Tour to Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden – full day

If you’re headed to São Miguel and looking for a way to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights in one day, this Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden tour might just be what you need. It promises a mix of stunning volcanic landscapes, cultural highlights, and plenty of relaxation, all wrapped into about 8 hours of exploration. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel in Ponte Delgada to your return, the tour offers a smooth, well-paced experience that packs in quite a bit.

Two things we really like about this trip are the personal touch of a knowledgeable guide and the chance to enjoy a traditional cozido meal cooked with geothermal steam. These features elevate the experience, making it not just about seeing sights but also about understanding the island’s unique geology and local culture. That said, a potential downside is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to organize your transportation to the meeting point.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with plenty of highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy learning about natural landscapes, trying local foods, and relaxing in thermal pools. If all that sounds right up your alley, keep reading for a detailed look at what this experience involves.

Key Points

• Convenient door-to-door transport from Ponte Delgada hotels (note: not included, so plan accordingly)
• Guided by a local expert, enriching your understanding of the island’s volcanic features and culture
• Visit to Gorreana tea plantation to sample fresh local tea
• Experience of geothermal activity at Furnas, including fumaroles and springs
• Relaxing dip in the Terra Nostra hot springs with warm, iron-rich water
• A delicious traditional cozido lunch, cooked using geothermal steam, offering authentic flavors
• Variety of scenic stops, including viewpoints and volcanic lakes
• Small group setting (max 18 travelers), making for a more personal experience

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Gorreana Tea Plantation

The day kicks off with a visit to the Gorreana tea plantation, on the north coast. This is one of Europe’s few remaining tea factories, and you get the chance to see how the local tea is made. Not only that, but you’ll also have time to taste some fresh, locally produced tea—an unexpected treat for many travelers. It’s a relaxing start that gives insight into one of São Miguel’s most enduring agricultural traditions.

Miradouro Pico Do Ferro

Next, you’ll stop at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint. From this vantage point, the views of the volcanic landscape are truly striking. The caldera and surrounding volcanic formations become clearer here, offering that perfect photo opportunity. The guide will probably share some background about the island’s geomorphology, helping you appreciate the geology that shapes São Miguel.

Caldeira das Furnas

Then comes a visit to Furnas town, famous for its fumaroles and thermal springs. Here, you’ll see steam vents and bubbling hot springs with waters of various tastes, thanks to mineral content. It’s a sensory experience—smells of sulfur and the sight of steam rising from the earth are part of the charm. The guide will explain the geothermal activity that makes Furnas such a unique spot on the island.

Lagoa das Furnas

The next stop is Lagoa das Furnas, a crater lake surrounded by volcanic activity. This scenic spot vividly shows the island’s volcanic origins, with steaming vents and lush greenery framing the water. It’s a peaceful place where the landscape feels alive with geothermal energy.

Terra Nostra Botanical Garden

Arguably the highlight for many visitors is the Terra Nostra Park, a century-old botanical garden filled with native Azorean plants and species from around the world. The garden is a visual feast, with winding paths and tropical foliage, but the real draw is the hot spring pool. Sitting in the iron-rich waters at about 35-40°C (95-104°F) feels almost medicinal—perfect for relaxing after a morning of sightseeing. The fact that this pool is open to visitors after the garden visit adds a lovely, leisurely end to the morning.

Vila Franca do Campo

To round out the day, you’ll visit Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital. The guide will share the history of this seaside town and point out Vila Franca Islet, a circular islet known for swimming and its unique shape. It’s a brief stop but offers a chance to soak in the local atmosphere and admire another beautiful coastline.

The Experience and What It Means for You

We loved the variety of sights packed into this tour—from botanical gardens and scenic viewpoints to geothermal activity and charming towns. The guide’s knowledge added depth to each stop, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Multiple reviews praise guides like Philipe for adding value and making the day memorable, which is important when you’re spending a full day with a group.

The lunch is a significant part of this tour. Instead of a typical tourist meal, you get to taste cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew cooked underground using geothermal heat. Many reviews mention it as a delicious and authentic local specialty, which is a real bonus for those wanting more than just sightseeing.

Another highlight is the Terra Nostra hot springs. Travelers report that the experience of soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters is both relaxing and fun. It’s a chance to unwind and enjoy a unique natural feature that’s hard to find elsewhere.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off. The meeting point is at the Futurismo Azores Adventures office at Marina Portas do Mar, which is near public transportation. This isn’t a huge issue if you’re staying nearby or comfortable arranging your transport, but it’s something to keep in mind.

The overall value seems excellent, especially considering the price of $100.80 per person. It includes most entrance fees, lunch, and the guiding service, which makes it a convenient way to see key sites without worrying about tickets or logistics.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day that combines natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation, this tour hits many marks. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate a good guide, enjoy learning about geology and plants, and want to sample authentic Azorean cuisine. The small group size makes it more personal, and the pace is described as comfortable, so it’s suitable even if you prefer a less hectic day.

It might not be ideal if you prefer to explore independently or want a highly flexible schedule. Also, if hotel transportation is important, you’ll need to arrange that separately since it’s not included.

FAQ

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to meet at the specified location at Marina Portas do Mar.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience runs about 8 hours, starting at 9:00am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The itinerary and activities are generally family-friendly.

What’s the main highlight of the day?
Many find the visit to Terra Nostra’s hot springs and the cozido lunch to be the most memorable parts, but the scenic viewpoints and geothermal sites are equally striking.

Are the sites crowded?
Given the small group size (max 18 travelers), you’ll likely experience a more intimate visit, though popular spots like Terra Nostra can get busy during peak times.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Is the tour operated in multiple languages?
Yes, it may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, your swimwear for Terra Nostra, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended, especially since you’ll be outdoors most of the day.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden tour offers a well-rounded look at São Miguel’s volcanic heart, with a good balance of sightseeing, learning, and relaxing. The guided experience adds a layer of depth, making it easier to appreciate the island’s geothermal wonders and lush landscapes. The inclusion of a traditional cozido meal and access to the hot springs makes the day feel complete and satisfying.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see key natural and cultural highlights in one go, and don’t mind organizing your own transport to the meeting point, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially worthwhile for those who value knowledgeable guides and small group settings. Whether it’s your first time on the island or a return visit, this trip promises a memorable day with plenty of picture-worthy moments and authentic experiences.

Note: Always double-check current details and availability before booking, as tour specifics can change.