Nuns Valley Tour

The Nuns Valley Tour in Funchal, Portugal, offers a captivating half-day exploration of Madeira Island’s stunning mountain scenery and picturesque villages. For just $29.40 per person, the tour provides a well-organized experience lasting approximately 4 hours, with pickup and drop-off included. It’s a popular choice for those seeking an affordable, scenic escape into nature, with small group sizes—maximally 15 travelers—that ensure a personalized touch. The tour features three key stops: the Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos, the Eira do Serrado viewpoint, and the Valley of the Nuns, with all logistics taken care of so you can focus on enjoying the views. While the views consistently impress, some reviews mention the tour’s shorter duration and varying guide quality as points to consider.

If you love dramatic mountain vistas, clouds floating over peaks, and charming villages, this tour delivers compelling scenery with manageable pacing. It suits visitors with moderate mobility who want a taste of Madeira’s highland beauty without a full-day commitment or strenuous hiking. The tour’s affordability, combined with its scenic highlights, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Madeira itinerary—especially for those eager to see the island’s mountain sides and enjoy spectacular viewpoints.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $29.40 per person for a 4-hour scenic tour.
• Pick-up and drop-off included, making logistics simple.
• Three main stops: Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, and Nuns Valley.
• Stunning views of Funchal, Curral das Freiras, and cloud-covered mountain peaks.
• Small group size (up to 15 participants) ensures a personalized experience.
• Some reviews highlight variation in guide quality and short time in Nuns Valley.

Exploring Funchal’s Highlands: The Tour Starts with Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Funchal, making it easy to start your scenic journey without worrying about transportation. The first stop is the Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos, a viewpoint famous for its panoramic views overlooking the city of Funchal. Here, visitors can take in the sweeping vistas, perfect for photos of the landscape below. This spot provides an excellent introduction to Madeira’s rugged terrain and is free of charge.

After enjoying the views from Pico Dos Barcelos, the tour proceeds to the Eira do Serrado viewpoint, which is about 40 minutes of travel away. This vantage point offers sweeping views of the village of Curral das Freiras, set amid mountains and surrounded by almost untouched natural scenery. The tranquility of this location makes it ideal for snapping photos of the mountain peaks and lush landscape. It’s a free stop with time to appreciate the wild beauty of Madeira’s highlands.

Captivating Cloud Layers in Nuns Valley and Curral das Freiras

The highlight of this tour is the Valley of the Nuns, known locally as Curral das Freiras. This part of the trip lasts roughly 40 minutes and takes visitors into the heart of Madeira’s mountain scenery. The valley is famously overshadowed by mountain peaks cloaked in white clouds, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The views from the valley showcase dramatic cliffs, layered mountain ranges, and the clouds drifting among peaks.

This stop is particularly popular for its stunning landscape and photo opportunities. Visitors will see the mountains covered with white cloud layers, which add a sense of mystery to the valley. The area is tranquil, with some tours including a visit to a small Nun’s house or a tasting of local products, but the main attraction remains the impressive scenery.

Practical Details and Group Size: What to Expect on the Tour

This small group tour limits participation to 15 travelers, creating a more intimate experience. The tour operates twice weekly at 9:30 am, making it convenient for those with flexible schedules. The mobile ticket option offers added flexibility, and all transportation logistics are managed, so you don’t need to worry about navigating Madeira’s mountain roads yourself.

The tour’s duration of roughly 4 hours means the stops are paced carefully. Each stop lasts between 30 to 40 minutes, providing enough time for photos and brief walks but not so long as to tire the group. The tour is designed to be accessible for most participants, but travelers should prepare for variable mountain weather—warm clothing is recommended as temperatures drop at higher elevations.

Scenic Viewpoints: From Funchal to Mountain Heights

The Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos offers magnificent views of Funchal, perfect for capturing the cityscape and the surrounding bay. Its prominent location makes it one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island. The Eira do Serrado viewpoint, with its peaceful atmosphere, provides a different perspective—highlighting the village of Curral das Freiras amid towering peaks.

The Valley of the Nuns reveals Madeira’s mountain grandeur, with layers of white clouds drifting across peaks. The highest point during the tour reaches 1096 meters, offering views that are both vast and impressive. The vistas are often described as spectacular, and the air tends to be cooler and sometimes unpredictable, so dressing appropriately is advised.

Guide Quality and Tour Experience Variations

While many reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides, some mention inconsistency. One guide named Sergio receives high marks for his personality and professionalism, even when faced with logistical challenges like a blocked route. Others highlight less engaging guides who speak mostly in Portuguese or spend limited time explaining the scenery.

In particular, some visitors note that time at Nuns Valley can feel rushed—about 25 minutes—which may be insufficient for a thorough experience. If you’re hoping for more detailed insights or a longer visit, this is worth considering. The cramped minibus and variable guide quality are factors that affect the overall experience for some.

Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

Given the variable weather conditions in the mountains, bringing warm clothing is a good idea, especially if visiting in cooler months. The short duration means you should be prepared for limited time at each stop—particularly in Nuns Valley—so plan your camera and photo-taking accordingly.

Since the guides’ explanations vary, having some background knowledge or bringing a small notebook might enhance your understanding of the regions visited. Be aware that some stops, like the local factory or chocolate shop, may be brief or optional, so plan your photo opportunities accordingly.

How This Tour Compares to Other Madeira Experiences

Compared to full-day tours or excursions with more stops, this 4-hour Nuns Valley Tour offers a focused, scenic overview of Madeira’s highland highlights. It’s a cost-effective option that balances sightseeing with comfortable pacing. However, the short time at Nuns Valley and mixed guide reviews mean it’s best suited for those who prioritize beauty and views over detailed commentary.

This tour pairs well with other Madeira activities, such as whale watching, wine tasting, or hiking, since it can serve as a scenic morning or afternoon outing. The small group size and organized logistics make it a reliable choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience.

The Value Proposition: Is It Worth It?

For less than $30, this tour provides three major viewpoints and an iconic visit to Nuns Valley, making it a good deal for budget-conscious travelers. The beautiful scenery and photo opportunities are the main draws, with many reviewers emphasizing the stunning views and friendly guides.

Some limitations include short stop durations and occasional inconsistency among guides. However, the ease of booking, pickup service, and the proximity of viewpoints offer significant convenience. It’s best suited for visitors who want an affordable, scenic overview of Madeira’s mountains without committing to a full-day excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Nuns Valley Tour?
The tour costs $29.40 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from Funchal hotels.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado viewpoint, and Nuns Valley.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the mountain high-altitude stops.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Warm clothing is recommended due to cooler mountain temperatures and variable weather.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers.

How are guide explanations handled?
Guide quality varies; some are very knowledgeable, others speak mostly in Portuguese and provide limited commentary.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour available in bad weather?
If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

This detailed review highlights the scenic beauty, practical organization, and honest considerations of the Nuns Valley Tour, helping you decide if it fits your Madeira adventure plans.