From Funchal: West Madeira and Laurel Forest Day Trip

Exploring Madeira’s West: A Deep Dive into the Laurel Forest and Scenic Wonders

If you’re looking for a way to see the very best of Madeira’s west side without the hassle of navigating steep, narrow roads yourself, this guided tour from Funchal might just be your perfect match. It’s a well-reviewed, affordable way to experience some of the most iconic sights—like the Cabo Girão Skywalk, the ancient Fanal Laurel Forest, and natural volcanic pools in Porto Moniz—without the stress of planning every detail.

What we love about this trip are two key things: first, the expert guides who bring the landscape to life with stories and insights, and second, the stunning vistas that simply take your breath away. The tour hits many of the must-see spots in a single day, offering a great balance of scenic beauty, charming towns, and unique natural features.

A possible consideration? The full-day schedule means quite a bit of time on the road, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced experience. Also, some stops—like the natural volcanic pools—are weather-dependent, so if the sea is too rough, you might miss out on a swim.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, scenic viewpoints, and cultural villages but don’t want to rent a car or spend hours figuring out logistics. It’s particularly good for those on a budget, considering the price is just $34 per person, yet it doesn’t skimp on highlights or comfort.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: At only $34, the tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Expert guides enhance the experience: Knowledgeable guides like Tony and Carlos make the journey engaging and informative.
• Spectacular viewpoints: You’ll visit Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe, with sweeping views over the Atlantic.
• Rich natural landscapes: The Laurissilva Forest in Fanal is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to ancient trees and endemic flora.
• Charming towns and waterfalls: Stops in Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, and Seixal showcase Madeira’s colorful villages and lush waterfalls.
• Weather-dependent activities: Swimming in natural pools and some viewpoints may be affected by weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: Why Every Stop Matters

Starting early in the morning, the tour begins with a hotel pickup, whisking you away from Funchal’s bustling streets to the quieter, greener parts of Madeira. The first stop is Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village known for its colorful boats and hillside banana plantations. It’s a great place to see how local life still revolves around the sea, and many reviews highlight how the guide’s stories bring these small towns to life. As one traveler noted, “we stopped in so many places, like small cute towns, amazing viewpoints and more,” emphasizing how much ground this tour covers.

Next, you’ll ascend to Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe. The skywalk, a glass platform suspended above the cliff, offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. It’s not just a photo-op; it’s an experience that makes you appreciate Madeira’s dramatic landscape. Reviewers like Yaniv praised the guide Tony for making the visit so informative, adding that “the views from Cabo Girão are truly breathtaking.”

Descending into Ribeira Brava, the drive takes you along steep, winding roads dotted with banana and sugarcane plantations—a reminder of the island’s agricultural roots. Ribeira Brava itself is charming, with a historic church and laid-back vibe, perfect for a quick stroll or coffee break. Many say this stop adds a touch of authentic Madeira to the tour.

The drive continues onto Paul da Serra, a flat, high-altitude plateau that feels like a different world—think cloud-level terrain with sweeping vistas. Here, the tour ventures into the Fanal Forest, one of Madeira’s UNESCO sites. The ancient laurel trees often hide in mist or fog, creating a mystical atmosphere. As Egle commented, “we loved the ancient forest in the fog,” and that sense of mystery is what makes Fanal so special. The endemic flora and centuries-old trees transport visitors into a different time and place.

No trip to Madeira would be complete without a visit to the Porto Moniz volcanic pools. These natural saltwater pools, formed by cooled lava, are a highlight for many travelers. The pools are well-known for their clarity and unique volcanic rock formations. The tour includes a swimming stop here, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy nature’s hot tub. Reviews indicate that this is often a favorite part; however, weather conditions can influence whether swimming is possible, so it’s worth being flexible.

From there, the journey along the north coast offers views of numerous waterfalls cascading down cliffs—an impressive spectacle, especially if the weather is wet. Stops at Seixal provide a chance to see Madeira’s black volcanic beaches, offering a different kind of beauty and a photo-worthy scene. If the weather’s right, you might even glimpse Portugal’s Encumeada Pass, although this may be closed during fire season or bad weather.

The itinerary wraps up with a scenic drive back toward Funchal, passing through lush landscapes and small villages. The entire day is carefully structured to maximize sights without feeling rushed, with the guide providing commentary along the way. Many reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about the flora, history, and local customs of Madeira.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The main selling point is the combination of value and variety. For just $34, you get a full day of exploration with transportation included, removing the hassle of planning multiple trips or renting a car. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get tailored insights from your guide.

The scenic viewpoints are truly the highlight, especially Cabo Girão’s glass skywalk and the lush Fanal forests. Several reviewers commented on the expert guidance, with Yaniv stating, “Tony was knowledgeable, funny, and in general a great person,” which makes the experience more engaging and informative.

The opportunity to swim in volcanic pools and see the waterfalls adds a fun, active dimension to the day. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility built into the schedule—if weather permits, you can enjoy a swim or take a quick photo at each stop. The included lunch is not part of the base price but many reviews mention a delicious 3-course meal with local wine for around €20, making the overall experience even better value.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves a long day of travel, often close to 8 hours, and some stops may be limited by weather. As one traveler noted, “the tour takes nearly the whole usual working day,” so it’s best suited for energetic travelers who want to see lots but are prepared for a full schedule.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided tour from Funchal offers a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s west side, perfect for those who want a guided, hassle-free experience that covers natural beauty, charming villages, and panoramic views. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or travelers who prefer to leave the driving and logistics to someone else.

If you’re into stunning scenery, local culture, and natural pools, and are on a budget, this tour delivers solid value. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops make it worthwhile, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd.

Overall, it’s a well-balanced, engaging experience that captures the essence of Madeira’s rugged west coast—ideal for curious travelers eager to see the island’s highlights without the fuss.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, making it a full-day activity that covers many of Madeira’s west highlights.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a guide. Entrance fees to museums or pools, lunch, and drinks are not included, but many reviews mention a good-value lunch option.

Are there any weather considerations?
Yes, activities like swimming in volcanic pools or visiting certain viewpoints depend on the weather. If conditions are poor, some stops may be adjusted or canceled, but the guide will handle this smoothly.

What should I bring?
Bring water, a jacket, and swimwear if you want to take a dip in the pools. The weather can change quickly, especially at higher altitudes.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The small group size and moderate walking make it accessible for most ages, but be prepared for some steep roads and uneven terrain.

Can I customize the stops or get a different language guide?
The tour offers guides in Spanish, Dutch, English, French, German, and Portuguese. Customization is unlikely for this set itinerary.

To sum it up, if you want a cost-effective, scenic, and well-guided way to explore Madeira’s west side, this day trip offers excellent value. It’s ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty, charming villages, and knowledgeable guides, all packed into a single, memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: