Nestled in the heart of the Azores, São Miguel’s Nordeste region beckons travelers with its natural wonders and captivating cultural heritage. This comprehensive tour promises an immersive exploration of the island’s diverse landscapes, from the lush Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park to the volcanic features of Furnas. Visitors can indulge in the rejuvenating thermal baths, savor the flavors of traditional local cuisine, and appreciate the island’s stunning coastline and serene waterfalls. With a well-rounded itinerary, the tour offers a glimpse into the unique charm that makes São Miguel a must-visit destination in the Azores.
Key Points
- This full-day tour explores the natural and cultural highlights of the Nordeste region on the eastern side of São Miguel island.
- Key stops include the Gorreana Tea Factory, Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, and the volcanic town of Furnas with its thermal baths.
- Visitors can learn about local agricultural traditions, witness the unique geothermal features of the Furnas volcano, and enjoy a traditional Furnas stew lunch.
- The tour provides a small-group experience with an air-conditioned vehicle and a local guide to offer insights throughout the journey.
- The tour may not be suitable for individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or physical limitations exceeding 254 lbs (115 kg) in weight.
Tour Overview
Covering the eastern side of São Miguel island, this full-day tour allows visitors to enjoy the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Nordeste region.
The tour takes you on a captivating journey, starting with a visit to the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park and its mesmerizing waterfalls.
You’ll then explore a tea plantation, gaining insight into the island’s rich agricultural traditions.
The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the Furnas volcano, where you’ll witness the unique cooking method of the famous Furnas stew and have the opportunity to relax in the thermal baths (at an additional cost).
Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas and a deeper understanding of São Miguel’s diverse landscapes and traditions.
Itinerary
The tour starts with a pickup in Ponta Delgada between 9:00-9:20 AM, whisking visitors away to explore the eastern side of São Miguel island.
The first stop is the Santa Iria Lookout, offering stunning views over the coastline.
Next, the group visits the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe, for a tasty tea tasting.
Venturing into the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, guests marvel at the serene waterfalls and lush greenery.
After a photo op at the Pico do Ferro Lookout, the tour arrives in the volcanic town of Furnas, where visitors can learn about the unique cozido stew cooked underground.
Highlights
Visitors discover the former capital, Vila Franca do Campo, and learn how locals cook the cozido (stew) in the volcanic town of Furnas.
Guests can then relax in the rejuvenating thermal baths at the Terra Nostra Park, while also admiring the serene waterfalls and lush greenery of the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park.
The tour showcases the island’s natural wonders, from the boiling hot springs and volcanic landscapes of Furnas to the captivating views from the Pico do Ferro Lookout.
Exploring the Furnas volcano and its unique geothermal features offers an immersive learning experience about the island’s geological history and the innovative ways locals have harnessed its power.
Inclusions
This full-day tour includes a local guide to provide insights throughout the journey. Visitors can look forward to a tea tasting at the Gorreana Tea Factory and a small-group experience in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The highlight of the day is the traditional Furnas stew lunch, with a vegetarian option available. Plus, tour-goers receive a complimentary water bottle to stay hydrated.
While entrance to Terra Nostra Park and the Caldeiras da Lagoa are available at an extra fee, these optional activities offer the chance to take in the thermal baths and volcanic landscapes.
Exclusions
Certain individuals may not be able to fully enjoy this tour, as the itinerary excludes those with back problems or mobility impairments, as well as people exceeding 254 lbs (115 kg) in weight. This cautionary measure ensures the safety and comfort of all participants.
The tour’s activities, such as navigating uneven terrain and taking thermal baths, may pose challenges for those with physical limitations. However, the tour company’s priority is to provide an enriching experience for as many visitors as possible.
Those excluded are encouraged to consider alternative options that better suit their needs. The tour’s emphasis on natural wonders and culture remains accessible to a wide range of guests.
Gorreana Tea Factory
The Gorreana Tea Factory stands as a testament to the island’s proud tea-growing tradition, offering visitors a glimpse into the meticulous process of cultivating and processing this beloved beverage.
Founded in 1883, it’s the oldest tea plantation in Europe, and the guides enthusiastically share the factory’s rich history and the unique techniques used to produce the fragrant tea.
Visitors can wander through the lush, verdant tea fields and marvel at the intricate machinery that transforms the freshly picked leaves into the final product.
Whether sipping a freshly brewed cup or browsing the selection of teas available for purchase, the Gorreana Tea Factory provides a captivating and educational experience for all who visit.
Ribeira Dos Caldeirões Natural Park
After exploring the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, the tour continues to the captivating Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a verdant oasis teeming with cascading waterfalls and a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Visitors will be awestruck by the park’s natural wonders, including:
- The stunning Salto do Cabrito waterfall, which cascades 75 meters into a serene pool below.
- The lush, verdant hiking trails that wind through laurel forests and offer breathtaking views.
- The abundance of unique plant species, such as the endemic Azorean holly and the vibrant blue hydrangeas.
- The opportunity to spot native wildlife, including the Azorean bullfinch and the elusive Azorean wood pigeon.
Furnas Volcano and Thermal Baths
Nestled within the verdant landscape of São Miguel island, the Furnas volcano and its surrounding thermal baths captivate visitors with their geothermal wonders. Fuming caldeiras, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents dot the volcanic terrain, offering a glimpse into the dynamic forces shaping the Azores archipelago. Locals have long harnessed the powers of this natural phenomenon, using the steaming earth to slow-cook the renowned Furnas stew. Visitors can also soak in the therapeutic mineral-rich waters, which range in temperature from tepid to scorching. Whether exploring the volcano’s active features or relaxing in the soothing thermal baths, Furnas invites guests to enjoy the island’s remarkable volcanic heritage.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Caldeiras | Fuming vents that release geothermal steam |
| Mud Pools | Bubbling pools of mineral-rich mud |
| Thermal Baths | Soothing, mineral-rich waters ranging in temperature |
| Furnas Stew | A traditional dish slow-cooked in the volcanic heat |
Recap
This comprehensive tour showcases the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of São Miguel’s Nordeste region.
Highlights include visiting Europe’s oldest tea plantation, exploring the lush Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, and experiencing the volcanic features of Furnas.
Travelers can relax in rejuvenating thermal baths, learn about traditional local cuisine, and appreciate the island’s stunning coastline and serene waterfalls, providing a well-rounded exploration of São Miguel’s diverse landscapes and an immersive cultural experience.
