Furnas Vale, Gorreana Tea Factory Private Van Tour

Nestled within the lush greenery of São Miguel, the Furnas Vale and Gorreana Tea Factory offer a captivating glimpse into the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. This private van tour promises to immerse visitors in a world of geothermal activity, tea-making traditions, and stunning landscapes, all while providing the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and a personalized experience tailored to their interests. As you embark on this adventure, prepare to be enchanted by the diverse sights and sounds that make this corner of the Azores truly unique.

Quick Points

• This private 8-hour van tour explores the natural wonders of Furnas Vale, including geothermal features like fumaroles, mud pots, and hot springs.
• The tour includes a visit to the century-old Gorreana Tea Factory, where guests can learn about the tea-making process and sample unique Azorean teas.
• The tour provides air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, insurance, and admission to Terra Nostra Park and the Furnas fumaroles.
• Knowledgeable guides offer insightful commentary on the volcanic origins and natural landscapes of São Miguel island.
• The flexible itinerary can be customized based on guest preferences, with pickup available from anywhere on the island, including cruise ships.

Tour Overview

The Furnas Vale and Gorreana Tea Factory Private Van Tour offers an immersive experience for visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Sao Miguel, Portugal.

This 8-hour private tour accommodates groups of 1-7 people, providing air-conditioned transportation and a flexible itinerary.

Highlights include the Furnas fumaroles, where visitors can witness the island’s volcanic activity, and the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe.

With a 5-star rating and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Sao Miguel’s captivating sights and sounds.

Inclusions and Pickup Information

This private tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and transportation to the various destinations. Bottled water, insurance, and lunch are also provided. Entrance fees to Terra Nostra Park and the Furnas fumaroles are included in the price.

The tour offers pickup from anywhere on São Miguel island, including cruise ships. An additional fee may apply for pickups outside of Ponta Delgada, depending on the hotel location. Flexible pickup times are available, and the tour operator requires advance notice of the preferred time.

Pickup Information
Location	Additional Fee	Flexible Pickup Times
Anywhere on São Miguel Island	Yes, for pickups outside Ponta Delgada	Inform preferred time
Cruise Ships	Yes, for pickups outside Ponta Delgada	Inform preferred time

Exploring Furnas Vale

Furnas Vale, a captivating natural wonder nestled in the heart of São Miguel Island, beckons visitors to embark on an immersive exploration.

This lush, verdant valley is home to an array of geothermal features, including steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and natural hot springs.

Visitors can stroll along well-marked trails, marveling at the dramatic landscapes and the unique geologic processes that have shaped this extraordinary destination.

The tour allows guests to witness the power of the Earth’s inner workings, providing a fascinating glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins and the dynamic natural forces that continue to sculpt its topography.

Exploring Furnas Vale promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Portugal’s most captivating natural treasures.

Gorreana Tea Factory Visit

After exploring the captivating Furnas Vale, the tour continues to the Gorreana Tea Factory, a family-owned business that has been producing high-quality tea on the island of São Miguel for over a century. Visitors are guided through the factory, learning about the intricate tea-making process, from harvesting to drying and packaging. The tour culminates in a tasting session, where guests can sample the estate’s renowned green and black teas, each with its unique aroma and flavor profile. The experience provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich tea-growing tradition of the Azores.

Tea Production Process
Harvesting	Drying
Processing	Packaging
Tasting	Purchasing

Terra Nostra Park Highlights

The verdant expanse of Terra Nostra Park unfolds as the next captivating destination on the tour.

Visitors are immersed in a lush, natural haven featuring thermal pools, serene gardens, and a striking ochre-colored lake. The park’s centerpiece is its iconic thermal pool, where guests can soak in the soothing, mineral-rich waters.

Meandering paths wind through meticulously landscaped gardens, showcasing a vibrant array of exotic flora. One can’t help but pause and admire the park’s unique Japanese garden, a tranquil oasis of pagodas, bridges, and koi ponds.

With an admission fee of 16 euros per person, Terra Nostra Park offers a truly enchanting respite amidst the natural wonders of Sao Miguel.

Furnas Fumaroles and Volcanic Activity

Leaving the tranquility of Terra Nostra Park behind, the tour now ventures into the captivating realm of Furnas’ volcanic landscape.

Fumaroles, or steaming vents, dot the area, releasing plumes of sulphurous gases that permeate the air. The ground underfoot is warm, a testament to the simmering volcanic forces beneath.

Visitors can marvel at the boiling mud pots, their bubbling surfaces a mesmerizing display of the Earth’s primal power.

The Furnas Valley is a prime example of the Azores’ remarkable volcanic heritage, offering a glimpse into the dynamic processes that have shaped this unique archipelago.

Guests will have the chance to explore this geothermal wonderland, gaining a deeper appreciation for the island’s profound geological history.

Flexible Itinerary and Knowledgeable Guides

A key aspect of this tour’s appeal is its flexible itinerary, allowing guests to shape their experience according to their preferences.

The tour guides are highly knowledgeable, well-versed in the local history, geography, and culture of Sao Miguel. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ expertise, noting their ability to provide insightful commentary and tailor the tour to the individual needs and interests of the group.

This personalized approach ensures that guests leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Azores’ unique natural wonders and cultural heritage.

The convenience of private transportation and the inclusion of admission fees further enhance the overall value and seamless nature of this comprehensive day tour.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Reviews

Typically, the Furnas Vale and Gorreana Tea Factory Tour offers a price starting from $240.24 per group, accommodating up to 4 people.

The tour also provides a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and a reserve now and pay later option for added convenience.

With a 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with guests praising the knowledgeable guides who expertly share insights into the local history, geography, and culture.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully accessible for people with disabilities, as it’s noted that it’s not wheelchair accessible. However, it’s mentioned that infant seats are available, so some accommodations may be possible with prior coordination.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Interests?

The tour can be customized to the traveler’s interests. The private nature of the tour allows flexibility to adjust the itinerary and focus on the visitor’s preferences, such as spending more time at certain sites or adding additional stops.

How Do I Book This Tour Online?

To book this tour online, you’ll need to visit the Viator or Tripadvisor website. There, you can select your preferred pickup location, date, and group size, then complete the booking and payment process. The tour can often be reserved with a flexible schedule.

What Is the Language of the Tour Guides?

The tour guides for this private van tour in Sao Miguel, Portugal, are fluent in English, allowing them to provide detailed commentary and insights to all guests throughout the day’s activities in a clear, engaging manner.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not explicitly offer an option to extend the duration. However, the private nature of the tour and flexible pickup times suggest the possibility of customizing the itinerary and tour length to accommodate your’ needs, though this may incur additional costs.

The Final Verdict

This private van tour offers a captivating glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of São Miguel. Visitors will enjoy the enchanting Furnas Vale, explore the century-old Gorreana Tea Factory, and discover the island’s remarkable volcanic landscapes. With included transportation, lunch, and entrance fees, this flexible and informative experience ensures a memorable adventure tailored to individual interests.