Azores: Full Day Private Tour Furnas Hot Baths & Gastronomy

The Azores, a stunning archipelago in the mid-Atlantic, beckons travelers with its otherworldly landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled within this captivating region lies the enchanting town of Furnas, where visitors can enjoy a private, full-day tour that promises to delight the senses. From indulging in the renowned hot baths to savoring the region’s celebrated gastronomy, this experience offers a unique opportunity to uncover the true essence of the Azores. With expert local guidance, one can expect to be swept away by the breathtaking scenery, intriguing history, and the allure of this island paradise. What secrets await in Furnas, and how will this tour leave a lasting impression on those who embark on this extraordinary journey?

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Vila Franca Do Campo.

Key Points

• This private 8-hour tour in Furnas, Azores, offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders, thermal baths, and traditional cuisine.
• Highlights include visits to the Gorreana Tea Factory, Pico do Ferro Lookout, Furnas Lake, and an optional soak in the Terra Nostra Park thermal pools.
• Participants can savor the renowned Cozido das Furnas, a traditional dish cooked underground using volcanic heat, and enjoy local delicacies like Vila Franca cheesecake.
• The tour provides transportation, a local guide with expert knowledge, and conveniences such as complimentary bottled water and Wi-Fi.
• Unique experiences include relaxing in naturally heated volcanic waters, immersing in the region’s healing properties, and discovering the fusion of Azorean gastronomy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Azores: Full Day Private Tour Furnas Hot Baths & Gastronomy" is a comprehensive 8-hour excursion that whisks visitors away to the stunning volcanic landscapes of Furnas, a renowned geothermal hotspot in the Azores archipelago.

Priced from $288.92 per group of up to 6 participants, this private tour offers an immersive experience in English and Spanish.

Pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada, wheelchair accessibility, and a flexible cancellation policy add to the convenience.

Highlights include guided visits to the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, the scenic Pico do Ferro Lookout, the volcanic Furnas Lake, and the iconic Terra Nostra Park, where guests can soak in naturally heated pools.

Itinerary Highlights

Guests on this private tour begin their day with a guided tour of the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, where they’ll spend 45 minutes learning about the production of Azorean tea that has been in operation since 1883.

Next, they’ll stop for 15 minutes at the Pico do Ferro Lookout to capture scenic photos.

The tour then visits Furnas Lake for 30 minutes, followed by an optional swim in the thermal pools of Terra Nostra Park for an additional hour, at an extra fee.

Lunch features the renowned regional dish, Cozido das Furnas, cooked underground using volcanic heat, which guests will enjoy for one hour.

Unique Experiences

Relaxing in the naturally heated volcanic waters of the thermal baths at 39°C is a prime highlight of this Azores tour.

Visitors can enjoy the healing properties of these thermal pools, which are fed by the geothermal activity beneath the Earth’s surface.

Another unique experience is the opportunity to savor the traditional Cozido das Furnas, a delicious dish cooked underground using volcanic heat.

The tour also introduces travelers to local delicacies, including the renowned Vila Franca cheesecake, known for its secret recipe, and Azorean pineapple paired with white cheese and local red pepper, offering a delightful fusion of flavors.

Tour Inclusions

Free pickup and drop-off from Ponta Delgada convenience travelers. The tour includes private minivan or minibus transportation for exclusive use, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. A dedicated local guide accompanies the group, providing expert knowledge and insights throughout the day. Complimentary bottled water is provided, and free Wi-Fi is available on board, subject to availability.

Included	Not Included
Pickup and drop-off	Entry fees
Private transportation	Thermal pool access
Local guide	Lunch
Bottled water	Towels and swimsuits
Free Wi-Fi

The tour’s inclusions cater to the needs of the travelers, offering a seamless and enriching exploration of the Furnas region.

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Important Information

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, there are a few important considerations.

Participants should dress appropriately, bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a towel, and a coat/raincoat/umbrella to accommodate the variable weather. Large bags, luggage, food, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed on the vehicle.

Visitors should also be aware of the following:

1. Entry fees are required for the thermal pools (€10-16) and Furnas Lake (€3).
2. Towels and swimsuits aren’t included, so participants should plan accordingly.
3. The traditional lunch at Furnas requires a reservation 24 hours in advance.

Gorreana Tea Factory

One of the highlights of the tour is the guided visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory. This historic tea plantation has been in operation since 1883, making it the oldest tea producer in Europe.

Guests will embark on a 45-minute tour, learning about the intricate process of cultivating and processing the tea leaves. They’ll witness the meticulous handpicking and traditional methods used to create the distinctive Azorean tea.

The tour culminates with a tasting, allowing visitors to savor the rich, aromatic flavors that have made Gorreana’s tea a local treasure for generations.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the island’s rich tea-making heritage and the dedication of the artisanal producers.

Furnas Lake and Park

After exploring the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, the tour proceeds to the enchanting Furnas Lake. This volcanic crater lake is a natural wonder, surrounded by lush vegetation and steaming fumaroles.

Visitors can enjoy:

1. A serene stroll along the lake’s shores, taking in the stunning landscape.
2. Observing the bubbling fumaroles, which release plumes of sulfurous vapor.
3. Visiting the nearby Terra Nostra Park, where they can soak in the warm, mineral-rich thermal pools (for an additional fee).

The tour then continues to the village of Furnas, known for its unique Cozido das Furnas, a traditional dish cooked underground using the volcanic heat.

Vila Franca Do Campo

Nestled along the southeastern coast of São Miguel Island, Vila Franca do Campo invites visitors to indulge in a delightful break for coffee and a renowned local dessert.

This quaint town serves as the final stop on the tour, offering a chance to savor the Vila Franca Cheesecake, a secret recipe that has earned it a reputation as one of the Azores’ most acclaimed treats.

Guests can enjoy this decadent dessert alongside a refreshing cup of coffee, taking in the picturesque views and charming atmosphere of the town before returning to Ponta Delgada.

This brief respite provides a perfect conclusion to the day’s exploration of Furnas’ natural wonders and regional gastronomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour appears suitable for children, with wheelchair accessibility and several family-friendly activities like visiting the Furnas hot baths and Gorreana Tea Factory. However, some experiences may require additional fees or planning.

Can We Customize the Itinerary Based on Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized based on the traveler’s preferences. The private tour format allows for flexibility to adjust the schedule and activities to suit individual interests and needs.

How Reliable Is the Transportation Provided?

The transportation provided is reliable, as the tour includes private minivan or minibus with a dedicated local guide. Free pickup and drop-off from the specified location ensure a seamless and comfortable travel experience.

What Language Options Are Available for the Guided Tour?

The guided tour is available in two languages: English and Spanish. Participants can choose the language that best suits their needs, ensuring a seamless and informative experience throughout the tour.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements for This Tour?

There is no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring layers for variable weather. Swimwear and towels are needed for the thermal pools, which can be rented or brought from home.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating essence of the Azores on this private tour of Furnas. Indulge in the region’s renowned thermal baths, savor a traditional underground-cooked lunch, and explore its enchanting landscapes. From the historic tea factory to the stunning Furnas Lake, this day-long adventure showcases the unique culinary and natural wonders that make Furnas a truly unforgettable destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: