São Miguel Island: Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

São Miguel Island sees over 200,000 visitors annually, drawn by its volcanic landscapes and unique geothermal features. As travelers embark on the Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour, they are in for a day filled with natural wonders and cultural discoveries.

From exploring the mystical Furnas crater to indulging in relaxing hot springs and traditional Azorean cuisine, this tour promises an enriching experience. However, there’s a twist in the tale that travelers should be aware of, hinting at unexpected challenges that may unfold during their journey on this captivating island.

Key Points

• Relax in volcanic steam-heated hot springs and enjoy the therapeutic benefits.
• Experience the unique Cérean boiled dish cooked in natural boilers at Furnas.
• Explore Furnas village, known for its diverse thermal sources and hot springs.
• Enjoy scenic views at Pico do Ferro viewpoint and along the south coast during the tour.

Tour Details

When embarking on the São Miguel Island Tour to Furnas and Furnas Lake, visitors can expect a comprehensive itinerary packed with exciting experiences and amenities.

One of the highlights of the tour is the tea tasting experience, where guests can visit a tea plantation featuring the Camellia Sinensis plant used to produce Azores tea.

Plus, the tour offers a unique opportunity for local cuisine exploration, including tasting the traditional Cérean boiled dish cooked in the natural boilers of Furnas.

Visitors will have the chance to indulge in the flavors of the region while seeing the rich culinary traditions of São Miguel. This culinary journey adds a delicious and authentic touch to the overall tour experience.

Tour Highlights

The São Miguel Island Tour to Furnas and Furnas Lake offers a captivating array of experiences that showcase the island’s unique beauty and cultural heritage. Tour highlights include the opportunity to relax in hot springs heated by volcanic steam and visit a tea plantation where Camellia Sinensis tea plants grow. Travelers can explore the Furnas crater and enjoy the stunning views from Pico do Ferro viewpoint. Plus, they can indulge in tea tasting sessions, savoring the flavors of Azores tea. Visitors also get to taste the traditional Cérean boiled dish cooked in the natural boilers of Furnas, offering a unique culinary experience. The tour further includes encounters with geothermal wonders, providing a deeper understanding of the island’s natural phenomena.

Tour Highlights
Tea tasting	Geothermal wonders
Relaxing in hot springs	Furnas crater visit
Azores tea flavors	Cérean boiled dish

Full Tour Description

Explore the diverse thermal sources and hot springs of Furnas village, enjoying the geothermal wonders of São Miguel Island on this captivating tour to Furnas and Furnas Lake.

1. Visit a tea plantation with Camellia Sinensis plants used for Azores tea.
2. Stop at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint at Furnas crater for breathtaking views.
3. Indulge in tasting the Cérean boiled dish, a local specialty cooked in the natural boilers of Furnas.
4. Explore Furnas village with its abundant thermal sources and hot springs, offering a unique experience of the island’s geothermal activity.

This tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural beauty and cultural delights, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to explore São Miguel’s enchanting landscapes and flavors.

Restrictions

Visitors on the tour aren’t permitted to bring oversize luggage, baby strollers, or large bags. This restriction is in place to ensure safety measures are followed and to address accessibility concerns during the excursion.

Plus, guests are advised that no drinks or food are allowed in the vehicle, and alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited. For the safety of all participants, the tour doesn’t permit alcohol, drugs, or electric wheelchairs.

It’s important to note that the tour operates rain or shine, so guests should come prepared for varying weather conditions. By adhering to these restrictions, participants can fully enjoy the tour without any hindrances, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the day.

Customer Review

Upon experiencing the tour, a dissatisfied customer shared their negative feedback regarding the organization and execution of the São Miguel Island Tour. The impact on the itinerary and customer service experience were crucial factors in their disappointment.

Here are four key points highlighting the customer’s review:

1. The tour didn’t follow the planned itinerary, significantly affecting the customer’s expectations and experience.

2. The lack of communication from the tour company about changes led to confusion and frustration for the customer.

3. The lost day due to the tour not being as booked had a negative impact on the overall trip for the customer.

4. The reviewer expressed dissatisfaction with the situation and the customer service received during the tour.

Directions

To navigate efficiently through the tour destinations, visitors should familiarize themselves with the detailed route and key points of interest. Maps will be provided at the beginning of the tour, outlining the journey through Furnas and Furnas Lake. Tourists will start at either the north or south coast, depending on weather conditions, before heading to the tea plantation to see the Camellia Sinensis tea plant. The group will then proceed to the Pico do Iron viewpoint at Furnas crater and have the opportunity to try the local cuisine, including the traditional Cérean boiled dish cooked in the natural boilers of Furnas. Don’t miss exploring Furnas village with its diverse thermal sources and hot springs, before returning along the south coast, enjoying panoramic viewpoints and beaches.

Key Points of Interest	Route
Tea Plantation	North or South Coast (Weather-dependent)
Pico do Iron Viewpoint	Furnas Crater
Furnas Village	South Coast
Local Cuisine	Cérean Boiled Dish

Common questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour, making it family-friendly. The tour offers flexibility with cancellation policies. Safety concerns are addressed by prohibiting certain items and substances. Enjoy a memorable experience without age limitations.

Are There Any Opportunities for Swimming in the Hot Springs or Furnas Lake?

Swimming opportunities in the hot springs or Furnas Lake are available with safety precautions in place. Visitors should follow guidelines provided by the tour guides for a safe and enjoyable experience in the natural thermal waters.

Can Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Options Be Accommodated for the Cérean Boiled Dish Tasting?

Vegan options for the Cérean boiled dish tasting can be accommodated upon request. Dietary restrictions are considered for this culinary experience. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal while exploring the unique flavors of Furnas.

Are There Any Souvenir Shops or Local Craft Markets Visited During the Tour?

During the tour, visitors can explore local crafts and shopping opportunities, discovering unique souvenirs to commemorate their experience. These stops offer a chance to support local artisans and bring home special mementos.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available at the Various Stops on the Tour Route?

Restroom facilities are available at various stops on the tour route. Accessibility concerns are addressed, ensuring comfort for all participants. Visitors can rest assured that convenient facilities will be accessible during their journey.

Last Words

To sum it up, despite some challenges with tour organization and communication, the Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour on São Miguel Island offers a unique and enriching experience for travelers.

With its stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and cultural highlights, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and traditions of the Azores.

Despite potential service quality concerns, the allure of this tour and the island’s enchanting attractions continue to draw visitors seeking a memorable adventure.