Private – All of Furnas, Tea Plantation, ticket to Beija included

Experience Review: Private Tour of São Miguel’s Thermal Baths, Tea Plantations, and Beija Hot Springs

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel in the Azores and want a well-rounded, relaxing day that combines natural beauty, local culture, and the comfort of a private guide, this tour could be just what you need. From bubbling thermal waters in Furnas to fragrant tea plantations, it offers a blend of sights and experiences that showcase some of the island’s most beloved spots.

What really caught our eye? First, the fact that it’s a private tour — meaning personalized attention and the freedom to customize or ask questions. Second, the all-included entrance fees save you the hassle and surprise costs at each stop. On the flip side, some might find the 6-hour schedule a bit tight if they want to explore every corner more leisurely or add more meals. Though, this tour seems perfect for those who want a balanced, comprehensive day out, especially if you prefer not to join large groups and appreciate expert insight.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private guide tailored to your interests
• Includes all entrance fees, making for a stress-free day
• Highlights Furnas thermal baths and scenic viewpoints like Pico do Ferro
• Visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation for a taste of local culture and lush landscapes
• Flexible schedule with options to add a traditional lunch for a more filling experience
• Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and nature in a manageable half-day format

Discovering São Miguel’s Thermal Waters and Scenic Wonders

This tour offers a well-structured way to experience some of São Miguel’s most iconic natural attractions, especially if you’re short on time but want to see a lot. It’s a half-day adventure that packs in enough highlights to satisfy your curiosity and your need for relaxation.

The Beauty of Furnas and Its Volcanic Activity

Your journey begins with a pickup at 9:30am — a convenient start that sets the tone for a smooth day. One of the real treats is the chance to walk through the volcanic activity that makes Furnas so unique. You’ll visit Poça D. Beija, a popular hot springs spot where the water is naturally heated to about 104°F (40°C). Even in less-than-perfect weather, soaking in these waters can feel magical, thanks to the warm, mineral-rich thermal waters.

The reviews echo this sentiment, with travelers describing it as a “wonderful day” and “soothing,” highlighting how relaxing it is to sit in waters warmed by the volcano. Guides like Carlos and Andre are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly manner, which enhances the experience. They can also point out some local curiosities, such as the steaming cooking pods and viewpoints like Pico do Ferro, offering panoramic views of the lush landscape below.

Scenic Viewpoints and Local Snacks

Another aspect that adds charm is the opportunity to stop at viewpoints like Miradouro de Santa Iria. These spots deliver truly stunning vistas over the volcanic crater landscape. Plus, the tour includes short stops for tasting local delicacies such as “Bolo Lêvedo” or steamed corn, giving you a taste of local flavors. You might also consider booking ahead for a cozido lunch, a hearty stew cooked underground using volcanic heat — a memorable gastronomic experience, though it’s not included in the basic tour price.

The Beija Hot Springs Experience

The highlight for many is the ticket to Beija, which grants access to the thermal pools. This is particularly valuable since it means you don’t need to worry about additional costs or logistics. As one reviewer put it, the experience remains “great even under bad weather,” which speaks to how durable and enjoyable these thermal baths can be regardless of the weather conditions.

Visiting the Gorreana Tea Plantation

After soaking and sightseeing, the tour takes you to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, one of the oldest and largest tea plantations in Europe. Here, you’ll get to explore the factory, see the tea fields, and shop for some local tea blends — a lovely way to connect with the island’s agricultural heritage. Walking through the plantation slopes, you’ll enjoy a different kind of scenery: rolling green hills, neat rows of tea bushes, and a chance to learn about the process of tea-making.

Multiple reviews mention how much they enjoyed this stop. It’s a peaceful contrast to the geothermal activity, providing a slow, scenic walk and a chance to pick up some souvenirs directly from the source.

Duration & Flexibility

The entire tour lasts about 5-6 hours, which is quite reasonable for a full day of exploring without feeling rushed. If you decide to include lunch — which is not part of the standard tour but can be arranged in advance for about €25 per person — it might cut into some sightseeing time, but it’s well worth considering for a more complete experience.

Transport, Comfort, and Personal Touch

The fact that this is a private tour means you’ll be traveling comfortably with just your group. The flexibility allows for a more tailored pace, and the guide’s expert insights make the experience richer. The pickup service adds to the convenience, especially if you’re staying in or near Ponta Delgada.

The cost of around $170.81 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering you get all entrance fees included, a private guide, and the ability to customize your day, it offers good value. Travelers repeatedly comment on the personalized, attentive service and how guides like Carlos and Andre go above and beyond to ensure a memorable day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a blend of relaxation, scenery, and local culture. It’s ideal if you prefer a structured yet private experience and want to avoid large tour groups. Those looking to unwind in thermal waters after sightseeing, or eager to see the island’s lush viewpoints and tea plantations, will find this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly good for those with limited time but a desire to get a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s natural wonders.

If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or even a small family that enjoys scenic outings and cultural sights, this tour offers a friendly, flexible way to spend your day. Just remember, if you’re not a fan of rain or unpredictable weather, be prepared for the possibility of some damp conditions, though many spots are still enjoyable in those circumstances.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private tour of São Miguel offers a well-rounded experience—covering geothermal baths, scenic viewpoints, and a local tea plantation, all with the benefit of personalized attention. The inclusion of all entrance fees makes it a hassle-free option for those who want to focus on enjoying the sights rather than managing tickets and logistics.

The guides’ warmth and knowledge truly elevate the experience, making it feel like a day spent with friends who know the island inside out. Whether you’re after pure relaxation, scenic views, or a taste of local culture, this tour can deliver. It’s a particularly good pick for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a genuine connection to the region.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I want to relax in thermal baths?
Yes, absolutely. The tour includes access to Poça D. Beija hot springs, allowing you to unwind in natural thermal waters heated by volcanic activity.

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance fees are included, covering the hot springs and the Gorreana Tea Plantation visit. Pickup is offered, and you’ll be traveling in a private group.

Can I add lunch to this tour?
While lunch is not included, you can book a traditional “cozido” meal in advance for about €25 per person, which takes around 1.5 hours.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 5-6 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

Is this tour good for rainy days?
Yes, many of the stops, especially the hot springs, are enjoyable even in rain. The tour’s flexibility allows you to adapt if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized nature, the inclusion of all entrance fees, and the knowledgeable guides are big pluses. Travelers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and expertise.

If you’re after a day combining thermal relaxation with scenic beauty and local culture, this private São Miguel tour is a solid choice that balances comfort and adventure well.