MADEIRA TOUR- SANTANA EAST TOUR STRAW THATCHED ROOFED HOUSES

Exploring Madeira’s northeastern landscapes becomes truly special with the Santana East Tour, which lasts approximately 7.5 hours and costs variable, depending on pickup location. This tour is ideal for those eager to see the island’s iconic thatched roof houses, enjoy breathtaking views from Pico do Areeiro, and experience unique local attractions like a Porto da Cruz Rum Factory tasting. It departs from Funchal and offers a well-rounded glimpse into Madeira’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.

While the tour covers a lot of ground, the focus on scenic vistas, traditional architecture, and local flavors makes it a popular choice. Keep in mind that pickups outside Funchal incur extra costs, and travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a jacket, and cash for additional purchases or souvenirs. This tour offers a balanced combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and scenic viewpoints.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 7.5 hours, with flexible starting times.
• Highlights: Santana’s straw-thatched houses, panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro, visit to a Rum Factory with tasting, and scenic spots like Faial and Ponta de São Lourenço.
• Transport: Comfortable, guided transportation included, with pickup in Funchal and nearby areas.
• Guides: Multilingual expert local guides lead the tour, sharing insights about Madeira’s culture and landscape.
• Additional Costs: Extra charges apply for pickups outside Funchal; meals and beverages are not included.
• Booking Flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Santana’s Traditional Straw-Roofed Houses

The tour’s highlight is the visit to Santana, renowned for its colorful A-frame houses with straw-thatched roofs. These homes stand out as a symbol of Madeira’s distinctive building style and are perfect for photos and cultural insights. The 1.5 hours of free time allow visitors to explore at their own pace, take photos, or browse local craft stalls.

Panoramic Views from Pico do Areeiro

Next, the journey takes travelers to Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak on the island, where spectacular vistas unfold. The photo stop offers sweeping landscape scenes of Madeira’s rugged terrain and cloud-covered peaks. The drive itself includes scenic views along the way, making this segment particularly memorable.

Visit to Faial with Guided Tour and Scenic Overlooks

The stop at Faial includes a guided tour of this small village and its surroundings. Here, visitors appreciate more scenic viewpoints and the opportunity to learn about local life. The guides share insights into the area’s history and natural features, enriching the experience.

Porto da Cruz Rum Factory and Tasting Experience

A highlight for many is the Porto da Cruz Rum Factory, where the tour includes a degustation of Madeira’s famous rum. This visit offers a taste of local tradition and craftsmanship, making it a delightful break in the day. The tasting adds a flavorful dimension to the cultural exploration.

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Exploring Ribeiro Frio and the UNESCO Forest

The tour features a stop at Ribeiro Frio, known for its breathtaking views and proximity to the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors have the chance to walk in the Forest World Heritage, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. This part of the tour appeals to nature lovers and those interested in Madeira’s unique flora.

Coastal Scenery at Ponta de São Lourenço

The scenic finale is at Ponta de São Lourenço, a stark, rugged peninsula offering dramatic coastal views. The Miradouro do Rosto viewpoint provides a striking perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s eastern tip. This stop caps off the tour with stunning landscapes and a chance to appreciate the wild beauty of Madeira’s coast.

Tour Logistics and Practical Tips

The pickup locations include hotels in Funchal and nearby areas like Caniço. Outside Funchal and Caniço, pickups require additional fees, so planning ahead is advised. The tour includes transportation and an expert local guide who speaks Portuguese, English, German, French, and Spanish. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, bring a jacket for cooler mountain stops, and carry cash for souvenirs or additional purchases.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This Santana East Tour is distinguished by its focus on Madeira’s iconic straw-roofed houses, panoramic mountain views, and coastal scenery. The inclusion of a rum tasting and a visit to UNESCO-listed forests enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing. The seven-and-a-half-hour duration balances leisurely exploration with efficient travel, making it suitable for travelers with limited time.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews highlight that pickups outside Funchal are subject to extra charges, which travelers should budget for. The timing of pickups can vary slightly due to traffic or road conditions. The tour does not include meals or beverages, so bringing cash or snacks is recommended. While the pace is generally comfortable, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved during stops.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour appeals to culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and scenery seekers who appreciate authentic Madeira architecture and breathtaking views. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a rundown of the island’s east coast without extensive hiking or complex logistics. Families, senior travelers, and first-time visitors will find this itinerary balanced and engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, comfortable transportation throughout the tour is included, with pickups in Funchal and some surrounding areas.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included; however, there are stops where you can purchase food or drinks locally.

What should I bring?
Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a jacket, comfortable clothes, and cash for any extra expenses or souvenirs.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While generally accessible, the walking involved and outdoor stops mean it’s best for those able to handle some standing and walking.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with the activity provider, Spot Madeira Travel, with options to reserve now and pay later.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Portuguese, English, German, French, and Spanish.

This Madeira tour offers an engaging mix of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and local flavors, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience the best of Madeira’s east coast in one day.

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