Furnas Day Trip with BigBlue Adventures in S. Miguel Azores

The island of S. Miguel, the largest in Portugal’s Azores archipelago, is a patchwork of volcanic landscapes, lush valleys, and bubbling thermal springs — a place where geological drama meets deep-rooted culture. BigBlue Adventures offers an immersive 8-hour trip beginning in Ponta Delgada, designed for anyone eager to experience this volcanic charm firsthand. The itinerary unfolds with a visit to Vila Franca do Campo, once the island’s capital, where colonial history and coastal vistas set the tone for the day.

The highlight is Furnas, a geothermal hotspot centered around its crater lake and steaming fumaroles. Here, guests can see firsthand a local culinary tradition: “cozido na caldeira.” This method slow-cooks stew underground using the heat from volcanic vents — a tangible link between the island’s volcanic heartbeat and its culinary heritage. Lunch by the Furnas lagoon offers not only a unique flavor but an exceptional place to absorb the surrounding natural beauty.

Afterward, the route climbs to Pico do Ferro, a viewpoint perched within an ancient volcanic crater offering sweeping panoramas over Furnas and its verdant caldera. The trip wraps with a visit to Europe’s only tea factory situated on S. Miguel, where fields of Camellia sinensis stretch beneath the island’s mild climate—a surprising sight in volcanic Portugal.

BigBlue Adventures combines natural wonders, history, and local culture, crafting a journey that remains approachable yet intimate. Whether you’re drawn to hiking volcanic trails, tasting distinctive island cuisine, or learning about Azorean heritage, this outing captures the essence of S. Miguel’s outdoors in one compelling day. It’s a standout offering for visitors wanting a rich, active connection with the Azores’ volcanic soul.