Set out on a captivating journey through São Miguel’s natural wonders and cultural heritage with the São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour. Enjoy the volcanic landscape, witness the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew cooked by the earth’s heat, and explore the mesmerizing waterfalls and historic watermills of Ribeira dos Caldeirões. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – venture to a renowned tea plantation and uncover the island’s diverse landscapes that will leave you in awe. With knowledgeable local guides, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for this enchanting corner of the Azores. Where will this tour take you next?
Key Points
- A full-day guided tour of the natural wonders of São Miguel island, including the volcanic Lagoa das Furnas and the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park.
- Witness the traditional ‘Cozido das Furnas’ stew being cooked by volcanic heat and savor the unique local dish.
- Explore the island’s rich history, geology, and culinary traditions through visits to tea plantations, waterfalls, and watermills.
- Enjoy a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides in English and Portuguese, limited to 8 participants.
- Immerse in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse natural beauty of São Miguel, showcasing the island’s volcanic origins and captivating cultural heritage.
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Tour Overview
Embarking on a full-day guided tour, visitors will explore the main highlights of São Miguel island, seeing the natural wonders and cultural traditions of this Azorean paradise.
The 8-hour excursion, led by knowledgeable guides in English and Portuguese, promises a small-group experience limited to just 8 participants.
Travelers will discover the volcanic Lagoa das Furnas and witness the unique ‘Cozido das Furnas‘ stew cooked in the island’s thermal soil.
They’ll also venture to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, where they’ll marvel at watermills and waterfalls, as well as visit one of Europe’s only tea plantations.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a hassle-free way to uncover São Miguel’s captivating landscapes and traditions.
Key Attractions
Visitors on this full-day tour will enjoy the natural wonders of São Miguel island, exploring the volcanic Lagoa das Furnas and witnessing the unique ‘Cozido das Furnas‘ stew cooked in the island’s thermal soil.
They’ll also discover the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, marveling at the cascading waterfalls and traditional watermills.
The tour includes a visit to either the Gorreana or Porto Formoso Tea Factory, the only tea plantations in Europe.
These key attractions offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history, geology, and culinary traditions, providing an unforgettable experience for all who explore them.
Lagoa Das Furnas
The Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater lake nestled within the island’s interior, beckons visitors to witness its otherworldly beauty. Its steaming vents and bubbling hot springs are a testament to the island’s dynamic geological history, drawing travelers in search of a unique and captivating experience.
The tour visits this remarkable site, offering the chance to witness the famous ‘Cozido das Furnas‘ stew being cooked by the heat of the earth. Guests can savor this traditional dish, marveling at the natural cooking process that takes place within the volcanic soil.
The Lagoa das Furnas is a mesmerizing highlight, showcasing the raw power and beauty of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.
Ribeira Dos Caldeirões
From the captivating Lagoa das Furnas, the tour continues its exploration of São Miguel’s natural wonders, leading guests to the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park.
This verdant oasis boasts a mesmerizing array of waterfalls and historic watermills, inviting visitors to enjoy the island’s rich cultural and environmental heritage.
The park’s cascading waterfalls, some over 60 feet high, create a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Guests can wander through the lush greenery, discovering the remnants of the region’s once-thriving milling industry and learning about the vital role these watermills played in the island’s history.
This picturesque stop showcases São Miguel’s diverse natural beauty and offers a glimpse into its captivating past.
Tea Factory Visit
One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to either the Gorreana or Porto Formoso Tea Factory, the only two tea plantations in all of Europe, where guests can discover the time-honored tradition of tea production on the island of São Miguel. Visitors will explore the lush green tea fields and learn about the meticulous process of harvesting, drying, and processing the leaves into fragrant, high-quality tea. They’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the modern machinery and traditional techniques used to create the distinctive Azorean teas. Afterwards, there’s a chance to sample the various offerings and take home some of this unique local product as a memento of the day.
| Tea Varieties Produced | Growing Season | Harvesting Methods | Awards & Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Tea | Early Spring to Late Autumn | Hand-Picking | Gorreana Tea – Oldest Tea Estate in Europe |
| Green Tea | Continuous Year-Round | Mechanical Harvesting | Porto Formoso Tea – Organic Certification |
| Herbal Infusions | Seasonal Harvests | Sustainable Practices | Both Teas – Protected Geographical Indication |
Inclusions
The tour package includes a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, providing a seamless start to your day of exploration.
Travelers will also receive a complimentary water bottle, umbrella, and child seat (upon request) to ensure their comfort throughout the day’s activities.
On top of that, the tour is covered by comprehensive insurance, giving participants peace of mind during their excursion.
Lastly, a delicious lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Azorean stew is provided, allowing guests to savor the authentic flavors of the region.
With these thoughtful inclusions, you can focus on fully enjoying the wonders of São Miguel’s Furnas and Nordeste regions.
Optional Experiences
Along With the included highlights, travelers can also opt to enhance their experience by visiting the Terra Nostra or Dona Beija thermal pools, offering a chance to soak in the region’s renowned natural hot springs.
On top of that, guests can choose to explore the Furnas Lake, the captivating site where the ‘Cozido das Furnas‘ stew is cooked in the volcanic soil.
These optional experiences allow visitors to delve deeper into the island’s unique geological wonders, seeing the warm, mineral-rich waters and witnessing the impressive volcanic activity firsthand.
Whether seeking relaxation or a more immersive encounter with the island’s natural marvels, these optional add-ons elevate the overall tour experience.
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Pricing and Booking
Travelers can reserve their spot on this immersive Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour for just $97.37 per person, allowing them to experience the island’s captivating natural wonders at an affordable rate.
The tour operator offers a convenient ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, making it easy to secure a spot without an upfront payment. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.
Whether seeking a relaxing day amidst Furnas’ volcanic landscapes or an invigorating hike through the lush Nordeste region, this tour provides an exceptional value for travelers looking to make the most of their time on São Miguel island.
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Recap
This captivating tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into São Miguel’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Visitors can witness the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew being cooked by volcanic heat, marvel at the mesmerizing waterfalls and historic watermills of Ribeira dos Caldeirões, and enjoy the island’s rich tea-growing tradition.
It’s a comprehensive and immersive experience that truly showcases the diverse beauty and fascinating history of this stunning Azorean destination.
