Madeira half-day old road west sidecar tour

Exploring Madeira has never been more exciting than on the Madeira half-day old road west sidecar tour. Priced at $228.13 per group (up to 2), this 5-star-rated experience offers a unique way to see the island’s highlights from a motorcycle sidecar. With roughly 1 to 5 hours of adventure, travelers enjoy a personalized, flexible itinerary led by a knowledgeable driver-guide. This tour is perfect for those who want a mix of scenic drives, authentic local spots, and breathtaking views, all without requiring motorcycle riding experience.

One of the tour’s standout features is its ability to access places vehicles cannot reach, opening up secret corners of Madeira’s rugged coastline. The door-to-door pickup and inclusion of insurance, helmets, and disposable rain ponchos make the experience both convenient and comfortable. While the tour is flexible, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of outdoor adventure and eager to explore Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

Key Points

• Unique sidecar experience: Ride along Madeira’s winding old roads in a motorcycle sidecar, driven by a professional chauffeur.
• Visit iconic and hidden spots: Tour stops include Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girao, Ribeira Brava, Ponta Do Sol, and Calheta.
• Customizable itinerary: The guide tailors the stops based on your interests, with flexible timing for each location.
• All-inclusive comfort: Helmets, insurance, and gas are included, with pickup offered from your accommodation or a central meeting point.
• No motorcycle riding experience needed: The tour is designed for passengers, with communication via wireless helmets for storytelling and information.
• Highly rated: Consistently receiving perfect reviews, with mentions of friendly guides, stunning scenery, and exclusive access to local spots.

Exploring Madeira from a Sidecar: An Unconventional Adventure

The Madeira half-day old road west sidecar tour offers an unconventional way to see the island’s west coast. Traveling in a motorcycle sidecar provides a front-row seat to the scenery while avoiding the challenges of winding mountain roads in a car. The driver guides you through Madeira’s scenic routes, sharing insights about local culture, vegetation, and history through the wireless helmet communication system.

This tour’s flexible pace is a major advantage. You can spend around 15 minutes at each stop, giving ample time for photos and exploration without feeling rushed. The personal driver ensures smooth navigation despite potential road closures or variable weather, as disposable rain ponchos are provided for weather shifts.

Starting Point and Logistics of the Madeira Sidecar Tour

The experience begins at Largo dos Varadouros n.º 5 in São Martinho, from where the driver/guide picks you up. The tour concludes at Zona Velha do Funchal, but the endpoint can be customized within the visited area. This private tour ensures an intimate experience with just your group, which is limited to up to 2 passengers per sidecar.

Most travelers can participate, as the tour does not require prior motorcycle experience. Being near public transportation makes it easy to reach the starting point, adding convenience for visitors staying in or near Funchal. The entire experience includes all taxes, fees, insurance, gas, helmets, and disposable rain ponchos, removing any hidden costs or worries.

Highlights of the Stops: What You’ll See and Experience

Câmara de Lobos

The tour starts with a visit to Câmara de Lobos, a charming seaside village famous for its picturesque harbor, colorful boats, and traditional fishing culture. You get a taste of Madeira’s maritime past and see how locals still rely on fishing and vineyards to sustain their community. The 15-minute stop offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to soak in authentic coastal scenery.

Cabo Girao

Next, the tour takes you to Cabo Girao, known for being the highest sea cliff in Europe at 580 meters. Visitors can look out from a glass platform that provides stunning views over the Atlantic. While the admission ticket is not included, the view from this vantage point is a highlight of the trip, impressing visitors with its dramatic height and panoramic vistas.

Ribeira Brava

The journey continues to Ribeira Brava, where the viewpoint overlooks the western side of Madeira and the Serra D’agua valley. This 10-minute stop emphasizes Madeira’s lush valleys and rugged coastline, offering a peaceful spot to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.

Ponta Do Sol

In Ponta Do Sol, the route crosses old roads through banana and sugar cane plantations, showcasing Madeira’s agricultural roots. Alternating mountain and ocean views provide diverse scenery, with 15-minute stops allowing for exploration of local farms and scenic lookouts.

Calheta

The tour concludes at Calheta, home to the largest artificial golden sand beach on the island. Visitors can also visit the Rhum Factory of Calheta, where local sugarcane spirits are produced. The 20-minute stop offers a chance to relax, enjoy the beach, or explore the factory (admission not included).

The Guide and What Makes This Tour Special

The driver-guides, such as Nuno or Filipe, are praised for their friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable personalities. They actively share insights about Madeira’s flora, history, and local customs while keeping the ride safe and enjoyable. The radio communication system enhances the experience by allowing constant storytelling and answering questions during the ride.

This tour stands out for its ability to access local spots that buses and cars cannot reach, especially narrow old roads and viewpoints. The personalized itinerary means the guide can adjust stops based on weather conditions or personal interests, making each trip feel tailored.

Weather, Safety, and Any Considerations

Since most travelers find the tour suitable, it’s accessible to a wide audience. The inclusion of disposable rain ponchos helps manage unexpected weather, although good weather is preferred for the best experience. The tour requires no motorcycle experience, with a professional driver handling all navigation and safety.

The group size is limited to just your group, ensuring a comfortable and private atmosphere. The full insurance coverage provides peace of mind, and the helmet is included for safety.

Making the Most of Your Madeira Sidecar Adventure

To maximize your experience, consider the timing — most bookings are made about 13 days in advance. Arriving prepared for potentially changing weather and comfortable enough for some outdoor exposure is recommended. Since food and drinks are not included, plan to enjoy local eateries separately after the tour.

The flexibility of the itinerary makes this tour ideal for travelers who want to see Madeira’s highlights with the added thrill and charm of a sidecar ride. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, authentic local culture, or just a fun, different way to explore, this experience delivers.

Madeira’s Best Hidden Corners from a Moto Sidecar

This tour’s real appeal lies in its access to secret spots and off-the-beaten-path roads. It’s an experience for those who appreciate scenic drives, local flavor, and personalized service. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides, stunning vistas, and the unusual perspective offered by the sidecar.

The combination of beautiful landscapes, engaging commentary, and flexible stops makes this half-day adventure a memorable way to experience Madeira’s diverse west coast. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want an adventure without the hassle of riding a motorcycle themselves or navigating tricky mountain roads.

Madeira Half-Day Old Road West Sidecar Tour: Is It Worth It?

For $228.13 per group, this is a value-packed experience that offers more than just sightseeing. It’s an interactive, local-focused tour that provides a unique perspective on Madeira’s coast and hinterlands. The perfect length for those with limited time, it delivers stunning views and authentic stops in a relaxed, personalized setting.

While weather can influence the experience, the full insurance, helmets, and pickup make it a hassle-free way to see the island’s highlights efficiently. It’s most suited for adventure seekers or those interested in a different way to explore Madeira that goes beyond typical tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable sitting in the sidecar. The tour is designed for a small, private group, and safety gear is provided.

Do I need motorcycle experience to join?
No, the tour does not require any motorcycle riding skills. All driving is handled by a professional driver-guide.

Can I customize the stops during the tour?
Yes, the itinerary is adaptable based on your interests and weather conditions, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the driver/guide, helmets, insurance, gas, and all taxes and fees. Food and drinks are not included.

How long does each stop last?
Stops typically range from 10 to 20 minutes, giving enough time for photos and brief exploration without feeling rushed.

When should I book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 13 days in advance, but availability can vary, so early reservation is recommended to secure your preferred date.

This Madeira half-day old road west sidecar tour offers an unbeatable combination of scenic beauty, local access, and a fun, relaxed pace. It’s an adventure perfect for those who want a taste of Madeira’s stunning landscapes in a memorable and authentic way.