Private Tour of Furnas Valley, Gorreana Tea – Island Gems

This private tour of Furnas Valley and Gorreana Tea Factory on San Miguel Island, Azores, promises an immersive and personalized experience. Visitors can expect a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural and cultural gems, including scenic viewpoints, a renowned statue, and a deep dive into the historic Gorreana Tea Factory. With a flexible itinerary and a small group size, the tour offers a tailored journey that caters to individual interests. As the geothermal wonders and charming chapels come into view, the true allure of this Azorean paradise begins to unfold.

Key Points

• A private tour of Furnas Valley and Gorreana Tea Factory on San Miguel Island, Azores, lasting 8 hours with pickup and drop-off.
• Highlights include scenic viewpoints, visiting the historic Mulher de Capote site, and an in-depth exploration of the Gorreana Tea Factory.
• Guests spend an hour exploring the lush Terra Nostra Park and its renowned thermal pool.
• The tour concludes with photo opportunities at the Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitórias and Our Lady of Peace Chapel.
• The tour is led by an English and Russian-speaking guide, with bottled water and insurance included.

Tour Details

This private tour of Furnas Valley and Gorreana Tea Factory on San Miguel Island, Azores lasts 8 hours and includes pickup and drop-off from Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, or Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach.

The flexible start and end time allows for a personalized experience, and a tour guide proficient in English and Russian leads the small group of up to 7 people.

The itinerary includes photo stops at scenic viewpoints, visits to Mulher de Capote, Gorreana Tea Factory, Terra Nostra Park, and Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas, as well as additional photo stops.

Bottled water and insurance are included, while entry fees to Terra Nostra Park and Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas are additional.

Itinerary Highlights

Private Tour of Furnas Valley, Gorreana Tea – Island Gems

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with photo stops at scenic viewpoints throughout the region, allowing guests to capture the natural beauty of the Azorean landscape.

After, visitors explore the historic Mulher de Capote site before heading to the renowned Gorreana Tea Factory for an in-depth look at the island’s tea production.

Next, guests spend an hour exploring the lush Terra Nostra Park, followed by a visit to the Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas, where they can witness the island’s volcanic activity.

The tour concludes with photo ops at the picturesque Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitórias and Our Lady of Peace Chapel.

Scenic Viewpoints

The tour begins with a series of photo stops at scenic viewpoints throughout the Furnas Valley and surrounding region, allowing guests to capture the natural splendor of the Azorean landscape.

These 15-minute stops offer breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and volcanic craters that characterize the island’s unique geography.

Visitors can gaze out over the vibrant green hues of the vegetation and the shimmering azure waters of the nearby Atlantic Ocean.

The photo opportunities are ample, enabling guests to freeze frame the beauty of this remarkable destination.

These initial viewpoints set the stage for the deeper exploration and appreciation of Furnas Valley’s many wonders that lie ahead on the tour.

Mulher De Capote

After the initial scenic viewpoints, the tour takes visitors to the iconic Mulher de Capote, a revered statue that embodies the traditional dress and heritage of the Azorean people. This tranquil monument, nestled amidst the lush surroundings, offers a poignant glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the islands.

Statue Name	Mulher de Capote
Location	Furnas Valley, San Miguel Island
Significance	Represents traditional Azorean attire and cultural heritage
Highlight	Peaceful, picturesque setting amid the valley’s natural beauty

The Mulher de Capote stands as a symbol of the Azores’ enduring traditions, inviting visitors to connect with the region’s rich history and identity.

Gorreana Tea Factory

Next on the tour, visitors explore the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe.

The factory provides a captivating glimpse into the intricate process of tea production, from the delicate plucking of leaves to the meticulous drying and packaging stages. Guests can observe the skilled workers meticulously sorting and processing the fragrant tea leaves.

The tour includes a visit to the production facilities, where the traditional methods of tea making are showcased. Visitors can sample the rich, aromatic teas and learn about the unique characteristics that make Gorreana’s offerings so prized.

This stop offers a fascinating look into the history and craft behind one of the Azores’ most renowned exports.

Terra Nostra Park

Situated within the Furnas Valley, Terra Nostra Park enchants visitors with its lush, landscaped gardens and iconic thermal pool, a renowned attraction in the Azores.

The park’s centerpiece is the warm, mineral-rich pool, which maintains a constant temperature of 32-34°C (90-93°F) throughout the year. Visitors can bask in the soothing waters, surrounded by exotic flora and stunning vistas.

Beyond the pool, the park features walking trails, historical structures, and diverse plant life, including many rare and endemic species. Guests can explore the grounds, relax in the peaceful setting, and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of the Furnas Valley.

An admission fee of €16 per person applies, but the experience is well worth it.

Fumarolas Lagoa Das Furnas

Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas, a natural wonder nestled within the Furnas Valley, captivates visitors with its vibrant displays of geothermal activity. Boiling pools of mud and steam vents dot the landscape, providing a mesmerizing glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins. Visitors can witness the power of the earth’s inner forces, as bubbling pools and hissing fumaroles release clouds of vapor into the air. The sights and sounds of this geothermal wonderland are a highlight of any visit to the Azores.

Feature	Description
Boiling Pools	Pools of bubbling mud and water, a result of the area’s volcanic activity
Steam Vents	Openings in the earth that release clouds of hot steam
Visitor Viewing	Designated observation areas provide safe and accessible viewing
Volcanic Origins	The geothermal features are a window into the island’s volcanic past

Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can reserve their spot on the private tour of Furnas Valley and Gorreana Tea Factory and pay later to secure their preferred date.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for guests’ plans.

This allows travelers to book the tour without the need to pay upfront, making it convenient for those who want to lock in their spot but may need to adjust their schedule later on.

The cancellation policy ensures that if plans change, guests can receive a full refund, alleviating any concerns about losing their payment.

With this flexible booking and cancellation process, travelers can confidently plan their visit to the Azores’ island gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit the customer’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility in the itinerary and is open to adjusting the tour to meet the customer’s specific needs and interests.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not mention any dietary restrictions. Guests should inform the tour provider of any special dietary needs or allergies, as the provider may be able to accommodate them. The main focus of the tour is sightseeing.

What Should I Bring for the Outdoor Activities?

For the outdoor activities, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight jacket, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the scenic views. It’s also recommended to pack snacks and water to stay hydrated during the tour.

Is There Flexibility in the Itinerary if I Want to Spend More Time at Certain Sites?

Yes, the tour has a flexible itinerary. Travelers can adjust the time spent at each site to accommodate their interests and preferences. The guide will work with the group to personalize the experience.

Can I Book the Tour for a Larger Group Size?

The tour allows for private groups up to 7 people. While the itinerary is set, the guide can accommodate larger group sizes upon request. Guests should inquire about pricing and availability for their desired group size when booking.

Recap

This private tour of Furnas Valley and Gorreana Tea Factory offers a comprehensive exploration of San Miguel Island’s natural and cultural attractions.

With a flexible itinerary, personalized attention, and a focus on immersive experiences, it promises an unforgettable journey through the island’s geothermal wonders, lush landscapes, and historic sites.

Travelers can expect a tailored experience that showcases the best of Furnas Valley and its renowned tea production.