Classic Car Sightseeing Tour to the West & Northwest

A Unique Way to Explore Madeira’s West and Northwest in a Classic Car

The Classic Car Sightseeing Tour to the West & Northwest offers a charming and relaxed way to see some of Madeira’s most stunning coastal scenery. For $99 per person, the 8-hour private tour in a vintage open-roof car combines comfort, personalization, and breathtaking views. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Madeira’s rugged cliffs, natural pools, and charming towns without the hassle of driving themselves.

This tour is designed to be flexible and safe, with the ability to customize stops and routes with a private guide. The tour includes hotel pick-up in Funchal and Caniço, live commentary, and the opportunity to visit iconic sights like Cabo Girao and lava pools. It’s a memorable way to discover the island’s dramatic landscapes from a cozy, open-air vehicle, making it a great choice for scenic enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

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Key Points

• Price: $99 per person for an 8-hour private sightseeing experience
• Vehicle: Classic open roof car, ideal for photos and enjoying fresh air
• Highlights: Visit Cabo Girao, lava pools, Angel Waterfall, and scenic coastal towns
• Guide: Private guide providing live commentary in English, Portuguese, or Spanish
• Inclusions: Hotel pick-up, private tour, and personalized experience
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women, people with mobility or wheelchair restrictions
• Flexibility: Reserve now & pay later, with full cancellation possible 24 hours in advance

Exploring Madeira in a Classic Open Roof Car

The core appeal of this classic car tour lies in the open roof experience. Traveling in a vintage car allows for unobstructed views of Madeira’s dramatic coastline and lush interior landscapes, making every photo opportunity a highlight. The private guide ensures a personalized narrative, sharing insights into the places you visit while tailoring the experience to your interests.

The 8-hour duration provides ample time to enjoy both the scenic drives and the stops at key locations. The pick-up service in Funchal or Caniço makes the start effortless, giving you more time to focus on the scenery rather than logistics. The tour is suitable for those seeking a relaxed, scenic journey rather than a physically demanding activity.

Visiting Cabo Girão and the Skywalk

A major highlight of this tour is the visit to Cabo Girao, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world at 580 meters. The skywalk here offers an exhilarating view of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline below. While no ticket is included in the price, visitors can pay €2 per person if they choose to access the skywalk.

The guide explains the significance of this natural marvel, providing insight into its formation and the surrounding landscape. The viewpoint at Cabo Girao is a perfect spot for photographs and soaking in the vastness of the Atlantic from a safe distance.

Scenic Stops Along the Coast: Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, and More

The tour itinerary includes visits to several charming coastal towns and viewpoints. Ribeira Brava Viewpoint offers sweeping views of the bay, while Ponta do Sol presents a quaint seaside village famous for its colorful houses and relaxed vibe.

Throughout the drive, the guide shares stories about each location, from Angels Waterfall to Madalena do Mar, highlighting Madeira’s lush landscape and traditional towns. Stops at Calheta and Jardim do Mar allow for exploring local life and scenic vistas, while Paul do Mar, a fishing village, provides a glimpse into Madeira’s maritime heritage.

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Discovering the Natural Lava Pools and Waterfalls

A standout feature of this tour is the opportunity to swim in natural lava pools. These formations are created by volcanic activity and offer a unique experience amid stunning coastal scenery. The exact pools visited depend on the day’s route, but they promise refreshing dips in clear waters with beautiful volcanic surroundings.

The Angels Waterfall is another highlight—an impressive cascade nestled within Madeira’s lush landscape. The guide offers context about Madeira’s volcanic origins and how these waterfalls and pools have formed over time.

Stopping at Towns: Madalena do Mar, Calheta, and Jardim do Mar

The tour takes you through Madalena do Mar, known for its banana plantations and tranquil atmosphere. Calheta is famous for its golden beaches and marina, ideal for a brief walk or photo stop. Jardim do Mar offers narrow streets and a peaceful coastal vibe, perfect for appreciating Madeira’s authentic small-town charm.

Each town presents opportunities for short explorations, photography, and soaking in local character. The guide ensures you get a sense of Madeira’s diverse coastal communities and their unique atmospheres.

The Iconic Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse and Ponta do Pargo

Near the northern tip of the island, Ponta do Pargo features a historic lighthouse and rugged cliffs. The lighthouse is a symbol of Madeira’s maritime history, and the views from here stretch across the Atlantic. It’s a dramatic spot to pause and take in the expansive ocean horizon.

The tour’s flexibility permits optional stops or extended visits, depending on your interests. The guide’s commentary adds context to this stunning seafront landmark.

Porto Moniz and the Lava Pools

Porto Moniz is renowned for its natural volcanic pools, which are among the most popular attractions on the island. The pools are carved into the volcanic rock and filled with clear seawater—perfect for swimming and relaxing. The tour allows for a stop here to enjoy some leisure time and take photos.

These pools are easily accessible and a highlight for visitors who enjoy swimming in natural settings. The guide can provide tips on the best spots and safety precautions for a memorable experience in Porto Moniz.

Traversing the North Coast: São Vicente and Funchal

The journey along the north coast includes São Vicente, known for its volcanic caves and scenic vistas. The guide shares insights about Madeira’s volcanic activity and landscape formation here. The route then leads back towards Funchal, completing the circle with views of the city and its harbor.

The Funchal stop allows for a final chance to appreciate the island’s capital, with the option for passengers to be dropped off at their hotel or preferred location.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This tour is designed with convenience and flexibility in mind. Live commentary is provided in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring broad accessibility. The private group setting means a more intimate experience, and full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance.

The reserve now & pay later option offers peace of mind for flexible planning. It’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility or wheelchair restrictions, due to the nature of some stops and vehicle comfort considerations.

Final Thoughts on the Classic Car Tour

The Classic Car Sightseeing Tour to the West & Northwest offers a relaxed, scenic, and personalized way to see Madeira’s most dramatic sights. Traveling in a vintage open-roof car adds a fun, nostalgic element, making it ideal for photography and outdoor enjoyment.

The tour’s highlights—Cabo Girao, lava pools, waterfalls, and charming towns—are complemented by the informative guide and flexible itinerary. While not including some attractions like the skywalk ticket, the €2 fee is minimal for such spectacular views.

This experience suits those wanting a comfortable, scenic exploration with the chance to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty from a relaxed, private perspective. It’s perfect for visitors seeking memorable photos, cultural insights, and a comprehensive coastal journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $99 per person.

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

What languages are available for the guide?
The guide provides commentary in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, free pickups in hotels in Funchal and Caniço are included.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility restrictions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What attractions are included in the tour?
Major stops include Cabo Girao, Angel Waterfall, lava pools, and various coastal towns like Calheta and Jardim do Mar.

Is there a chance to swim in the lava pools?
Yes, swimming in natural lava pools is part of the experience, depending on the day’s route.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, the ticket to Cabo Girao skywalk costs €2 per person if you choose to visit.

Is this tour customizable?
Yes, the private guide can personalize stops and routes based on your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby