Full Day Furnas Volcano, With Traditional Lunch (East Tour)

The Furnas Volcano East Tour promises an immersive exploration of Sao Miguel’s volcanic wonders. Guided by knowledgeable professionals, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Furnas Valley. From the region’s steaming hot springs to the serene Furnas Lake, this tour unveils the natural marvels that have shaped the Azores. The highlight, however, lies in the unique culinary experience – a traditional ‘cozido’ stew lunch cooked using the area’s thermal vents. With comfortable transportation and a personalized small group approach, this tour offers a chance to discover the geological and cultural treasures that lie hidden within the Furnas Valley.

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the Furnas Valley, a geologically remarkable region on Sao Miguel island in the Azores, including visits to Caloura, Vila Franca do Campo, and Furnas.
• Guests will witness dramatic volcanic landscapes, such as hot springs and Furnas Lake, and learn about the island’s history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.
• The tour includes a traditional ‘cozido’ stew lunch cooked using the region’s thermal vents, providing a unique culinary experience.
• Highlights of the tour include a visit to Europe’s only tea plantation and a personalized small-group experience.
• The tour includes pickup from Ponta Delgada City hotels, air-conditioned transportation, and necessary parking fees, providing a convenient and comfortable sightseeing experience.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour explores the Furnas Valley, a geologically remarkable region on the island of Sao Miguel in Portugal’s Azores archipelago.

On this small-group excursion, you’ll visit the charming coastal town of Caloura, the historic Vila Franca do Campo, and the volcanic town of Furnas.

Along the way, you’ll witness the area’s dramatic landscapes, including hot springs and Furnas Lake.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the island’s rich history and culture while enjoying its unique natural wonders.

The tour also includes a traditional ‘cozido’ stew lunch cooked using the region’s thermal vents, adding an authentic local touch to the experience.

Highlights of the Tour

As part of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to learn about Sao Miguel’s history and culture from a professional guide.

They also get to visit Europe’s only tea plantation and enjoy a traditional ‘cozido’ stew lunch cooked by thermal vents.

The tour takes guests through the volcanic terrain of the Furnas Valley, where they can see hot springs and Furnas Lake.

Visitors will be amazed by the unique geological features of this region and gain a deeper understanding of Sao Miguel’s natural wonders.

The small group size ensures a quality experience as the guide provides personalized attention and insights throughout the day.

Inclusions in the Tour

The tour package includes a driver/guide, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and a traditional ‘cozido’ stew lunch cooked by thermal vents.

Plus, coffee/tea, alcoholic beverages, soda/pop, and bottled water are provided, as well as any necessary parking fees.

This comprehensive list of inclusions ensures visitors can fully enjoy the Furnas Valley experience without having to worry about additional costs.

The tour operates on a small group basis, allowing for a more personalized and quality experience.

With all the logistics taken care of, guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and Furnas Lake that make this region so unique.

Pickup and Meeting Point

Pickup for the tour is available from Ponta Delgada City hotels and accommodations, with the meeting point located at the Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada.

This ensures a convenient and centralized starting point for the tour. Guests will meet their guide at the tourism office and then depart together in the air-conditioned minivan for the day’s adventure.

The pickup and meeting point make it easy for participants to join the tour, regardless of where they’re staying in Ponta Delgada.

This setup provides a seamless and hassle-free start to the Furnas Volcano tour, allowing guests to focus on the incredible sights and experiences to come.

Tour Logistics

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, ensuring guests are aware of the tour details prior to the scheduled departure.

A minimum of 2 people is required per booking, facilitating a small group experience. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, accommodating a range of travelers.

Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

The tour is designed to offer a seamless and enjoyable experience, with guests being transported by air-conditioned minivan and provided with a delicious traditional ‘cozido’ stew lunch cooked by thermal vents.

Exploring Caloura

On the full-day Furnas Volcano tour, guests first explore the charming seaside village of Caloura, known for its picturesque harbor and stunning coastal vistas.

Visitors wander along the harbor promenade, admiring the colorful fishing boats and local architecture. They then visit the Caloura Islet, a small rocky outcrop connected to the mainland by a footbridge.

Here, guests can spot seabirds and take in panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and cliffs. The tour guide shares insights into Caloura’s history and the unique ecology of the area.

After soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, the group departs for the next destination on the Furnas Valley adventure.

Discovering Vila Franca Do Campo

After exploring the quaint seaside town of Caloura, the tour then ventures to the historic municipality of Vila Franca Do Campo, once the capital of São Miguel island.

This charming coastal town is known for its picturesque harbor, stunning natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors will have the chance to stroll through the charming streets, admiring the traditional architecture and local shops.

The tour guide will provide insights into the town’s fascinating history, from its days as the island’s administrative center to its role in the Azores’ maritime past. With its stunning vistas and welcoming atmosphere, Vila Franca Do Campo offers a glimpse into the authentic character of São Miguel’s coastal communities.

Experiencing Furnas and Furnas Lake

From the charming coastal town of Vila Franca Do Campo, the tour now ventures deeper into the volcanic landscape, leading visitors to the captivating Furnas Valley and the serene Furnas Lake.

Surrounded by lush greenery and towering calderas, Furnas is a geothermal wonderland. Guests will:

• Witness the bubbling hot springs and fumaroles, where the earth’s natural heat rises to the surface
• Explore the steaming Furnas Lake, a stunning crater lake formed by a historic volcanic eruption

Guests will also:

• Learn about the unique ecosystem and the local flora and fauna that thrive in this volcanic environment
• Observe the traditional ‘cozido’ meal cooked by the heat of the earth’s thermal vents
• Gain insights into the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Azorean people.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Approximate Duration of the Tour?

The tour is a full-day excursion, though the exact duration is not specified. It covers multiple sites in the Furnas Valley on Sao Miguel island, Portugal, and includes a traditional lunch, suggesting it likely lasts around 8-10 hours.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Guests should dress for a day of exploration, as the tour involves walking over uneven volcanic terrain.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the length and nature of the activities. Guests should use their discretion when booking with children.

Can Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies Be Accommodated?

The tour company can accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies with advance notice. Travelers should inform the company of any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure their requirements are met during the included lunch.

Are There Any Additional or Optional Activities Available During the Tour?

The tour offers optional activities like visiting Europe’s only tea plantation. Guests can also explore volcanic terrain, hot springs, and Furnas Lake on their own during free time within the itinerary.

Recap

This captivating tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the volcanic wonders of the Furnas Valley.

Visitors will be guided through dramatic landscapes, indulge in a traditional ‘cozido’ stew lunch, and gain insights into the region’s rich history and culture.

With comfortable transportation and a personalized small group approach, this tour showcases the natural marvels of the Azores’ Furnas Valley.