Madeira North Wine Tasting Tour

Explore Madeira’s North Coast with a Wine and Sightseeing Tour

The Madeira North Wine Tasting Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the island’s scenic northern region, combining breathtaking vistas, local cuisine, and a guided vineyard visit. Priced at $59.86 per person, this tour provides an approximate 5 to 7-hour experience that balances sightseeing and wine tasting, making it ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day. With private transportation, pickup included, and a small group of up to six travelers, this tour emphasizes intimacy and personalized attention.

What truly sets this tour apart is the chance to visit Machico, the birthplace of Madeira, and enjoy spectacular viewpoints, such as the Miradouro do Guindaste with its glass walk platform. The journey also takes you to a hidden waterfall at Aguage, a traditional Santana village with colorful houses, and culminates in a vineyard tour at Quinta do Barbusano. This combination of scenic stops and wine tasting makes for an authentic and memorable day on this beautiful island.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience with up to 6 participants for a personalized feel
• Includes transportation and coffee, with no lunch included
• Multiple scenic stops such as Machico viewpoint, Miradouro do Guindaste, and Aguage Waterfall
• Vineyard visit at Quinta do Barbusano in Sao Vicente, lasting around 3 hours
• Flexible timing with a duration of 5 to 7 hours starting at 9:00 am
• Tour rated 5.0 out of 5, with praise for guide hospitality and sightseeing variety

The Itinerary Highlights: From Machico to Santana

This tour begins at Av. Sá Carneiro 27 in Funchal and departs promptly at 9:00 am. The first stop is Machico, known as the birthplace of Madeira, where a high viewpoint offers sweeping views of the city below. This quick 30-minute stop includes a free admission, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a brief introduction to the island’s history.

Next, the tour continues to Miradouro do Guindaste, a spectacular viewpoint featuring a glass walk platform that extends over the coast. Here, visitors marvel at the northeastern coastline for about 30 minutes. This stop is included in the tour price, offering sightseeing with admission included.

The journey then takes a short ride to Aguage Waterfall, a lesser-known natural feature accessible by off-road track. With only 15 minutes allocated, it’s a brief but memorable encounter with Madeira’s hidden waterfalls. Access is included, and the scenery provides a peaceful break from the coastal vistas.

The tour makes two stops in Santana, a village famous for its traditional houses with thatched roofs. The first is a local coffee shop where about 30 minutes are spent enjoying fresh coffee and local baked goods, giving a taste of Madeira’s hospitality. The second stop is the town center, where a 20-minute visit allows exploration of the colorful houses that define Santana’s charm.

The afternoon is dedicated to the vineyard experience at Quinta do Barbusano, located in Sao Vicente. The group spends around 3 hours touring the stunning vineyard, guided by an expert who explains the winemaking process and showcases the locale’s unique grapes. This visit does not include admission, but it’s the highlight for wine enthusiasts and those interested in Madeira’s wine traditions.

Scenic Stops with Unmatched Views and Unique Features

The initial viewpoints at Machico and Miradouro do Guindaste are among the most praised aspects of the tour. The view of Machico from above offers an overview of the city’s layout, while the glass walk platform at Guindaste provides a thrilling perspective of Madeira’s rugged coastline. These stops combine stunning photo opportunities with a sense of connection to the island’s geography.

The Aguage Waterfall provides an off-the-beaten-path experience, accessible via an off-road track. Although brief, it’s appreciated for its natural beauty and secluded atmosphere, which contrasts with the more popular viewpoints. It’s an ideal stop for those who enjoy nature and hidden gems.

In Santana, the traditional houses showcase Madeira’s architectural style. The local coffee shop offers a chance to relax and indulge in Madeira’s baked goods, enhancing the cultural experience before heading to the vineyard.

Visiting Quinta do Barbusano: A Mountain Vineyard Experience

The vineyard at Quinta do Barbusano is the tour’s crowning feature. Located in the mountains of Sao Vicente, this vineyard offers a guided walk through the rows of grapevines. Visitors learn about local winemaking techniques and see how grapes are cultivated in this unique terrain. The visit lasts around 3 hours, making it a substantial part of the day.

While admission is not included for the vineyard tour, the experience is highly regarded, especially for those interested in Madeira’s table wines. The mountain setting adds to the sense of tranquility and connection to the land.

Practical Details: Transportation, Food, and Group Size

This tour features private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the day. Pickup is included from a central meeting point in Funchal, and the tour concludes back at the original meeting point.

Included in the price are coffee at a local bakery, offering a chance to enjoy Madeira-style baked goods. However, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The small group size, with a maximum of six travelers, allows for personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

The tour starts at 9:00 am, making it suitable for those who prefer to explore during daylight hours. The schedule balances sightseeing, tasting, and relaxation, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the scenery.

Flexibility and Booking Considerations

Booking is straightforward, with most reservations made 64 days in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind. Since most travelers can participate, it’s accessible to a broad range of visitors, though those with mobility concerns should consider the off-road track to Aguage.

Weather can affect the experience, as the tour is dependent on good weather. In case of cancellations due to poor conditions, travelers are offered a full refund or alternative date.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike many Madeira tours that focus solely on coastal sights or wine tasting, this experience integrates scenic viewpoints, natural waterfalls, cultural stops, and a vineyard visit. The small-group setup enhances personal interaction, and the combination of natural beauty and local culture makes it well-rounded.

The guide, Hugo Renato, receives praise for warmth and knowledge, making the experience more engaging. The price point is reasonable considering the length and personalized elements.

Final Thoughts on the Madeira North Wine Tasting Tour

This tour offers a balanced day of sightseeing, cultural insights, and wine exploration, perfect for those who want to see Madeira’s northern landscapes without rushing. The highlights include spectacular viewpoints, a secluded waterfall, traditional houses, and a vineyard tour, all delivered with personalized service.

While lunch isn’t included and some stops are brief, the value for money and small group experience make it attractive for travelers seeking an authentic Madeira adventure. This tour suits nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and culture seekers who appreciate scenic views and intimate experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included, and pickup is from a designated meeting point in Funchal.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
It includes Machico viewpoint, Miradouro do Guindaste, Aguage Waterfall, Santana with coffee stop and houses, and Quinta do Barbusano vineyard.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included; there is coffee at a local bakery as part of the experience.

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

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 6 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but off-road access at Aguage may require some mobility considerations.

How do I book the tour?
Booking can be done in advance, with most reservations made around 64 days in advance.

Who is the guide?
The tour is led by Hugo Renato Escórcio Melim, known for his hospitality and local knowledge.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of spectacular viewpoints, a natural waterfall, cultural stops, and a vineyard visit, all within a small-group setting, offers a comprehensive Madeira experience.