Thinking about visiting São Miguel and wondering if a guided tour of the Furnas Valley is worth your time? This private experience, offered by Travel Markfly, seems to hit many of the right notes—covering key sights, offering relaxing thermal baths, and providing a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on memorable vistas and authentic local experiences. Highlights like relaxing in Terra Nostra Park’s thermal baths and exploring the lively village of Furnas genuinely stand out. Plus, visiting the Gorreana Tea Factory adds a cultural touch that’s both informative and tasty.
But, as in all things, there are a few considerations. The price, at $505 for a group up to six, might seem a bit steep if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget, and the tour doesn’t include meals or extra fees, which could add up.
This tour suits travelers who value comfort, keen on exploring São Miguel’s scenic spots at a relaxed pace, and eager to experience the island’s geothermal wonders without the hassle of organizing multiple logistics themselves.
Key Points:
- Relaxation and Scenic Views: The thermal baths and viewpoints like Pico do Ferro offer some of the best vistas and relaxation on the island.
- Cultural Insights: Visiting the Gorreana Tea Factory lets you learn about local tea production and sample fresh brews.
- Authentic Local Flavors: Though not included, you can taste the famous Furnas stew cooked in volcanic soil—a unique culinary experience.
- Time-Efficient and Private: It’s a 7.5-day tailored experience for small groups, making it more intimate and flexible.
- Cost Consideration: At $505 per group, it’s a premium experience, but offers a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s highlights.
- Physical Readiness: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a camera will serve you well, as the day involves some walking and scenic stops.
The Beginning: Setting Out for São Miguel’s Highlights
This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of the Furnas Valley, one of the most iconic and picturesque areas on São Miguel. From start to finish, the focus is on balance: scenic viewpoints, cultural spots, and relaxing breaks. Because it’s a private group, you can expect a more personalized experience—less rush, more flexibility.
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Panoramic Viewpoints: Santa Iria and Pico do Ferro
The journey kicks off with stops at Santa Iria and Pico do Ferro viewpoints. These are the perfect places to stretch your legs and take in breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape. The photos you’ll take here are likely to be among your favorites—vast green fields, craters, and the shimmering coast. Travelers love these stops because they’re short but offer “stunning vistas that make it worth every step,” according to reviews.
You’ll want your camera ready—these views could easily fill your social media with some truly spectacular shots. The viewpoints also serve as a peaceful intro to the volcanic energy that shapes the island, giving context to the geothermal activities you’ll witness later.
Exploring Furnace Village and Active Fumaroles
Next, you’ll head into the heart of the Furnas Valley itself. Here, the atmosphere is lively and a bit mystical—steam rising from fumaroles, the scent of sulfur in the air, and a quaint village that feels both charming and full of geothermal activity.
Walking among the active fumaroles is like witnessing the Earth’s natural power firsthand. You might find yourself fascinated by the boiling mineral waters and the various taste tests offered at different mineral springs. Reviewers mention that the fumaroles are “really active and smell strongly, but it’s part of the charm.”
Plus, the village of Furnas is home to the famous Furnas stew, a slow-cooked dish prepared underground in volcanic soil. While this isn’t included in the tour, many say it’s worth seeking out nearby for a taste. Several reviews highlight how the local cuisine adds an authentic flavor to the experience.
Gorreana Tea Factory: A Cultural Stop
A visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory is a highlight for many. It’s one of the few tea plantations in Europe still operating, and it’s a fascinating place to learn about tea production—seeing the lush plantations, understanding the process, and sampling freshly brewed teas.
Reviewers have appreciated how knowledgeable the guides are here, often mentioning that “it’s a lovely break from all the sightseeing, and the tea tasting is a real treat.” It’s a great opportunity to buy some souvenirs and gain insight into local agriculture.
More Great Tours NearbyRelaxation in Terra Nostra Park’s Thermal Baths
One of the standout features of this tour is the chance to relax in Terra Nostra Park’s thermal baths. The thermal waters are rich in minerals and are considered beneficial for health and well-being. The lush setting of the park, with its exotic plants and historical thermal pool, adds to the tranquil vibe.
Many reviews mention how relaxing this part of the tour is—“a perfect way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.” Be sure to bring swimwear and a towel. The experience is particularly enjoyable on a sunny day, when the warm waters and tropical surroundings create a calming atmosphere.
Lagoa das Furnas and Vila Franca do Campo
After relaxing, the tour takes you to the Furnas Lagoon—a stunning crater lake with steamy surroundings. The scenery here is quite different from other parts of the island, offering a peaceful, almost otherworldly landscape.
Then, a visit to Vila Franca do Campo offers a taste of local life and coastal beauty. It’s a charming fishing town with colorful houses and views of the islet nearby. The tour includes a sweet stop at the Queijadas do Morgado Factory, where you can indulge in local pastries that are beloved by residents and visitors alike.
What’s Not Included and Additional Considerations
While the tour packs in a lot, it’s important to remember that lunch isn’t included. You’ll want to budget for meals, especially if you want to try the famous Furnas stew or other local dishes. Also, extra charges or fees might apply for certain activities or entry to places.
Since it’s a private group, the pace is generally relaxed, but be prepared for some walking—comfortable shoes are a must. The tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users, as terrain and accessibility may be limited.
São Miguel: Furnas Valley Tour with Thermal Bath Option
Final Thoughts on Value
At $505 for a group up to six, this tour is a bit of an investment. But the price reflects the personalized service, the inclusion of many scenic and cultural highlights, and the convenience of having a knowledgeable guide handle logistics. If you’re someone who appreciates a well-curated experience with plenty of photo opportunities and opportunities to relax, this is a good choice.
Many travelers have mentioned how the stunning views and the geothermal activities left a lasting impression. The balance between sightseeing and downtime makes it suitable for travelers who want an immersive yet comfortable day.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see the Furnas Valley’s top sights and enjoy some relaxing thermal baths, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good for those who prefer a private, guided experience over independent exploring. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in cultural highlights like the tea factory and local cuisine, alongside natural wonders.
However, if you’re on a tight budget or seeking a more active, adventure-heavy day, you might find this experience a bit gentle. Also, those with mobility issues should consider accessibility, as it’s not suited for wheelchair users.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-focused, it can be suitable depending on the child’s interests and mobility. Keep in mind the walking involved and that the terrain around fumaroles and viewpoints can be uneven.
How long is the thermal bath experience?
The tour states that you have the option to relax in Terra Nostra Park’s thermal baths, but it doesn’t specify exactly how long. Most visitors spend enough time to enjoy the waters and the peaceful surroundings, typically around an hour or so.
Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. The panoramic views, geothermal features, and colorful villages make for great photo opportunities. Just be mindful of the weather and humidity when handling your equipment.
Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll want to plan to buy food during the day, which gives you the flexibility to choose something local and authentic.
What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a camera, water, and comfortable clothes are recommended. Don’t forget sun protection if it’s sunny, and a small towel if you plan to swim.
Are there any restrictions on the tour?
Smoking, alcohol, and littering are not allowed. Also, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to terrain considerations.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind in case your plans change.
This Furnas Valley tour offers a balanced look at São Miguel’s natural beauty, geothermal activity, and local flavor. It’s a good pick for those wanting a relaxed, guided day without the hassle of planning every stop themselves. Just go prepared for some walking and a bit of an investment, and you’ll likely come away with memorable views and a deeper appreciation of this volcanic island.
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