Madeira Valley of the Nuns Tour

The Madeira Valley of the Nuns Tour offers a captivating glimpse into one of Portugal’s most striking landscapes. For just $27.81 per person, this 3.5-hour experience takes you to the heart of Madeira’s iconic Curral da Freiras, a village built on the crater of an extinct volcano. The tour provides hotel pickup in Funchal, making it a convenient way to explore this unique area without the hassle of self-driving. With an average booking time of 20 days in advance and a high 91% recommendation rate, this tour combines scenic viewpoints, a traditional fishing village, and a taste of Madeira’s local drink, Poncha. While it doesn’t include lunch, the affordability and the stunning vistas make it a valued choice for visitors eager to see Madeira’s interior.

This tour is most suitable for travelers seeking short but memorable sightseeing in Madeira, especially those interested in spectacular mountain views and local culture. It strikes a balance between guided commentary and free exploration, perfect for those who want a relaxed yet informative experience. Be aware that the tour involves some walking at each stop and may be affected by weather conditions, such as mist or rain, which can obscure views.

Key Points

• Affordable at $27.81, with hotel pickup included in Funchal.
• Multiple stops: Eira do Serrado viewpoint, Nuns Valley, and Câmara de Lobos.
• Scenic drives with commentary by multilingual guides.
• Fast booking: Usually reserved 20 days in advance.
• Tour duration is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.
• Not include lunch or museum entry fees, but free to explore each location.

The Valley of the Nuns: A Village on a Volcano Crater

The highlight of this tour is the Valley of the Nuns (Curral da Freiras), a village uniquely positioned within a deep valley encircled by towering mountain slopes. The village has a historical reputation as a refuge for nuns hiding from pirates, which adds a layer of intrigue to its picturesque setting. The viewpoint at Eira do Serrado provides breathtaking vistas of the valley and the surrounding central massif, making it an ideal spot for photos.

Travelers get about 30 minutes to wander around the Nuns Valley itself. The landscape features steep slopes and lush greenery, creating a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs. The village’s remote location means it remains tranquil, with a charm that appeals especially to those looking for authentic scenery. However, weather conditions such as mist can sometimes obscure the views, adding an element of unpredictability to the experience.

Visiting Câmara de Lobos: A Traditional Fishing Village

The tour’s third stop takes you to Câmara de Lobos, Portugal’s colorful fishing village. This location is famous for its traditional charm and history as a favorite spot of Winston Churchill, who spent time painting local landscapes. Visitors are encouraged to try the famous local drink, Poncha, a Madeira specialty made with sugarcane spirit, honey, and lemon.

In Câmara de Lobos, about 30 minutes are allocated for exploration. The village offers a relaxing atmosphere with narrow streets, boats bobbing in the harbor, and local cafes. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink or some chestnut cakes while soaking in the coastal views. The stop is ideal for those wanting a taste of Madeira’s fisherman’s life and small-town scenery.

Scenic Drive with Professional Guides

The tour features a comfortable vehicle that takes you from the viewpoints to the villages, with commentary provided by a multilingual guide. Reviewers highlight guides like Patrica and Bruno for their friendly, professional, and knowledgeable explanations. The driving along mountain roads offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery, with stops at key points of interest.

Most travelers appreciate the well-paced stops of about 40 minutes at each location, giving ample time for exploration, photos, or sampling local treats. The small group size (max 55 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, and the pickup and drop-off service in Funchal adds convenience, particularly for guests staying in hotels.

Highlights at Eira do Serrado Viewpoint

The Eira do Serrado viewpoint is the first major stop, offering spectacular panoramic views of Curral das Freiras. From this high vantage point, you can see the village built within the volcano’s crater and the majestic surrounding mountains. The 20-minute visit is brief but intensely scenic, perfect for snapping photos and appreciating Madeira’s rugged landscape.

This stop provides an excellent overview of the valley’s geography before descending into the area itself. The views are often described as breathtaking, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Exploring Curral das Freiras: A Deep Valley Encircled by Mountains

The 30-minute stop in Curral das Freiras allows visitors to get a closer look at the village’s steep slopes and lush vegetation. The setting feels secluded and peaceful, with the opportunity to walk around, admire the traditional architecture, and experience a slice of local life.

While some reviews mention that the village itself isn’t particularly large or bustling, the spectacular scenery and sense of history make this stop worthwhile. The longer walk to the church or museum involves steps, which travelers should consider. Still, the surrounding landscape often compensates for any limitations, especially in clear weather.

An Authentic Taste of Madeira in Câmara de Lobos

The final stop at Câmara de Lobos is a highlight for many. This fishing village’s vibrant colors and harbor atmosphere evoke classic Madeira charm. Besides soaking in the scenery, travelers can sample local chestnut cakes or enjoy a refreshing Poncha, a traditional drink.

The 30-minute visit offers flexibility to walk along the waterfront, visit local shops, or relax at a café. Many appreciate this stop as a culinary and cultural introduction to Madeira’s coastal traditions.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The Madeira Valley of the Nuns Tour is operated by Lido Tours and is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as it involves some walking but no strenuous activity. The tour is most often booked 20 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. It includes all taxes and fees, with hotel pickup and drop-off available for guests staying in Funchal.

The tour is not inclusive of lunch, so travelers should plan accordingly. The duration of approximately 3 hours 30 minutes makes it ideal for a half-day excursion, fitting well into most Madeira itineraries. Since the tour can be affected by weather conditions, particularly mist or rain, it’s wise to check the forecast and dress appropriately.

Final Thoughts on the Madeira Valley of the Nuns Tour

This tour offers a cost-effective, scenic, and informative way to see Madeira’s interior highlights. The viewpoints, village visits, and local culture combine to deliver a well-rounded experience. The guides’ expertise and comfortable transport foster a relaxed journey suitable for a broad range of travelers.

While the stops are relatively brief, they are carefully chosen to maximize spectacular scenery and cultural insight. The tour’s affordability and ease of booking make it a practical choice for visitors wanting a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment.

Travelers who value stunning vistas, local flavor, and professional guidance will find this tour highly satisfying. Keep in mind that weather can impact the views, so a clear day enhances the experience. With positive reviews emphasizing friendly guides and breathtaking scenery, the Madeira Valley of the Nuns Tour remains a popular, reliable way to see this remarkable part of Portugal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying in Funchal, adding convenience to the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, providing enough time to visit all three key locations without feeling rushed.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Travelers visit Eira do Serrado viewpoint, Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley), and Câmara de Lobos fishing village.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but at Câmara de Lobos, you can sample local chestnut cakes or drinks.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though some walking at the stops involves steps. It’s advisable for those with mobility issues to consider this.

Can the weather affect the tour?
Yes, poor weather like mist or rain can obscure views, but the tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled due to weather conditions.