Van Laketour Furnas Full Day/ with lunch (Shared)

Explore São Miguel’s Furnas in a Full-Day Shared Van Tour with Lunch

The Van Laketour to Furnas offers an engaging way to see some of the most iconic sights on São Miguel. Priced at $83.08 per person, this 7 to 8-hour adventure departs from Ponta Delgada and features a well-rounded itinerary with stops at natural wonders, local factories, and scenic viewpoints. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 12 reviews, and is recommended by 100% of participants.

What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive itinerary, which combines cultural visits, natural hot springs, and delicious local food. The tour accommodates groups of up to 21 travelers in a comfortable minibus, making it suitable for those who want a guided experience without the hassle of independent planning. The inclusion of lunch and local guides ensures a smooth, informative day exploring the Furnas region.

Key Points

• Full-day experience with approximately 7 to 8 hours of sightseeing on São Miguel
• Includes lunch, thermal pools, and visits to tea plantations and ceramics factories
• Small-group tours in minibuses for up to 21 travelers
• Expert local guides provide detailed explanations and storytelling
• Stops at Furnas Lake, Terra Nostra hot springs, Gorreana Tea Plantation, and more
• Free cancellation available with 24 hours’ notice

Starting Point and Tour Duration in São Miguel

This full-day Furnas tour begins at ANC Azores Holidays in Ponta Delgada, with the meeting point at Mota Amaral S/N, right in front of the Hotel Marina Atlântico. The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, giving plenty of time to explore the region’s highlights. The itinerary is designed to fit into a 7 to 8-hour window, balancing sightseeing, eating, and relaxing.

The duration allows ample time at each stop, ensuring visitors can enjoy everything from the hot springs to tea tastings without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Highlights of the Furnas Region: From Lakes to Local Factories

The tour’s first stop is ANC Azores Holidays itself, setting the tone for an informative experience. It then proceeds to Cerâmica Vieira, where visitors can see the ceramics factory and learn about traditional craftsmanship, which is a free visit lasting about an hour.

Next, the group visits Vila Franca do Campo, exploring the port and tasting Queijadas da Vila, a local sweet pastry, during a one-hour stop. The scenic Lagoa das Furnas offers impressive views of the furnas lake, where the famous cozido stew is cooked underground—a highlight for many visitors.

Relaxing at Terra Nostra and the Hot Springs

One of the tour’s most praised features is the opportunity to bathe in the thermal pools at Poca da Dona Beija. This hot spring experience lasts about an hour, with admission tickets not included, but many find it well worth the slight extra cost. The ferrada water and fumarolas add a unique element of natural geothermal activity.

Following this, the group enjoys lunch at Caldeira das Furnas, which includes local furnas-style cuisine and time to relax amidst beautiful landscapes. The hot springs and bubbling geothermal activity surrounding the area provide a fascinating backdrop during the two-hour lunch stop.

Visiting Gorreana Tea Plantation and Sample Tastings

The tour visits the Gorreana Tea Plantation, where visitors learn about the tea-making process, see machines in action, and sample different teas produced on-site. This one-hour stop combines educational insights with the chance to enjoy freshly brewed tea, a sweet treat that highlights São Miguel’s agricultural heritage.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Insights

Throughout the day, the guide shares stories about the region’s flora, fauna, and history, making each stop more meaningful. The route includes picturesque viewpoints and local landmarks, like the Ribeira Grande area, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and leisurely walks.

Practicalities: Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates with small groups in minibuses for up to 8 people, but when bookings exceed this number, a larger van with up to 21 seats is used. The group size fosters a more personalized experience, and the driver/guide ensures smooth transitions between stops.

Most travelers will find the walks manageable, but some stops involve walking on uneven terrain, especially near the lakes and hot springs. The tour is suitable for a wide range of mobility levels, but comfortable footwear is recommended.

Guided Experience and Local Insights

The guides are highly praised for their knowledgeability and friendly demeanor. Reviews highlight guides like Ruben, Luis, and André, who take the time to explain local customs, natural features, and history in English. Their storytelling enhances the overall experience, making each stop more than just a photo opportunity.

Food, Drinks, and Local Specialties

The lunch at Furnas features traditional dishes, with many reviews praising its delicious flavors and beautiful setting. The Queijadas da Vila offer a sweet taste of local pastry, and sampling natural sparkling water from the source adds a unique touch to the day.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This allows travelers to plan with confidence, knowing they can change plans if needed. The tour’s minimum is two adults or children, making it accessible for small groups and families.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This Furnas tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive look at the region’s natural beauty and cultural highlights in a guided, relaxed setting. It’s perfect for visitors interested in hot springs, local food, and scenic landscapes, with the added comfort of included lunch and expert guides.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas Full-Day Van Tour

The Van Laketour offers a well-organized, informative, and relaxing way to experience São Miguel’s Furnas area. With stunning vistas, authentic cuisine, and thermal pools, it provides a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. The high ratings and positive reviews underscore its reliability and quality.

This tour suits travelers who want a guided day trip that covers multiple highlights without the stress of independent planning. The knowledgeable guides and delicious lunch make it a worthwhile option for anyone eager to explore the best of Furnas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The lunch, driver/guide, and local professional guide are included. Admission tickets for thermal pools and tea plantation are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the original meeting point in Ponta Delgada.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Cerâmica Vieira factory, Vila Franca do Campo, Lagoa das Furnas, Poca da Dona Beija hot springs, Caldeira das Furnas, and Gorreana Tea Plantation.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch at Caldeira das Furnas, featuring local cuisine.

Can I relax at the hot springs?
Yes, visitors have the opportunity to swim at Poca da Dona Beija thermal pools, though admission tickets are not included.

What is the group size?
Most tours are in small groups of up to 8 people, but larger groups are accommodated with a bigger van for up to 21 seats.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as the group meets the minimum of 2 adults or children, and participants are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable footwear is recommended, especially for walking near lakes and hot springs. Weather-appropriate clothing is advised, as some stops involve outdoor exposure.

How do I cancel the tour if needed?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, offering peace of mind if plans change.

Who provides this tour?
The tour is operated by ANC Azores Holidays, known for their reliable service and knowledgeable guides.

This Furnas full-day tour combines cultural visits, natural wonders, and relaxing hot springs, making it a comprehensive and enjoyable way to discover São Miguel.