São Miguel East Full Day Tour With Furnas Including Lunch

The São Miguel East Full Day Tour with Furnas provides an immersive experience in the stunning natural beauty of the Azores. Visitors can expect to witness the enchanting landscapes of Furnas, including the lake, volcanic springs, and scenic viewpoints. With a traditional "cozido" stew lunch and opportunities to relax in thermal pools, this tour promises a memorable day exploring the island’s culture and natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• A full-day tour of São Miguel island’s eastern region, including a visit to the volcanic region of Furnas and a traditional "cozido" stew lunch.
• The tour is highly rated at 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 1,000 reviews, with a maximum of 8 guests and hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Highlights include exploring Furnas Lake, enjoying scenic viewpoints, and visiting the Ribeira dos Caldeirões waterfall and coastal cliffs.
• The tour includes the traditional "cozido" stew lunch and beverages, with optional admission to thermal pools at an additional cost.
• Positive reviews praise the knowledgeable and accommodating guides, as well as the stunning landscapes and cultural insights provided during the tour.

Tour Overview

The São Miguel East Full Day Tour with Furnas Including Lunch provides a comprehensive exploration of the eastern part of São Miguel island in Portugal.

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 1,000 reviews, this full-day tour takes visitors to the volcanic region of Furnas and its stunning natural scenery.

Travelers will enjoy a traditional "cozido" stew cooked in geothermal grounds, as well as stops at scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and coastal cliffs.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 guests and offers hotel pickup and drop-off.

Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes infants and strollers.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Visitors on the São Miguel East Full Day Tour will experience the stunning volcanic region of Furnas.

They’ll explore Furnas Lake, home to volcanic springs, gas vents, and thermal pools, which they can optionally visit at their own expense.

The tour also includes a traditional "cozido" stew, cooked in the geothermal grounds and served with a drink, dessert, and coffee.

Along the way, travelers will stop at scenic viewpoints, such as Miradouro de Santa Iria, Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, and the Ribeira dos Caldeirões waterfall, as well as enjoy coastal views from high cliffs.

Included and Excluded

This tour includes the traditional "cozido" stew lunch, complete with a drink, dessert, and coffee.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off from centrally located Ponta Delgada hotels, bottled water, and an expert driver/guide are also provided.

However, admission to the thermal pools isn’t included and is optional. Any services not explicitly mentioned are also excluded.

The tour offers a flexibility in booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Instant confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and pickup information is required.

Customer Experiences

Guides are widely praised for their informative, entertaining, and accommodating nature, as attested by the overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Guests rave about the stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and the opportunity to relax in thermal pools. The tour’s unique highlights, like the traditional geothermal cooking, have received particular praise.

However, some travelers have noted limitations due to weather conditions, and a desire for more urban exploration opportunities.

Pickup and Booking Details

When does the tour start, and how do travelers get picked up?

The São Miguel East Full Day Tour kicks off at 9:00 AM. Guests should be ready at their accommodation or the designated meeting point by this time.

The pickup process takes up to 20 minutes to complete, with an additional pickup in Ribeira Grande starting at 9:30 AM.

The tour is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Guests can easily secure their spots while maintaining booking flexibility, with instant confirmation at the time of reservation.

All the necessary pickup information is provided upon booking confirmation.

Exploring Furnas Lake and Thermal Pools

After exploring the scenic viewpoints, travelers venture to the Furnas region, home to the volcanic Furnas Lake (Lagoa das Furnas).

Here, they can opt to visit the thermal springs, gas vents, and steaming pools for an additional fee. The highlight is witnessing the traditional "cozido" stew being cooked in the geothermal grounds.

This hearty dish, included in the tour, is served with a drink, dessert, and coffee, providing a delicious and authentic taste of Azorean cuisine.

The tranquil setting of Furnas Lake and the unique geothermal activity make this a memorable stop on the tour.

Savoring the Traditional "Cozido" Stew

Lunch is a highlight of the São Miguel East Full Day Tour, where travelers savor the traditional "cozido" stew.

Cooked in the geothermal grounds of Furnas, this hearty dish is a culinary showcase of the island’s volcanic origins. The stew includes a variety of meats, vegetables, and root crops, all slowly simmered underground to infuse the flavors.

Included with the meal are a drink, dessert, and coffee, providing a complete and satisfying midday break. Guests praise the authentic taste and cultural experience of this unique geothermal cooking method, making it a memorable part of the tour.

Scenic Stops and Breathtaking Views

The São Miguel East Full Day Tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through some of the island’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.

Along the way, guests are treated to stunning vistas from various viewpoints, including:

• Miradouro de Santa Iria, offering sweeping views of the surrounding volcanic terrain.
• Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, a panoramic overlook showcasing the vibrant colors of the Furnas Valley.
• Ribeira dos Caldeirões waterfall, where cascading waters create a serene and refreshing ambiance.
• Coastal cliffs providing awe-inspiring perspectives of the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged shoreline.

These scenic stops leave a lasting impression on visitors, immersing them in the natural splendor that defines the Azores archipelago.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may be suitable for families with young children, as it offers stroller accessibility and infant seats. However, the Furnas thermal pools and volcanic terrain could pose safety concerns for young explorers.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Include Specific Stops?

The tour allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary. Travelers can discuss their interests with the guide and request additional stops, though the core highlights are predetermined. Some customization is possible, but options may be limited.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no set dress code, allowing for casual, comfortable attire. Travelers should dress for the weather and terrain, with sturdy footwear recommended. Light layers are advisable as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

Can We Purchase Additional Items at the Lunch Stop?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional items at the lunch stop. The included lunch features a traditional "cozido" stew, but guests may opt to buy extra drinks, desserts, or other items during the meal if desired.

How Physically Demanding Is the Tour for Elderly or Mobility-Limited Guests?

The tour includes walking at scenic stops, but the guide can accommodate guests with limited mobility. Some areas, like the thermal pools, may be difficult to access for those with mobility challenges.

The Sum Up

The São Miguel East Full Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the stunning Furnas region, savor the traditional "cozido" stew, and unwind in thermal pools, all while enjoying expert guidance and breathtaking views. This well-rated tour provides a memorable experience for those seeking to discover the beauty and culture of São Miguel island.