Eira do Serrado / Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)

Explore Madeira’s Iconic Views and Village on a 3.5-Hour Tour

This tour in Madeira offers an engaging glimpse of some of the island’s most breathtaking sights, all for just $28 per person. With a duration of 3.5 hours, it suits travelers looking for a compact yet immersive experience. The journey begins with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to access the tour without fuss.

You’ll visit key viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos, which provides sweeping views over Funchal and its bay, and Eira do Serrado, perched at an impressive 1094 meters with a panoramic outlook over Curral das Freiras. The highlight for many is the visit to the charming village of Curral das Freiras, where local cuisine and scenery combine into a memorable stop.

While food and drinks are not included, the tour’s well-paced itinerary ensures plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the scenery. This experience is led by experienced guides in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French, adding a personal touch to the sightseeing.

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Key Points

• Affordable price of $28 per person for a 3.5-hour tour
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Visiting Pico dos Barcelos with panoramic views of Funchal
• Viewing Eira do Serrado at 1094 meters, overlooking Curral das Freiras
• Exploring the charming village of Curral das Freiras
• Guided in multiple languages with small groups limited to 15 people

Starting at Pico dos Barcelos for a City View

The tour kicks off with a visit to Pico dos Barcelos, a popular viewpoint at 355 meters that offers sweeping vistas of Funchal and its harbor. This spot provides perfect photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the city layout from above. The guides share insights about the area, helping you understand the significance of this viewpoint.

Expect to spend a short time here, enough to soak in the scenery, take photos, and get a sense of the island’s geography. The panoramic view is a highlight that impresses many on this tour.

The Spectacular View from Eira do Serrado

Next, the journey takes you to Eira do Serrado, a viewpoint at 1094 meters altitude. From this position, you gaze over Curral das Freiras, a small village famous for its dramatic setting inside a valley surrounded by mountains. The viewpoint offers a breathtaking scene that captures the rugged beauty of Madeira.

The guides make sure to point out the key features visible from this height, giving a richer understanding of the landscape. The cooler mountain air and expansive views make Eira do Serrado a memorable stop.

Descending into Curral das Freiras Village

After taking in the scenery, the tour continues downward to Curral das Freiras, a village that sits at the valley’s bottom. This small settlement showcases traditional Madeiran architecture and offers a glimpse into local life. Visitors can walk through the narrow streets and visit the parish church, a quaint spot that adds to the village’s charm.

The visit to Curral das Freiras also offers a taste of regional flavors, with local restaurants serving delicacies made from sour cherries and chestnuts, both regional specialties. While food isn’t included in the tour price, many choose to sample the regional products during their stop.

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Practicalities of the Tour Itself

The small group size limited to 15 participants ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of room for questions and personalized attention from the guides. The tour operates rain or shine, so it’s wise to dress appropriately for the weather.

The driver will wait no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time, making the logistics smooth and hassle-free. The tour is accessible for most travelers, but it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

What’s Not Included and Additional Info

Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly if they want to enjoy local cuisine during the village visit. Also, any entrance fees for specific sites are not covered in the price, but the main viewpoints and village are free to enjoy.

Booking is flexible with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now, pay later feature offers added convenience, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment.

The Guide and Group Experience

The guides leading this tour are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly manner, making the experience engaging and informative. They share interesting facts about the local scenery and Madeira’s geography, enhancing the sightseeing with context and stories.

The small group size fosters an intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a more personal experience compared to larger tours. The tour’s language options in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French cater to diverse visitors.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour suits travelers who want a compact, scenic overview of Madeira’s landscape and charming villages. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided sightseeing with minimal walking or physical exertion.

Since it’s not suitable for mobility-impaired visitors or pregnant women, it’s best for active, healthy travelers who enjoy panoramic views and local culture. The price point and short duration make it an attractive option for those with limited time on the island.

Final Thoughts on the Curral das Freiras Tour

The Eira do Serrado / Curral das Freiras tour stands out for its stunning viewpoints and the opportunity to explore a traditional Madeira village. The guides’ expertise and the scenic stops make it a worthwhile addition to any Madeira itinerary.

For $28, travelers gain access to some of the most iconic views and a taste of local life, all with the convenience of hotel pickup. The small group setting and flexible booking options add to its appeal. It’s especially well-suited for those seeking a short, memorable sightseeing experience that captures the rugged beauty of Madeira.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $28 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, and the village of Curral das Freiras.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the experience.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but regional delicacies can be sampled during the village visit.

What languages are available for the guides?
Guides speak English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility challenges?
It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and pregnant women.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially given the small group size.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
No, the tour runs rain or shine.

This scenic Madeira tour offers a balanced mix of spectacular viewpoints, local culture, and easy logistics, making it a highly recommended choice for visitors seeking a memorable half-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby