Sao Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch

The São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Azores’ largest island. Visitors can enjoy the geothermal wonders of Furnas Valley, savor the unique Cozido das Furnas stew cooked in volcanic soil, and relax in natural thermal baths. But the tour’s highlights don’t end there – you will also discover Europe’s only tea plantation, learning about the art of tea cultivation and indulging in delightful tastings. With its blend of natural beauty, rich culinary heritage, and cultural insights, this tour offers an experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind. What else can this captivating journey through the Azores have in store?

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

Key Points

Key Points:

• This 8-hour tour explores São Miguel’s Furnas Valley, featuring geothermal attractions like bubbling mud pots and natural thermal baths.
• Visitors will experience the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew cooked in volcanic soil during a lunch at Furnas Lake.
• The tour includes a visit to Europe’s only commercial tea plantation, where guests can observe the tea-making process and enjoy tastings.
• The itinerary covers the scenic south coast, the former island capital of Vila Franca do Campo, and the stunning Pico do Ferro belvedere.
• The tour provides a comprehensive experience with hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, entrance fees, and travel insurance included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers an immersive exploration of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago.

Lasting 8 hours, it takes travelers from Ponta Delgada along the island’s scenic south coast to the Furnas Valley, an active volcano.

Visitors can enjoy geothermal baths, taste the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew, and visit Europe’s only tea plantation.

The tour includes a stop at the former capital, Vila Franca do Campo, and a lunch featuring the volcano-cooked stew.

With pickup and drop-off, lunch, entrance fees, and travel insurance, this excursion provides a comprehensive way to discover the natural wonders and cultural highlights of São Miguel.

Experience Highlights

Travelers can explore the captivating Furnas Valley, home to the easternmost active volcano on São Miguel.

They’ll enjoy the geothermal baths heated by the volcanic activity and savor the traditional Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked in the volcanic soil.

The tour also includes a visit to Europe’s only tea plantation and factory, where guests can learn about the production process and sample the aromatic teas.

Scenic views from the Pico do Ferro belvedere provide a breathtaking backdrop to this immersive experience, offering a unique glimpse into the island’s natural wonders and cultural traditions.

Itinerary Details

The tour departs from Ponta Delgada, traveling along the south coast of São Miguel. The first stop is Lagoa, where visitors can witness traditional pottery-making. Next, the tour visits Vila Franca do Campo, the former capital of the island. Lunch is served at Furnas Lake, featuring the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew cooked in volcanic soil. The return journey takes the northern road, with a stop at the island’s only tea plantation.

Stop	Activity
Lagoa	Traditional pottery visit
Vila Franca do Campo	Former island capital
Furnas Lake	Lunch with Cozido das Furnas
Tea Plantation	Visit Europe’s only tea factory

Inclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

Lunch, dessert, drinks, and coffee/tea are provided, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the local cuisine.

The entrance fee to Furnas Lake is covered, granting access to the geothermal wonders.

Plus, travel insurance is included, offering peace of mind during the excursion.

Visitors can also enjoy the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden and Thermal pools, with the entrance fee of €16 per person.

With these comprehensive inclusions, the tour provides a well-rounded experience, catering to the needs and comfort of the participants.

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Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the terrain and accessibility may pose challenges.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Bringing a towel, camera, and flip-flops is also recommended.

Vegetarian options are available upon request. It’s important to note that electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed on this tour.

The tour includes:

1. Exploring the volcanic landscape of Furnas Valley.
2. Experiencing the geothermal baths heated by volcanic activity.
3. Tasting the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew.
4. Visiting the tea plantation and factory.

Volcanic Wonders

Furnas Valley, the easternmost active volcano on São Miguel, captivates visitors with its geothermal wonders.

Explore the bubbling mud pots, hissing fumaroles, and steaming vents that dot the landscape. Indulge in a traditional Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked in the volcanic soil, for a truly unique dining experience.

Soak in the natural thermal baths heated by the volcanic activity, allowing the mineral-rich waters to soothe and relax.

From the stunning vistas of Pico do Ferro to the lush Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, Furnas Valley offers a glimpse into the incredible geological forces that have shaped this island.

Tranquil Tea Plantation

Nestled in the verdant hills, Europe’s only commercial tea plantation beckons visitors to enjoy the tranquil world of tea production.

The plantation offers a glimpse into the meticulous process of tea cultivation and processing, from the delicate plucking of leaves to the intricate steps of withering, rolling, and drying.

Visitors can explore the lush tea fields, observe the skilled tea masters at work, and learn about the history and cultural significance of this cherished beverage.

The experience is further enhanced by the serene natural surroundings, allowing guests to disconnect and appreciate the harmony between nature and the art of tea making.

The tour’s highlights include:

1. Guided walkthrough of the tea fields and factory
2. Observation of traditional tea processing techniques
3. Tasting of various tea varietals grown on the plantation
4. Opportunity to purchase fresh, high-quality tea directly from the source

Culinary Delights

Within the Furnas Valley, the tour’s culinary highlights beckon visitors to savor the rich flavors of the region.

One of the must-try dishes is the traditional Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked in the volcanic soil using geothermal heat. Guests can also indulge in a delightful lunch at Furnas Lake, featuring this unique dish.

The tour also includes a visit to Europe’s only tea plantation, where visitors can learn about the tea-making process and sample the locally-grown teas.

With a focus on both volcanic and agricultural delicacies, the Furnas Volcano and Tea Plantation Tour offers a truly immersive culinary experience in the heart of Sao Miguel’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Additional Fee for the Geothermal Baths?

The tour includes entrance to the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden and Thermal pools, which costs €16 per person. There is no additional fee for the geothermal baths themselves.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, the tour can be customized for dietary restrictions. The tour provider offers vegetarian options upon request, allowing participants with specific dietary needs to fully enjoy the experience.

Are Children’s Tickets Available at a Discounted Rate?

Yes, children’s tickets are available at a discounted rate. The tour operator offers reduced pricing for kids, providing families with a more affordable option to experience the Furnas Volcano and Tea Plantation tour.

Is There a Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, the small-group nature of the experience suggests it’s likely limited to 15-20 participants to provide a more intimate and personalized tour.

Can I Take My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing any animals due to safety and logistical concerns for the group. Only service animals are permitted to accompany guests on the excursion.

Recap

The São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour offers an unforgettable journey through the Azores’ volcanic landscapes and rich culinary heritage. Guests will explore geothermal wonders, indulge in local cuisine, and experience the tranquility of Europe’s only tea plantation. This tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience that showcases the natural beauty and cultural treasures of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: