East Tour by Overland Madeira

The East Tour by Overland Madeira takes adventurous travelers on a captivating journey through Madeira’s eastern region. Showcasing the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage, this small-group tour immerses guests in breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and historic landmarks. With a knowledgeable guide, seamless transportation, and a personalized experience, the tour promises to unveil the essence of Madeira’s unique identity. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, traditional architecture, or a deeper understanding of the island’s rich past, this comprehensive day trip presents an enticing opportunity to…

Key Points

• The East Tour by Overland Madeira offers a comprehensive day-long journey to explore Madeira’s eastern region, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
• The tour includes visits to highlights such as Curral das Freiras, Pico do Arieiro, Santana, and Porto da Cruz, providing a personalized experience with pickup and dropoff in Madeira.
• Curral das Freiras, the ‘Nuns’ Valley’, features a quaint village nestled amidst towering cliffs, with charming architecture and panoramic viewpoints.
• Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak on the island, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Madeira’s rugged, volcanic landscape.
• Santana Village is renowned for its unique traditional triangular thatched houses, surrounded by a lush, verdant landscape.

Tour Overview

The East Tour by Overland Madeira offers a day-long journey to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural gems of Madeira’s eastern region.

This 6.5-hour tour allows visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and rich heritage.

Highlights include the enchanting village of Curral das Freiras, the breathtaking panoramic views from Pico do Arieiro, the traditional thatched houses in Santana, and the historic rum distillery in Porto da Cruz.

Travelers will also discover ancient landmarks, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and relax on the golden sands of Machico Beach.

With pickup and drop-off in Madeira, a small group size, and a live English-speaking guide, this tour provides a comprehensive and personalized experience.

Pickup and Dropoff

Madeira serves as both the pickup and dropoff location for this East Tour by Overland Madeira.

The tour departs from and returns to the island of Madeira, providing a convenient starting and ending point for the day-long excursion.

Travelers can expect a seamless transportation experience, as they’re picked up from their accommodations on the island and dropped off at the same location upon the tour’s completion.

This centralized pickup and dropoff arrangement ensures a stress-free and efficient start and finish to the adventure, allowing participants to fully enjoy the exploration of Madeira’s eastern region without the hassle of navigating to a separate meeting point.

Curral Das Freiras

Upon embarking on the East Tour by Overland Madeira, one first stops at the enchanting village of Curral das Freiras, nestled amidst towering cliffs.

This quaint village, also known as the ‘Nuns’ Valley,’ offers a captivating glimpse into Madeira’s rich heritage.

Visitors can explore:

• Winding cobblestone streets lined with traditional homes
• A charming chapel dating back to the 18th century
• Lush gardens and terraced farms that cascade down the steep slopes
• Panoramic viewpoints that showcase the dramatic mountainous landscape
• Local artisanal products, such as handcrafted lace and embroidery

With its serene ambiance and awe-inspiring natural surroundings, Curral das Freiras provides a truly enchanting start to the East Tour’s exploration of Madeira’s cultural and scenic wonders.

Pico Do Arieiro

Ascending to the summit of Pico do Arieiro, one marvels at the breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across Madeira’s rugged, volcanic landscape.

At 1,818 meters, this is the third-highest peak on the island and offers visitors a bird’s-eye perspective of Madeira’s dramatic terrain.

The viewing platforms provide 360-degree vistas, showcasing the island’s deep ravines, lush forests, and distant coastline.

Visitors can gaze in awe at the surrounding mountains and valleys, truly appreciating the island’s diverse natural beauty.

The trip to Pico do Arieiro is a highlight of the East Tour, allowing travelers to witness Madeira’s stunning scenery from a privileged vantage point high above the island.

Santana Village

The traditional triangular thatched houses of Santana are a highlight of the East Tour, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into Madeira’s rural past.

This picturesque village is renowned for its unique architecture, which has been carefully preserved over the centuries.

Visitors can explore:

• Narrow cobblestone streets flanked by these iconic structures
• The lush, verdant landscape that surrounds the village
• Local artisans showcasing their traditional handicrafts
• The charming village square, where residents gather to socialize
• The opportunity to learn about the history and cultural significance of these traditional dwellings

Santana’s timeless beauty and traditional way of life make it a must-visit destination on the East Tour of Madeira.

Porto Da Cruz

From the quaint village of Santana, the East Tour moves on to the coastal town of Porto da Cruz, where visitors can explore a historic rum distillery and discover the area’s rich maritime heritage.

At the distillery, guests learn about the traditional rum-making process and have the chance to sample the locally-produced spirit.

The town’s picturesque harbor also offers opportunities to wander along the waterfront, admire the fishing boats, and indulge in fresh seafood dishes at the local restaurants.

With its blend of cultural attractions and scenic coastal setting, Porto da Cruz provides a fascinating glimpse into Madeira’s unique island identity.

Machico Waterfront

Nestled along Madeira’s eastern coast, the Machico waterfront beckons visitors with its serene promenade and golden-sand beaches.

Strolling along the seaside walkway, travelers can admire the historic fishing boats moored in the harbor and savor the fresh seafood offerings at the local restaurants.

The waterfront area features:

• A picturesque harbor lined with colorful fishing vessels
• Quaint cafés and eateries serving up regional delicacies
• Sweeping views of the dramatic cliffs that frame the town
• The historic Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, dating back to the 15th century
• Machico Beach, a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming

Exploring the Machico waterfront allows visitors to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and gain a deeper appreciation for the area’s maritime heritage.

Ponta De São Lourenço

At the eastern tip of Madeira island, Ponta de São Lourenço enchants visitors with its dramatic landscapes carved by wind and waves.

This protected natural reserve features a rugged peninsula dotted with volcanic rock formations and offering sweeping vistas of the ocean.

Guests can explore a network of hiking trails that wind through the reserve, offering up-close encounters with the unique geological features and coastal scenery.

Along the way, they’ll have the chance to spot a variety of seabirds and enjoy the peaceful solitude of this remote corner of the island.

With its raw, untamed beauty, Ponta de São Lourenço provides a captivating finale to the East Tour’s exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Guests can speak to the tour guide to discuss adding more time to the itinerary and accommodate their preferences within the overall tour schedule.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Participants should inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, so the appropriate arrangements can be made.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows customers to cancel or reschedule the tour free of charge up to 48 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations within 48 hours may incur a fee.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of the small group option. Private tours are available upon request and may incur an additional fee. Please inquire with the tour provider for pricing and availability.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Hikes?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment for the hikes. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing should suffice. The guide will provide any necessary gear or instructions during the day’s activities.

Recap

The East Tour by Overland Madeira provides a comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s eastern region, showcasing the island’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and unique charm.

Visitors can expect a personalized experience, seamless transportation, and the opportunity to enjoy Madeira’s remarkable landscapes and rich history.

This small-group tour is an ideal way to discover the essence of this captivating island destination.