Full Day: Furnas, Tea Plantations & More With Lunch

Exploring São Miguel Island through a full-day tour that covers everything from geothermal marvels to lush tea fields offers a wonderful way to experience the Azores’ natural beauty and local culture. This particular experience, offered by Trip Azores, takes you on a well-paced journey, hitting some of the most photogenic spots and authentic flavors the island has to offer. It’s designed for those eager to see volcanic landscapes, indulge in traditional cuisine, and enjoy scenic vistas, all in one day.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the expert guidance and the balance of active exploration with relaxed moments. Your guide, Eric, earns praise for his friendly attitude and detailed explanations—something you’ll notice in reviews calling him attentive and personable. The opportunity to soak in thermal pools, especially Terra Nostra’s famous warm waters, adds a delightful element of relaxation. Plus, visiting Europe’s only tea plantations makes for a unique tasting experience you won’t find elsewhere.

A potential drawback is the tour’s inclusion of several stops in a single day, which might feel a little rushed if you’re a slow mover or love lingering at each site. Entrance fees to thermal pools aren’t included, so you should budget for that separately. Also, while the tour offers hotel pick-up, it’s limited to certain areas, so double-check your location beforehand.

This experience is a fantastic way to see the highlights of São Miguel without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It strikes a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural insights, and authentic Azorean flavors, making it a well-rounded introduction to the island’s volcanic charm.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Local Experience: Enjoy the traditional “Cozido” cooked underground using volcanic heat—an unmistakably Azorean culinary highlight.
• Diverse Landscapes: From crater lakes to rugged coastlines, the tour showcases the island’s stunning variety of volcanic scenery.
• Unique Attractions: Visit Europe’s only tea plantations, a rare sight in a continent dominated by other crops, and learn about their production.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Eric bring the island to life with insightful stories and friendly service, enhancing the overall experience.
• Relaxation and Adventure: Combining geothermal pools, scenic drives, and cultural sights, it’s perfect for those seeking a mix of chill and exploration.
• Small Group Sizes: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

As someone who appreciates authentic travel experiences, I find that guided tours like this give you a solid overview of a place’s highlights, especially when time is limited. This full-day adventure on São Miguel aims to deliver just that: a well-curated selection of natural wonders, cultural delights, and scenic beauty—all wrapped up in a comfortable, small-group setting.

Starting with the Coast: Caloura and Vila Franca do Campo

The day begins with a pick-up from your accommodation, where you’ll hop into a comfortable, climate-controlled van. The first stop is at Caloura, a coastal village where cliffs plunge dramatically into the Atlantic, creating a rugged, picturesque scene. Here, you’ll get a quick look at the island’s dramatic coastline—perfect for snapping photos and breathing in that salty sea air.

Next, you’ll visit Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital, which boasts a charming historic center and a stunning volcanic islet just offshore. Walking through its streets gives you a taste of local life, with small cafes and pastel-colored houses that tell stories of a bygone era. From here, the views of the islet are breathtaking and give you an excellent photo opportunity.

Entering the Heart of the Volcano: Furnas Village and Lake

As you head inland toward the geothermal hub of Furnas, your guide—like the highly praised Eric—will share stories and facts about the volcanic activity that shapes this landscape. The fumaroles steaming in the air, along with bubbling hot springs, make this a place where you can really feel the power of the earth beneath your feet.

Furnas Lake, with its peaceful surface surrounded by lush greenery, becomes the perfect backdrop for photos. The calm waters reflect the surrounding hills, and the area’s tranquility is a welcome change from the busier coastal spots. Many guests describe the scene as picturesque and perfect for just soaking in the natural beauty.

Thermal Pools and Volcanic Baths: A Relaxing Break

A highlight for many is a dip in the thermal pools, especially Terra Nostra’s famed warm waters. As one reviewer put it, “enjoyed a wonderful swim in the warm thermal waters”—a truly magical experience that combines nature’s heat with a sense of well-being. Keep in mind that entry fees are not included, so be prepared to purchase tickets on the spot.

Relaxing in these mineral-rich waters is more than just a treat; it’s believed to have therapeutic benefits. After your swim, you can stroll around the gardens or simply unwind—an ideal way to recharge for the next part of your journey.

The Unique Flavors of “Cozido das Furnas”

No visit to Furnas would be complete without tasting the famous “Cozido das Furnas”—a hearty stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. The process, which involves digging a hole and covering the pot with hot earth, lends the dish a distinct flavor. It’s a true culinary adventure, and many reviews praise the taste and the authenticity of this local specialty.

Enjoying this meal is a reminder of how the island’s volcanic activity influences daily life and cuisine. It’s a communal and time-honored tradition that offers a taste of local culture you won’t forget.

Traveling North: The Tea Plantations

After covering the volcanic heart of the island, your journey continues to Europe’s only tea plantations. These lush, green fields are a startling sight—imagine tea bushes stretching over the landscape, a rare scene in the Old World. Here, you’ll learn about the cultivation and processing of Azorean tea, and many visitors enjoy a complimentary tasting.

The scenic walk through the plantations, combined with the fresh mountain air, makes this stop a peaceful contrast to the geothermal and coastal sights. It’s a great way to see a different side of the island’s natural beauty and sample a local product you won’t find elsewhere in Europe.

Ending with Coastal Charm: Caloura and Return to Ponta Delgada

On your return route, you’ll pass through Caloura once more, giving you a last chance to admire the Atlantic views. The tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel, or near the cruise port if you’re traveling that way. The small group size and friendly guide make this a relaxed, personable experience—something many travelers appreciate.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel with a focus on nature, culture, and local flavors, this tour hits the spot. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer not to drive or plan independently, trusting knowledgeable guides like Eric to show you the best spots. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, thermal baths, and tasting authentic dishes like cozido.

The price, at $85, is reasonable considering the variety of experiences packed into one day, especially with small group sizes ensuring personalized attention. Keep in mind, entrance fees for thermal pools aren’t included, so factor that into your budget.

This tour is suitable for active travelers who like a mix of walking, sightseeing, and photo opportunities, but it also offers enough time to relax and soak in each place. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy here.

What is included in the tour?
Your experience includes transportation in a climate-controlled van, a knowledgeable local guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off within designated areas, and a traditional “Cozido das Furnas” lunch. You also get to visit Europe’s only tea plantations and enjoy a tea tasting.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the fee for thermal pools in Furnas and Furnas Lake is not included; you’ll need to pay for those separately on-site.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s designed to give you a rundown of São Miguel’s highlights without feeling rushed.

What languages are available?
The tour is guided in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring that most travelers can enjoy the commentary and learn about the sites.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most stops involve walking and some gentle exploration, but it’s generally accessible for those with average mobility. If you have specific concerns, it’s best to contact the provider beforehand.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This full-day tour offers a taste of São Miguel’s volcanic wonders, local culinary traditions, and scenic beauty—all while providing a comfortable, guided experience. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a worry-free way to see the best of the Azores in one memorable day.