Attraction Guide: Gorreana Tea Plantation, Gorreana, Portugal

Gorreana Tea Plantation Guide

Sip on History: Discover Europe's Oldest Tea Plantation Guide

Welcome to Gorreana Tea Plantation, a unique and captivating destination nestled in the lush landscapes of São Miguel Island in the Azores, Portugal. As Europe's oldest and only tea plantation, Gorreana offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the world of tea cultivation, processing, and tasting. Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of rolling green hills, where tea plants thrive in the island's unique microclimate. The history of Gorreana Tea Plantation dates back to 1874 when the Hintze Ribeiro family, inspired by tea cultivation practices in Asia, decided to introduce tea plants to the Azores. The island's volcanic soil, abundant rainfall, and mild temperatures proved ideal for tea growing. Over the years, Gorreana has remained a family-run business, preserving traditional methods of tea production while embracing sustainable practices. Unlike many modern tea plantations, Gorreana uses no herbicides, pesticides, or fungicides, ensuring a pure and natural product. A visit to Gorreana offers a variety of activities. Take a self-guided tour through the tea fields, witnessing the entire process from leaf to cup. Observe the tea-picking process (seasonal), and explore the historic factory where the tea leaves are processed using original machinery. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the different varieties of Gorreana tea, including black, green, and orange pekoe, all grown and produced on-site. The plantation also has a shop where you can purchase tea and other souvenirs. While there isn't a formal restaurant, you can enjoy tea and light snacks at the plantation.