Curral das Freiras e Monte - Exploring the Valley of the Nuns in Curral das Freiras

Curral das Freiras e Monte

Discover the scenic Curral das Freiras and Monte on this private 3-4 hour tour from Funchal, featuring breathtaking viewpoints, mountain village visits, and lush gardens.

This private tour from Funchal offers a compact yet immersive experience of Madeira’s stunning landscapes and charming villages. Priced at $119.35 per group (up to 4 people), it provides personalized transportation and easy access to key sights like Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, the Valley of the Nuns, and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte. The tour spans approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a comprehensive view of Madeira’s highlights.

A notable feature is the pickup service and WiFi on board, which add convenience and comfort. The tour is designed for most travelers, with most dates available except on January 1st and December 25th. This experience suits visitors seeking a relaxed, scenic journey with lots of photo opportunities and a touch of local culture.

Key Points

Curral das Freiras e Monte - Key Points

  • Private guided tour focused on Madeira’s iconic viewpoints and villages
  • Duration of 3 to 4 hours with flexible timings starting at 9:00 am
  • Includes luxury transportation with WiFi and all fees covered
  • Visit Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, Curral das Freiras, and Monte
  • Free admission to all scenic viewpoints and the church
  • No lunch included, perfect for an afternoon exploration

Starting at Pico dos Barcelos for Funchal Views

Curral das Freiras e Monte - Starting at Pico dos Barcelos for Funchal Views

The tour begins at Pico dos Barcelos, a popular viewpoint offering sweeping views over Funchal’s bay and surrounding mountains. This spot is perfect for snapping photos of the cityscape framed by lush greenery. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, during which you can take in the scenery and appreciate the panoramic vistas. The site is easily accessible and offers free access, making it a quick yet impactful start to the day.

From there, the journey ascends towards Eira do Serrado at 1053 meters high. This vantage point provides a spectacular overlook of the parish of Curral das Freiras, a mountain village famous for its tucked-away charm. The footpath from Estalagem Eira do Serrado allows visitors to descend into the village if they wish to explore further. The stop lasts 30 minutes, offering enough time to enjoy the scenery or take photos.

Exploring the Valley of the Nuns in Curral das Freiras

Curral das Freiras e Monte - Exploring the Valley of the Nuns in Curral das Freiras

Descending into Curral das Freiras, this cozy mountain village is surrounded by steep, dramatic peaks. The village is known for its mountainous landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. During the 30-minute visit, travelers can stroll through the narrow streets, admire traditional architecture, and absorb the tranquility of this tucked-away spot. The village’s setting makes it a standout highlight of the tour, providing a genuine taste of Madeira’s rural life.

Visiting the Parish of Monte and Its Famous Church

The tour concludes at the Parish of Monte, celebrated for its gardens and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte. This historic church, built in the 18th century, offers insight into Madeira’s religious heritage. Visitors can walk around the church grounds and surrounding areas, enjoying lush botanical gardens that are characteristic of this elevated location. The 30-minute stop allows ample time to explore the church and take in views over Funchal from a different perspective.

Convenient Logistics and Transportation

Curral das Freiras e Monte - Convenient Logistics and Transportation

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, ensuring comfort during the approximately 3 to 4-hour trip. As a private tour, only your group participates, which allows for flexibility and personalized attention. The tour departs at 9:00 am, aligning well with morning sun and optimal lighting for sightseeing and photography.

Flexibility and Booking Details

Most bookings are made 8 days in advance, reflecting strong interest and availability planning. The tour includes all fees and taxes, with lunch not included, giving travelers flexibility to explore local options on their own after the tour. Cancellation is straightforward with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind.

Unique Features of This Tour from Limousine Taxis Madeira

Curral das Freiras e Monte - Unique Features of This Tour from Limousine Taxis Madeira

What sets this experience apart is its focus on a combination of viewpoints and cultural sites within a manageable timeframe. The private transport enhances convenience, and the tour’s structure ensures you see the best vistas and villages without rushing. The lack of additional hidden costs makes it a straightforward choice for those wanting a personalized Madeira experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to visitors who prefer a relaxed pace, with plenty of photo stops and local insights. It’s particularly suited for those with limited time but eager to see Madeira’s mountain villages and scenic viewpoints. It also works well for small groups seeking a private, personalized outing with comfortable transport and flexible scheduling.

Curral das Freiras e Monte: Scenic Highlights and Practical Tips

Curral das Freiras e Monte - Curral das Freiras e Monte: Scenic Highlights and Practical Tips

This 3-4 hour tour offers a balanced mix of spectacular viewpoints, mountain village charm, and cultural landmarks. The stops at Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado provide photo-worthy vistas of the island’s rugged terrain and cityscape. The visit to Curral das Freitas reveals a peaceful community surrounded by towering peaks, giving insight into Madeira’s rural side.

The final visit to Monte combines natural beauty with historic architecture, perfect for those interested in Madeira’s religious and botanical sites. The all-inclusive price and private transportation make this tour both convenient and comfortable, especially for groups or visitors who value personalized service.

While lunch is not included, this allows flexibility to enjoy local cuisine at leisure after the tour. The departure time of 9:00 am aligns well with Madeira’s morning light, making it ideal for photography and sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on the Curral das Freiras e Monte Tour

This private tour from Funchal delivers a focused exploration of Madeira’s mountain viewpoints and villages. The choice of scenic stops and the comfort of private transport make it an attractive option for those seeking a relaxing yet enriching experience. The free admission to all sites means you get a rich visual and cultural overview without additional costs.

Its short duration makes it perfect for travelers with limited time, but the quality of sights and personalized touches elevate it beyond a simple sightseeing trip. The positive review highlights the interesting guide and the beautiful landscapes, confirming its appeal to visitors who want a well-organized, scenic adventure.

Ready to Book?

Curral das Freiras e Monte



5.0

100% 5-star

“Une excursion très sympathique avec de très beaux paysages. Le guide était très intéressant et arrangeant. Comme nous étions déjà allés à…”

— Ingrid P, May 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, WiFi onboard, all fees and taxes, and admission to viewpoints and the church. Lunch is not included.

Is this tour suitable for children or limited mobility?
While most travelers can participate, the tour involves some walking at viewpoints and the church. It’s best suited for those comfortable with short walks and uneven terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What makes this tour unique?
Its combination of spectacular viewpoints, mountain village visits, and personalized private transport offers a relaxed and intimate way to explore Madeira’s highland scenery.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers wanting a personalized, scenic experience focusing on Madeira’s mountain landscapes and cultural sites in a short time frame.