This popular tour includes dramatic coastal views of the west side of Madeira. Travel in the comfort of an air-conditioned minibus that seats 8 to 14 passengers. Enjoy a traditional lunch, and discover sights including Ponta de Sol and Encumeada Pass.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Private group
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 8 hours
- Starting time 9:00 AM
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- Spanish, English, French, German, Portuguese
Experience
Highlights
- See the highest sea cliff in Europe, Cabo Girao
- View the volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz
- Visit the "Brides Vale" waterfall in Seixal
- Take a levada walk on the plateau of Paul da Serra
Full description
Start your West Island Tour with hotel pick-up between 8:00 and 9:00. Your first stop will be at the famous fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, where the famous Sir Winston Churchill spent his days painting when he visited the island of Madeira. Continue to Cabo Girão to view the highest sea cliff in Europe.
The tour's next stop is at Ribeira Brava, where you will make a quick visit to the church there. You will then discover Ponta de Sol. This name literally means "point of the sun," an apt description for the most beautiful village on the island.
Next enjoy a scenic drive through the Laurissilva Forest up to the plateau of Pául da Serra. Stop for a short, flat, easy walk along a levada (an irrigation channel unique to Madeira). The tour proceeds to the northwest side of the island where you can visit the Porto Moniz, famous for its volcanic rock pools. If it's not crowded, the tour will stop here for lunch and quick swim. You could also continue down the scenic coastal route to Seixal for lunch and a swim.
After lunch you will travel the coastal road, taking in the famous waterfalls en route to São Vincente. Then discover Encumeada Pass. The views here are breathtaking. Enjoy a final stop at a famous bar where the proprietors make "Poncha," a traditional spirit drink mixed with honey and orange juice.
Return to the hotel at around 17:00.
Includes
- Transportation
- Guide (German, French or English)
- A three course lunch with a bottle of wine for the table and water (vegetarian options available)
- All drinks, including Poncha
- All entrance fees
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
Know before you go
- Although Funchal can be quiet warm in the winter time, do bring something warm to wear for our visit to higher altitudes.
- Duration of this tour is about 8 hours.
- Pick-up is available from all hotels in Funchal and Canico.
- This tour starts between 08:00 and 09:00 and you should be back before 17:00.
- The excursion is offered with an English, German, French or Spanish qualified guide.
- The tour route can be changed due to unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic restrictions and weather.
