Madeira’s East Island Tour and Levada Walk promises an unforgettable journey through the island’s enchanting landscapes. Visitors can expect to witness the towering peaks of Pico do Arieiro, explore the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest, and enjoy the time-honored tradition of wicker craftsmanship. While the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, it also leaves one curious to discover more about the island’s architectural wonders and culinary delights. With a delectable lunch and stunning viewpoints, this tour promises to be a memorable experience for all who embark on it.
Key Points
- An eight-hour shared excursion through Madeira’s mountain and forest landscapes, showcasing natural beauty, wicker works, and Laurissilva forest levada walk.
- Opportunity to witness the towering peaks of Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest point on the island, and explore the lush, verdant Laurissilva forest.
- Explore the long-standing tradition of wicker craftsmanship in Camacha, where skilled artisans weave intricate patterns from locally sourced materials.
- Enjoy a 3-course lunch at Grutas do Faial featuring regional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and visit the iconic A-framed cottages in Santana.
- Take in the sweeping panoramic views from the Miradouro do Pico do Facho, showcasing Madeira’s dramatic eastern coastline and natural beauty.
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Tour Overview
The East Madeira Island Tour is a shared excursion that takes visitors on an eight-hour journey through the dramatic mountain and forest landscapes of the region. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned minibus with a maximum capacity of 14 participants.
Travelers will have the opportunity to witness the island’s natural beauty, including wicker works in Camacha, the third-highest peak at Pico do Arieiro, and a levada walk through the Laurissilva forest in Ribeiro Frio.
Lunch will be served at the Grutas do Faial, and you will enjoy stunning views from the Miradouro do Pico do Facho. The tour also includes a visit to the quaint A-framed cottages in Santana.
Dramatic Mountain and Forest Views
Throughout the East Madeira Island Tour, visitors are treated to dramatic mountain and forest vistas that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty.
As the air-conditioned minibus winds through the island’s interior, passengers gaze in awe at the towering peaks of the Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest point on the island.
Lush, verdant forests of the Laurissilva also captivate, with the Levada walk offering an immersive experience amidst this ancient laurel forest.
From the Miradouro do Pico do Facho, sweeping panoramic views stretch out before visitors, highlighting Madeira’s dramatic natural landscapes.
Whether gazing at rugged mountains or exploring tranquil forests, this tour provides an unforgettable window into the island’s breathtaking scenery.
Wicker Works in Camacha
Nestled in the heart of East Madeira, the quaint village of Camacha is renowned for its long-standing tradition of wicker craftsmanship, where skilled artisans meticulously weave intricate patterns from locally sourced materials. During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to witness this age-old craft firsthand, as they explore the workshops and observe the master weavers at work. The region’s abundant supply of willow and other malleable plant fibers provide the perfect raw materials for the creation of a wide range of wicker products, from practical baskets to decorative furniture and home accents.
| Material | Technique | Product | Artisan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willow | Weaving | Baskets | Maria |
| Rattan | Braiding | Chairs | João |
| Vines | Twisting | Mirrors | Ana |
| Bamboo | Coiling | Vases | Pedro |
Pico Do Arieiro (3rd Highest Peak)
Towering at 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro stands as the third-highest peak on the island of Madeira, offering visitors a breathtaking panorama of the island’s rugged, mountainous terrain.
Travelers ascending to the summit can marvel at the dramatic vistas, which encompass the island’s lush, laurel forests and plunging valleys.
The summit is accessible via a well-maintained hiking trail, and the journey is a highlight for many visitors to the island.
Along the way, hikers can witness the unique geological formations and diverse flora that thrive in the island’s high-altitude environment.
The Pico do Arieiro tour provides an opportunity to take in Madeira’s natural beauty and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s striking landscapes.
Laurissilva Forest Levada Walk
The Laurissilva forest levada walk takes visitors on a scenic journey through one of Madeira’s most captivating natural wonders.
Meandering along a well-maintained levada, or irrigation channel, hikers are immersed in the lush, verdant landscape of this UNESCO-protected laurel forest, which is the largest of its kind in the world.
The trail winds through a serene, ancient woodland, allowing travelers to admire the unique flora and fauna thriving in this unique ecosystem.
Towering laurel trees, mossy rocks, and babbling streams create a tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful respite from the outside world.
This levada walk is a highlight of the East Madeira Island tour, providing an intimate connection with the island’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Lunch at Grutas Do Faial
Guests enjoy a satisfying 3-course meal with drinks at the Grutas do Faial, a charming restaurant located near the Laurissilva forest.
The menu features regional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. For starters, guests might savor a refreshing salad or a hearty soup. The main course typically includes fish or meat, accompanied by traditional Madeiran sides. To finish, there’s a delectable dessert, perhaps a creamy pudding or a fruity tart.
The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and attentive service complement the delicious fare. Lunch at Grutas do Faial provides a chance to refuel and recharge before continuing the exploration of Madeira’s stunning landscapes.
Views From Miradouro Do Pico Do Facho
From the Miradouro do Pico do Facho, visitors are treated to sweeping vistas of Madeira’s dramatic eastern coastline.
This scenic overlook commands breathtaking views of towering sea cliffs, rugged volcanic formations, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
The panorama stretches far into the distance, showcasing the island’s natural beauty.
Perched atop a promontory, the Miradouro offers unobstructed sightlines that allow travelers to fully appreciate Madeira’s striking landscapes.
It’s an ideal spot to pause, take in the scenery, and snap unforgettable photos.
The viewpoint’s elevated position provides a unique perspective, making it a highlight of the East Madeira Island tour.
A-framed Cottages in Santana
Nestled in the quaint town of Santana, Madeira’s iconic A-framed cottages dot the rolling hillsides, offering a captivating glimpse into the island’s traditional architectural heritage.
These charming structures, with their distinctive triangular roofs and whitewashed walls, have become a symbol of Madeira’s unique cultural identity. Crafted from local materials, the cottages were originally built to withstand the region’s harsh weather conditions, and their design has been refined over generations.
Today, visitors can explore these well-preserved examples of traditional Madeiran architecture, marveling at their simplicity and authenticity. The A-framed cottages in Santana serve as a living testament to the island’s enduring traditions and the ingenuity of its people.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour has a maximum group size of 14 participants. It is a shared tour in an air-conditioned minibus, providing a comfortable and intimate experience for guests exploring the dramatic mountain and forest views of East Madeira Island.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?
The tour generally cannot be customized for individual preferences. It’s a shared tour with a fixed itinerary and group size. However, customers can request changes if the tour operator is able to accommodate special needs or requests.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements?
The tour doesn’t have any age or physical fitness requirements, but the levada walk may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s recommended to assess one’s abilities before booking to ensure a comfortable experience.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour. Participants can capture the stunning mountain and forest landscapes, as well as cultural highlights like the wicker works and traditional cottages, though it’s best to avoid disturbing the group.
Can the Tour Be Booked as a Private Excursion?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a private excursion. Customers have the option to arrange a private tour for their group, which offers more flexibility and personalization compared to the shared group tour.
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Recap
The Madeira East Island Tour and Levada Walk offers a comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and architectural wonders.
Visitors can witness the island’s dramatic mountain peaks, UNESCO-protected forests, and traditional wicker craftsmanship, while also enjoying a delectable lunch and taking in the views from iconic vantage points.
This tour provides an immersive and well-rounded experience of Madeira’s diverse attractions.
