Full day Furnas | Hotsprings | Thermal Baths | Tea Factory

Discovering São Miguel’s Volcanic Heart: A Full-Day Tour of Furnas, Hot Springs, and Tea Plantations

If you’re looking to get a real taste of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, this full-day tour promises a mix of geothermal sights, lush gardens, and cultural stops. While it’s not a perfect all-around experience, it offers a solid introduction to what makes the island special.

We really appreciate the chance to see the geothermal activity up close and the scenic beauty of the viewpoints. On the flip side, some visitors have expressed disappointment about certain parts of the trip, like missing out on hot spring access and factory tours.

This tour could be perfect if you’re after a budget-friendly way to see key sights and don’t mind the group size or some logistical limitations. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided experience with plenty of photo stops and scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Focus on geothermal sites like Furnas hot springs and fumaroles, offering a direct glimpse of the island’s volcanic activity
• Includes a visit to Gorreana Tea Factory, the only tea plantation in Europe, with a chance to enjoy a warm cup and scenic landscapes
• Varied stops like Pico do Fero lookout and Vila Franca do Campo provide stunning views and photo opportunities
• Transportation in a 9-seat van or minibus keeps the group manageable but may limit accessibility for some
• Cost efficiency at $80 per person provides an affordable way to see many highlights, though some entrances are not included
• Mixed reviews highlight that while the landscape is stunning, some attractions, such as thermal baths and factory tours, may not live up to expectations

What to Expect from This Full-Day Tour

This experience is designed to cover a lot of ground in roughly 7.5 hours, offering a broad overview of São Miguel’s volcanic and agricultural highlights. We found that the tour’s structure is quite straightforward, making it accessible for most visitors, but it does have some notable limitations.

Starting Point and First Stops

The tour begins at ANC Azores Holidays’ base, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortably sized van or minibus, depending on your group size. The early part of the day features a scenic drive with quick stops for photos, including the Queijadas do Morgado and Vila Franca do Campo. These stops are great for stretching your legs and snapping some photos of the coast and picturesque villages.

Geothermal Magic in Furnas

The highlight for many is Furnas, the volcanic village famous for fumaroles and bubbling springs. You’ll walk among the fumaroles, see the steam vents, and even have the chance to taste sparkling water straight from the spring — though only if you’re feeling brave. This part is especially interesting if you’re into geology and natural phenomena.

However, some visitors have noted that the hot springs are not accessible for bathing during the tour, which can be a disappointment if you were expecting a soak. The tour includes a good look at the geothermal activity but doesn’t always include entry to the Baths of Terra Nostra, which you’d need to pay extra for, or time to enjoy a thermal bath.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pico do Ferro Viewpoint

Next, you’ll stop at Pico do Fero, a viewpoint offering stunning views of the volcanic crater and the lush landscape below. This is an ideal spot for photos and to appreciate the island’s volcanic terrain. The short stop here allows you to take in the sweeping vistas and get some memorable shots.

Botanical Gardens and Thermal Baths

You’ll visit Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, a beautiful 18th-century park filled with exotic plants and lush greenery. While the garden itself is free, the thermal bath entrance costs about €16 per person if you choose to enjoy a relaxing dip. Many visitors find this a highlight, even if it’s an optional add-on, because the thermal waters are reputed to have therapeutic qualities.

One review noted that the thermal bath experience was not included in the tour, so if you’re craving a soak, plan accordingly. The gardens are a lovely place to wander, especially if you enjoy plant life and serene surroundings.

Gorreana Tea Factory

The day culminates with a visit to Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest tea plantation. You’ll get a guided or self-guided tour, learn about the tea-making process, and have the opportunity to sample different teas. The lush green landscapes and the aroma of fresh tea leaves make this a peaceful and scenic stop.

Some reviews mentioned that the factory tour was not as comprehensive as expected, but most visitors enjoy the tasting and the views. It’s a nice spot to relax and soak in the countryside while shopping for souvenirs.

Last Stops and Return

After the tea plantation, the tour winds down with a few more scenic stops before heading back to your starting point. The entire day is designed to give you a broad snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic and agricultural charms, but keep in mind that some attractions are brief or optional.

The Realities of the Tour

While this experience offers a solid overview, it’s worth noting some of the limitations highlighted by past travelers. For example, one reviewer mentioned that the hot springs visit was not possible, which was a letdown for those hoping to enjoy a thermal bath. Similarly, some felt that the visit to the tea plantation didn’t include a full tour of the factory or plantations, only a brief stop.

The transportation setup is practical — a small van or minibus — which keeps things intimate but might be less comfortable for those with mobility issues or who prefer more space. The group size varies, and the tour runs in a schedule that you’ll want to confirm beforehand, as starting times and availability can shift.

The price of $80 per person is quite reasonable given the number of stops and sights covered. Bear in mind that entrance fees to thermal baths are extra if you want to indulge in the thermal waters, so budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want to see key highlights of São Miguel without spending a fortune. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided experiences that mix scenic views with cultural stops. If you’re curious about geothermal activity, love lush gardens, or want to try local teas, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if thermal baths or detailed factory tours are a priority for you, you might find this experience a little light on those aspects. Also, if you prefer more flexibility or private tours, this might feel a bit rigid.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Furnas tour offers a practical way to get a comprehensive sense of São Miguel’s volcanic and agricultural scene. The stunning vistas at Pico do Fero and the lush Gorreana Tea Factory landscape are definite highlights. While some attractions, like the hot springs and factory tours, might not fully meet expectations, the affordability and variety of stops make it a good choice for first-timers or those on a budget.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic drives, photo opportunities, and learning about local geology and farming, you’ll find this tour worthwhile. Just go in with a flexible outlook, knowing some parts might be less immersive than hoped.

FAQ

Does the tour include access to the hot springs for bathing?
No, the thermal baths are not included in the tour fee, and access costs about €16 if you want to enjoy a thermal soak at Terra Nostra.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, the tour price covers transportation and guide, but entrance fees to attractions like the thermal baths are extra.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, so check which language works best for you when booking.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users, as some stops and walking might be challenging.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with a schedule that includes multiple stops and scenic drives.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring a bathing suit and towel if you plan to do the thermal baths, and dress comfortably for walking and sightseeing.

In the end, this tour is a good way to tick off some must-see sights in São Miguel without breaking the bank. It’s a straightforward, scenic, and culturally informative day — perfect if you’re after a snapshot of the island’s volcanic heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: