Van Laketour Furnas Full Day/ with lunch (Shared)

Exploring the Furnas Full-Day Tour: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Local Flavors

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel and want a taste of the island’s most iconic sights, this full-day Furnas tour through Van Laketour managed by ANC Azores Holidays offers an excellent way to do so. From stunning volcanic lakes and bubbling hot springs to traditional cuisine and lush tea plantations, this trip packs a lot into 7 to 8 hours.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides bring the landscape and history to life, making each stop engaging. Second, the authentic food—especially the famous cozido cooked in volcanic steam—is a highlight. Third, the opportunity to unwind in geothermal hot springs provides a perfect relaxing end to the day.

One thing to consider is the group size; the tour operates with a maximum of 21 travelers, which is generally comfortable but might feel crowded if you prefer solitary explorations. This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Furnas with expert insights, great scenery, and local flavors all in one package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers top sights including Furnas Lake, tea plantations, ceramic factories, and hot springs.
• Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides like Ruben and Luis enhance the experience with detailed explanations.
• Authentic food & drink: Enjoy traditional pastries, local sweets, and the famous cozido, cooked in volcanic steam.
• Relaxing thermal pools: Swim in the natural hot springs for a soothing break during your day.
• Comfortable transportation: Larger vans available for groups over 8, ensuring a smooth ride.
• Value: At around $83, this all-inclusive day offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural sights, and relaxation.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point and Introduction

The tour kicks off at ANC Azores Holidays’ meeting point in Ponta Delgada at 9:00 am. From the start, the guide sets the tone with enthusiasm and a wealth of local knowledge. Expect a warm welcome and a quick overview of the day ahead.

Ceramic Factory & Vila Franca do Campo

Your first stop is the Cerâmica Vieira factory, where you can see artisans crafting traditional Azorean ceramics. It’s a brief but interesting look into local craftsmanship, and you might even pick up a unique souvenir. Reviewers mention the guides’ friendliness and the free admission makes it an easy, no-pressure start.

Next, you’ll visit Vila Franca do Campo, a charming coastal town. Here, you can stroll through the port, observe the local sea factory, and taste Queijadas da Vila, a local sweet pastry that travelers say is a must-try. The atmosphere is relaxed, and many note the guide’s detailed explanations about local life.

Lagoa das Furnas and the Cooking Spot

The Lagoa das Furnas is the tour’s centerpiece—an expansive volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush greenery. The highlight? Watching the famous cozido being cooked underground in geothermal steam. Some reviews describe this as a “spectacular experience,” thanks to the unique cooking method and the stunning vistas.

Thermal Pools & Relaxation at Poca da Dona Beija

After a morning of sightseeing, you’ll have an hour at Poça da Dona Beija, famed for its soothing thermal waters. Visitors often mention how relaxing it is to soak in these mineral-rich pools, especially after walking and exploring. Admission isn’t included, but many find it is well worth the small extra cost.

Lunch at Caldeira das Furnas

A hearty lunch at Caldeira das Furnas is next—featuring local dishes, including the legendary cozido. You’ll enjoy delicious, filling food with scenic views of the geothermal activity nearby. Several reviewers praised the meal’s quality and the setting’s authenticity, describing it as a genuine flavor of the island.

Gorreana Tea Plantation

No trip to São Miguel would be complete without visiting the Gorreana Tea Plantation. Here, you get a behind-the-scenes look at the tea production process, from the machines to the fields. Tasting different teas is included, and many guests comment on how interesting it is to see how Portuguese tea is made. The reviews mention the friendly staff and the opportunity to learn about local agriculture.

Final Stops and End of Day

The last stops include Ribeira Grande and the PDL airport, where the tour wraps up comfortably back at the meeting point, often around 5-6 pm. The entire experience is designed to be flexible and comprehensive, giving you a well-rounded overview of Furnas and its surrounds.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guides like Ruben and Luis emerge as real stars, with many reviews highlighting their friendliness and depth of knowledge. One reviewer describes Ruben as “very professional, attentive, friendly and fun,” which enhances the overall experience. Multiple guests appreciated how guides explained flora, fauna, and local history, making the stops more meaningful.

The food is another recurring theme, with many raving about the cozido and pastries. One reviewer mentioned that the cozido was enjoyed with “beautiful views of Furnas,” emphasizing the experience’s authenticity. The thermal pools receive special mention as “exceptional,” with visitors finding them perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Stunning landscapes also get high praise—reviews talk about “phenomenal views,” “beautiful vistas,” and “amazing sights.” A Spanish-speaking guest described their day as “muy entretenido y ameno,” highlighting how well the tour caters to diverse travelers.

Practicalities & Value

The tour is priced at around $83, which includes lunch, the guide, and local insights. Considering the variety of stops and the quality of experiences, many reviewers feel this is good value—especially compared to the cost of individual tickets or separate excursions.

Transportation is in a larger van when groups exceed 8, providing comfortable space for everyone. The tour’s duration of 7-8 hours strikes a balance between seeing enough of the island without feeling rushed, and the organized itinerary ensures you won’t waste time wandering aimlessly.

The Perfect Fit: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Furnas without the stress of planning every detail. It’s especially suitable for those interested in local cuisine, scenic landscapes, and geothermal activity. If you appreciate insightful guides and enjoy relaxing in thermal pools, this trip checks those boxes.

It also works well for groups, families, or solo travelers who prefer a structured day with a small group feel. The inclusion of authentic stops like ceramic factories, tea plantations, and local pastries makes it great for anyone keen on experiencing the cultural flavor of São Miguel.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that the day involves walking at scenic stops and some time in thermal pools, which might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers all major stops, lunch, a driver/guide, and a local professional guide. Admission fees for thermal pools or other specific sites are not included but are optional extras.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point. It includes several stops with varying durations.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear for the thermal pools, sunscreen, and a camera. An umbrella might be handy if the weather is unpredictable.

Can I customize the experience?
The itinerary is set, but the guide will adapt based on weather conditions or group preferences when possible.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, groups over 8 will be transported in a larger van, offering ample space and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable ride between stops.

Final Thoughts

The Van Laketour Furnas Full Day tour offers a well-balanced blend of culture, scenery, and relaxation for those wanting to experience the best of São Miguel in one day. Guides like Ruben and Luis make the journey lively and informative, turning sightseeing into storytelling. The inclusion of local culinary delights and geothermal baths elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to a true culture.

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized, and authentic way to explore Furnas with friendly guides and a touch of local flavor, this tour delivers in spades. It’s perfect for travelers who value insider knowledge, delicious food stops, and the chance to relax in thermal waters after a day of sightseeing.

In summary, this tour offers excellent value and a rich taste of São Miguel’s most beloved sights. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a wonderful way to get to know the island’s volcanic heart and its warm, welcoming culture.