Azores São Miguel | Furnas & Nordeste with lunch included

If you’re dreaming of an authentic Azorean adventure that combines stunning scenery, volcanic marvels, and local flavors, this Furnas & Nordeste tour on São Miguel offers just that. Based on countless happy reviews, it’s clear that travelers love how it balances natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxing thermal experiences—all in one day.

What really makes this tour shine is the expert guidance that helps you unlock the stories behind each site, the breathtaking viewpoints, and the chance to indulge in a volcanic-made lunch. That said, since it’s a full-day excursion, be prepared for a long but rewarding experience.

This tour suits anyone eager to explore the most scenic parts of São Miguel without the hassle of planning, especially those who value small groups for more personalized attention. If you’re after a relaxing, visually spectacular, and culturally enriching day, this trip is a prime pick.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers more personalized attention and flexible pacing.
• Stunning viewpoints like Senhora da Paz and Pico do Ferro provide incredible photo opportunities.
• Visit to a tea plantation gives insight into European tea production.
• Thermal pools at Dona Beija and Parque Terra Nostra are perfect for relaxation.
• Volcanic heat lunch offers a unique culinary experience.
• The 8-9 hour duration is packed with diverse highlights, making it good value for the price.

An In-Depth Look at the São Miguel Furnas & Nordeste Tour

A Well-Organized Full-Day Adventure

Starting from Ponta Delgada, this tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, eliminating the stress of transportation logistics. With an average booking time of 27 days in advance and a price of around $111.56, it’s crafted to appeal to travelers seeking a balance between quality and affordability.

The tour is designed to run 8 to 9 hours, giving plenty of time to soak in major sights without feeling rushed. The small-group format ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and a knowledgeable driver-guide keeps the journey engaging with interesting stories about the island’s volcanic activity and local traditions.

First Stop: Nossa Senhora da Paz and Vila Franca do Campo

Your adventure kicks off at the Nossa Senhora da Paz viewpoint, a striking spot above Vila Franca do Campo. Here, you’ll admire the islet of Vila Franca do Campo, beautifully shaped by an underwater volcanic eruption. The viewpoint offers sweeping views that are perfect for photos.

Nearby, the chapel staircase—featuring 10 levels, representing the Our Fathers of the Mysteries—adds an architectural touch to this scenic spot. This stop is free of charge, making it a good introductory snapshot of the island’s volcanic resilience.

Exploring the Volcanic Heart: Caldeira das Furnas

Next, you’ll visit Caldeira das Furnas, one of the most active volcanic zones in the Azores. Here, the landscape is a testament to the island’s fiery past—geysers, boiling springs, and thermal activity tell stories spanning over 100,000 years.

Your guide explains the eruptive history, giving you a real sense of how powerfully the island has shaped itself through time. This stop is free, but it offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Portugal’s most volcanic regions.

Miradouro Pico do Ferro: The Crater View

From the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, you’ll get a panoramic view of Furnas Valley and its crater lake. Known as the largest hydropolis in the world for its diversity of mineral and thermal waters, this spot is a must for nature lovers.

It’s here that you grasp the scale of the volcanic activity shaping the landscape. Expect to spend about 20 minutes soaking in the view—perfect for snapping photos and contemplating the island’s geological forces.

A Taste of Local Agriculture: Gorreana Tea Plantation

One of the unique highlights is a visit to Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, one of only two tea plantations in Europe. The guided 30-minute visit gives insight into the European tea industry and how these lush green fields are cultivated on volcanic soil.

Reviewers mention that the tea factory tour is informative, and that tasting the fresh teas is an added treat. It’s a relaxing break from the more rugged volcanic sights, and a chance to appreciate local craftsmanship.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Waterfalls and Watermills

A walk through the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park takes you along a watercourse lined with five historic watermills. The 45-minute stop offers a peaceful stroll amidst lush greenery and cascading waterfalls, providing excellent photo opportunities.

One reviewer highlighted that the park’s lushness and the sound of water make it a calming contrast to the volcanic sites. Plus, the historical watermills add a touch of local ingenuity.

Lagoa das Furnas: A Crater Lake Marvel

Next, the Lagoa das Furnas offers a tranquil scene—a stunning crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a perfect spot for a quick walk and picture-taking.

The lake’s volcanic origin is visible in its shape and surrounding landscape, reinforcing the tour’s focus on the island’s volcanic roots.

Thermal Pools: Relaxation at Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra

For some well-deserved relaxation, you can choose between Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra—both renowned for their thermal pools. While entry is not included, the tour notes that both options are available, with Dona Beija being more compact and Parque Terra Nostra offering an expansive botanical garden.

One review mentions that “swimming in the thermal pools was the highlight,” and that the hot water’s mineral content really helps unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Final Stop: Volcanic Lunch

The tour concludes with a volcanic heat-inspired lunch, a distinctive culinary experience where dishes are cooked using geothermal heat. This adds a memorable local flavor to your day, allowing you to savor traditional Azorean cuisine in the heart of the volcanic landscape.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Looking at the entire experience, the $111.56 price tag covers transport, a local guide, lunch, and several significant sites—all curated to give a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s northeastern highlights. The small-group setting enhances the experience, allowing for personalized interactions and more flexibility in how long you linger at each stop.

The inclusion of lunch, especially made with volcanic heat, elevates this tour above typical sightseeing trips, making it not just about viewing but also about tasting and experiencing local culture.

Authenticity and Expert Guidance

Guest reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides who provide rich context about each site. One reviewer mentioned how their guide, “Carlos,” shared detailed stories about the island’s volcanic activity and local traditions, adding depth to the day.

Practical Considerations

The 8-9 hour duration means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day, but it’s well worth it for the diversity of sights and experiences. The pick-up and drop-off service is a big plus, especially if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada and want a hassle-free way to explore.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for nature lovers and those eager to enjoy spectacular views without the stress of self-driving. It suits travelers interested in geology, local culture, and thermal relaxation. The small group format makes it perfect for those seeking a more intimate, informative tour experience.

If you want a comprehensive day that covers key highlights of São Miguel’s northeastern part, along with good food and relaxing thermal pools, this is a top choice.

FAQs About the São Miguel Furnas & Nordeste Tour

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 8 to 9 hours, providing ample time to visit each site and enjoy the experiences.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Ponta Delgada hotel, making logistics straightforward.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a driver/guide, local guide, lunch, and hotel transfers. Entry fees for some sites are optional and can be paid separately if you choose to visit additional attractions.

Can I visit thermal pools?
Yes, you have the option to visit Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra for thermal pools. Entry isn’t included, but both are accessible as part of the tour.

What are the highlights of this tour?
Expect stunning viewpoints like Senhora da Paz and Pico do Ferro, a visit to a tea plantation, a walk in Ribeira dos Caldeirões, and a volcanic-style lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour’s pace and mostly outdoor stops make it suitable for most ages, but consider individual mobility when visiting sites with walking or uneven terrain.

How should I prepare for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy the thermal pools. The full-day schedule means snacks and water are helpful.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is set, you can choose whether to visit the thermal pools at Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra, and optional entrance fees are at your discretion.

Final Thoughts

This Furnas & Nordeste tour on São Miguel offers a thoughtfully curated day of volcanic landscapes, scenic viewpoints, and cultural insights. Its small-group format guarantees more personalized attention, and the inclusion of a volcanic-inspired lunch makes it a memorable culinary highlight.

It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, in-depth look at the island’s natural features without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. The mix of viewpoints, local visits, and relaxing thermal pools ensures a well-rounded experience that satisfies both adventure seekers and relaxation lovers.

If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed day that captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic soul, this tour is a fantastic choice. It offers a good balance of natural beauty, local culture, and comfort—making it an excellent way to deepen your appreciation of the Azores.

Note: Always check current availability, COVID-19 safety measures, and tour details directly with the provider before booking.