Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour With Lunch

The Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour with Lunch promises an immersive journey through the Azores’ natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. From soaking in the mineral-rich hot springs of Terra Nostra Park to witnessing the captivating tea production process at the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s diverse attractions. As you explore the captivating world of geothermal energy and traditional culinary practices, you’ll uncover the unique charm that makes the Azores a must-visit destination.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Lunch Experiences In Sao Miguel Island.

Key Points

• An 8-hour excursion showcasing Azores’ natural wonders and cultural heritage, including Terra Nostra Park, Furnas Fumaroles, and Gorreana Tea Factory.
• Explore the lush botanical gardens and relax in the natural hot water pools of Terra Nostra Park.
• Experience the traditional "cozido" meal cooked by geothermal activity at the Furnas Fumaroles.
• Tour the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, the only traditional tea manufacturing operation in Europe, and sample renowned Azorean teas.
• Multiple photo stops at scenic viewpoints, capturing the stunning Azorean landscapes throughout the day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Furnas Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour offers an 8-hour excursion that showcases the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the Azores islands.

Priced from $83.88 per person, the tour is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Pickup is included from four convenient locations, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Highlights include exploring the botanical gardens and natural pools of Terra Nostra Park, experiencing the famous "cozido" meal cooked underground at the Furnas Fumaroles, and touring the Gorreana Tea Factory – the only traditional tea manufacturing facility in Europe.

With a 4.8/5 overall rating, the tour provides excellent value and an engaging, immersive experience.

Itinerary Highlights

Terra Nostra Park kicks off the tour, where guests enjoy 1.5 hours exploring the botanical garden and natural hot water pools.

Next, the tour heads to the Furnas Fumaroles, where visitors can discover the area’s distinguished thermal springs and natural pools, including the famous "cozido" meal cooked underground.

The final stop is the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s only traditional tea manufacturing facility, offering a 1-hour tour.

Throughout the day, the group makes several photo stops at scenic viewpoints like Pico do Ferro Lookout, Santa Iria Lookout, and Ribeira Grande, providing ample opportunities to capture the stunning Azorean landscapes.

Terra Nostra Park

Visitors exploring the botanical garden at Terra Nostra Park can expect to spend around 1.5 hours immersed in its lush greenery and natural hot water pools. This expansive park boasts a diverse collection of plant life, including rare and exotic species from around the world. Guests can wander the tranquil paths, admiring the vibrant flowers and towering trees while indulging in the therapeutic properties of the park’s thermal springs.

Feature	Description
Thermal Springs	Visitors can enjoy a relaxing dip in the park’s natural hot water pools, which are fed by the region’s volcanic activity. The warm, mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic benefits.
Botanical Gardens	Terra Nostra’s botanical gardens showcase a stunning array of plant life, with over 2,000 different species from various corners of the globe. Guests can explore the lush landscapes and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Amenities	The park offers amenities such as changing rooms, lockers, and a café, allowing visitors to make the most of their time at this picturesque destination.

Furnas Fumaroles

After exploring the lush botanical gardens at Terra Nostra Park, visitors can venture to the captivating Furnas Fumaroles. This area is renowned for its distinguished thermal springs and natural pools, including the famous "cozido" meal cooked underground.

Guests will have the opportunity to:

• Witness the powerful steam vents and bubbling mud pots that characterize this volcanic landscape.
• Observe the "cozido" lunch, a traditional stew slow-cooked by the geothermal activity beneath the earth’s surface.
• Relax in the natural hot water pools, taking in the serene and otherworldly atmosphere of the Furnas Fumaroles.

This unique geothermal experience provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s dynamic volcanic origins.

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Gorreana Tea Factory

Next on the itinerary is the Gorreana Tea Factory. This historic facility is the only traditional tea manufacturing operation in Europe.

During the tour, visitors will witness the meticulous process of tea production, from harvesting the leaves to processing and packaging the final product. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the unique, centuries-old techniques used at the factory.

Guests can also indulge in a tea-tasting experience, sampling the estate’s renowned green and black teas. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and agricultural traditions of the Azores archipelago.

Photo Stops

Several scenic viewpoints dot the tour’s itinerary, offering ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photos.

Guests can expect photo stops at the Pico do Ferro Lookout, which provides panoramic vistas of the Furnas valley and its steaming fumaroles.

The Santa Iria Lookout showcases the charming town of Ribeira Grande and its picturesque coastline.

Plus, the tour includes a stop at Ribeira Grande itself, allowing visitors to explore the historic town center and snap photos of its quaint architecture.

These varied photo opportunities ensure a well-rounded visual experience throughout the day’s journey.

• Pico do Ferro Lookout
• Santa Iria Lookout
• Ribeira Grande

Inclusions

The tour package includes an array of convenient and enriching features.

Hotel pickup and drop-off ensure hassle-free transportation, while the live guide provides valuable insights throughout the journey.

Entrance fees to the Terra Nostra Park and Gorreana Tea Factory are covered, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the botanical wonders and the traditional tea-making process.

A delectable local lunch is also included, showcasing the region’s culinary delights.

Lastly, a tea tasting experience at the Gorreana Tea Factory rounds out the educational and sensory aspects of the tour.

What to Bring

Preparation is key to maximizing the enjoyment of this comprehensive Furnas Day Tour. Visitors should remember to pack a towel to use when relaxing in the natural hot water pools at Terra Nostra Park.

Plus, a camera is essential to capture the stunning landscapes and unique thermal features encountered throughout the excursion.

Finally, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate beachwear, as the tour includes activities that may involve getting wet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Requirements for the Lunch?

The tour operator provides lunch featuring local cuisine, but they don’t specify any dietary requirements. Travelers with special dietary needs should contact the operator in advance to discuss accommodations.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour overview, participants are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks. The tour package includes a lunch featuring local cuisine, as well as a tea tasting experience at the Gorreana Tea Factory.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

There is no minimum group size required for this tour. The tour can accommodate solo travelers or small groups, and participants are picked up from multiple locations across the island. The tour operates with a live guide regardless of the group size.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Participants are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing and bring a towel, as visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the natural hot water pools at Terra Nostra Park.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions or limitations. People of all ages can participate in the day tour, which includes activities suitable for a wide range of visitors. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users as well.

Recap

Embark on the Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour for an unforgettable exploration of the Azores’ natural wonders. Soak in mineral-rich hot springs, savor a traditional lunch, and witness the tea production process at the historic Gorreana Tea Factory. This tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s captivating landscapes, culinary delights, and cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: