Furnas Van Tour on São Miguel with Azorean Tales
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves brief walks on mostly flat, accessible terrain
Overview
Spend a day with Azorean Tales diving deep into São Miguel’s Furnas valley, from historic tea plantations to steamy hot springs. Taste local flavors and capture views shaped by volcanic energy.
São Miguel island - Get to know Furnas like the locals in a full day van tour
All ages • 8 hours • Beautiful landscapes & Furnas
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour adventure through São Miguel's stunning landscapes. Visit the historic Gorreana tea plantations, soak in Furnas' hot springs, and explore picturesque lagoons. Savor local delicacies like Cozido das Furnas and Azorean pineapple, while enjoying breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the island's natural beauty.
Begin your tour of the beautiful natural landmarks of São Miguel.
Duration
8 hours
About
Discover a region abundant with beautiful scenery, lush landscapes, and fantastic viewpoints.
Take a tour of Plantações de Chá Gorreana, the oldest tea plantations in Europe. See the only fields of tea in Europe, and whilst at the plantation, you can sample the tea for free and roam around the fields. After that, head to Furnas to explore the valley and take a dip in the hot springs to relax a bit and connect with nature.
After the visit to the hot springs, you can purchase some lunch in Furnas. After lunch, visit the lagoon and roam around a bit to enjoy the surroundings. When the visit to the lagoon is finished it's time to head to Vila Franca to have a look at the world-famous islet. Finish the tour in Ponta Delgada with a visit to the pineapple plantations.
Highlights
• Admire the views of Furnas Lake • Enjoy bathing in the hot springs • Stop at various impressive viewpoints • Taste the flavours of the Azores, through the world famous Gorreana tea, Cozido das Furnas and azorean pineapple
NOTE
If you wish to bathe in the hot springs, please message us upon booking, to reserve the tickets. Bookings made less than 48 hours prior to the start of the tour may not be able to take the tour in German, French, or Spanish. Please contact us if needed.
What to bring
• Comfortable shoes • Swimwear and towel (if you wish to swim) • Comfortable clothes
Included
• Pickup and drop-off • Certified tour guide • Powerbanks • Maps and guide books
Not Included
• Breakfast and lunch • Entrance tickets in parks
Not allowed
• Smoking in the vehicle • Alcohol and drugs • Food in the vehicle • Pets
Adventure Tips
Book Hot Springs Access Early
Reserve your spot for soaking in Furnas' hot springs when you book to ensure availability.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Prepare for walking around tea plantations and lagoon trails with sturdy, comfortable footwear.
Bring Swimwear and Towel
Pack a swimsuit if you plan to take a dip in the geothermal pools during the tour.
Carry Weather-Appropriate Layers
The microclimate in Furnas can change quickly, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Azores bullfinch, a rare endemic bird
- Grey wagtails seen near Furnas Lake
History
Furnas has been a geothermal hotspot for centuries, used by locals since before the 15th century for cooking and bathing.
Conservation
Efforts in the Azores prioritize sustainable tourism to protect fragile volcanic landscapes and native species while supporting local communities.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ponta Delgada
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes are crucial for walking through plantations and light trails around Furnas.
Swimsuit and Towel
Bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy the warm geothermal pools.
spring|summer|fall specific
Layered Clothing
Layering helps adjust to changing temperatures and sudden weather shifts.
all specific
Rain Jacket
Light waterproof protection keeps you dry during the island’s scattered showers.
spring|fall|winter specific