Furnas Volcano, Tea Plantation and Traditional Lunch in São Miguel

Overview

This full-day excursion takes you to explore the eastern region of São Miguel island, focusing on the Furnas volcanic valley. The journey begins with a stop at the Santa Iria viewpoint to observe the coastline, followed by a visit to Europe's oldest tea plantation, where you can taste local teas. The tour continues to Pico do Ferro for a panoramic view of the valley, before discovering the traditional cooking method of the Furnas stew, prepared underground using volcanic steam. This typical dish is then served during a full lunch at a local restaurant, including starters, a main course (fish, meat, or vegetarian options), desserts, and drinks (water, wine, juices, beer, coffee, and tea). The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Furnas village, its fumaroles, and its mineral waters. You will also visit the Terra Nostra botanical garden, where the volcanic steam-heated thermal pool is available as an option. The return journey follows the south coast, ending at Vila Franca do Campo to visit the Our Lady of Peace chapel.

Itinerary

1. Miradouro de Santa Iría

   This breathtaking vista is situated on São Miguel Island's north shore in the Azores. From there, you can see the north coast in all its glory, where the lush green land meets the deep, clear blue Atlantic Ocean. From the viewpoint, you can observe the beauty of the Gorreana Tea plantations on the horizon.

   · 20 min

2. Plantações de Chá Gorreana

   Visit Europe’s oldest tea plantation and factory on São Miguel Island to experience the rich history of tea. This beautiful place lets you see how tea is grown in a lush, green environment. While you’re there, you can learn about the perfect conditions for growing tea and how workers harvest and process the tea leaves. Make sure to try the unique flavors of the teas made here. Each sip reflects the island's rich tradition. Join us for a wonderful visit that brings together history, culture, and the great taste of São Miguel's finest teas!

   · 45 min

3. Miradouro Pico Do Ferro

   Panoramic views of the Furnas volcano caldera, lagoon, hot springs, and Furnas village are available from this vantage point, which is situated at an elevation of 570 meters.

   · 20 min

4. Lagoa das Furnas

   Upon arrival in the Furnas Valley, you can witness the fascinating process of the famous Furnas stew being cooked underground, where it is heated naturally by the volcanic steam for hours. As you watch, you will be captivated by the sights and sounds of nature's power in action, surrounded by vibrant fumaroles releasing plumes of steam and bubbling hot springs that showcase the geothermal wonders of the area. It is an unforgettable experience that highlights the incredible forces of nature at work

   · 30 min· Admission included

5. we will take a break, and you will have the chance to enjoy the dish you saw being cooked in the ground at a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to savor the flavors of the traditional Furnas stew, made with fresh ingredients and cooked using the natural heat of the earth. Enjoy the unique taste of this local delicacy!

   · 1 h 30 min· Admission included

6. Caldeira das Furnas

   In the afternoon, we'll explore the vibrant village of Furnas, home to impressive fumaroles and flavorful mineral waters known for their health benefits. With over 20 types of mineral water, Furnas volcano is famous for the therapeutic properties.

   · 30 min

7. Parque Terra Nostra

   Afterward, we'll visit the renowned Terra Nostra Park, a stunning botanical garden filled with diverse flora. As you stroll through, you'll see exotic trees and vibrant flowers. The highlight is the magnificent thermal pool, heated by the volcano, maintaining a warm temperature of 37 to 40 degrees Celsius. Soaking in these soothing waters amid the park's beauty promises an unforgettable experience! (The entrance is optional and it has an extra cost of 17€ per person).

   · 1 h 30 min· Admission not included

8. Nossa Senhora da Paz

   The return journey follows the beautiful south coast of the island and we finish our adventure in Vila Franca do Campo, the original capital of São Miguel, rich in history and culture. Climbing up to the Chapel of Our Lady of Peace, we find a charming chapel surrounded by greenery. This place with a stunning view of the town. In the distance, the small islet of Vila Franca do Campo rises from the ocean, creating a memorable scene that showcases the island's natural beauty and peacefulness.

   · 30 min

Pickup

Pickup or meet at the departure point.

Informe the name of your hotel or AirBnb.

How to use your ticket

Minimum of 2 Pax per Tour • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Prams and pushchairs are permitted.
• Public transport is available nearby.
• Special needs child seats are available.
• Suitable for all fitness levels.
• Operated by a multilingual guide.
• A minimum of 2 people is required per booking.
• The activity can accommodate up to 40 travellers.
• Confirmation is immediate upon booking.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation for a full refund at least 24 hours before departure.

• No refund available for cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure.
• The activity may be cancelled due to bad weather or insufficient participants.

Who is it for?

• Families with young children (pushchairs and special seats available)
• Travellers of all fitness levels
• Those interested in volcanic geology and local gastronomy
• Groups of up to 40 people

What makes it different

• Full traditional lunch included with drinks and vegetarian options
• Free pick-up and drop-off from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande City
• Transport in air-conditioned minivans limited to 8 people per vehicle

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

Product code: 7425P2

Activity offered by Green Visions Tours via Viator.