East Breathtaking Cabriolet Road Trip

A Complete Guide to the East Breathtaking Cabriolet Road Trip in Madeira

Taking a cabriolet around Madeira offers a fresh perspective on this stunning island. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, this private, 7-hour tour promises a blend of scenic drives, cultural sights, and spectacular views—all from the open-top comfort of a stylish convertible. It’s a perfect way for those who love to combine the thrill of driving with the beauty of nature and local life.

What we find especially appealing is the opportunity to feel the wind in your hair while cruising along winding roads lined with vibrant flora and impressive cliffs. The tour includes stops at iconic viewpoints and charming towns, giving you plenty of chances to snap photos or just soak in the landscape. Plus, the flexibility of a private guide means it can be tailored a bit to your interests.

One thing to consider is that this tour is quite focused on sightseeing, with a lot of stops in a relatively short period. It’s a high-energy day, so if you prefer a slower pace or more in-depth exploration of specific spots, you might want to plan extra time.

This experience suits travelers who love scenic drives, want to see Madeira’s highlights with a touch of adventure, and enjoy the idea of a private, personalized tour. It’s ideal for those who appreciate both comfort and the thrill of open-air driving through nature’s dramatic landscapes.

Key Points

• Unmatched views from viewpoints like Miradouro Ponta do Rosto and Miradouro do Guindaste.
• Private, customizable experience with pickup in Funchal and a knowledgeable guide.
• Ideal for scenic lovers who enjoy open-top drives and unforgettable vistas.
• Cultural and natural highlights including Santana’s traditional houses and Pico Areeiro.
• Value-focused for the cost, offering a full day of exploration with stunning scenery.
• Limited walking but plenty of panoramic photo opportunities and sightseeing.

Why Choose the East Breathtaking Cabriolet Road Trip?

If the idea of cruising in a convertible along Madeira’s scenic eastern coast sounds appealing, then this tour is designed for you. With its emphasis on vistas and cultural highlights, it offers a comprehensive taste of the island’s varied beauty. The open-top driving elevates the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s about feeling connected to the landscape.

We love the way this tour integrates scenic viewpoints and local towns into one seamless adventure. The stops at spots like Ponta de São Lourenço and Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto promise some of the best photo moments on the island. Imagine feeling the ocean breeze while towering cliffs rise dramatically to your side—certainly a memory to cherish.

Another feature that makes this tour stand out is its private nature. Only your group participates, which means you can tailor the experience slightly or just enjoy the ride without crowds. The tour’s cost, around $552 for up to three people, can seem steep at first glance, but considering the private guide, the vehicle, and the variety of stops, it offers good value for a day of luxurious exploration.

The itinerary is well-structured, allowing for a quick but comprehensive look at Madeira’s eastern charms. The stops at Machico and Porto da Cruz are perfect for sampling local flavors and enjoying some downtime at beaches or rum distilleries. The visit to Santana to see traditional houses offers a cultural touchstone, providing insight into local architecture and customs.

The climb up to Pico Areeiro is particularly noteworthy — the drive winds up through mountain scenery that’s often described as breathtaking. From this height, you’ll see sweeping views of the valleys and peaks, making it an ideal finale to your convertible adventure.

Itinerary Deep Dive

Stop 1: Ponta de São Lourenço
This is a striking start, where the cliffs meet the sea in a dramatic display of nature’s power. We loved the way this spot embodies Madeira’s rugged coastline — perfect for photos and feeling the Atlantic breeze.

Stop 2: Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
A quick 10-minute stop at this viewpoint rewards you with panoramic views of the coast. It’s a classic “must-photograph” spot that captures the essence of Madeira’s rugged beauty with minimal fuss.

Stop 3: Miradouro da Portela
Surrounded by lush greenery, this viewpoint offers a different flavor—more about the peaceful countryside and traditional landscapes. A nice contrast to the coastal vistas.

Stop 4: Machico
This historic town features a long sandy beach and charming streets. It’s a good place for a quick snack or to relax by the water, blending local life with natural beauty.

Stop 5: Porto da Cruz
Famous for its rum, this spot combines beach relaxation with the chance to learn about Madeira’s distilling traditions. You might find yourself tempted to sample the local spirits.

Stop 6: Engenhos do Norte
Another opportunity to indulge in Madeira’s famous rum—though the stop is relatively short, it adds a cultural layer to your trip.

Stop 7: Faial and Miradouro do Guindaste
This tranquil village provides scenic views of the cliffs and ocean. It’s an ideal spot to pause, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy the landscape’s grandeur.

Stop 8: Santana
Famous for its brightly colored traditional houses, Santana is a charming cultural highlight. The Casa Típica de Santana offers a glimpse into Madeira’s architectural heritage.

Stop 9: Casas Tipicas de Santana
Exploring these iconic houses gives a sense of local craftsmanship and hospitality—an authentic slice of island life.

Stop 10: Ribeiro Frio
A peaceful area perfect for a short walk or picnic, surrounded by lush greenery, this stop offers a quiet moment before heading into the mountains.

Stop 11: Pico Areeiro
Rising high into the clouds, this mountain peak delivers panoramic views over Madeira’s rugged terrain. The drive up is an adventure in itself.

What Travelers Say

The only review available scores this tour a perfect full five stars, praising the guide’s friendliness and the variety of scenery seen in one day. The reviewer noted, “Many different places and fabulous panoramas… best trip ever!” It’s clear that the guide’s knowledge and the scenic diversity keep guests engaged and satisfied.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour includes air-conditioned private transport in a convertible, which means you enjoy the scenery comfortably, with the option to put the top down when conditions permit. Pickup in Funchal is included, making this a hassle-free experience. The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and explore without feeling rushed.

Pricing is roughly $552 for up to three people, which might seem high for some, but the private nature and the vehicle’s style add to its appeal. There’s no lunch included, but plenty of stops for quick bites or snacks. Additional costs like museum or site entries are generally not included, so plan accordingly if you want to go inside cultural spots.

The tour’s flexibility is a significant plus. Since it’s private, you can focus more on the stops you care about most and spend more time there. Keep in mind that cancellations are free up to 24 hours beforehand, which adds some peace of mind when planning your trip.

The Sum Up

This East Breathtaking Cabriolet Road Trip offers an excellent way to see Madeira’s eastern coast in style. The combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural highlights, and the absolute joy of driving a convertible makes it a memorable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who love beautiful landscapes, open-air drives, and a personalized touch.

The tour’s highlights—like Pico Areeiro’s mountain vistas and Santana’s traditional houses—are well-chosen to showcase Madeira’s diversity. The private guide ensures a relaxed, flexible day, and the vehicle’s open-top design enhances the connection with nature.

For those who want to combine comfort, adventure, and photography in one package, this trip delivers on all fronts. Just be prepared for a day of sightseeing with limited downtime, and remember that it’s a shared experience designed for those eager to explore in style.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, free pickup in the Funchal area is included, making the start of your day straightforward and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 7 hours, allowing for a comprehensive yet manageable day of sightseeing.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A private air-conditioned convertible with an open top, ideal for feeling the wind and enjoying the views.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility to focus more on certain sights, though the itinerary is designed to cover the main highlights.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but stops at towns like Machico and Porto da Cruz provide opportunities to enjoy local cuisine.

What is the cost?
The tour costs about $552.42 per group (up to 3 people), offering good value for a personalized, scenic day.

Are there any additional costs?
Some stops may have admission fees, which are generally not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to enter specific sites.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, provided they’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some walking or standing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for mountain areas.

Is it worth the price?
For those seeking a luxurious, private experience with breathtaking views and cultural sights, it offers a memorable, scenic adventure that justifies the cost.

This cabriolet cruise of Madeira’s eastern coast is a superb way to combine scenic beauty with cultural discovery, all wrapped in a stylish, private package. If you love open-air drives, panoramic vistas, and personalized service, it’s very likely to be a highlight of your Madeira trip.