Private – All of Furnas, Tea Plantation, ticket to Beija included

Exploring São Miguel’s Thermal Baths and Tea Plantations: A Deep Dive Into a Relaxing Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to unwind while soaking in volcanic waters and experiencing local Azorean culture, a tour combining Furnas’ thermal baths, a tea plantation visit, and a ticket to Beija Hot Springs could be just the ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-balanced, enriching experience perfect for those who love a mix of relaxation and exploration.

What stands out? First, the private guide ensures a personalized journey, avoiding the crowds and tailoring stops to your interests. Second, the inclusion of all entrance fees simplifies budgeting and planning — no surprise costs here. Third, the chance to visit the famous Beija hot springs and enjoy the therapeutic waters even in less-than-ideal weather is a definite bonus.

The only possible drawback? The tour’s duration of roughly 6 hours means a packed schedule, especially if you opt to include lunch at a local restaurant. But for those who cherish authentic, immersive moments, this is a worthwhile trade-off.

This experience is best suited for travelers who seek a combination of relaxation, nature, and cultural insights. It’s also ideal if you prefer a private, flexible tour rather than a large group excursion. If you’re eager to enjoy the volcanic wonders of São Miguel while also tasting local delicacies and sipping on fresh tea, this tour hits the mark.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: A private guide means tailored attention and flexible stops.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Entrance fees and tickets are included, simplifying your day.
• Authentic Relaxation: Soak in thermal waters heated by volcanic activity, with options even in rain.
• Cultural and Culinary Highlights: Visit a tea plantation and enjoy local treats like “Bolo Lêvedo”.
• Flexible Duration: Approximately 6 hours, with optional lunch arrangements.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides and stunning views.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This private tour, priced at $170.81 per person, offers a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s thermal and cultural attractions. The fact that all entrance fees are covered is a relief — no hidden costs or surprises — allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying your day.

The private guide, such as Carlos or Andre as mentioned in reviews, elevates the experience. They offer not only expert knowledge but also a friendly, approachable attitude that makes the day feel like a trip with a friend rather than a tour. Reviewers highlighted guides’ warmth, patience, and expertise, often mentioning how they felt like VIPs, with personalized attention making the experience memorable.

The Route: From Furnas to Tea, with Hot Springs in Between

The tour begins at 9:30 am, giving you a full day’s worth of sights and experiences. The first stop is Furnas, an area famous for its volcanic activity. Here, you’ll explore cooking pods—a unique method of preparing food using geothermal heat—which adds a bit of fun and culinary insight to the journey. The views from Pico do Ferro and the Miradouro de Santa Iria offer breathtaking panoramas of the volcanic landscape, perfect for photos and simply soaking in the scenery.

Next, you’ll visit the Poça D. Beija hot springs. Reviewers like Chelsea and Diane appreciated how the waters, naturally heated to around 104°F (40°C), provided a calming bath even under drizzle. The waters are known for their mineral-rich composition, believed to have therapeutic effects, making it a highlight for many visitors.

A Tasty Interlude: Local Delicacies and Tea

Between soaks, you’ll have the chance to indulge in local snacks like “Bolo Lêvedo”, a sweet, flat bread, or enjoy steamed corn on the pods — simple, authentic flavors that showcase local culinary traditions. Though not included, many guests also opt to book a traditional “cozido” lunch. This slow-cooked stew, prepared underground using geothermal heat, is a must-try and typically costs around €25 per person.

The highlight for many is the Gorreana tea plantation, where you can visit the factory, stroll through the lush slopes, and shop for fresh tea. Reviewers loved walking through the plantation, noting the serenity of the surroundings and the chance to sample flavored teas directly from the source.

How the Experience Comes Together

This tour offers a balanced mix of thermal relaxation, culture, and natural beauty. The 6-hour timeframe is generally sufficient, though including lunch might mean trimming time from other stops. Still, most find that the variety of experiences — from soaking in the thermal waters to strolling through tea fields — makes the trip worth the effort.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviews praise the guides — Carlos and Andre — for their friendly, knowledgeable demeanor. Chelsea, for example, called Carlos “so knowledgeable and kind” and appreciated the VIP treatment. Zaid described the experience as making him feel like he didn’t want to leave São Miguel, emphasizing how personalized and warm the guide’s approach was.

Several reviewers also appreciated the stunning views from scenic viewpoints like Pico do Ferro, commenting on how these spots enhanced the overall sensory experience. One reviewer mentioned that even on a rainy day, the thermal baths and volcanic landscapes made for a memorable adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The inclusion of all entrance fees, especially for popular spots like Beija Hot Springs, saves you both time and money. The private nature means you can tailor the experience slightly if you wish, making it feel more like a day out with a friend than a structured group tour.

At about $170.81, this tour provides a well-rounded day filled with authentic sights, relaxing baths, and insights into local culture—ideal for couples, solo travelers, or small groups wanting a more intimate experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

• Travelers seeking a relaxing day in thermal waters with minimal hassle.
• Those interested in cultural stops like tea plantations.
• Visitors favoring private, flexible tours over large groups.
• Anyone wanting to combine nature, culture, and authentic local flavors on São Miguel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, which includes all stops and activities.

Are entrance fees to spots like Beija Hot Springs included?
Absolutely, all entrance fees are covered as part of the tour package.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility?
While the tour is private and flexible, some locations like viewpoints or hot springs may involve walking. It’s best to check directly with the provider for specific accessibility questions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. An umbrella or raincoat might be useful if the weather looks uncertain.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but you can book a traditional “cozido” at local restaurants for about €25, or bring snacks.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of São Miguel’s thermal baths, scenic viewpoints, and tea plantations offers a well-thought-out blend of relaxation and cultural discovery. The private guide’s expertise and the convenience of all-inclusive pricing are particularly appealing, making it a smart choice for travelers who want to enjoy the island without the stress of planning every detail.

Whether you’re soaking in mineral-rich waters while rain taps on your umbrella or strolling through lush tea fields under bright sun, this experience promises a genuine taste of Azorean life. It’s perfect for those who love a personal touch, authentic local experiences, and a day dedicated to unwinding amid volcanic beauty.

If relaxing, cultural exploration, and stunning scenery are on your São Miguel wish list, this tour delivers on all fronts — a balanced, memorable day that will leave you feeling refreshed and enriched.