Furnas Full-Day Van Tour – Lagoon, Geysers and Thermal Springs
A guided journey through volcanic landscapes, thermal waters, and lush island scenery
This full-day Furnas van tour from Ponta Delgada takes you deep into the volcanic heart of São Miguel, where ancient geothermal forces have shaped one of the Azores' most celebrated natural destinations. Expect dramatic calderas, steaming hot springs, and a lagoon framed by dense subtropical vegetation.
The route winds through coastal villages, artisan workshops, and scenic viewpoints before arriving at Furnas, where fumaroles bubble along the shoreline of the lagoon and the village itself sits within an active volcanic depression. Stops along the way include the ceramic workshop of Cerâmica Vieira, the Miradouro do Pisão overlooking the south coast, and the historic town of Vila Franca do Campo.
Afternoon highlights include the thermal bathing area at Poça Dona Beija, the famous Caldeiras das Furnas where meals are traditionally cooked underground, and the elevated viewpoint of Pico do Ferro. The return journey passes through Chá Gorreana, one of Europe's oldest working tea plantations, offering a final taste of island tradition before returning to Ponta Delgada.
Tour Highlights
Walk along the shore of Lagoa das Furnas, surrounded by steaming geysers and lush green hillsides.
Soak in the natural thermal pools at Poça Dona Beija, fed by geothermal springs unique to this volcanic valley.
Take in panoramic views from Pico do Ferro, one of the finest vantage points over the Furnas caldera.
Visit Chá Gorreana, a working tea plantation producing Azorean tea in an unbroken tradition dating back over a century.
Stop at the Caldeiras das Furnas, where volcanic heat is used to slow-cook the local specialty, cozido das Furnas.
Discover local craftsmanship at Cerâmica Vieira and sample traditional queijadas at the Fábrica Queijadas da Vila.
Enjoy a scenic coastal stop at Marina Vila Franca do Campo and the viewpoint at Estrada Real.
Itinerary Overview
The tour departs from ANC Azores Holidays in Ponta Delgada and heads east along the southern coast. Early stops include the artisan ceramic studio of Cerâmica Vieira and the Miradouro do Pisão, a clifftop viewpoint overlooking the Atlantic and the islet of Vila Franca.
A stop in Vila Franca do Campo allows guests to explore the marina and visit the Fábrica Queijadas da Vila, where the island's iconic pastries have been made using traditional recipes for generations. The town itself is one of the oldest settlements on São Miguel.
The route arrives at the Furnas valley, passing by the scenic lagoon before entering the village. The Caldeiras das Furnas are a focal point, where visitors can observe fumaroles and the communal pots used to prepare slow-cooked stews beneath the earth's surface.
Guests may choose to bathe at Poça Dona Beija or alternatively explore Parque Terra Nostra or the Parque Florestal. The afternoon continues with a visit to Pico do Ferro, a miradouro offering sweeping views across the entire Furnas basin.
The final stop is Chá Gorreana on the northeastern slopes of the island, where guests can walk among tea bushes and observe the historic processing machinery still in use today. The group then returns to Ponta Delgada to complete the full-day circuit.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional guide throughout the tour
- Travel insurance
- Fuel and transportation by van or panoramic minibus
- Lunch
Not Included
- Entrance fees to thermal baths (Poça Dona Beija, Parque Terra Nostra, or Parque Florestal)
- Personal expenses and optional purchases
- Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot on the Furnas Tour
Join a small group for a guided full-day exploration of São Miguel's most extraordinary volcanic landscape. Secure your place today and experience the Azores beyond the ordinary.
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