas

This private tour from Ponta Delgada delivers a comprehensive look at Furnas, emphasizing volcanic landscapes, local cuisine, and relaxation. The combination of scenic stops, authentic food experiences, and professional photography makes it a memorable choice for those eager to explore the island’s highlights in comfort.

While some stops may involve walking over uneven terrain, the overall pacing is manageable, and the personalized attention enhances the experience. This tour suits travelers who want to combine sightseeing with culture and enjoy detailed explanations from knowledgeable guides.

If you prioritize scenic views, culinary experiences, and photo memories of the Azores, this tour offers a balanced and enjoyable way to discover Furnas in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers transportation, a traditional Cozido lunch, cheese farm visit, thermal baths at Terra Nostra Park, and a professional photo session with edited images.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including stops and transfer times.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a towel, a jacket, comfortable clothes, and cash for extra purchases.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s private nature makes it suitable for families or small groups, especially those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is designed as a set experience, but being private allows for some flexibility. Confirm specific preferences with the guide.

Are there any physical requirements?
Some walking over volcanic terrain is involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations.

How do I receive the photos?
The professional photographer provides edited images after the tour, which are sent via download link.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour is available year-round, but check local weather conditions for optimal comfort, especially for outdoor walks and thermal baths.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, the Cozido lunch and cheese tastings are included in the tour price. Additional drinks, such as wine, are also part of the experience.

Do I need to pay extra for transportation?
Transportation is included in the tour. Additional items like souvenirs or extra food are paid for separately if desired.

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