Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour with Lunch

Planning a trip to the Azores and considering a day tour that combines natural wonders, cultural treats, and a taste of local flavors? This Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of São Miguel Island’s most iconic sights—all wrapped up in a manageable eight-hour package. Whether you’re into volcanic landscapes, lush gardens, or trying regional delicacies, this tour packs in a lot of what makes the Azores special.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances nature, food, and culture without feeling rushed or overly commercial. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and tea tasting makes it feel like a true local experience rather than just sightseeing. One thing to keep in mind is that the entrance to Terra Nostra Garden isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to explore that botanical gem on your own afterward.

This tour is a great fit for curious travelers who want a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and local traditions. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even a small group, it’s an accessible and engaging way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup make logistics hassle-free.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary that enhances your experience.
• Visit to Terra Nostra Park and natural hot springs offers relaxing and scenic moments.
• Sampling of cozido, a local cooked dish, is a culinary highlight.
• Tour includes a visit to Europe’s only traditional tea factory, Gorreana, with tastings.
• Flexible cancellation and payment options add peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The day begins with convenient hotel pickup from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, Vila Franca do Campo, or Ribeira Grande—making it easy no matter where you’re based on the island. From there, the journey kicks off with a brief 15-minute van ride to set the tone for the day’s adventure. The first stop is Vila Franca do Campo, where you get a quick chance to snap photos of this charming coastal town, renowned for its history and scenic harbor.

Exploring Furnas: The Heart of the Geothermal Activity

The main attraction is Furnas, a volcanic hotspot famous for its bubbling hot springs and geothermal activity. After a short 15-minute drive, you arrive at the Furnas Fumaroles, where steaming vents and bubbling mud pools showcase the island’s volcanic forces at work. This area is not just visually impressive but also offers insight into the geothermal energy that shapes São Miguel’s landscape.

Next, you visit the Terra Nostra Park, a botanical garden with over 200 years of history. The highlight here is the natural hot water pools—perfect for a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters amid lush greenery. The park’s history and plant collection add extra layers of interest, even if you choose to stroll rather than swim.

While at Furnas, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the famous cozido, a traditional stew cooked underground using volcanic heat. The tour includes a delicious local lunch, which is often praised for its authentic flavors and hearty portions. One reviewer called it a “culinary delight”, highlighting how the cozido is an integral part of the experience. It’s a chance to enjoy a traditional Azorean dish that’s both filling and steeped in local culture.

Discovering the Thermal Marvels

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to the Furnas boilers and hot springs—a fascinating look at how geothermal energy is harnessed. Walking around these bubbling pools, you begin to appreciate the raw power beneath the island’s surface. The guide will point out specific features, explaining the geological processes that create these natural marvels.

Scenic Overlooks and Photo Stops

The itinerary includes several photo stops to take in the vistas of São Miguel’s rugged coastlines and volcanic valleys. The Pico do Ferro Lookout offers a panoramic view of the Furnas valley, giving you a chance to snap some memorable pictures. Later, at the Santa Iria Lookout and Ribeira Grande, you’ll see more of the island’s varied landscapes—cliffs, green hills, and charming towns.

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The Gorreana Tea Factory: Europe’s Only Traditional Tea Producer

One of the most unique parts of the tour is the visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory, which has been producing tea using traditional methods for over a century. As the only tea factory in Europe still operating this way, it’s a fascinating glimpse into a craft that’s both cultural and practical. The tour includes a guided walk through the plantation, where you’ll learn about the tea-making process, from leaf picking to processing. You’ll also get to enjoy a tea tasting, trying different varieties that are grown right here on the island.

Reviews highlight how this visit is both educational and flavorful: one person mentioned that the guide “showed us his hometown” and that the tea tasting was a highlight, offering a real taste of Azorean tradition.

Wrapping Up with More Views

The tour concludes with scenic stops like the Ribeira Grande and Lagoa to soak in the last views of the day. The small group atmosphere, friendly guides, and well-paced schedule make the whole experience feel personal and manageable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

What sets this tour apart is how it combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food all in one day. The emphasis on geothermal activity and volcanic landscapes offers a tangible connection to the island’s geology—something you might not get from just wandering around on your own. The inclusion of a traditional cozido lunch really elevates the experience, giving you a taste of local life in a hearty, authentic dish.

The visit to the Gorreana tea factory adds a layer of uniqueness—especially since Europe’s only traditional tea factory is right here in the Azores. The tea tasting is a simple but memorable way to finish the day, offering both education and a flavorful experience.

The Real Value of the Experience

At $85 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of stops, the included lunch, tea tasting, and transportation. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, noting how they enhance the experience with local stories and insights. The fact that you’re picked up and dropped off at your hotel also makes it a convenient option, especially if you want to avoid navigating rental cars or public transport.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly well-suited for nature lovers, those interested in volcanic geology, and anyone keen to sample local cuisine and traditional crafts like tea-making. It’s a good option for travelers who prefer a structured, guided day rather than trying to coordinate multiple sites on their own. If you enjoy scenic vistas, cultural immersions, and relaxing in thermal waters, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you’re someone who prefers very active adventures or wants to visit specific sites not included in this itinerary, you might want to supplement this tour or look for more tailored options.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, culinary traditions, and local crafts. It’s a thoughtful way to spend a day, especially if you want insights from knowledgeable guides and a taste of authentic Azorean life. The combination of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and comfort makes it a solid pick for most travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable experience.

This tour strikes a nice balance—it’s informative without feeling like a rush, and the included lunch and tea tasting add extra layers of enjoyment. It’s particularly suited for those who want to appreciate the island’s geothermal phenomena, scenic views, and traditional industries without the stress of planning each detail themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, along with transportation during the day to all the stops.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, making it a full but comfortably paced day of sightseeing and tasting.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel if you plan to swim in the pools, a camera for photos, and perhaps some beachwear. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking around the geothermal sites and gardens.

Are meals and tastings included?
Yes, your lunch and tea tastings are included in the price. The lunch features the local cozido, and you’ll enjoy a guided tea tasting at Gorreana.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour. This flexibility makes it easier to plan around changing travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While no specific mention of children is made, the activities—like walking around gardens, scenic overlooks, and tasting—are generally family-friendly. Just keep in mind the walking involved and check if your kids enjoy such outings.

Is the Terra Nostra Garden entrance included?
No, the entrance fee to Terra Nostra Garden isn’t included, so if you want to explore further on your own after the tour, you’ll need to buy tickets separately.

What languages are available for the tour?
The guide speaks English, Portuguese, and Spanish, so you should be able to understand and enjoy the explanations comfortably.

If you’re looking for a day that marries natural wonders with cultural flavor, this tour offers a comprehensive and memorable way to see São Miguel in one day. Whether you’re into geothermal activity, scenic views, or tasting regional specialties, it’s a balanced experience that’s likely to leave you with a deeper appreciation of the Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: