Van Laketour Furnas Full Day/ with lunch (Shared)

Exploring São Miguel with the Van Laketour to Furnas

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores and want a well-rounded day exploring the highlights of São Miguel, this Furnas full-day tour offers a mix of scenic views, local flavors, and relaxing hot springs. Based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it seems like a fantastic way to get a solid taste of what the island has to offer without feeling rushed.

What we particularly love about this tour is the variety of stops — from tasting traditional pastries in Vila Franca do Campo to wandering through tea plantations, and finally relaxing in thermal pools. Plus, the knowledgeable guides consistently earn praise, making the experience both informative and personable. A potential snag? The price point, at around $83 per person, might seem high for some, but considering the variety of stops and inclusions, many find it to be good value.

This tour suits travelers who want to see a mix of natural beauty, enjoy local cuisine, and prefer the convenience of a guided trip. It’s especially great if you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one day experience that covers plenty of highlights without the hassle of planning every stop yourself.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering the best of Furnas and surrounding areas
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights and local stories
• Variety of attractions: thermal pools, tea plantations, traditional pastries, lakes
• Good value considering it includes lunch and multiple stops
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Flexible scheduling that adapts to weather conditions

A Deep Dive into the Furnas Full-Day Tour

If you’re someone who appreciates a balanced mix of nature, culture, and leisure, this tour is likely to hit the spot. Starting bright and early at 9:00 am, you’ll meet your driver and guide at the ANC Azores Holidays meeting point in Ponta Delgada. The bus — which scales up to 21 seats if the group is larger — promises a comfortable ride through some of the island’s most stunning scenery.

What’s Included and How It Adds to the Experience

For about $83, you get lunch, a professional guide, and transportation, which makes the day more about soaking in the sights rather than stressing over logistics. Lunch is served at the Caldeira das Furnas — a spot known for its traditional cozido, cooked underground using volcanic heat. Many reviews rave about the deliciousness of the food and the beautiful views during the meal, making it a highlight of the day.

While admission tickets to some sites like the thermal pools and Lagoa das Furnas aren’t included, the tour’s structure means you can choose whether to indulge in these additional activities. For example, Poca da Dona Beija offers a chance to unwind in thermal pools, and several reviews mention how memorable and rejuvenating the experience is, especially after a day of sightseeing.

The Stops Breakdown

1. Cerâmica Vieira Factory & Vila Franca do Campo

These first stops give a glimpse into local crafts and history. Visiting the ceramic factory allows you to see traditional Azorean pottery-making, which visitors find quite interesting. In Vila Franca do Campo, you’ll explore the port and taste Queijadas, the island’s famous sweet cheese pastries. Reviewers love these stops for their authentic feel and the chance to sample regional specialties.

2. Lagoa das Furnas

This crater lake is a visual treat, with lush surroundings and a calm, reflective surface. The highlight here is seeing the spot where the famous stew is cooked underground, using geothermal heat. It’s a unique experience that many describe as “spectacular” and “beautiful.”

3. Poca da Dona Beija Thermal Pools

A favorite among guests, these pools are praised for their relaxing waters and scenic setting. If you’re in need of a break or some soothing warmth, this is a perfect stop. Keep in mind, admission isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget a bit extra.

4. Lunch at Caldeira das Furnas

This is a key moment — enjoying a traditional cozido stew with views of the geothermal activity around you. Many reviews mention how delicious and hearty the meal is, making it more than just a meal, but a part of the experience.

5. Gorreana Tea Plantation

The tour ends at one of Europe’s oldest tea plantations, where you can wander through the green fields, learn about tea production, and taste a variety of teas. Reviewers often mention how engaging this stop is, and how much they enjoyed trying the different flavors directly from the source.

6. Ribeira Grande & PDL

The final stops are a great way to wind down, stroll through the charming streets, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback

Guests frequently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. One reviewer highlighted “the extremely knowledgeable and pleasant guide, Luis,” who made the experience both fun and informative. Others appreciated the beautiful vistas and the quality of the food, especially the cozido, which many call “delicious” and “hearty.”

The thermal pools, particularly in Poca da Dona Beija, receive glowing reports for being relaxing and memorable. One guest called them “unforgettable and perfect for relaxing,” which is exactly what many of us look for after a day of sightseeing.

A standout point in the reviews is the organization and timing, with guides ensuring the group stays on schedule and makes the most of each stop. The small group format (or larger van when needed) helps keep things intimate and personalized.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pick-up at the specified meeting point. It lasts about 7 to 8 hours, which is enough time to enjoy all the stops without feeling overly rushed. The price point of around $83 per person reflects the inclusion of lunch, transportation, and guides, making it a good deal for those wanting a comprehensive day out.

Keep in mind that some sites require separate admission fees if you wish to partake in activities like swimming in the thermal pools. These are not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly if you want to take a dip.

The group size is capped at 21 travelers, but usually, it’s smaller, creating a more relaxed environment. The tour is suitable for most travelers, as it involves walking around at various stops, but no strenuous activity is required.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see a good range of São Miguel’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. If you enjoy learning about local culture, tasting regional foods, and relaxing in thermal waters, you’ll probably love it. It’s also a smart choice for those who prefer guided tours rather than navigating alone.

However, if you’re after a very personalized, private experience or have specific dietary restrictions, you might find this tour somewhat structured. Still, most reviews point out the guides’ flexibility and attentiveness, which helps make the day enjoyable.

The Sum Up

For those wanting a well-rounded, relaxed day exploring São Miguel, this Furnas tour offers a taste of everything — from scenic lakes and volcanic landscapes to local treats and soothing thermal pools. The knowledgeable guides and delicious food are often highlighted as the tour’s strongest points, adding genuine value to the experience.

The overall positive reviews suggest that most travelers leave feeling they’ve truly experienced the essence of Furnas. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and leisure, and who appreciate the convenience of a guided trip that covers multiple highlights.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the combination of inclusions, stops, and the chance to relax in thermal pools makes it a solid choice for making the most of your day on São Miguel. Prepare for a day of diverse scenery, engaging stories, and tasty bites — a true taste of the Azores.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, your tour includes a hearty lunch at Furnas, featuring the famous cozido stew cooked underground. It’s often praised for being delicious and satisfying.

Can I visit the thermal pools?
Yes, you have the opportunity to swim at the Poca da Dona Beija thermal pools, though admission fees are not included. It’s a popular highlight for relaxing after sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 21 travelers. Most groups are smaller, offering a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a swimsuit if you plan to swim. Also, some cash or card for additional purchases like thermal pool entry.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, guides are fluent and provide detailed explanations, as praised in reviews for their friendliness and knowledge.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour can be adjusted depending on weather conditions, and it generally stays on schedule to cover all stops effectively.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

If you’re after a full, engaging day that combines scenery, culture, and relaxation, this Furnas tour from São Miguel is worth considering. It’s a chance to see key spots without the stress of planning, guided by friendly experts who know their way around the island.