Private – Balcões Walk & A-Framed Houses Tour

Explore Madeira’s East in a Private, Fully Customizable Day Tour

The Private Balcões Walk & A-Framed Houses Tour offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east coast for those who want an intimate, flexible experience. Priced at $88.60 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a personalized adventure with expert guidance. The tour departs from Funchal, with the convenience of hotel pickup and a comfortable vehicle that takes care of transportation.

What sets this experience apart is its private nature, allowing for tailored stops and spontaneous changes. It is highly rated with a 5.0/5 score from 10 reviews, and 100% of participants recommend it. The emphasis on natural landscapes, cultural highlights, and local stories makes it a memorable way to see Madeira’s east coast in a single day.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour focused on Madeira’s eastern attractions
• Round-trip hotel pickup in Funchal simplifies logistics
• Visits include Pico do Arieiro, UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forests, A-frame houses, and scenic viewpoints
• Knowledgeable guides share insider stories and local history
• All taxes and fees included, with no group crowds
• Tour suits those seeking an easy, flexible way to explore Madeira’s natural beauty

Discover the Viewpoint at Miradouro do Terreiro da Luta

The tour begins at Miradouro do Terreiro da Luta, a viewpoint famous for its stunning cityscape mosaic and sweeping views of Funchal’s bay. From here, travelers can see the Atlantic Ocean stretch endlessly beyond the city. The site also hosts the Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary, Madeira’s tallest monument at five meters, which was erected as a vow during the 1917 German submarine bombings.

This stop provides both scenic beauty and a touch of local history, making it an ideal start for a day full of diverse attractions. There’s no admission fee, so visitors can enjoy the vistas without extra costs.

Ascend to Pico do Arieiro for breathtaking mountain views

The journey continues uphill to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1818 meters. As the vehicle climbs, the lush woodlands give way to bare rock and knife-edge ridges. From the summit, spectacular views unfold across the island’s rugged terrain, with sheer cliffs and clouds hanging in the valleys.

After soaking in the vistas, travelers get a chance to see the Madeira juniper trees, which have become increasingly rare. The 30-minute stop is ideal for photos and a quick walk around the summit area, with free admission.

Experience the UNESCO-Listed Laurisilva Forest at Ribeiro Frio

Continuing the ascent, the tour reaches Ribeiro Frio, a charming spot within the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. This lush forest is characterized by deep green foliage and serene streams.

Here, visitors can observe the cold waters of Ribeiro Frio being channeled into deep pools, which support a small trout farm. The area is also a common starting point for levada walks, offering opportunities for gentle hikes amid the natural beauty. The 30-minute stop allows for exploration and appreciation of this protected landscape, with free entry.

Explore Santana’s Traditional A-Frame Houses and Agricultural Prosperity

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Santana, a village renowned for its triangular, thatched A-frame buildings. These structures, historically used as cowsheds, reveal the agricultural life of Madeira’s past. The village displays a prosperous mix of green terraced fields and orchards, including apple, pear, and cherry trees.

Tourists can walk among the spacious farm buildings and admire the authentic rural architecture. The visit provides insight into local farming traditions and the village’s picturesque charm, making it a perfect spot for photos and learning about Madeira’s rural heritage.

Take in the Panoramic Views at Miradouro do Guindaste

Perched on a hillside near Santana, the Guindaste viewpoint offers spectacular views of Madeira’s north coast. This idyllic lookout showcases lush green mountains blending into towering cliffs and the crystalline waters of the Atlantic.

On clear days, visitors can spot the pebble beach of Foz da Ribeira do Faial and observe geological features like columnar lava formations. The view extends from Faial to Ponta de São Lourenço, sometimes even offering a distant glimpse of Porto Santo. This 20-minute stop is perfect for capturing stunning photos and soaking in the natural grandeur.

Discover Porto da Cruz and Its Historic Sugar Mill

Traveling along the north coast, the tour pauses in Porto da Cruz, a small seaside village famous for its wine and historic sugar mill. The brick chimney of the sugar mill remains a visual anchor in the village, which also features a charming sea promenade and narrow alleys.

The village’s maze of streets and repurposed warehouses turned cafes highlight its traditional charm. Visitors often enjoy a leisurely walk along the coast, taking in sea views and the rustic atmosphere that embodies Madeira’s maritime history.

View Machico’s Bay from Pico do Facho

Next, the tour visits Pico do Facho, a 320-meter-high peak overlooking Machico Bay. This site is historically significant as the first landing point for the explorers Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira when Madeira was discovered.

The valley below appears as if overlooking the sea and mountains, with the Abundant water supporting local sugarcane cultivation and mills. The beacon (facho) that once warned of pirates is a notable feature of this scenic spot, offering 15 minutes of exploration and panoramic views.

Marvel at the Coastal Landscape at Ponta de São Lourenço

The easternmost point of Madeira, Ponta de São Lourenço, provides dramatic coastal scenery with a unique climate resembling that of nearby Porto Santo. The rugged rock formations and coastal vegetation, including the ice plant, create a distinctive landscape.

From this vantage point, visitors can see both the north and south coasts simultaneously, with clear days offering views of Porto Santo. This 20-minute stop emphasizes Madeira’s geological diversity and offers some of the most spectacular seascapes on the island.

Logistics and Personalization of the Private Tour

The private nature of this tour means a dedicated driver and guide cater to your interests, with flexibility for additional stops or longer visits. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and all taxes and fees are included, making the experience smooth and hassle-free.

Included in the package is hotel pickup and drop-off (for accommodations in Funchal and Caniço), reducing the need for self-navigation. Note that cruise ship port pickups are available for an extra $20, and gratuities are left to personal discretion.

Unique Aspects and Reviews of the Tour Experience

Based on consistent 5-star reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides — particularly Susanna, whose friendly personality and local expertise shine. Guests appreciate the tailor-made itineraries and the diverse stops, from mountain peaks to coastal viewpoints.

Reviewers highlight the comfort of the vehicle and the personalized attention, emphasizing that this tour offers more than a standard group experience. The ability to see a wide variety of sights in one day makes it an attractive option for those with limited time.

The Sum Up: Ideal for Flexible, Natural Exploration

The Private Balcões Walk & A-Framed Houses Tour provides a comprehensive and customizable way to explore Madeira’s east coast. Its balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and scenic viewpoints makes it suitable for travelers who value personalized service and convenience.

While the tour does not include culinary experiences or hikes, it compensates with stunning vistas, informative guides, and easy logistics. It is especially recommended for those who prefer private transportation and want to tailor their day according to interests.

This experience suits nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and photographers alike, looking for an efficient yet rich exploration of Madeira’s eastern landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for accommodations in Funchal and Caniço.

Can I customize the stops? Yes, the tour is private and offers the flexibility to tailor stops and pace.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours.

What are the main stops? Key stops include Miradouro do Terreiro da Luta, Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Guindaste Viewpoint, Porto da Cruz, Pico do Facho, and Ponta de São Lourenço.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included in the tour price.

What is the cost per person? The tour costs $88.60 per person, with group discounts possible.

Is this tour suitable for children? As no specific physical requirements are mentioned, it appears suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What is the cancellation policy? Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Can I book this tour if I’m on a cruise? Yes, but cruise ship port pickups require an extra fee of $20.

How do I book? Booking is available through the provider, Madeira Island Tours, via the linked platform or direct contact.