West Tour of the Island

Explore the Western Side of Madeira in One Day

The West Tour of the Island offers a comprehensive way to experience Madeira’s stunning western landscapes in about 8 hours, all for $46.54 per person. This guided excursion, operated by Madeira Sunrise Tours, is ideal for those who want to see top landmarks with the convenience of round-trip transfers and the intimacy of a small group—limited to 8 travelers.

You’ll visit notable sites like the fishing village of Camara de Lobos, the breathtaking Cabo Girao skywalk, and the natural pools of Porto Moniz. While the tour covers plenty of ground, it does involve long stops and a busy schedule, making it suitable for active visitors who enjoy a full day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Price is approximately $46.54 per person, with 8 hours of exploration.
• Visits include Camara de Lobos, Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz, and Sao Vicente.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, especially Fernando.
• Stops feature viewpoints, charming villages, and natural pools for swimming.
• Limited group size ensures more personal attention from the guide.
• Pickup from select hotels simplifies logistics, and mobile tickets make booking easy.

Starting Point and Duration of the Tour

The West Tour of the Island departs at 9:00 am from Marina Shopping in Funchal, with pickup offered from nearby hotels. This 8-hour excursion includes multiple stops at key locations around Madeira’s western coast. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, allowing flexibility for the rest of your day.

The small group size—maximum of 8 travelers—ensures a more relaxed pace and opportunities for questions. The mobile ticket system simplifies the process, and the round-trip transfer from specified hotels takes the hassle out of transportation.

Visiting Camara de Lobos: The Historic Fishing Village

The tour kicks off with a stop at Camara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village believed to be the landing point of João Gonçalvez Zarco. The village is famed for its beautiful fishing bay and its connection to Winston Churchill, who visited and painted here.

The “PICO DA TORRE” viewpoint provides an excellent overlook of the bay, and the admission is free. This spot offers a glimpse into Madeira’s traditional life and captivating scenery, perfect for photos and soaking in local charm.

The Spectacular Cabo Girao Skywalk

Next, the tour visits Cabo Girao, known as the highest skywalk cliff in Europe at 589 meters above sea level. The diamond-shaped sea cliff features a transparent glass platform, giving visitors the sensation of standing on air while gazing over the ocean and surrounding landscape.

While the admission ticket is not included, the stunning panoramic views over Câmara de Lobos and Funchal make this a highlight. The skywalk is suitable for those comfortable with heights and looking for a dramatic photo opportunity.

Ribeira Brava: A Scenic Coastal Parish

The tour then moves to Ribeira Brava, a charming coastal village named after its “angry river”. Surrounded by mountains and sea, this parish offers a peaceful atmosphere with scenic views.

The stop allows for a quick exploration of the village, with free time to walk around and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It serves as a perfect break in the busy schedule to appreciate Madeira’s coastal landscapes.

The Panoramic Drive through Serra d’Água and the First Water Power Station

Traveling north of Ribeira Brava, the tour passes through Serra d’Água, where the island’s first water power station is located. This stretch offers spectacular views from above the valley, showcasing the green landscapes and mountain scenery.

This stop provides incredible vistas of both north and south coastlines, giving travelers a sense of Madeira’s diverse terrain. It’s a short but memorable moment to enjoy the natural engineering of the island.

Admiring Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra

The next highlight is the Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra, the largest plateau on Madeira, covering nearly 24 square kilometers at 1,500 meters elevation. This vast flat area features unique flora and scenic views.

Visitors get a brief stop here to appreciate the expansive landscape, perfect for those interested in botany or mountain scenery. The free access and easy exploration make it a comfortable stop within the busy itinerary.

The Natural Pools of Porto Moniz

One of the biggest attractions on the tour, the Porto Moniz natural pools, offers nearly 2 hours to enjoy these famous volcanic rock formations filled with seawater. The pools are a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing amidst stunning scenery.

While admission is free, visitors should prepare for the popular nature of this stop, which can be busy. The natural beauty and refreshing waters make it a favorite among previous visitors.

The Viewpoint at Miradouro do Veu da Noiva

Another highlight is the Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, which boasts spectacular views of the coastline and cliffs at sea level. The “Bride’s Veil” waterfall adds to the enchanting setting, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

This 30-minute stop offers a peaceful moment to admire Madeira’s rugged beauty and the abundance of pebbles on the nearby beach.

Discovering Sao Vicente: A Coastal Village Surrounded by Cliffs

The tour concludes with a stop at Sao Vicente, a unique village nestled between two high cliffs and overlooking the sea. The site features a notable large boulder where the first chapel was built, reflecting local history.

This 30-minute visit offers a chance to wander and appreciate the dramatic setting of this coastal community, ending the day with a taste of Madeira’s geologic and cultural character.

Practical Aspects and Tour Details

The tour’s logistics include air-conditioned transportation for comfort throughout the day. The meeting point at Marina Shopping in Funchal is easy to access, and pickup from selected hotels minimizes hassle.

While the tour offers a full day packed with scenic stops, it has been described as “good but long” due to many lengthy stops. Some reviews note that more time at key sites could improve the experience, especially for those eager to explore more deeply. Food and drinks are not included, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This guided excursion is perfect for active travelers eager to see multiple landmarks in a single day. The small group size offers more personal attention, and the scenic viewpoints and natural pools are main attractions for those interested in nature and photography.

However, the long stops and busy itinerary may not suit those seeking a leisurely pace or more free time at each location. The tour is a cost-effective way to experience Madeira’s diverse western landscapes without the need for self-driving.

Madeira’s West Tour: A Balanced Mix of Nature, Culture, and Views

The West Tour of the Island genuinely captures the essence of Madeira’s west coast—from charming villages and dazzling cliffs to natural pools and sweeping vistas. The knowledgeable guides, especially Fernando, make the experience more engaging, offering insights into the history and geography of the region.

While the 8-hour schedule is packed and involves long stops, the variety of locations and breathtaking scenery make it worthwhile. Visitors looking for a comprehensive overview of Madeira’s western highlights will find this tour valuable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but those uncomfortable with heights at Cabo Girao or walking long distances should consider their comfort.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a swimsuit for the Porto Moniz pools are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included; plan to bring snacks or purchase at stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, air-conditioned vehicle transportation is included, with pickups from select hotels.

How long is the stop at Porto Moniz?
Approximately 2 hours are allocated for enjoying the natural pools and scenery.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight Fernando and the team’s expertise and friendly approach.

Are the viewpoints accessible?
Yes, most stops are accessible, but some may involve walking on uneven terrain or stairs.

What if it rains?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, a different date or full refund is offered.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, on average, it is booked 7 days in advance, but last-minute bookings are possible if spots remain.

This West Tour of the Island offers a rich, scenic snapshot of Madeira’s beautiful west coast, combining cultural stops, breathtaking views, and natural wonders for a memorable day out.