Sao Miguel: the Mystic Tour (With Dinner & Ribeira Quente Walk)

Set out on a captivating journey through the mystical landscapes of São Miguel, the largest of Portugal’s Azores islands. This 6-hour tour offers a seamless blend of breathtaking scenery, culture, and culinary delights. Discover the serene beauty of Furnas Lake, indulge in the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew, and unwind in the rejuvenating thermal springs. As you stroll along the charming Ribeira Quente, you’ll be transported to a realm where nature, history, and gastronomy converge, leaving you with an unforgettable impression of this magical island. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of São Miguel’s mystic wonders.

Good To Know

• The ‘São Miguel: the Mystic Tour’ offers a 6-hour experience featuring a scenic drive, guided tour of Furnas Lake, traditional Cozido das Furnas dinner, and thermal spring swimming.
• The tour is priced at €81.00 per person and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with convenient pickup locations available.
• Highlights of the tour include witnessing geothermal activity at Caldeiras Vulcânicas, a nature walk at Lagoa das Furnas, and an evening show of boiling water pools at Furnas.
• Unique experiences on the tour include sampling local mineral waters and pastries, as well as accessing rejuvenating thermal springs despite the closure of Dona Beija.
• The tour has received exceptional customer feedback, with a rating of 4.9/5 based on 11 reviews, praising the excellent transportation, knowledgeable guide, and outstanding value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour, titled ‘São Miguel: the Mystic Tour,’ offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating island of São Miguel, complete with a delightful dinner and a scenic stroll along Ribeira Quente.

Priced at a competitive rate starting from €81.00 per person, the tour promises a duration of 6 hours and the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for maximum flexibility.

Guests can choose from convenient pickup locations, with an additional fee for Ribeira Grande and Lagoa.

Whether you’re seeking a scenic drive, a guided tour of Furnas Lake, or a rejuvenating thermal spring experience, this tour has it all, providing an immersive and unforgettable glimpse into the mystic wonders of São Miguel.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour promises a scenic drive with picturesque photo stops, followed by a guided tour of the captivating Furnas Lake, where guests can enjoy the natural wonders of the region.

After the lake exploration, the experience culminates with a delightful 75-minute dinner featuring the traditional Cozido das Furnas, a local specialty slow-cooked in the volcanic earth.

Visitors then enjoy a refreshing 1.5-hour swimming break at the thermal springs before venturing to the Caldeiras Vulcânicas, an area showcasing the island’s geothermal activity.

Unique Experiences

Exploring the natural wonders of São Miguel, the tour allows visitors to embark on a nature and geothermal walk at the captivating Lagoa das Furnas.

The highlight of the experience is the traditional Cozido das Furnas, a delectable stew cooked underground using the island’s natural geothermal heat. Diners can savor a starter, main course, desserts, and drinks as they enjoy this unique culinary delight.

While the Thermal Baths at Dona Beija are currently closed, guests can still indulge in the rejuvenating thermal spring waters and sample the local mineral waters and pastries.

As the day draws to a close, visitors are treated to an evening show of the mesmerizing boiling water pools at Furnas, a true testament to the island’s volcanic origins.

Important Information and Requirements

Travelers generally must bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, and weather-appropriate clothing to fully enjoy the tour’s activities.

High-heeled shoes, weapons, large bags, smoking in the vehicle, and unaccompanied minors are strictly prohibited.

Individuals with low blood pressure or circulatory problems should consult a physician before entering the thermal baths due to health advisories.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Sao Miguel, from the geothermal landscapes of Furnas to the rejuvenating thermal springs.

With these essential requirements in mind, guests can fully savor the tour’s highlights, including the traditional Cozido das Furnas dinner and the evening show of boiling water pools.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Guests have overwhelmingly praised the tour, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 11 reviews.

According to the feedback, the tour provided excellent transportation, outstanding value for money, and a knowledgeable guide who brought the island’s mystic wonders to life.

One reviewer raved about the enjoyable traditional Cozido das Furnas dinner, while others were delighted by the unique opportunity to soak in the thermal baths at Dona Beija.

The thermal bath experience, though currently closed, is described as a highlight not to be missed.

Scenic Drive and Photo Stops

The tour begins with a scenic drive through the island’s stunning landscapes, offering captivating photo opportunities along the way.

As the vehicle winds through lush green hills and valleys, passengers are treated to breathtaking vistas. The highlights include:

1. Sweeping views of the tranquil Furnas Lake, nestled in a lush, volcanic crater.

2. Picturesque villages with whitewashed houses and red-tiled roofs, blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

3. Dramatic coastal cliffs and the sparkling azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

These photo stops allow guests to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, setting the stage for the enchanting experiences to come.

Guided Tour at Furnas Lake

After marveling at the scenic vistas, the tour group makes its way to Furnas Lake, where a knowledgeable guide leads them on an engaging exploration of this unique geothermal wonderland.

The guide shares fascinating insights, explaining how the lake’s steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pots are the result of the active volcanic activity beneath the surface. Visitors are captivated as they witness the extraordinary natural phenomenon, feeling the warmth of the earth underfoot.

The guide’s enthusiastic narration brings the lake’s history and geological formation to life, leaving the group with a deeper appreciation for the island’s remarkable volcanic landscape.

This guided tour is an essential part of understanding Sao Miguel’s mystic allure.

Swimming at Thermal Springs

Following the guided tour of Furnas Lake, the group eagerly anticipates the chance to indulge in the island’s revitalizing thermal springs.

Sinking into the steaming, mineral-rich waters, they’re immediately enveloped in a soothing warmth that soothes both body and soul. The springs’ therapeutic properties, heated naturally by the island’s volcanic activity, have long been revered for their restorative effects, offering visitors a blissful respite amidst Sao Miguel’s mystic landscape.

The thermal springs boast numerous benefits:

1. Skin rejuvenation through the absorption of beneficial minerals

2. Pain relief and muscle relaxation

3. Improved circulation and reduced stress levels

Immersed in this natural oasis, the tour group emerges refreshed and reinvigorated, ready to continue their exploration of Sao Miguel’s wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully accessible for people with disabilities. While the scenic drives and guided tours can be enjoyable, the thermal baths and uneven terrain could pose challenges. It’s best to consult the tour operator for specific accessibility details.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours, as the tour packages often include a delicious meal or refreshments. However, participants can check with the tour operator about any special accommodations for dietary needs or restrictions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed. Participants of all ages are welcome, though those with low blood pressure or circulatory problems should consult a physician before entering the thermal baths.

Are There Any Additional Costs I Should Be Aware Of?

There are a few additional costs travelers should be aware of. Pickup locations outside Ponta Delgada incur extra fees – €15 for Ribeira Grande and €10 for Lagoa. Plus, the Thermal Baths at Dona Beija are currently closed due to sanitary conditions.

Can I Request a Customized Pickup Location?

Customers can request customized pickup locations for an additional fee. The tour operator accommodates personalized requests, with extra charges of €15 for Ribeira Grande and €10 for Lagoa pickups to provide door-to-door service and maximize convenience.

The Sum Up

The São Miguel: The Mystic Tour offers an immersive experience blending stunning natural landscapes, cultural exploration, and culinary delights.

From the breathtaking Furnas Lake to the revitalizing thermal springs, this tour promises an unforgettable journey, allowing guests to disconnect, rejuvenate, and savor the unique flavors of the traditional Cozido das Furnas.

With a scenic drive and a charming stroll through Ribeira Quente, this tour provides a well-rounded escape into the mystic wonder of São Miguel.

You can check if your dates are available here: