From Funchal: Best Of Madeira Tour (Half-Day Tour)

Discover the natural wonders of Madeira on this captivating half-day tour. Explore the island’s iconic landmarks, from the panoramic vistas of Pico dos Barcelos to the charming village of Monte. Enjoy the dramatic Curral das Freiras valley, savor traditional delicacies, and experience the thrilling toboggan ride. This private group tour offers a flexible, customizable experience, catering to your interests and preferences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this ‘Best of Madeira’ tour promises an unforgettable journey through the island’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Key Points

This half-day tour offers a panoramic exploration of Madeira’s highlights, including the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, Eira do Serrado, and the charming town of Curral das Freiras.
Travelers can savor traditional chestnut cake and sour cherry liqueur, immersing in the unique culinary traditions of Madeira.
The tour includes a visit to the picturesque town of Monte, where visitors can experience the thrilling toboggan ride down the steep streets.
Flexible pickup and drop-off arrangements are available, with transportation provided from central Funchal hotels.
The tour provides a personalized and comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of Madeira.

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Tour Duration and Pickup

The tour duration is 4 hours, and pick-up is available from hotels in central Funchal up to 1 hour before or after the agreed time.

This means customers have some flexibility in their schedule and don’t have to worry about being at the exact pickup location at a specific time.

The tour is a private group experience, allowing for a more personalized and intimate exploration of Madeira’s highlights.

Whether you’re staying in the heart of Funchal or slightly further out, the tour operator will ensure you’re conveniently transported to begin your half-day adventure.

With a private driver, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey ahead.

Panoramic Views From Pico Dos Barcelos

Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, perched 355 meters above sea level, offers panoramic vistas of Funchal and the surrounding mountains.

From this elevated vantage point, guests can drink in breathtaking views of the charming city and the dramatic, rugged landscapes that characterize the island of Madeira.

The viewpoint provides a prime opportunity to snap postcard-worthy photographs of Funchal’s colorful rooftops, the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, and the lush, rolling hills that stretch out in the distance.

This scenic stop on the Best of Madeira Tour allows visitors to pause, take in the stunning scenery, and appreciate the natural splendor of this enchanting Portuguese island.

Eira Do Serrado Viewpoint of Curral Das Freiras

Nestled at an altitude of 1,095 meters, the Eira do Serrado viewpoint offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the dramatic Curral das Freiras valley.

This stunning natural amphitheater is surrounded by towering cliffs, creating a breathtaking panorama that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

As part of the Best of Madeira Tour, guests will have the chance to witness this awe-inspiring landscape firsthand.

From the viewpoint, they can take in the rugged beauty of the valley, which was once home to a convent that sheltered nuns during Moorish invasions.

This unique stop on the tour provides an opportunity to take in Madeira’s rich history and natural wonders.

Tasting Traditional Chestnut Cake and Sour Cherry Liqueur

As part of the Best of Madeira Tour, visitors can savor traditional chestnut cake and sour cherry liqueur while exploring the charming village of Curral das Freiras. These local delicacies provide a delightful taste of Madeira’s rich culinary heritage, complementing the stunning natural scenery that surrounds the village nestled in the valley.

The chestnut cake, moist and subtly sweet, is a beloved regional specialty, while the sour cherry liqueur offers a tangy and refreshing contrast. Enjoying these treats allows travelers to enjoy the unique flavors of Madeira and appreciate the local culture.

This stop on the tour offers a chance to indulge in the island’s gastronomic traditions.

Visiting Monte and Toboggan Runs

On the Best of Madeira Tour, visitors can opt to visit the charming town of Monte and ride the famous toboggan runs that have become an iconic attraction of the island.

Monte is a picturesque town perched high in the mountains, accessible by cable car. Here, you’ll find the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, featuring stunning plants and architecture.

The highlight, though, is the thrilling toboggan ride down the steep streets. These iconic wicker sleds are steered by experienced ‘sledge pilots‘ who navigate the twists and turns at exhilarating speeds.

It’s a unique and unforgettable way to experience Madeira’s incredible natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a knowledgeable driver to guide visitors throughout the excursion. This ensures a seamless and convenient experience, as travelers won’t have to worry about navigating the roads themselves.

Plus, the tour provides an opportunity to visit several highlights of Madeira, including the panoramic views from Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado. Visitors will also get to taste traditional Madeiran delicacies, like chestnut cake and sour cherry liqueur, in the picturesque village of Curral das Freiras.

While food and drinks aren’t included, unless specified, the tour offers a comprehensive way to explore the best of Madeira in a private group setting.

Tour Exclusions

While the tour provides a comprehensive experience, there are a few things not included in the package.

Food and drinks, unless specified, are the responsibility of the participants. Plus, gratuities for the driver are optional.

The tour price covers the hotel pickup and drop-off service, as well as the driver’s services throughout the journey. However, travelers will need to cover the cost of any refreshments or snacks they wish to enjoy during the tour, such as the traditional chestnut cake and sour cherry liqueur tasting in Curral das Freiras.

The choice to tip the driver at the end of the tour is entirely up to the discretion of each individual.

Booking Details

Travelers can book the Best of Madeira Tour starting from €65.00 per person. The tour offers a flexible booking process, allowing customers to reserve their spot now and pay later.

Plus, the tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans. This ensures that guests can easily secure their spot on the tour without the need to pay upfront.

With a range of inclusions, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a knowledgeable driver, the Best of Madeira Tour provides great value for the price. Booking this tour is a hassle-free way to explore the highlights of the beautiful island of Madeira.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

This tour may be suitable for families with young children, as it includes scenic viewpoints and local tastings. However, the duration and some activities, like the toboggan runs, may be challenging for young kids. Parents should consider their children’s abilities and interests.

Can We Customize the Tour to Fit Our Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and request modifications to the itinerary, such as adding or substituting activities, within the tour’s overall duration and pricing.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

This private tour allows for a flexible group size, though the exact maximum is unspecified. Customers can inquire about the group capacity when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs and preferences.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Toboggan Ride?

There are no special requirements for the optional toboggan ride in Monte. Participants must be able to sit safely in the toboggan and follow the operator’s instructions. The ride is weather-dependent and may be closed during poor conditions.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Customers should discuss any changes to the standard 4-hour tour with the tour operator in advance. Additional charges may apply for extended tour times.

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Recap

This half-day tour offers an excellent introduction to Madeira’s natural beauty.

Travelers can marvel at the island’s stunning landscapes, from the panoramic vistas of Pico dos Barcelos to the dramatic Curral das Freiras valley.

Highlights include sampling local delicacies and enjoying a thrilling toboggan ride in Monte.

With flexible hotel pickup and a private group experience, this tour provides a convenient and memorable way to discover the best of Madeira.