From Funchal: Nuns Valley, Monte and Sleigh Ride Tour

Explore Madeira with the Funchal: Nuns Valley, Monte, and Sleigh Ride Tour for just $41 per person. This 4-hour small-group experience offers a mix of scenic views, cultural sights, and exciting activities, making it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded taste of the island. Guided by multilingual experts, the tour highlights the island’s natural beauty and historical spots, with options for hotel pickups and a memorable toboggan ride.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the variety of stops and activities included, from panoramic viewpoints to the famous Monte toboggan ride. With a high rating of 4.7 from over 1,500 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience both enjoyable and value-packed. The tour is suitable for those interested in scenic sightseeing, cultural attractions, and fun adventures, with flexibility for hotel pickups in Funchal and nearby areas.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $41 per person for a 4-hour guided tour.
• Includes a thrilling toboggan ride, a unique Madeiran experience.
• Visits Nuns Valley and Monte, with breathtaking viewpoints and cultural sights.
• Tour starts from Funchal with multiple pickup options and hotel drop-offs.
• Guided by multilingual guides who are praised for their knowledge and humor.
• Food tasting of local chestnut cake and traditional liquors is part of the experience.

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The Tour Starts at Multiple Funchal Pickup Points

This tour begins with convenient pickup options from more than 48 locations in Funchal, including hotels like Suite Hotel Eden Mar, Madeira Gardens, and Hotel Porto Mare. For those arriving via cruise, pickup is available from the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum meeting point, located just 8 minutes from the ship.

The bus transportation is comfortable, and for guests with rental cars, the meeting point is at the Madeira Panorâmico bus stop on the main road, with free parking available. For Santa Cruz hotels such as Vila Galé and Santa Cruz Village, there is a small additional cost of $10 per person. The tour’s flexibility allows travelers to choose the most convenient pickup location.

Scenic Journey to Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado

After departure, the tour heads toward Pico dos Barcelos, a well-known lookout point offering panoramic views of Funchal and beyond. This spot is ideal for capturing photos of the island’s lush landscapes and rugged coastlines. The guide explains the significance of the sites and points out notable landmarks along the way.

The journey continues up to Eira do Serrado, at 1,094 meters above sea level. Here, visitors admire views across the Nuns Valley, an area surrounded by lava rock, where the name originates from the 16th-century nuns who once escaped pirate attacks. The drive features stunning scenery with chestnut trees and eucalyptus, and the narrow roads, old footpaths, and tunnels add to the sense of stepping back in time.

Exploring Nuns Valley and Its Unique History

Nuns Valley is a highlight of the tour, offering a breathtaking view of Madeira’s western landscape. This isolated area, protected by lava rock, once hosted nun inhabitants fleeing pirate threats. Visitors can see the landscape that has remained largely untouched, with its rugged terrain and historical significance.

The tour includes free entrance to the Nuns House and Chestnut Museum, where visitors learn about local traditions and the history of the area. As part of the experience, travelers get to try regional chestnut cake and pastries that are exclusive to Madeira, along with different local liquors.

Monte and the Famous Toboggan Ride

Next, the tour takes travelers to Monte, a historic hilltop town known for its church and stunning views over Funchal. The church houses the tomb of Emperor Charles I of Austria, a notable historical figure. Visitors have free time to explore the area and take in the scenery.

The most exciting part of the excursion is the 2-kilometer toboggan ride down the old Livramento road. The basket sleds are driven by experienced locals, who are praised for their skill and lively demeanor, adding fun and authenticity to the experience. Many reviews highlight the early booking to avoid queues, with the ride being a top highlight for its thrill and uniqueness. The bus awaits at the bottom of the slope for the return trip.

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Scenic Stops at Eira do Serrado and Curral das Freiras

After the toboggan adventure, the tour stops at Eira do Serrado again for more scenic views. This viewpoint provides a 360-degree panorama over the surrounding valleys and mountains, perfect for photographs. Travelers have free time to soak in the vistas or take a short walk.

The journey continues to Curral das Freiras, a charming village famous for its nest-like setting in a deep valley surrounded by steep cliffs. Here, visitors can take photos and enjoy a local aperitif—a chance to sample regional flavors and appreciate the quiet rural atmosphere.

Guided Tour of Funchal and Final Drop-Off

The tour concludes with a guided exploration of Funchal, where the guide shares insights about the city’s history, architecture, and culture. This segment offers a chance to see some of Madeira’s highlights in the capital before ending back at the original pickup points.

Drop-off locations include popular hotels and spots like Pestana Grand, Quinta Splendida, and the Funchal Promenade. For those who started from the cruise port, pickup and drop-off are well coordinated, ensuring a smooth experience.

The Value and Reviews of the Tour

At $41, this tour provides excellent value for money, combining sightseeing, cultural insights, and active fun in just 4 hours. Its high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 1,500 reviews underscores strong customer satisfaction. The multilingual guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendly approach.

Many travelers highlight the early start and efficient scheduling as ways to avoid crowds, especially at the toboggan ride. The food tasting of chestnut pastries and liquors is another frequently mentioned highlight, adding a delicious local touch to the day.

While some note waiting times for the basket ride, guides do their best to make the experience enjoyable. The tour’s small-group size ensures a personalized atmosphere, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who like scenic views and cultural sites, and those eager to try a famous Madeira activity like the toboggan ride. The knowledgeable guides and easy logistics make it ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Madeira’s highlights in a relaxed setting.

It’s especially good for food lovers, as the chestnut treats and regional liquors are included and add an authentic taste of Madeira. Due to the physical activity involved in the toboggan ride, participants should be comfortable with light walking and sitting on open-air sleds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from numerous hotels in Funchal, with an additional fee for Santa Cruz hotels and cruise port guests.

How long is the toboggan ride?
The toboggan ride covers 2 kilometers and is regarded as the highlight of the tour, with experienced local drivers ensuring safety and fun.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 3 years old can ride on a parent’s lap. No specific discounts are mentioned for children, but the ride and tour are suitable for most ages.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in Spanish, Dutch, English, French, German, and Portuguese.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor sightseeing and light walking; consider bringing a jacket for higher viewpoints.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Madeira’s natural beauty, culture, and adventure activities in a cost-effective package. Its combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and the iconic toboggan ride provides a memorable experience suited for a variety of travelers.

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