São Miguel Island: Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

Exploring São Miguel Island: A Complete Guide to the Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel—Portugal’s lush, volcanic jewel—then a full-day tour of Furnas and Furnas Lake might just be one of the best ways to soak in the island’s natural beauty. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered enough details and traveler insights to give you a thorough picture of what it offers.

What I love about this experience? First, the chance to relax in steaming hot springs heated by volcanic activity. Second, visiting Gorreana, Europe’s only tea plantation still producing tea on-site since 1883. And third, the stunning viewpoints such as Pico do Ferro, offering sweeping views of the Furnas crater.

A potential consideration? The tour’s long duration—around a full day—means it’s best suited for those comfortable with a packed schedule and some driving. Also, some key sites like Terra Nostra Park and Furnas Lake require additional tickets, so plan for extra expenses.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see São Miguel’s volcanic scenery, appreciate local food culture, and enjoy panoramic vistas—all in one comprehensive day. Nature lovers, curious explorers, and those keen to experience authentic Azorean life will find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines volcanic landscapes, thermal springs, a tea plantation, and coastal viewpoints.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Francisco and Nuno are praised for their knowledge and dedication.
• Authentic Sights: Includes visits to local hotspots such as Furnas village and Vila Franca do Campo.
• Value for Money: At $74, the tour provides a full day of diverse, memorable experiences.
• Small Group: Limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
• Extra Costs: You’ll need to budget for optional visits like Terra Nostra Park and bath entry.

You can check if your dates are available here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, which is convenient if you’re staying within the city or nearby. Once onboard, you’ll start your adventure in a comfortable SUV or jeep that navigates the island’s winding, often scenic roads. The journey introduces you to São Miguel’s lush landscapes early on, with the guide sharing insights into the island’s volcanic activity and history.

Depending on the weather—something quite variable in the Azores—the route might shift slightly between the north and south coasts, but the goal remains the same: maximize your views and experiences.

Santa Iria Lookout: A First Glimpse of São Miguel

Your first stop is Santa Iria Lookout, offering a quick but memorable panoramic view. At around 25 minutes, this gives you a chance to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh island air, and snap some photos of the surrounding green valleys and cratered landscapes. Travelers have appreciated how guides like Francisco go beyond just pointing and instead weave interesting facts about the island’s geology and history.

Gorreana Tea Factory: A Refreshing Stop

A highlight for many visitors is the visit to Gorreana Tea Factory, the only natural tea factory still operating in Europe. Here, you’ll learn how the Chinese tea cultivation techniques were adopted in the 19th century, resulting in a unique Azorean tea culture. The tour lasts about 50 minutes, giving you enough time to walk through the lush gardens and sample some freshly brewed black or green tea.

Travelers like Norah praised this stop, mentioning how standing in the tea fields made them feel connected to the land. It’s a peaceful, fragrant experience that offers both education and a chance to purchase local teas—perfect souvenirs.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Pico do Ferro Viewpoint: A Breathtaking View

Next, you’ll visit Pico do Ferro, a viewpoint perched on the edge of Furnas crater. It’s often described as a must-see, offering sweeping views over the crater’s lush greenery and geothermal activity. At about 25 minutes, this stop combines photo opportunities with a quiet moment to appreciate São Miguel’s volcanic power.

From reviews, we learn guides like Francisco often take participants to lesser-known spots, making the visit feel personalized. The views here often leave visitors speechless—an experience that makes the long day worthwhile.

Furnas Lake and Village: The Heart of the Tour

The central part of the journey is a visit to Furnas Lake, where you’ll spend around an hour soaking in the sights of this volcanic caldera. This tranquil lake is famous for the natural phenomenon of “cozido,” a stew cooked underground using geothermal heat. Some tours include visiting the boilers in the village itself, where local chefs prepare this hearty dish, giving you a taste of Azorean culinary tradition.

If time allows, you can opt to relax in thermal springs like Jardim Nostra or Dona Beija, both renowned for their therapeutic waters. Keep in mind these baths are extras and carry separate entry costs. Many visitors find this thermal experience deeply relaxing after a day of exploring.

Furnas Village: An Authentic Stop

After the lake, a stop in the village provides an authentic glimpse of local life. Wandering through, you’ll see the bubbling thermal pools, the local markets, and the small cafes serving regional specialties. Travelers like Leigh commend Francisco for his thoughtful suggestions, taking the group to lesser-known spots that add an extra layer of discovery.

Vila Franca do Campo & Miradouro da Nossa Senhora da Paz

The tour continues along the south coast, with a guided stop at Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first settlement, rich in history and charm. Here, you might feel the island’s old-world charm, along with fantastic sea views.

Final stops include Miradouro da Nossa Senhora da Paz, a lookout offering stunning vistas over the Atlantic and neighboring islands—perfect for sunset photos or just soaking in the landscape.

Return Journey: Scenic and Relaxing

The return takes you along the south coast, where you’ll enjoy numerous viewpoints and beaches, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. The small group size and continuous commentary from guides ensure the journey feels personal and engaging rather than rushed.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $74 per person, which covers transportation, hotel pickups (if you’re in Ponta Delgada), and headsets for clear communication. It’s designed for those who want a well-rounded, immersive day but should be noted that tickets to certain attractions like Terra Nostra Park and Furnas Lake are not included—adding to the overall cost if you choose to visit these sites.

The tour operates rain or shine, so packing a raincoat or umbrella is advisable. It’s scheduled as a full-day activity, so suitable for travelers who appreciate a busy, sightseeing-packed day. The group size is limited to 14, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting, with plenty of chance for questions and personalized attention.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From reviews, guides like Francisco and Nuno stand out for their deep knowledge and friendly attitude. One guest shared that Francisco took them to out-of-the-way spots and shared stories that truly brought the island to life. Norah appreciated how her guide went above and beyond to ensure she experienced the best views, emphasizing the importance of a passionate guide in making the tour memorable.

Another traveler praised the route’s balance—enough highlights without feeling rushed—and the opportunity to learn about local culture alongside natural wonders. It’s clear that this tour isn’t just about ticking off sights but creating a meaningful and relaxing experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers keen on geology, nature, and local culture. If you enjoy scenic viewpoints, hot springs, and regional cuisine, you’ll find plenty to marvel at. It’s also suited for those who want to maximize a single day on São Miguel without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

While it’s not ideal for pregnant women or those with large luggage (due to the vehicle and walking stops), most other travelers, especially those who appreciate a small-group atmosphere and expert guides, will find this tour a rewarding way to see São Miguel’s highlights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada or within a 5 km radius, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel.

How long does the tour last? It’s a full-day experience, typically lasting around 8 hours, providing plenty of time at each stop.

What should I bring? Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear if needed, and extra cash for optional visits like thermal baths or park entries.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.

Can I visit Terra Nostra Park? You can, but it requires an extra ticket, which is not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is best suited for adults or older children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

What languages are available? The guide speaks Portuguese, Spanish, and English, catering to a diverse group.

What if it rains? The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress appropriately for weather conditions.

To sum it up, this São Miguel tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience for those eager to explore volcanic landscapes, sample regional delicacies, and enjoy stunning viewpoints. The knowledgeable guides, intimate group size, and varied stops make it a memorable way to discover the island’s natural beauty and local culture.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing, scenic day, this tour provides excellent value and a chance to truly connect with São Miguel’s volcanic soul.

You can check if your dates are available here: