Madeira Best of the West Day Tour

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s dramatic western coastline. Priced at $44.03 per person, this 8-hour guided trip from Funchal showcases some of Madeira’s most photogenic spots, including the spectacular Cabo Girão, Porto Moniz’s natural pools, and lush Laurissilva forest. The tour comes with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for visitors staying in Funchal. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time, as it hits many highlights in a single day.

The tour’s strength lies in its well-planned route and knowledgeable guides. Reviews praise guides like Marco and Nuno for their friendly, informative commentary, and highlight the stunning scenery at each stop. The natural pools at Porto Moniz emerge as a favorite, with travelers wishing they had more time to enjoy them. The tour balances sightseeing with comfort, using a coach or bus that allows you to relax and take in the views. Considering the cost, it’s a great-value option for those eager to see Madeira’s west coast without the hassle of self-driving.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day tour priced at $44.03 per person, including hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Duration of 8 hours, covering major highlights of Madeira’s west coast.
• Includes stops at Cabo Girão, the natural pools of Porto Moniz, and villages like Ribeira Brava and Seixal.
• Scenic viewpoints such as Encumeada and Ribeira da Janela offer impressive vistas.
• The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.
• Tour is suitable for first-time visitors and those short on time.

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Funchal

The tour kicks off at 8:30 am with hotel pickup in central Funchal. This convenient start removes the need to navigate public transport or find meeting points. The small group size—capped at 55 travelers—ensures a comfortable experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions.

The transport is comfortable and geared for a full day of sightseeing. With round-trip coverage, there’s no need for additional planning or transportation arrangements, which adds to the tour’s value and ease.

Visiting Cabo Girão: Highest Cape in Europe

The first stop is the Cabo Girão viewpoint, perched 580 meters above sea level. As Europe’s highest seacliff, it offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. The observation platform provides a safe, accessible spot for photos and admiration of the natural beauty. Travelers often comment on the spectacular scenery and how it sets the tone for the day, with the admission free and time limited to around 20 minutes.

The view from Cabo Girão is a highlight that many consider a must-see, especially for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic vistas. The height and scenery make it a memorable photo opportunity that captures Madeira’s wild coastline.

Exploring Ribeira Brava and São Bento Church

Next, the tour visits the village of Ribeira Brava, which is known for its charming atmosphere and the beautiful church of São Bento. Travelers appreciate the 30-minute stop here, which offers a chance to stroll around and admire the architecture and sea views.

This stop provides a taste of local village life and Madeira’s traditional charm. The sea views and historic church make it a perfect quick break that balances sightseeing and relaxation.

Crossing the Paul da Serra Plateaus

The journey continues with a drive across the largest plateau of the island, Paul da Serra. The 10-minute stop here allows guests to take in the expansive landscape, characterized by moorland and high-altitude scenery.

This highland area offers an altered perspective of Madeira’s diverse terrain, emphasizing the contrast between lush coastlines and barren, windswept plateaus. It’s a quick but impactful stop, suitable for photo enthusiasts and those interested in Madeira’s geographical variety.

Porto Moniz’s Natural Pools and Lunch Break

The main stop of the tour arrives at Porto Moniz, around lunchtime. Visitors have 90 minutes to choose from local restaurants or relax in the famous natural swimming pools. The pools are free to access and are filled with seawater, offering a refreshing dip surrounded by volcanic rocks.

This stop is often highlighted as a favorite due to the unique natural pools and the opportunity to cool off. Many reviews note wishing for more time here, indicating how popular and enjoyable this attraction is. While lunch is not included, the variety of local eateries ensures plenty of options to enjoy authentic Madeiran cuisine.

Viewpoints of Seixal and the Véu da Noiva Waterfall

After Porto Moniz, the tour moves to Seixal, where the Véu da Noiva viewpoint provides stunning views of waterfalls and cliffs. This 20-minute stop allows travelers to appreciate the rugged coastline and dramatic waterfalls, often described as impressive.

Travelers are drawn to the scenic beauty and the picturesque setting, which offers excellent photo opportunities. The waterfalls and cliffs create a sense of wildness that characterizes Madeira’s coastline.

Encumeada Viewpoint: The Mountain Top Perspective

On the return journey, the Encumeada viewpoint offers a panoramic view of both the north and south coasts of the island. The 20-minute stop here gives visitors a rare vantage point to see Madeira’s mountain ranges and coastal landscapes in a single glance.

The viewpoint is praised for its breathtaking vistas and is considered a worthy final stop. Many find it a fitting end to the day’s scenic drive, capturing the geographical diversity of the island.

Driving Through the UNESCO-Listed Laurissilva Forest

The tour includes a drive through the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This lush, green landscape is full of endemic flora and ancient trees, providing an immersive nature experience even from the coach window.

Reviews highlight this part of the trip as beautiful and soothing, with many praising the vivid greenery and the contrast with the coastal scenery. The drive adds to the comprehensive nature of the tour, showcasing both natural wonders and cultural highlights.

Practicalities: Group Size, Booking, and Weather Considerations

The tour is operated by Lido Tours and can accommodate up to 55 travelers. The small group size allows for more personalized attention from guides, who often share informative and humorous commentary. The tour is available for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options.

It’s important to cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible if poor weather affects visibility or safety, but a full refund or rescheduling is offered in such cases.

Experience Quality: Guides, Views, and Overall Value

Multiple reviews praise the guides, especially Marco and Nuno, for their friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging manner. Travelers frequently mention the breathtaking views at stops like Cabo Girão and Seixal, describing the scenery as stunning and diverse.

The cost of around $44.03 for a full day of guided sightseeing, with hotel pickup, makes this a good-value choice. Some feedback notes that long stops can drag the day out or reduce the overall pace, but overall, the quality of the experience outweighs this for most.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Madeira West Coast Tour appeals most to first-time visitors wanting a rundown of the island’s highlights in a single day. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic viewpoints, natural pools, and charming villages without the hassle of self-driving. The comfortable transport and expert guides make it a practical choice.

While the pacing is generally well-managed, those seeking more active or extended exploration at stops might find the timed visits a bit limiting. This tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation—with great value and positive reviews backing its appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included in the price. The main stop at Porto Moniz gives plenty of options for local restaurants.

Is hotel pickup available in Funchal?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in Funchal, making the start and end of the tour hassle-free.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from 10 to 30 minutes, with the longest at Porto Moniz, giving ample time to enjoy the pools and surroundings.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water. The tour involves scenic stops but no extensive walking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Lido Tours, known for their professional guides and well-organized trips.

This Madeira Best of the West Day Tour offers a well-rounded opportunity to see the island’s most striking west coast sights, packed into an affordable, comfortable, and highly praised experience.