If you’re planning a trip to the Azores, this Furnas: Tea Plantation and Hot Springs Tour offers a chance to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights in a relaxed, manageable timeframe. It’s a solid choice for those who want a glimpse of the island’s diverse landscapes without committing to a full-day or more intense excursion.
What really draws us to this tour are two key points: first, its promise of stunning views from scenic lookouts, and second, the chance to walk through one of Europe’s rare tea plantations. These unique stops provide a nice balance of natural beauty and cultural interest. One potential caveat is the relatively short duration of 3.5 hours, which means some might feel pressed for time if they want to linger at each spot. Still, for travelers who prefer a well-structured overview, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, geothermal marvels, and a taste of local agriculture.
Key Points
- Diverse scenery: From black sand beaches to lush viewpoints, the tour offers a good variety of landscapes.
- Unique experience: Visiting one of Europe’s few tea plantations is a real highlight.
- Natural geothermal activity: The geothermal area of Furnas provides bubbling hot springs and steaming fumaroles.
- Guided and private: You’ll have a personal guide who keeps the experience intimate and informative.
- Convenient logistics: Pickup and drop-off are included, making it easier to focus on enjoying your day.
- Limited time: The 3.5-hour window is great for a quick overview but might leave some wanting more.
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
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Starting at the Black Sand Beach
The tour kicks off with a visit to a black sand beach, where volcanic forces have shaped the coastline into a dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape. We loved the way the dark sands contrast with the ocean’s blue, offering a striking view that feels quintessentially Azorean. Expect a walk along the shoreline—perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the raw power of the Atlantic. It’s a reminder of the island’s volcanic origins, which continue to influence its geography and scenery.
While the beach itself isn’t a swimming spot (the ocean can be pretty rough), it’s a wonderful spot for photos and just appreciating the natural forces that formed it. Several reviews mention the “power of the ocean” here, emphasizing how striking and memorable the scenery is.
Panoramic Viewpoint of the North Shore
Next, you’ll head to a scenic viewpoint overlooking São Miguel’s lush north coast. This is where you’ll get those sweeping vistas that make travel photos pop and give you a genuine sense of the island’s verdant landscape. Many find this stop one of the most beautiful parts of the tour, as it captures the island’s extensive greenery and rugged coastline.
Expect a short but picturesque stop that makes for great photo opportunities. Travelers often comment on how breathtaking the views are, with one noting, “The vistas from this point are simply stunning, and it’s easy to see why the island’s landscapes are so revered.”
Visiting the Tea Plantation
One of the tour’s true gems is a visit to one of the only tea plantations in Europe. Walking through the well-kept fields, you can learn about how tea is grown locally—an uncommon sight in Europe, given that most tea production is associated with Asia. You’ll have a chance to taste the locally grown tea, which many consider a special experience and a tasty souvenir.
Tour guides often highlight the rarity of this plantation, making it a memorable highlight. A reviewer described it as “a peaceful walk through lush greenery with a very informative tasting session,” adding that it’s a wonderful way to connect with local culture.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Geothermal Wonders of Furnas
Finally, the tour takes you into the geothermal heart of Furnas, where steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs tell the story of the island’s volcanic activity. We loved the way the landscape here feels almost alive, with steam rising from the earth and the rich scent of sulfur in the air. It’s a powerful reminder of the forces beneath the surface shaping the island.
You’ll see bubbling springs and geysers, and depending on the day, you might even get a glimpse of the famous “cozido” cooking underground—a traditional meal slow-cooked by geothermal heat. While the tour doesn’t include a full meal, the geothermal activity itself is fascinating to observe. Many reviews mention the “unique volcanic landscape” and the “steam vents that feel like nature’s own spa.”
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour is quite straightforward: your guided experience includes visits to all the highlights, a tasting at the tea plantation, and pick-up/drop-off service. It’s a good value for those wanting a curated experience without additional costs.
What’s not included are drinks and snacks beyond the tasting, personal expenses, and gratuities, so plan accordingly if you’re craving a snack or beverage during or after the tour. Also, if you’re staying outside the main city centers, a small extra charge might apply for pickup from your accommodation.
Practical Tips for the Tour
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, as some stops involve a bit of walking on uneven terrain.
- Protect yourself with sunscreen and a hat, especially if the weather is sunny.
- Carry snacks and water—though the tour is only 3.5 hours, having your own supplies can keep you energized.
- Dress in layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains or near the coast.
- There’s an optional lunch available for an extra fee; if you’re interested, it’s worth discussing after booking.
The Experience: Real Traveler Insights
Many travelers mention that the views are the main draw, with some describing the scenery as “breathtaking” and “an absolute highlight.” The visit to the tea plantation stands out as a rare opportunity to see European-grown tea fields, which few other tours offer. The geothermal area, with its bubbling springs and steam vents, offers a visceral reminder of the island’s volcanic roots.
On the downside, a few reviews mention that the short duration can feel a bit rushed, especially if you like to linger. If you’re someone who loves to explore every detail and photograph every view, this might feel a little quick. However, if you’re after a well-rounded snapshot of São Miguel’s natural beauty, it’s a great choice.
The guide, Julio Furtado, is often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience with local insights and helpful tips. Since it’s a private group, the atmosphere tends to be more relaxed and personalized than larger tours.
Pricing and Value
At a glance, the tour’s price reflects its curated nature and the inclusion of transport, guiding, and tasting. For a half-day experience that covers such a variety of sights, it offers good value—especially considering the convenience of pickup and drop-off.
If you’re short on time but want a taste of São Miguel’s highlights, this tour provides a solid introduction. For those wanting more in-depth exploration, it might be worth pairing with additional activities, but for a quick, scenic overview, it hits the mark.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes and natural wonders in a short amount of time. It’s perfect if you’re keen on nature, geology, and a bit of local culture. The private group setting also makes it comfortable for those who prefer a more personalized experience without the crowds of larger tours.
While not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, it’s accessible enough for most able-bodied travelers. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning views, geothermal activity, and a unique European tea experience, this tour will likely leave you satisfied.
Furnas: Tea Plantation and Hot springs Tour
FAQs
Is transportation included? Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included, making it easier to focus on enjoying the tour without worrying about logistics. If you’re staying outside Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, there might be an extra charge based on your location.
How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, which is enough to see the main highlights without feeling rushed.
Is this tour suitable for families? It’s a private group experience, but because it involves some walking on uneven terrain and limited time, it’s best suited for able-bodied adults. Not specifically designed for children or those with mobility issues.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and snacks. The weather can change quickly, so dressing in layers is wise.
Can I book lunch or other extras? Yes, a lunch option is available for an extra cost, which you can discuss once you’ve booked.
What makes the tea plantation special? It’s one of the few in Europe, giving visitors a rare chance to see tea cultivation in a European setting and taste locally grown tea.
What will I see at Furnas? Bubbling hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and a volcanic landscape that shows the island’s ongoing geothermal activity.
Is there free cancellation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
This Furnas tour offers a compact, scenic overview of São Miguel’s natural highlights—perfect for those who want a taste of the island’s geothermal power, lush landscapes, and cultural quirks without a full-day commitment. It’s a comfortable, informative way to experience some of the Azores’ most iconic sights while enjoying the company of a friendly guide. Whether you’re after breathtaking views or a glimpse into local agriculture, this tour could be a memorable part of your Azores adventure.
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