The volcanic Azorean island of Sao Miguel serves up some of Europe’s most memorable lunch experiences. The star attraction is Cozido, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground using natural volcanic steam in Furnas – it’s both fascinating and delicious. Smart travelers combine meals with scenic locations, like picnicking above the stunning Sete Cidades crater lakes.
I love the 4×4 Jeep tours that include traditional lunches featuring fresh island ingredients – they’re efficient and fun. Hiking tours through the rugged Nordeste region pair nicely with local restaurants, while the historic Gorreana tea plantation offers light meals with million-dollar views.
Let’s explore the very best lunch-and-tour combinations this remarkable island has to offer.
Key Points
- Cozido das Furnas, a traditional Azorean stew cooked in geothermal heat, is a highlight of culinary tours on Sao Miguel Island.
- Guided tours often include regional lunches showcasing local flavors and providing insight into the island’s culinary heritage.
- Lunches in Lagoa City offer an opportunity to experience typical Azorean cuisine as part of comprehensive Ponta Delgada tours.
- Small group tours, limited to 8-12 participants, offer personalized culinary experiences with knowledgeable guides.
- Scenic tours, such as the Scenic West Side and Nordeste Region tours, incorporate local lunch experiences to complement the natural wonders.
Sao Miguel : Furnas Full Day Tour With Lunch Included
Offering a comprehensive exploration of the volcanic landscapes and cultural treasures of São Miguel Island, the Furnas Full Day Tour provides an immersive experience for visitors.
Priced from €75.00 per person, the 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and entrance fees.
Highlights include the Gorreana Tea Factory, ceramic workshops in Lagoa, and the Caldeira das Furnas where visitors can witness the natural cooking of local dishes.
The small group tour, limited to 8 participants, is led by English and Portuguese-speaking guides and is wheelchair accessible, ensuring an accessible and personalized adventure.
Exploring Furnas’ unique geology, hot springs, and traditional gastronomy, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s captivating heritage.
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Sao Miguel: Full-Day 4WD Jeep Tour to Furnas With Lunch
The 4WD Jeep Tour to Furnas on São Miguel Island takes visitors on a captivating exploration of the island’s volcanic landscapes and cultural heritage.
Priced from $79.20 per person, the full-day tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, including visits to hot springs, fumaroles, and a traditional cozido lunch cooked in the island’s geothermal heat.
Guests can also enjoy a swim in the thermal waters of Poça da Dona Beija and a tour of a local tea plantation.
With an overall rating of 5/5 and positive reviews for the knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an immersive and memorable experience, suitable for various traveler types.
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Sete Cidades & Lagoa Do Fogo: Full Day Tour With Lunch
Exploring the stunning natural landscapes of São Miguel island, this full-day tour takes visitors to the breathtaking Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo.
Over 8 hours, a small group of up to 12 you will enjoy guided exploration of these two iconic lakes, with panoramic views from the Vista do Rei viewpoint.
The tour includes a regional lunch showcasing local flavors, as well as an optional visit to the Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Center or thermal waters.
With pickup and drop-off provided, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers excellent value for money, as evidenced by its 5-star customer rating.
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Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades & Lagoa Do Fogo Tour With Lunch
This comprehensive 8-hour tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of São Miguel island‘s stunning natural landscapes.
Beginning in Ponta Delgada, the tour showcases the twin lakes of Sete Cidades volcanic crater and a scenic drive along Pico do Carvão mountain.
Guests then discover the serene beauty of Lagoa do Fogo, with its thermal pools and waterfalls, before enjoying a typical Azorean lunch in Lagoa city.
The tour also includes a visit to Ribeira Grande’s historic center.
With high customer ratings and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an immersive experience of São Miguel’s natural wonders and local cuisine.
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From Ponta Delgada: Nordeste 4×4 Guided Day Trip & Lunch
Departing from Ponta Delgada, this 7-hour guided 4×4 day trip to Nordeste offers an immersive exploration of São Miguel island‘s rugged northeastern countryside.
Priced from $95.03 per person, the tour includes pickup, lunch at a local restaurant, and visits to the ‘priolo’ habitat, a historic parish, and a tea factory.
Travelers can expect to see endemic species, dramatic headlands, and cascading waterfalls. The well-designed itinerary and knowledgeable local guide have earned the tour a 5/5 rating from previous participants, who praise the personal service and insights provided.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this Nordeste day trip is an appealing way to experience São Miguel’s natural beauty.
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Private Full Day West and Central of S.Miguel With Lunch
For those seeking to enjoy the stunning landscapes of São Miguel, the Private Full Day West and Central of S.Miguel With Lunch tour offers an unparalleled experience.
Lasting 8 hours, this full-day excursion showcases the island’s volcanic wonders, including the Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Travelers enjoy panoramic views, explore historic sites, and savor a traditional Azorean lunch.
With a certified guide, complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, and comfortable transportation, the tour provides a seamless and engaging way to discover São Miguel’s natural beauty.
Praised by travelers for its friendly guides and excellent dining experience, this private tour is a must-do for those seeking to fully experience the enchanting Azores.
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Azores: Private Tour to All São Miguel Island With Lunch
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of São Miguel Island can embark on the private “Azores: Private Tour to All São Miguel Island With Lunch” excursion.
This 8-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, with visits to iconic locations like the Sete Cidades lakes, Fogo Lake, and Furnas Lake. Along the way, travelers can enjoy photo stops at stunning viewpoints and indulge in local gastronomy during a provided lunch.
The tour includes premium private transportation, an experienced multilingual guide, and is wheelchair accessible.
With a 5-star rating, this tour is praised for its exceptional care, knowledgeable guide, and the quality of the overall experience.
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São Miguel West: Sete Cidades and Fogo Tour With Lunch
This 8-hour tour offers an immersive exploration of the western region of São Miguel Island, focusing on the captivating Sete Cidades and Fogo destinations.
Starting from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, guests are picked up and taken to stunning viewpoints like Pico do Carvão and Vista do Rei.
The highlight is a visit to the Sete Cidades volcanic crater and lagoon, where a full-course lunch is served.
Participants can also opt to swim at the Caldeira Velha hot springs.
The tour provides transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and various amenities, making it a comprehensive and well-reviewed experience on the island.
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Sao Miguel East: Full-Day Van Tour With Lunch
Exploring the eastern region of São Miguel Island, this full-day van tour offers an immersive experience for visitors. Priced at $79.20 per person, the 8-hour excursion takes travelers to the island’s most captivating destinations, including the geothermal park of Furnas, where they can savor the famous cozido stew cooked in volcanic soil.
The tour also includes a visit to the Santa Iria Lookout, the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfall, and stunning coastal vistas. With a maximum group size of 8 participants, the tour provides personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide.
Lunch, drinks, and entrance fees are included, making this a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the natural wonders of eastern São Miguel.
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Furnas: Morning Experience With Thermal Baths and Lunch
For those seeking a rejuvenating start to their day on São Miguel Island, the Furnas: Morning Experience With Thermal Baths and Lunch is an ideal choice.
Lasting 5 hours, the tour includes a dip in the island’s famous thermal baths, a visit to Furnas Lake, and a traditional cozido lunch. Priced from $315.73 per group, the experience offers hotel pickup, entry tickets, and a guided tour in English or Portuguese.
Reviewers rave about the tour, rating it 5/5. Ideal for combating jet lag, this morning adventure provides a relaxing and immersive introduction to one of São Miguel’s most popular destinations.
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Sao Miguel: Whales & Volcano Full-Day Tour With Lunch
Although São Miguel is renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes, its surrounding waters are equally captivating.
The Whales & Volcano Full-Day Tour provides an opportunity to witness the island’s diverse marine life, including sperm, blue, humpback, and fin whales. After a catamaran ride spent searching for these magnificent creatures, the tour explores the volcanic Lagoa do Fogo crater lake.
Lunch at a local restaurant and a visit to the Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande geothermal pools round out the experience. With hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to discover São Miguel’s natural wonders, all while enjoying a delightful meal.
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Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour With Lunch
The Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour with Lunch whisks travelers on a captivating journey through São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Priced at €75 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, with transportation to key stops like the Furnas Caldeiras Vulcânicas and the Gorreana Tea Factory.
Highlights include a visit to the Terra Nostra Park, a traditional “cozido” lunch cooked using geothermal heat, and a guided tea tasting.
The tour receives high marks for its transportation, value, and the informative local guide.
With pickup locations across the island, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of São Miguel’s natural wonders and culinary delights.
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São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour With Lunch
Travelers exploring the stunning island of São Miguel can embark on the comprehensive São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour with Lunch. Priced at $93.98 per person, this 8-hour tour is limited to 8 participants and offers pickup from various locations in Ponta Delgada.
Highlights include witnessing the famous “Cozido das Furnas” stew cooked in volcanic soil, visiting Terra Nostra Park‘s botanical gardens and thermal pools, exploring the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, and tasting locally-grown tea at the Gorreana Tea Factory.
Guests can also choose to relax in hot spring pools. With knowledgeable guides, flexible itineraries, and excellent value, this tour is a great way to take in São Miguel’s natural wonders and culinary delights.
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Sao Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch
This comprehensive 8-hour São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch immerses visitors in the island’s stunning natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.
Priced at €75 per person, the tour offers an exceptional value, with hotel pickup, lunch, and entrance fees included.
Highlights include exploring the geothermal Furnas Valley, tasting the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew cooked in volcanic soil, and visiting Europe’s only tea plantation, Cha Gorreana.
With a 4.8/5 customer rating and praise for knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an immersive and memorable experience for visitors to Sao Miguel Island.
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São Miguel West: Full-Day Van Tour With Lunch
Looking to explore the western side of São Miguel Island? The São Miguel West: Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch offers an in-depth experience.
For $79.20 per person, you’ll embark on an 8-hour journey with a group of up to 8 participants. Highlights include the famous Sete Cidades twin lakes, the Lagoa do Fogo crater lake, and the picturesque town of Ribeira Grande.
You’ll also visit Salto do Cabrito Waterfall and the lava rocks and natural pools of Mosteiros. Enjoy stunning views, learn about Azorean history and culture, and savor a delicious included lunch.
With a 4.9/5 rating from over 1,400 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for all ages seeking a comprehensive São Miguel experience.
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Sao Miguel: Full-Day Nordeste & Waterfall Tour With Lunch
Exploring the scenic wonders of São Miguel’s Nordeste region, the São Miguel: Full-Day Nordeste & Waterfall Tour with Lunch offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking to uncover the island’s natural treasures.
Priced at $79.20 per person, this 8-hour excursion showcases the Southeast and Nordeste areas, featuring picturesque villages, magnificent waterfalls, and historical watermills. Guests can expect a guided journey through the local culture, with opportunities to discover genuine handicrafts and gastronomy in Nordeste.
The tour concludes with a visit to the Salto do Cavalo belvedere, providing a stunning viewpoint. Flexible booking and a high overall rating of 4.8/5 from 111 reviews make this tour a compelling choice for those eager to explore the natural beauty of São Miguel.
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Ponta Delgada: Full-Day Sete Cidades 4X4 Tour With Lunch
Travelers seeking an immersive adventure in São Miguel’s stunning landscapes will find the Ponta Delgada: Full-Day Sete Cidades 4X4 Tour with Lunch an enticing option.
Priced at $79.20 per person, this 8-hour tour takes guests aboard a 4X4 jeep to explore the hidden secrets of the island, including the rim of the Sete Cidades crater and the Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake).
The tour includes a visit to the church of São Nicolau, a comfort stop within the crater, and a delicious local lunch.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 48 reviews, this tour offers excellent value, scenic views, and an entertaining experience led by knowledgeable guides.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experience?
The dress code for the lunch experience is typically casual and relaxed. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing that allows them to fully enjoy the dining experience without feeling overly formal or restricted.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Accommodated?
Many lunch experiences on Sao Miguel Island accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests should inform the restaurant in advance of any special needs, and staff will do their best to cater to individual requirements.
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Locations?
Yes, you can customize the tour to visit specific locations. Many tour operators on Sao Miguel Island offer flexible, personalized itineraries to accommodate visitors’ preferences and interests.
How Much Free Time Is Allocated for Exploring on My Own?
The amount of free time allotted for independent exploration can vary, but many tours provide a balance between guided activities and opportunities to wander on your own and discover the local atmosphere at your own pace.
What Should I Bring to Make the Most of the Lunch Experience?
To make the most of your lunch experience, bring a small cooler with snacks and water to stay hydrated. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture the scenic views you’ll encounter during your exploration.
The Sum Up
Sao Miguel Island offers a range of delightful lunch experiences. From tours of Furnas and Sete Cidades to Nordeste 4×4 adventures, visitors can savor local cuisine while exploring the island’s stunning landscapes. These full-day tours provide the perfect opportunity to take in the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, making Sao Miguel an ideal destination for a memorable culinary and sightseeing experience.