Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour

The Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour offers an accessible and visually remarkable exploration of Madeira’s famous natural beauty. Priced at $26.65 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this tour is perfect for those wanting a short but enriching experience. It departs from Funchal, Caniço, and Machico, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics straightforward. Travelers have the option to upgrade for pickup from the Funchal cruise port, which is convenient for cruise visitors. The tour operates in small groups, capped at 15 or fewer participants, allowing for a more personal and engaging experience.

This trip features three main stops, each offering stunning views and insights into Madeira’s geography and history. The itinerary includes a stop at Pico dos Barcelos, where panoramic views of Funchal unfold, and a visit to Eira do Serrado, where the dramatic terrain of Nuns Valley is on full display. The final highlight is the village of Curral das Freiras, a unique settlement founded by 16th-century nuns fleeing pirate attacks. While this tour’s duration and stops are concise, reviews highlight enthusiastic guides, breathtaking scenery, and excellent value, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking a taste of Madeira’s natural splendor.

Key Points

• Short but scenic: A 3-hour tour showcasing Madeira’s iconic landscapes and viewpoints.
• Affordable: At $26.65, it offers great value with included hotel pickup and small group size.
• Three major stops: Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, and Curral das Freiras.
• Expert guidance: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Stunning vistas: Expect breathtaking views over Funchal, Nuns Valley, and peaks surrounding the village.
• Flexibility: Departure times are adjustable, with an option for cruise port pickup.

From the Pico dos Barcelos Belvedere to Funchal

The tour kicks off at Pico dos Barcelos, perched 355 meters above Funchal. This viewpoint provides a magnificent panorama of the city and harbor, perfect for photos. The 15-minute stop here is brief but impactful, offering sweeping views that set the tone for the rest of the tour. The vantage point is accessible and easy to reach, making it a comfortable start to your scenic journey.

Traveling in an air-conditioned minivan, the guide leads you through Madeira’s lush landscape. The vehicle’s size and frequent stops maintain a relaxed pace, and the views from Pico dos Barcelos are often highlighted as a personal favorite among visitors. The admission is free, and the stop’s short duration is enough to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Spectacular Views from Eira do Serrado Over Nuns Valley

Next, the tour visits Eira do Serrado, a spectacular overlook with views of the horse-shoe shaped Curral das Freitas. This vantage point sits about 30 minutes from Pico dos Barcelos and is often described as the highlight for its stunning vistas of the tiny village below and the terraced fields that stretch across the landscape.

Madeira’s highest mountain was once thought to be a volcanic crater, but it’s now known to be shaped by a river. From this elevation, visitors appreciate the three sheer sides of the valley, framed by jagged peaks. The slopes are cloaked in vineyards and chestnut trees, and the air feels fresh and invigorating. The viewpoint is especially praised for its dramatic scenery and is a favorite photo stop.

Exploring the Village of Curral das Freiras

The final major stop is the village of Curral das Freiras, known as Nuns Valley. This natural amphitheater is surrounded by some of Madeira’s tallest peaks and was founded by nuns fleeing pirate attacks in 1566. The center of the village is modest but steeped in history, with a small rise where the original settlement is located.

Visitors typically spend around 30 minutes exploring the village, which features a local cafe and terraced fields. The views from the village are often described as breathtaking, with the surrounding peaks providing a dramatic backdrop. Some reviews mention that at this stop, attractions are limited, and it’s mostly about enjoying the scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. The cafe offers a chance to try local drinks and snacks, but travelers should be aware that food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Air-Conditioned Transport and Small Group Comfort

Throughout the tour, the air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort, especially during Madeira’s warm months. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the small group setting allows for more personalized attention from the guide. The hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal and Caniço are standard, and an upgrade for cruise port pickup is available for those arriving by sea.

Guests consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who explain the history, geography, and local flora and fauna with clarity and enthusiasm. The pacing of the stops is typically well-managed, offering enough time to enjoy each viewpoint without feeling hurried.

Practical Tips and Travel Considerations

The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a desire to see Madeira’s highlights. The walks and stops are accessible to most, but visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing. As highlighted in reviews, the viewpoints can be showery, so packing wet weather gear is advisable.

While food and drinks are not included, the local cafe at Curral das Freiras provides options for a quick refreshment, with prices around 12 euros for cake, coffee, and soft drinks. Travelers should bring some cash or card if they wish to purchase snacks or souvenirs.

The Experience of Madeira’s Scenic Highlights

The viewpoints at Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado are universally praised for their stunning vistas. These spots are accessible and offer perfect opportunities to take photos of Funchal, the mountain ranges, and the valley below. The scenery is the main reason to choose this tour, especially for anyone passionate about nature photography or geography.

The village of Curral das Freiras provides a cultural and historical perspective, illustrating how Madeira’s inhabitants adapted to the terrain and history of pirate attacks. Its surrounding peaks are often described as breathtaking, and the village’s quiet charm is a welcome contrast to the bustling city.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

The Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour is especially suited for those who want quick access to some of Madeira’s most striking viewpoints and a glimpse of rural life. The small group format and professional guides make it a comfortable choice for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an efficient but scenic excursion.

However, travelers expecting extensive walking or detailed historical tours may find the short duration somewhat limiting. The views and landscapes are the tour’s main draw, making it ideal for photo enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Final Thoughts on the Nuns Valley Scenic Route

This tour offers a balanced combination of panoramic vistas, cultural sights, and compact timing, all at an affordable price. Its small-group format, friendly guides, and convenient logistics make it a reliable choice for visitors wanting a short but scenic Madeira experience.

While it doesn’t include extensive attractions at the village itself, the spectacular viewpoints more than compensate. This tour is best suited for those who prioritize stunning scenery over lengthy or intensive excursions, offering a satisfying taste of Madeira’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

What stops are included?
Stops include Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, and Curral das Freiras.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal and Caniço are included; cruise port pickup is available as an upgrade.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 15 or fewer travelers for a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and cash or card for any purchases at Curral das Freiras.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included but are available at the village cafe.

Can children participate?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate.

Is the tour suitable in rainy weather?
Yes, but it’s recommended to carry wet weather gear as viewpoints may be showery.

What is the cost per person?
The tour is priced at $26.65 per person.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is provided by Madeira Island Tours.

This Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour provides a well-rounded snapshot of Madeira’s landscapes, history, and local charm in a comfortable, budget-friendly package. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking beautiful views and insightful commentary within a short time frame.