Madeira’s East Coast beckons travelers with its captivating charm. This guided tour promises a day of exploration, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and cultural gems. From the majestic Pico Do Arieiro to the quaint Casinhas De Santana, the journey offers a well-rounded experience. Indulge in traditional Madeiran cuisine, uncover historic ruins, and marvel at the stunning coastline vistas. With a personalized touch and a limited group size, this tour is an excellent way to uncover the hidden wonders that make Madeira’s eastern region truly special. Intrigued? Discover more about this captivating adventure.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 8-hour guided tour exploring the east coast of Madeira, including Pico Do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Casinhas De Santana, and coastal villages.
- Opportunity to witness breathtaking panoramic views, unique flora and fauna, and traditional Madeiran architecture and culture.
- Personalized experience for up to 5 participants, with pickup, insurance, transport, and a knowledgeable guide included.
- Enjoy a traditional Madeiran lunch at the picturesque Quinta Do Furão estate, with stunning ocean views.
- Explore the ruins of a former fishing village, Calhau De São Jorge, and take in the dramatic coastal scenery along the eastern coastline.
Tour Overview
This 8-hour guided tour allows visitors to discover the east coast of Madeira, providing a well-rounded experience with highlights such as the breathtaking Pico do Arieiro, traditional Madeiran houses in Casinhas de Santana, and scenic viewpoints like Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto.
Priced from $56.89 per person, the tour includes pickup, insurance, transport, and a knowledgeable English and Portuguese-speaking guide. Groups are limited to 5 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence. Throughout the day, guests will enjoy exploring the island’s natural wonders, savoring local cuisine, and learning about Madeiran culture and history at a comfortable pace.
You can also read our reviews of more guided tours in Madeira
Visiting Pico Do Arieiro
The tour begins with a visit to the impressive Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain. Travelers are treated to a stunning panorama that showcases Madeira’s dramatic mountains, deep valleys, and the vast Atlantic Ocean stretching out in the distance.
The visit to Pico do Arieiro includes:
- Marveling at the awe-inspiring landscapes from the viewing platform
- Exploring the hiking trails that wind through the surrounding peaks
- Learning about the unique geology and ecology of this remarkable natural wonder
With its dramatic vistas and opportunities for exploration, Pico do Arieiro sets the tone for a captivating journey through Madeira’s enchanting eastern regions.
Exploring Ribeiro Frio
Next, the tour explores Ribeiro Frio, a lush and verdant area known for its levada walks. Visitors can embark on a short but picturesque levada trail, admiring the region’s unique flora and fauna along the way.
The levada, a network of irrigation channels, provides a scenic pathway through the countryside, showcasing Madeira’s natural beauty. As the tour winds through the green landscapes, guests have the opportunity to learn about the island’s traditional water management system and its importance to the local community.
This serene and tranquil setting offers a refreshing contrast to the dramatic sea views experienced earlier in the day, providing a well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s diverse landscapes.
Discovering Casinhas De Santana
Upon departing Ribeiro Frio, the tour makes its way to the charming village of Casinhas de Santana, renowned for its traditional Madeiran houses. Guests can’t help but marvel at the quaint, thatched-roof cottages that dot the landscape, each one a unique representation of the island’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour provides ample time to wander through the village, allowing visitors to:
- Admire the colorful facades and intricate architectural details
- Snap photos of the picturesque setting, perfect for postcards
- Interact with local artisans showcasing their handcrafted products
This stop offers a delightful glimpse into the traditional way of life on Madeira, leaving lasting impressions on all who experience it.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch at Quinta Do Furão
After exploring the charming Casinhas de Santana, the tour heads to Quinta do Furão, where guests enjoy a delightful lunch at the restaurant nestled within the picturesque estate. The restaurant, known for its traditional Madeiran cuisine, offers a tranquil setting amidst the lush greenery and stunning ocean views.
| Menu Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Espada com Banana | Black scabbardfish with banana | €15.00 |
| Milho Frito | Fried cornmeal | €5.00 |
| Bolo de Mel | Honey cake | €3.50 |
Diners can savor the flavors of the island while admiring the natural beauty that surrounds them, making for a truly memorable dining experience during the Madeira tour.
- Funchal: Enchanted Terraces, Porto do Moniz & Fanal 4WD Tour
★ 4.8 · 4,930 reviews - From Funchal: Best of Madeiras West Tour
★ 4.7 · 3,463 reviews - Madeira: Best of the East Tour From Funchal
★ 4.7 · 3,364 reviews - Funchal: Old Town Walking Tour
★ 4.7 · 3,233 reviews - Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise
★ 4.2 · 2,684 reviews - From Funchal: West Madeira Waterfalls and Fanal Forest Tour
★ 4.7 · 2,630 reviews
Exploring Calhau De São Jorge
The tour then ventures to the ruins of Calhau de São Jorge, a once-thriving fishing village now reduced to crumbling structures along the dramatic coastline. Visitors can explore the remnants of homes, stone walls, and weathered docks that once bustled with activity.
Notable features include:
- Weathered stone foundations and walls that offer a glimpse into the village’s past
- Panoramic views of the rugged Atlantic shoreline and the nearby cliffs
- Opportunities to imagine the daily life and rhythms of the former fishing community
Despite its decay, Calhau de São Jorge retains a haunting beauty, inviting travelers to step back in time and ponder the ebb and flow of human settlement along Madeira’s picturesque eastern edge.
Witnessing Miradouros
Next, the tour takes visitors to a series of stunning miradouros, or scenic viewpoints, along the eastern coast of Madeira. These offer breathtaking panoramas of the rugged cliffs, serene bays, and rolling hills that characterize this region.
One highlight is the Miradouro do Guindaste, which provides sweeping views over Faial and the surrounding landscape. Another must-see is the Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto, perched atop dramatic seaside cliffs.
The tour also visits Pico do Facho, a towering viewpoint that affords panoramic vistas of the coastline and distant mountains. These miradouros allow visitors to fully enjoy Madeira’s natural splendor and appreciate the island’s diverse and captivating scenery.
Booking and Considerations
Visitors can reserve their spot on this guided tour of Madeira’s east coast and pay later to secure their participation. The tour emphasizes key highlights like Pico do Arieiro, Santana, Ponta do Rosto, and Pico do Facho, offering a flexible and family-friendly experience with time and money optimization.
Some important considerations when booking this tour include:
- Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended for the levada walks and visits.
- The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
- Smoking, alcohol, and pets aren’t allowed in the vehicle.
With its focus on Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural attractions, this guided tour promises an enriching and memorable experience for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Modified to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The tour can likely be modified to accommodate dietary restrictions. Clients should inquire about the tour provider’s ability to cater to specific needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals, when booking the tour.
Is There a Discount Available for Children or Seniors?
Yes, the tour operator offers discounted pricing for children and seniors. Specific details on the amount of the discount can be obtained by contacting the tour company directly or checking their website when booking the tour.
What Is the Language Proficiency of the Tour Guide?
The tour guide’s language proficiency includes English and Portuguese. According to the tour details, the tour is offered in both English and Portuguese, indicating the guide is fluent in these languages to provide informative commentary.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?
The tour duration and itinerary can be customized to meet clients’ needs. Travelers can inquire about extending the tour or modifying the stops to focus on their specific interests. Flexible options are available upon request.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs for the Tour?
The tour includes pickup, insurance, transport, guide, and mineral water. There are no additional fees or hidden costs beyond the listed price. Meals, drinks, and personal expenses are the only exclusions.
Madeira: Guided Tour Discovering the East Coast
Recap
This guided tour of Madeira’s East Coast offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture. Travelers can explore the majestic Pico Do Arieiro, discover the charming Casinhas De Santana, savor traditional Madeiran cuisine, and marvel at the sweeping coastal vistas.
With a small group size, the tour provides a personalized experience to uncover the hidden gems of this scenic region.
You can check availability for your dates here:
