Madeira: Sunny South Side – Cabo Girão, Waterfalls, C. Lobos

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $74 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours.
• Highlights: Visit the Cabo Girão Skywalk, explore charming coastal villages like Ponta do Sol and Câmara de Lobos, and enjoy lunch at Calheta Beach.
• Expert Guide and Small Group: Led by a local guide in a small group limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Included Attractions: Entrance fee for Cabo Girão Skywalk, a local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), coffee, and water are included.
• Flexible and Reliable: The tour departs from multiple meeting points in Funchal and offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s Sunny South Side in Comfort

The Madeira: Sunny South Side tour from Heartbeat Madeira offers an engaging 8-hour adventure through some of the sunniest and most picturesque spots on the island. For $74, visitors experience breathtaking viewpoints, charming villages, and local flavors, all with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. The tour is ideal for those who want an organized day of sightseeing but still enjoy a relaxed pace, thanks to the small group size and well-planned stops.

Starting from a convenient meeting point in Funchal, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Madeira’s coastal beauty, local culture, and unique landscape features. With included entrance fees and refreshments, it offers great value, especially for travelers keen to explore with ease and comfort.

While the tour does not include lunch, it features a stop at Calheta Beach where visitors can relax and enjoy the sea. The entire experience emphasizes scenic views, local charm, and a touch of adventure, making it a solid choice for those wanting a full day on Madeira’s sunny south.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out: Cabo Girão Skywalk and Coastal Villages

The Cabo Girão Skywalk is the highlight of this tour, offering visitors a chance to step out onto a glass platform at 580 meters high, with dizzying views over the coast and sea. This European high point provides a thrilling perspective of Madeira’s rugged landscape and deep blue waters. The tour includes the entrance fee, making it easy to access this must-see attraction.

The tour also emphasizes visits to coastal villages such as Ponta do Sol and Câmara de Lobos. Ponta do Sol is known as the warmest spot on the island, with colorful streets and a lively vibe perfect for soaking up summer energy. Visitors can explore idyllic streets, enjoy craft beers, and capture beautiful photos of the seaside scenery.

Câmara de Lobos holds a special place as the birthplace of Poncha, a local sugarcane spirit. Here, guests can taste this famous drink, adding a taste of Madeira’s local culture to the day. The village’s coastal charm and fishing heritage provide a genuine glimpse into island life.

From Ribeira Brava to the South Coast: A Scenic Drive

The tour begins with a quick coffee stop in Ribeira Brava, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The scenic drive offers sweeping views along the coast, with several picture-perfect stops en route. The Miradouro São Sebastião viewpoint reveals expansive panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean and the sea bay of Ribeira Brava, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

Next, the group heads towards Ponta do Sol, a colorful and warm village where visitors can enjoy summer vibes and explore local craft beers if desired. The stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, allowing time to stroll through the streets and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Further along, the scenic stops at Cascata dos Anjos and Paul do Mar provide additional breathtaking views and opportunities for photos. These spots highlight Madeira’s rugged terrain and the coastal cliffs that give the island its distinctive character.

Lunch and Relaxation at Calheta Beach

Lunchtime occurs at the beautiful Calheta Beach, where visitors can relax on the sand or enjoy a meal at a seaside restaurant. The stop lasts 1.5 hours, giving ample time to unwind, take a swim, or simply soak up the warm sun. The beach’s sheltered location makes it an ideal spot to enjoy some peace and quiet amid stunning scenery.

This mid-morning break balances sightseeing with downtime, ensuring that travelers remain energized for the afternoon highlights. The scenic drive to and from Calheta passes through lush landscapes, enhancing the overall experience.

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The Thrill of Cabo Girão Skywalk and Its Panoramic Views

The Cabo Girão Skywalk is a must-visit attraction during this tour. Perched 580 meters above sea level, the glass platform offers dizzying views over the cliffs, sea, and mountains. The guided stop allows enough time for photos, sightseeing, and truly appreciating Madeira’s dramatic landscape.

This high-altitude viewpoint is one of the highest in Europe, and the transparent glass ensures visitors can see straight down, adding a thrill to the experience. The guide provides insightful commentary, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

Discovering Câmara de Lobos and Tasting Poncha

The tour concludes in Câmara de Lobos, a traditional fishing village with a lively harbor. Known as the birthplace of Poncha, this village offers an authentic taste of Madeira’s local spirits. Visitors can sample Poncha, made with sugarcane spirit, honey, and lemon, during a guided tasting.

The scenic walk through the village offers charming views of colorful boats and coastal streets, perfect for capturing memorable photos. The guided visit emphasizes local customs and the village’s fishing heritage, adding depth to the experience.

The one-hour stop here provides enough time to enjoy the ambiance, taste Poncha, and purchase souvenirs before returning to Funchal.

Smooth Logistics and Expert Guidance

The tour features transportation from multiple starting points in Funchal, including Hotel Porto Mare, Supermercado Mendonça, and other central locations. The van rides between stops are about 20 minutes each, providing comfort and scenic views.

A local guide leads the group, sharing knowledge about Madeira’s history, culture, and landscape. The small group size — limited to 8 participants — ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. Travelers can expect careful driving, friendly service, and informative commentary throughout.

The tour also includes all necessary entrance fees, a small bottle of water, and a local drink, typically Poncha, beer, or soft drink. All insurance and safety measures are taken care of, making it a worry-free outing.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour is designed for individuals with comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing suited for variable weather. It is not suitable for children under 12, those with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users, given the nature of some stops and terrain. The weather in Madeira can change unexpectedly, so packing sun protection and appropriate clothing is advised.

The tour emphasizes flexibility; if weather conditions or safety concerns prevent certain stops, guides will suggest alternatives to ensure the overall experience remains enjoyable.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value for Madeira Visitors

Priced at $74, the tour provides comprehensive sightseeing with entrance fees, drinks, and coffee included. The 8-hour itinerary covers major viewpoints, coastal villages, and local tastes, making it an efficient way to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual transport.

The expert guide and small group size make for a personal and informative experience, often praised for friendly service and knowledgeable commentary. The stops at Cabo Girão, Ponta do Sol, and Câmara de Lobos stand out as must-see sights, with stunning views and authentic local culture.

While lunch is not included, the Calheta Beach stop offers plenty of options for a relaxing meal or snack. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially for travelers with unpredictable plans.

The Sum Up: A Sun-Soaked Day Exploring Madeira’s Coast

This Madeira: Sunny South Side tour offers a well-rounded experience of the island’s most scenic coastal spots in a relaxed, small-group setting. Visitors love how expert guides lead them through dizzying viewpoints, charming villages, and local tastings, all while providing insightful commentary.

The highlight remains the Cabo Girão Skywalk, with its breathtaking views and thrilling glass platform. The authentic village visits at Câmara de Lobos and Ponta do Sol give a genuine taste of Madeira’s local life. The lunch stop at Calheta Beach balances sightseeing with relaxation, making this a full day of sun, scenery, and local flavor.

This tour best suits travelers seeking a guided, hassle-free way to explore Madeira’s sunniest coast, especially those interested in spectacular viewpoints and authentic cultural stops. The limited group size and included entrances and drinks make it a good value for this scenic exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this Madeira tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from various central locations in Funchal and returns to the original meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, Cabo Girão Skywalk entrance fee, a small water bottle, a local drink, and coffee.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a 1.5-hour stop at Calheta Beach for dining and relaxing.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for children under 12, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, outdoor clothing, a sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Guides may adjust the itinerary due to weather or safety concerns but aim to cover the main highlights regardless, ensuring a positive experience.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, providing a small-group experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

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