West is the Best

Explore Madeira’s West Coast in a Full-Day Tour for $40.71

The West is the Best tour offers an 8-hour journey through Madeira’s stunning western landscape for $40.71 per person. This guided experience includes pickup, free admission stops, and a mobile ticket, making it convenient and straightforward to see the island’s most remarkable sights. The tour is suited for those who appreciate breathtaking views, natural beauty, and a well-paced day of sightseeing, with most bookings made 17 days in advance.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour covers seven key stops, each showcasing different facets of Madeira’s rugged coast, lush valleys, and historic towns. While the focus is on sightseeing, the tour offers opportunities to appreciate spectacular viewpoints, charming villages, and natural pools. The tour’s small group size, limited to 15 travelers, ensures a more personal experience.

Key Points

• Duration: approximately 8 hours with multiple scenic stops
• Price: $40.71 per person, including free admission to key sites
• Highlights: Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and São Vicente
• Guide: friendly, knowledgeable, with a focus on interesting facts
• Best for: visitors seeking spectacular views and natural beauty with a relaxed pace

Picking Up in Funchal at 9:00am

This tour departs from Funchal at 9:00am, with pickup included. The tour is designed to be accessible, with service animals allowed and most travelers able to participate. The small group format, capped at 15 people, enhances interaction with the guide and ensures a more intimate exploration of Madeira’s scenic west.

The easy logistics make it a good choice for visitors who want a hassle-free day of sightseeing without arranging their own transportation. The mobile ticket allows quick access, and the tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Visiting Câmara De Lobos, the Historic Fishing Village

Câmara de Lobos is the first stop on the tour, a colorful, historic fishing village near Funchal. Known for its picturesque bay filled with varied fishing vessels, this town has a long-standing tradition linked to fishing and agriculture. It’s also famous for its lively nightlife and charm.

The visit lasts around 30 minutes, providing enough time to take in the vibrant scenery and maybe snap a few photos of the bay’s colorful boats. Admission is free, making this a great introduction to Madeira’s coastal lifestyle and history.

Soaking in the Views from Cabo Girao

Next, the tour visits Cabo Girao, a spectacular viewpoint located west of Funchal. At 580 meters above sea level, it is the highest promontory in Europe and the second highest in the world.

From this imposing cliff, travelers enjoy fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding Madeira landscape, including Câmara de Lobos and the famous coastline. The 20-minute stop offers ample time to admire the scenery and take photos from the glass skywalk that extends over the edge.

Exploring Ribeira Brava, One of Madeira’s Oldest Parishes

Ribeira Brava is a historic parish founded shortly after D. Henrique’s death in 1460. It’s notable for its central location, connecting the north and south of the island through scenic roads and gorges.

Visitors enjoy about 30 minutes exploring this charming town, which features a small port and beautiful panoramic views of the inland valleys. The town’s admission is free, and it offers a glimpse into Madeira’s early settlement history amid lush surroundings.

Panoramic Views from Caminho Real da Encumeada PR12

The Boca da Encumeada viewpoint sits at 1007 meters altitude, offering breathtaking vistas of Madeira’s valleys. From this mountain pass, travelers can see Ribeira Brava to the south and São Vicente to the north, separated by deep valleys and lush slopes.

This 20-minute stop provides a perfect photo opportunity, especially for those who appreciate mountain scenery and vast Atlantic views. The free admission allows visitors to soak in the imposing landscape of Madeira’s interior.

Porto Moniz and Its Famous Natural Pools

Porto Moniz is renowned for its natural volcanic pools, which make for a refreshing and scenic stop. This historic town, located in the north of Madeira, was once isolated, accessible only by sea and foot until a road was built after World War II.

The 2-hour visit provides plenty of time to walk around the charming town and admire the unique lava pools. While admission is free, visitors can also choose to swim in the pools, which are a major highlight of Madeira’s coastal attractions.

Seixal’s Peaceful Black Sand Beach and Scenic Cliffs

Seixal offers a tranquil setting with its calm waters and green cliffs. The highlight here is Porto do Seixal Beach, a natural black sand beach adjacent to the port.

The 20-minute stop allows for a relaxing visit amid beautiful landscapes of mountains and sea. This spot is perfect for appreciating Madeira’s diverse landscapes and enjoying a peaceful moment by the water.

Discovering São Vicente’s Lava Caves and Pictorial Center

São Vicente is a picturesque village on Madeira’s north coast, famous for its lava caves created by lava channels. The village is set in a valley surrounded by high limestone slopes, offering great natural beauty.

The 20-minute stop gives visitors time to explore the caves and the historic center. São Vicente’s peaceful atmosphere and natural attractions make it a compelling stop for those interested in geology and rural charm.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at 9:00am with pickup included at a designated meeting point in Funchal. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience. All stops are free admission, except optional swimming at Porto Moniz.

The tour is suitable for most, with service animals allowed. A friendly guide accompanies the group, offering interesting facts and ensuring a comfortable pace. The entire day is planned to maximize scenic views and informative stops without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts on the West is the Best Tour

Priced at just $40.71, this 8-hour guided tour offers excellent value for sightseeing around Madeira’s most iconic spots. The stunning viewpoints, historic towns, and natural pools make it ideal for visitors seeking a rundown of the island’s scenic west coast.

While the tour is focused on visual highlights and easy walks, it’s perfect for those who want a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights. The small group size and expert guidance ensure a personalized experience.

This tour appeals most to visitors interested in nature, panoramic views, and Madeira’s charming villages. It balances scenic exploration with informative commentary, making it a memorable way to discover Madeira’s west coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered in Funchal.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $40.71, including most stops.

Are admission fees included?
All stops are free admission, except optional swimming at Porto Moniz pools.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girao, Ribeira Brava, Caminho Real da Encumeada, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and São Vicente.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed. Those with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved at each stop.

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

What makes this tour stand out?
The stunning views, free admission stops, and friendly guide make this a top choice for exploring Madeira’s west coast.

How early should I book?
Most bookings are made 17 days in advance, so early planning is advisable.

Is food or drink included?
Food and drink are not included but can be purchased during stops, especially at Porto Moniz.

This well-rounded tour delivers a beautiful snapshot of Madeira’s west, blending natural beauty, history, and spectacular viewpoints into a memorable day.