From Funchal: Best of Madeira’s West Tour

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $43 per person and lasts 8 hours.
• Highlights: Features include Cabo Girao Skywalk, Porto Moniz volcanic pools, and Madeira’s highest plateau.
• Guide Quality: Visitors praise knowledgeable guides like Marco, Bruno, and Luciano for their friendly and informative approach.
• Scenic Stops: The route takes you through rugged landscapes, charming villages, and waterfalls, with multiple photo opportunities.
• Meal Breaks: You get about an hour for lunch in Porto Moniz, with the volcanic pools nearby.
• Transportation: Travel is in air-conditioned vans, with pickups from select Funchal hotels included.

This tour from Funchal offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s rugged, unspoiled west side. For $43, you gain access to iconic sights like Cabo Girao Skywalk and the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz over an 8-hour journey. The experience is ideal for travelers seeking scenic vistas, charming villages, and natural wonders, all led by friendly, knowledgeable guides.

While the tour covers many highlights, it does not include lunch, giving visitors the flexibility to choose their preferred meal spot during the stop in Porto Moniz. The comfortable, air-conditioned vans and hotel pickups streamline the experience, making it easy to relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

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From the Old Town to the Cliffs of Cabo Girao

The tour begins with a pickup from selected hotels in Funchal, after which the journey heads west. The first notable stop is Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest cape at 589 meters. Here, the skywalk viewpoint offers stunning views of the cliffs and Atlantic Ocean, perfect for photos. The admission ticket to the skywalk is included, so visitors can enjoy this dramatic vantage point stress-free.

This site stands out as a highlight due to its spectacular height and glass-floor platform, providing a thrilling perspective of Madeira’s dramatic coastline. The guide’s insights help explain the formation of these towering cliffs, adding context to the breathtaking views.

Passing Through Traditional Fishing Villages

Next, the journey takes you through the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, renowned for its picturesque harbor and colorful boats. This stop offers a glimpse into local life and is a great chance for photos of traditional Madeiran architecture. The drive continues through Canhas and onward to Paul da Serra, one of the largest natural reserves in the world.

The rugged landscapes and unspoiled natural beauty of this area become apparent as you cross the highest plateau in Madeira. Expect sweeping views, with the chance to see cows wandering across the open land and to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins.

Crossing Madeira’s Highest Plateau

The Paul da Serra plateau is a key feature of this tour. It’s a mountain pass that showcases the island’s volcanic terrain and offers breathtaking vistas over the surrounding valleys. This area is also known for its unique flora and fauna, making it an appealing stop for nature lovers.

Traveling through this high-altitude landscape gives a sense of Madeira’s geological complexity. The guide often shares interesting facts about volcanic activity and the formation of the island’s rugged topography.

The North Coast and Atlantic Surf

From the plateau, the route descends toward the north coast, where the Atlantic rollers crash against towering cliffs. The scenery here is dramatic, with white surf swirling against dark volcanic rocks. This stretch of coastline is less developed, emphasizing Madeira’s wild and natural environment.

Visitors often remark on the beauty of the northern cliffs and the power of the ocean, which can be especially striking if the weather is clear. The guide points out notable features and explains the coastal erosion processes shaping this rugged shoreline.

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Porto Moniz and the Volcanic Pools

The highlight for many is the visit to Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic swimming pools. You’ll have about an hour to enjoy these unique pools, which are filled with crystal-clear Atlantic water, offering a perfect spot for a relaxing swim or some stunning photos.

Adjacent to the pools, you’ll find local restaurants where you can have lunch. The pools’ lava formations and sea views make this a memorable stop, even if the weather isn’t perfect — as some reviews mention, Porto Moniz remains strikingly beautiful regardless of cloud cover.

The Bridal Veil Waterfall and Seixal Village

Continuing along the coast, the tour takes you to Seixal, where the Bridal Veil waterfall cascades over a rocky cliff into the sea. This picturesque spot is often praised for its beautiful setting and tranquil atmosphere.

Afterward, the route stops briefly in São Vicente, a traditional village known for its volcanic origins. While some reviews note that São Vicente has limited activities, it offers a chance to admire local architecture and scenery before heading back toward Funchal.

Return to Funchal with Scenic Views

The journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Funchal, offering last glimpses of Madeira’s lush landscapes and coastline. The tour ends with a drop-off at the original pickup points, making it convenient for travelers to continue exploring the city or return to their accommodation.

Throughout the day, the guides are often highlighted for their friendliness, knowledge, and sense of humor, making the long drive enjoyable and educational.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes pickup from select Funchal hotels, an air-conditioned van, and the admission to the Cabo Girao Skywalk. It is designed to balance sightseeing with enough time at each stop for photos and brief walks.

Lunch is not included, providing flexibility to visit local eateries or bring your own picnic. The full-day schedule and comfortable transport make this trip suitable for most travelers, though those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at various stops.

The tour is flexible, with options for private groups and canceling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This trip suits visitors eager to see Madeira’s rugged west coast with minimal planning. The spectacular cliffs, volcanic pools, and scenic mountain landscapes make it ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The knowledgeable guides and well-paced stops are appreciated by those who enjoy learning about local geography and history.

Travelers looking for a full-day escape from the city will find this tour rewarding, especially if they enjoy outdoor scenery and coastal views. It’s important to note that the tightly packed seating in the vans might be less comfortable for taller travelers, and some stops may involve short walks.

The value for money is high given the comprehensive route and expert guidance, making it a popular choice on Madeira.

The Sum Up: An Essential West Coast Tour for Madeira Visitors

This “Best of Madeira’s West” tour offers a balanced mix of breathtaking viewpoints, natural pools, and charming villages. With friendly guides, smooth logistics, and stunning scenery, it appeals to anyone eager to see the island’s most dramatic landscapes without the hassle of self-driving.

While the lack of included lunch allows flexibility, it also means travelers should plan to bring snacks or plan for local meals in Porto Moniz. The tour’s length and pace are well considered, making it suitable for most fitness levels, though comfort in tight seating could be a concern for some.

This tour delivers remarkable views and genuine insights into Madeira’s natural beauty, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting an immersive day in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for children, but the tight seating may be uncomfortable for taller individuals or those with mobility issues.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You have about an hour in Porto Moniz to eat at local restaurants or bring your own food.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive includes scenic routes with multiple stops, and the total duration is around 8 hours.

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

Is this tour private or group?
Standard bookings are in groups, but private options are available.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes for short walks, sun protection, and a camera for the stunning views.

Are the volcanic pools wheelchair accessible?
The data does not specify accessibility details, so travelers with mobility concerns should inquire directly.

Does the tour include any water activities?
No, the tour features viewing and swimming in volcanic pools but does not include water sports.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely, the scenery and viewpoints are highly photogenic, especially the Cabo Girao Skywalk and Porto Moniz pools.

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