Privat van tour Furnas valley, Gorreana tea islands gems

Explore São Miguel’s Best with a Private Van Tour for Up to 4 People

This private van tour in the Azores offers a flexible and comfortable way to discover the island’s most captivating sights. Priced at $307 per group of up to 4, it lasts 7.5 hours, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive and personalized experience. The tour is perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace, with the guide adjusting the itinerary to suit your interests.

Departing from either Ribeira Grande or Ponta Delgada, this experience promises scenic views, natural wonders, and cultural highlights, all led by a knowledgeable guide speaking English and Russian. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are included, you can relax and focus on enjoying each stop. With a small group size, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible, private tour for up to 4 people, lasting 7.5 hours
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande
• Visit iconic sites like Furnas, Gorreana Tea Factory, and Terra Nostra Park
• Enjoy scenic viewpoints such as Pico do Ferro Lookout and Santa Iria
• Experience natural thermal waters and lush gardens for relaxation
• Tour includes bottled water and comprehensive insurance

Discover São Miguel’s Stunning Volcanoes and Lakes

The tour begins with personalized pickup from Ribeira Grande or Ponta Delgada, with flexibility to match your schedule. The first main stop is Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach, where the group can take a quick photo stop and enjoy the scenic coast. The view of the volcanic coastline is a highlight, offering an ideal start to the day’s natural explorations.

Next, travelers visit Mulher de Capote, a site that combines a visit, shopping, and a chance to sample local aperitifs. This stop provides a taste of the island’s artisan offerings before heading to Miradouro de Santa Iria, a lookout offering sweeping scenic vistas of the landscape.

Gorreana Tea Factory: A Tea Lover’s Dream

One of the tour’s most popular highlights is the Gorreana Tea Factory. Over 45 minutes, visitors see how tea is produced on the island and have free time for browsing the on-site shop. You can sample different teas and enjoy scenic views over the plantation, which is one of the oldest tea factories in Europe. This stop combines cultural insight with a relaxing break amid lush greenery.

Pico do Ferro Lookout and Panoramic Views

Following the tea factory, the Pico do Ferro Lookout offers one of the tour’s most memorable photo opportunities. From this scenic viewpoint, you get a stunning view of the famous volcanic crater and the surrounding lush landscapes. The short 15-minute stop allows time to take in the breathtaking vistas and appreciate the volcanic origins of São Miguel.

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Terra Nostra Park: Gardens and Thermal Waters

A highlight of the tour is a visit to Terra Nostra Park, where scenic views, free time, and the chance to swim in thermal waters await. The park’s lush botanical gardens and the hot mineral pool provide a perfect setting for relaxation and photography. This stop lasts about an hour and showcases the island’s natural beauty and wellness offerings.

Furnas Fumarolas and Fumaroles Experience

Continuing the adventure, the tour visits the Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas. Here, visitors can observe steam fumaroles and learn about the volcanic activity that heats the thermal waters. This 20-minute stop also includes an opportunity to explore the geothermal landscape and appreciate the island’s active volcanic features.

Cultural Stops: Chapels and Scenic Overlooks

The itinerary includes visits to Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitórias and Our Lady of Peace Chapel. Both sites offer scenic views and insight into local religious heritage. These 20-minute stops are great for quiet reflection and photography amidst beautiful surroundings.

Practical Details and Inclusions

The tour includes driver/guide service in English and Russian, with hotel transfers arranged from Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande. Bottled water is provided, and insurance ensures peace of mind during the journey. The private group size (2-7 persons) guarantees an intimate experience, with the flexibility to adjust start and end times to your preferences.

Some experiences, like visiting Terra Nostra Park or Furnas fumaroles, require additional fees of €17 and €3 per person, respectively. These are not included in the base price but are optional enhancements to the day.

The Experience of a Fully Personalized Day

What makes this tour stand out is the ability to customize the itinerary based on your interests. The flexible start and end times mean it can fit seamlessly into your schedule. The small group size and private guide ensure your experience is relaxed, informative, and tailored to your desires.

The scenic viewpoints like Santa Iria and the various lookouts create plenty of opportunities for stunning photos. The inclusion of thermal waters at Terra Nostra Park offers both visual beauty and a chance to recharge physically.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private van tour is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and personalized service. It suits small groups or couples seeking an intimate experience of São Miguel’s natural beauty and cultural sites. Those interested in thermal waters, scenic viewpoints, and local artisan visits will find it especially rewarding.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas Valley & Gorreana Tea Tour

This 7.5-hour private tour delivers a well-rounded look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, thermal waters, and cultural heritage in a relaxed setting. The scenic stops, tastings, and flexible itinerary make it a compelling choice for those who want a personalized experience with minimal stress.

While the tour’s price includes hotel transfers and a guide, optional extras like Terra Nostra Park entrance fees can add to the cost. Still, the overall value lies in the customized journey through some of the island’s most scenic and meaningful sites.

If you enjoy stunning views, natural thermal baths, and small-group intimacy, this tour offers an excellent way to see São Miguel at your own pace, with guidance from knowledgeable locals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers driver/guide service in English and Russian, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and insurance. Optional site entries like Terra Nostra Park and fumaroles are paid separately.

Can I customize the start and end times?
Yes, the tour is flexible regarding pick-up and drop-off times, allowing you to tailor the schedule to your preferences.

What if I want to visit Terra Nostra Park or fumaroles?
You can opt to visit these sites for €17 and €3 per person, respectively. These fees are not included in the base price and are payable on site.

Is this tour suitable for small children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves short stops and walking at sites like Terra Nostra Park and lookout points. It’s best suited for travelers able to manage brief walks and standing.

How many people are in a private group?
The tour accommodates 2 to 7 people, maintaining an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Key highlights include scenic viewpoints, Gorreana Tea Factory, Terra Nostra Park, Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas, and visits to local chapels for cultural insights.

How long do the stops last?
Most stops range from 15 to 45 minutes, with the longest being Terra Nostra Park at about an hour.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are nearby options and time to enjoy a meal on your own during the day.

This private tour stands out as a personalized, scenic, and culturally rich way to explore São Miguel, perfect for those who want flexibility and high-quality guidance during their Azores adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby