Tour to Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden – Full Day

The tour to Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden offers a captivating glimpse into the natural wonders of São Miguel, Azores. Visitors can expect a well-curated journey, complete with door-to-door transportation, guided exploration of the lush Terra Nostra botanical gardens, and a visit to the historic Gorreana tea plantation. The highlight, however, is the traditional ‘cozido das Furnas’ lunch, cooked using the region’s geothermal steam. With a small group size, guests can savor the beauty and culture of the Azores in a personalized setting. But the true allure of this tour lies in the unexpected delights that await those who choose to embark on this unforgettable experience.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Sao Miguel.

Key Points

• This full-day tour takes visitors to the stunning Furnas Lake and Terra Nostra botanical gardens on the island of São Miguel, Azores.
• The tour includes a visit to the historic Gorreana tea plantation and a traditional ‘cozido das Furnas’ lunch cooked using geothermal heat.
• Participants will enjoy door-to-door transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and admission to the Terra Nostra Park for a seamless and immersive experience.
• The tour showcases the diverse flora, unique landscapes, and cultural heritage of the Azores, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region.
• With a 5.0 rating and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers a high-quality and highly-rated way to discover the natural wonders of Furnas and São Miguel.

Tour Overview

The full-day tour to Furnas Lake on the island of São Miguel in the Azores offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders, boasting an impressive 5.0 rating from 16 reviews and a Badge of Excellence award.

Highlights of the tour include a visit to the lush Terra Nostra botanical gardens, a tour of the local Gorreana tea plantation with tea sampling, and the opportunity to enjoy a traditional ‘cozido das Furnas‘ lunch cooked using the area’s geothermal steam.

Throughout the day, travelers will witness the area’s stunning volcanic features, from fumaroles to natural pools.

With door-to-door transport and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience of Furnas and its captivating natural beauty.

Itinerary and Activities

This tour offers a comprehensive itinerary that showcases the region’s natural wonders.

It begins with door-to-door transport from Ponta Delgada hotels, providing a seamless start to the day.

Visitors then explore the lush Terra Nostra botanical gardens, marveling at the diverse array of flora.

Next, the experience takes guests to a local Gorreana tea plantation, where they can sample the region’s renowned teas.

The highlight of the tour is the ‘cozido das Furnas’ lunch, a traditional dish cooked using the geothermal steam of the Furnas volcanic area.

Throughout the day, travelers are treated to the stunning landscapes and unique natural features that make the Azores such a captivating destination.

Inclusions

Among the inclusions of this tour are local taxes, a delicious ‘cozido das Furnas’ lunch, and the services of a knowledgeable driver/guide.

Travelers also receive admission to the renowned Terra Nostra Park and hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.

While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, the core package covers a range of essential elements to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

The tour’s inclusions are:

• Local taxes

• ‘Cozido das Furnas’ lunch

• Driver/guide services

• Terra Nostra Park admission

• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting and Pickup Information

Travelers meet at Futurismo Azores Adventures, located at the Marina Portas do Mar in Ponta Delgada, which serves as the tour’s starting and ending point.

Pickup options are available, with the tour ending back at the initial meeting spot. The group size is capped at a maximum of 18 participants, ensuring a personalized experience throughout the day’s activities.

The pickup options provide convenience for guests, allowing them to meet the group at the central meeting point or be collected directly from their Ponta Delgada hotels.

With the tour concluding at the same location, travelers can easily return to their accommodations or explore the surrounding area after the excursion.

Additional Information

Confirmation for the tour is received within 48 hours of booking, ensuring participants have all the necessary details prior to the experience. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though children are welcome as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. Strollers are permitted, and infant seats can be provided upon request. Guests with dietary requirements should advise the tour operator at the time of booking, allowing the necessary arrangements to be made. Lastly, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

The tour offers a memorable and immersive experience, allowing visitors to:

• Explore the lush Terra Nostra botanical gardens

• Discover the unique Gorreana tea plantation

• Indulge in the traditional ‘cozido das Furnas’ lunch

• Marvel at the captivating fumaroles and natural pools

• Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Furnas Lake and the Azores

Explore Terra Nostra Gardens

Upon arrival at the Terra Nostra Gardens, visitors are greeted by a captivating botanical wonderland that spans over 13 hectares. The sprawling gardens showcase a diverse array of lush tropical and subtropical plant species, creating an enchanting and serene atmosphere.

Guests can wander along the network of winding paths and explore the stunning flora, including exotic flowers, towering trees, and vibrant greenery.

The highlight of the gardens is the famous thermal pool, where visitors can enjoy the soothing, mineral-rich waters.

With its picturesque landscapes and tranquil ambiance, the Terra Nostra Gardens offer a truly rejuvenating and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts on the Furnas tour.

Experience Gorreana Tea Plantation

On the tour, visitors explore the historic Gorreana Tea Plantation, where they learn about the time-honored tradition of tea production in the Azores. Established in 1883, this family-owned estate is the oldest and only remaining tea plantation in Europe, boasting lush green tea fields and a charming tea factory that offers a glimpse into the region’s unique tea heritage.

During the visit, guests:

• Sample the plantation’s award-winning black and green teas, savoring the distinct Azorean flavors.

• Observe the intricate tea processing techniques, from harvesting to drying and packaging.

• Wander through the picturesque tea gardens, taking in the serene natural surroundings.

• Discover the history and evolution of tea cultivation in the Azores.

• Learn about the sustainable farming practices that have been passed down through generations.

Enjoy the ‘Cozido Das Furnas’ Lunch

Visitors savor the locally-sourced ‘cozido das Furnas’, a traditional Azorean stew slow-cooked using the natural geothermal heat of the Furnas volcanic crater.

The unique cooking method involves lowering pots filled with ingredients like meat, vegetables, and spices into the steaming fumaroles. After hours of geothermal heating, the ingredients meld into a hearty, flavorful dish.

Enjoying this local specialty is a highlight of the tour, providing a delicious taste of Azorean culture. The tour guide provides insight into the history and preparation of this iconic meal, making the experience even more meaningful.

With its rich flavors and unique cooking process, the ‘cozido das Furnas’ is a must-try for visitors to Furnas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Casual, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended. Guests are advised to dress for the weather and be prepared for potential changes in temperature or precipitation during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The tour includes a ‘cozido’ lunch and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Bringing your own items is not recommended unless there are dietary restrictions.

Are There Any Physical Activity Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not have any physical activity requirements, though some walking is involved. Participants must be able to walk short distances at the various stops. Strollers and infant seats are available for those who need them.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity?

The tour allocates approximately 1-2 hours at each activity, including the Terra Nostra botanical gardens, Gorreana tea plantation, and ‘cozido’ lunch. The schedule is designed to provide a well-rounded experience while allowing sufficient time at each destination.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour operator generally offers a set itinerary, but they may be able to accommodate minor customization requests, such as adjusting activity durations or adding optional stops, if discussed in advance. However, significant changes to the overall tour plan may not be possible.

Recap

The full-day tour to Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden offers an unforgettable experience in the stunning landscapes of São Miguel, Azores.

Participants can enjoy door-to-door transport, explore the lush Terra Nostra botanical gardens, and visit the historic Gorreana tea plantation.

The highlight of the tour is the traditional ‘cozido das Furnas‘ lunch, cooked using geothermal steam, in a personalized setting with a maximum group size of 18.