São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch

The Azores archipelago, a captivating destination in the mid-Atlantic, is home to the enchanting island of São Miguel. Here, visitors can embark on an exhilarating journey that combines the natural wonders of the Furnas Volcano with the unique heritage of Europe’s only tea plantation. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, as travelers explore the island’s geothermal landscapes, savor a traditional Portuguese lunch cooked in volcanic soil, and uncover the fascinating story behind the production of Azorean tea. With comfortable transportation and a delightful blend of culture and natural exploration, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the remarkable tapestry of São Miguel.

Key Points

• Explore the natural wonders of São Miguel island, including the Furnas Valley with its geothermal baths and traditional Cozido das Furnas lunch.

• Visit Europe’s only tea plantation and learn about the history and production of high-quality black, green, and herbal teas.

• Enjoy a scenic drive along the island’s beautiful south and east coasts, with insightful commentary from the guide.

• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, dessert, and drinks, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

• Comfortable transportation, suitable for most travelers, with the exception of wheelchair users, and recommendations for suitable attire and items to bring.

Overview of the Tour

This 8-hour tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the beautiful south coast and east of São Miguel island in the Azores, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Highlights include a geothermal bath where the water is naturally heated by the volcano, and a traditional Portuguese Cozido das Furnas lunch cooked in the volcanic soil of the Furnas Valley.

Guests will also visit Europe’s only tea plantation, offering a unique insight into this thriving industry.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, dessert, and drinks included, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is an excellent way to experience the best of São Miguel.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour allows visitors to discover the beautiful south coast and east of São Miguel island, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Guests can enjoy a geothermal bath where the water is naturally heated by the nearby Furnas volcano. They’ll also savor the traditional Portuguese Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew cooked in the volcanic soil of the Furnas Valley.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to Europe’s only tea plantation, where travelers can learn about the history and production of this beloved beverage.

With comfortable transportation, a delicious lunch, and all the must-see sights, this tour provides an unforgettable experience exploring the unique natural and culinary offerings of São Miguel.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour typically includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch, dessert, drinks, coffee or tea, and entry to Furnas Lake.

However, there are some exclusions to keep in mind. The entrance fee to the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden and Thermal pools, which cost €16 per person, isn’t included in the tour price. Plus, travel insurance is also not provided as part of the package.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes.

Other recommended items to bring include:

1. Sunglasses
2. Sun hat
3. Towel
4. Camera and flip-flops

Important Information

Guests should keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so they’re advised to wear comfortable shoes for the experience. The tour also recommends bringing sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, a camera, and flip-flops. Plus, electric wheelchairs are not allowed. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable tour, here’s a handy table with important reminders:

Item	Recommended
Shoes	Comfortable
Eyewear	Sunglasses
Head Gear	Sun hat
Extras	Towel, camera, flip-flops
Mobility	No electric wheelchairs

Visiting the Furnas Valley

Visitors will discover the enchanting Furnas Valley, home to the Furnas Volcano and its geothermal wonders. This natural wonderland offers a unique opportunity to experience the power of the Earth firsthand.

The tour highlights include:

1. Soaking in the naturally heated geothermal baths, where the water is warmed by the volcano’s heat.
2. Savoring the traditional Portuguese Cozido das Furnas, a delicious stew cooked in the volcanic soil.

Exploring the lush Furnas Lake, a picturesque body of water nestled amidst the volcanic landscape.

Marveling at the steam vents and bubbling mud pots, evidence of the region’s volcanic activity.

Enjoy the captivating Furnas Valley and witness the extraordinary meeting of nature and civilization.

Exploring the Tea Plantation

After exploring the captivating Furnas Valley, the tour takes visitors to Europe’s only tea plantation, offering a unique opportunity to witness the cultivation and processing of this beloved beverage. The tea plantation covers over 80 acres, producing a variety of high-quality teas. Visitors can stroll through the lush green tea bushes, learn about the intricate process of harvesting and drying the leaves, and even sample the fragrant teas. The experience provides a deeper appreciation for the art of tea-making and the dedication required to bring this soothing drink to tables around the world.

Plantation Facts	Details
Acreage	80+ acres
Tea Varieties	Black, Green, Herbal
Harvesting	Hand-picked leaves
Processing	Withering, Rolling, Drying

Lunch in the Volcanic Soil

One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to savor the traditional Portuguese Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew cooked in the volcanic soil of the Furnas Valley. This unique dining experience allows visitors to indulge in a dish that has been slowly simmered underground for several hours, infusing it with the rich, earthy flavors of the geothermal environment.

The Cozido das Furnas is typically served with:

1. Potatoes
2. Cabbage
3. Carrots
4. Various meats, such as pork, beef, and sausage

This ancient cooking method, passed down through generations, showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the local people, who’ve harnessed the power of the Furnas volcano to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Getting to the Tour Location

The tour typically begins with hotel pickup, conveniently transporting guests to the starting point of the excursion.

From there, the journey takes visitors on a scenic drive through the island’s stunning landscapes, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of São Miguel.

The drive winds along the southern and eastern coasts, showcasing the dramatic cliffs, lush green valleys, and picturesque villages that characterize this unique island.

Throughout the journey, the guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and cultural significance of the sights encountered.

The smooth transportation and breathtaking scenery set the stage for an unforgettable exploration of the Furnas Volcano and Tea Plantation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for families with young children, as it involves visiting a volcanic area with geothermal baths, which could be potentially dangerous for young kids. Parents should carefully consider the tour’s activities before booking.

Can I Customize the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can likely be customized to include additional activities. Customers should contact the tour operator to inquire about possible modifications and any associated costs. Customizations may be subject to availability and additional fees.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the tour’s standard duration is 8 hours, some providers may offer the option to extend it for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire about any extended tour options when booking to accommodate their preferences.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not explicitly stated in the provided overview. However, many similar Azores tours typically accommodate small to medium-sized groups, often ranging from 10 to 20 participants, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider does not offer any discounts specifically for seniors or students. Pricing for the Furnas Volcano and Tea Plantation tour is the same for all participants regardless of age or student status.

Recap

The São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of São Miguel island.

From the geothermal bath to the traditional Cozido das Furnas lunch and the visit to Europe’s only tea plantation, this tour provides an unforgettable experience that immerses visitors in the captivating Furnas Valley and its volcanic landscape.