If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and want to see the island’s natural beauty and traditional charm without the hassle of planning every detail, this Madeira Northern Highlights tour might just be your best bet. Designed for those who appreciate stunning scenery, authentic local culture, and a well-organized day, this tour offers a balanced mix of relaxing moments and eye-popping vistas.
What we especially like about this experience are the opportunity to swim in Seixal’s distinctive black sand beach — a truly unique landscape — and the chance to see Santana’s iconic traditional houses, which are practically postcard-perfect. A potential consideration is that the tour lasts eight hours, so it’s a full day, which might be a bit long for travelers looking for a short excursion.
This tour is ideal for those who want to discover the island’s natural beauty in a relaxed, guided environment without the stress of figuring out transportation or timings. It’s perfect for travelers who value authentic experiences and enjoy a bit of adventure.
Key Points
- Comprehensive day trip covering major northern highlights of Madeira
- Includes swimming and scenic stops at Seixal’s black sand beach, waterfalls, and viewpoints
- Knowledgeable guides and small group setting enhance personalized experience
- Flexible options for meeting points and easy pickup from central locations
- Value for money with included drinks, water, and insights from local guides
- Weather considerations can affect plans; flexibility is key
The Itinerary in Detail
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sao Jorge.
Starting Point and Transportation
This tour begins with pick-up options from several central locations in Funchal — including Porto Mare, Ponta Da Oliveira, Porto Bay, and Av. do Mar e das Comunidades Madeirenses. The transportation is provided via a comfortable electric car, which not only reduces environmental impact but also makes for a quiet, smooth ride. With a total duration of about eight hours, it’s a well-paced way to see the northern coast without rushing.
Serra de Água: Coffee and Orientation
Your day kicks off in Serra de Água, a charming mountain village. Here, the first stop is a quick coffee meetup, where you can choose between a bica (espresso) or a garoto (small coffee with milk). It’s a friendly, relaxed way to start, and it sets the tone for a day filled with beautiful scenery and interesting stops. Alongside your coffee, you’ll get a brief overview of the day’s itinerary, which helps set expectations and build anticipation.
São Vicente: Scenic Overlook and Cultural Touches
Next, you’ll visit the famous Miradouro Pico da Cova in São Vicente, perched atop a small mountain in the lush valley. This viewpoint offers a sweeping view of the green landscape, perfect for photography and a moment of quiet awe. The visit includes a quick stop at the White Chapel, where a few stairs lead up to exceptional vistas — a small but worthwhile climb that rewards you with panoramic beauty.
More Great Tours NearbySeixal: Black Sand Beach and Waterfalls
The highlight for many travelers is the stop at Seixal’s black sand beach, which has gained fame on Instagram for its striking volcanic sands and waterfall backdrop. The landscape here is dramatic — jet-black sands contrasted by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. Visitors are encouraged to take a swim in the clear, cool waters. The fact that the beach is framed by waterfalls adds a magical feel, and the scenery is genuinely unlike any other beach experience.
One reviewer noted, “Cameras at the ready, because the landscape with beach, sea, and waterfalls is just fantastic!” The roughly 75-minute stop allows enough time to relax, swim, and soak in the surroundings.
Lunch and Free Time in São Vicente
Midday, you have the option to explore São Vicente’s quaint town on your own. There are plenty of cafes and small eateries where you can grab lunch (not included in the tour price). This pause provides a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy local flavors, and see a bit of everyday life in Madeira. The town’s relaxed vibe complements the scenic stops perfectly.
Watermill and Scenic Viewpoints
Traveling onward toward Santana, the tour includes a stop at Miradouro das Cabanas, offering a peek of the Arco de São Jorge and surrounding landscapes. This is also where you’ll visit the last working watermill in Madeira — a living piece of the island’s past. Seeing how locals used Levadas (irrigation channels) for milling demonstrates the resourcefulness of Madeira’s ancestors.
São Jorge: Ruins and the “Door to the Sea”
At São Jorge, you’ll explore the Ruinas de São Jorge, a romantic site with evocative ruins overlooking the sea. The scenery here is photograph-worthy, with rugged cliffs and the vast Atlantic beyond. The name “door to the sea” hints at the stunning views that await — perfect for snapping memorable pictures.
Santana: Traditional Houses and Cultural Insights
A visit to Santana offers a glimpse into Madeira’s cultural heritage. The iconic traditional houses with steeply pitched roofs are instantly recognizable and highly photogenic. The visit allows you to walk through the town and see these well-preserved examples of local architecture, offering insight into the island’s rural life.
Next, you’ll stop at Rocha do Navio, a viewpoint that hides one of the island’s natural gems. The landscape here is spectacular, with rugged cliffs and sweeping views. The highlight of the trip is the Guindaste Viewpoint, which provides a stunning perspective over the valley — perfect for panoramic photos. The views are so striking many travelers comment on their “breathtaking beauty.”
Machico: Final Stop with Poncha
As the day winds down, the tour concludes in Machico, where you’re treated to a traditional Poncha — a local spirit made with sugarcane, honey, and lemon. It’s a fun way to toast the end of a full day and soak up some more local flavor. The authentic Poncha bar adds a lively, friendly atmosphere to your last stop.
Return and Drop-off
Afterward, transportation returns you to your starting points, completing an well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s northern coast.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Authentic Views: From Seixal’s black sand beach to Santana’s traditional houses, the tour offers a visual feast that captures the island’s natural and cultural essence. Many travelers find these stops are the “must-see” highlights that truly define Madeira.
Knowledgeable Guides: According to reviews, guides like Richard are praised for their depth of knowledge and friendly manner. We loved how guides explained the significance of each site, making the experience educational as well as scenic.
Value for Money: Priced at $74 per person, the tour includes transport, drinks, water, and guided insights. When you consider the variety of stops and the personalized attention in a small group, that price offers excellent value.
Flexibility & Comfort: The use of electric cars is a thoughtful touch, reducing noise and emissions while making the drive more pleasant. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the multiple meeting points add convenience.
Authentic Cultural Experiences: Visiting the last working watermill and exploring Santana’s houses give you a taste of local history and traditions often missed on standard tours. These moments make the trip more meaningful.
Possible Drawbacks or Considerations
While the tour is well-organized and packed with highlights, it’s a long day — eight hours can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. Also, Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable; rain or fog might affect some scenic stops or views. The tour providers emphasize flexibility and will adjust plans if necessary, but travelers should be prepared for changing conditions.
Finally, lunch isn’t included, so if you prefer a sit-down meal or specific dietary options, it’s worth considering beforehand.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This Madeira northern highlights tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and scenic views without the hassle of planning individual stops. It suits those who enjoy small group experiences and value the insights of a local guide.
It’s especially ideal for visitors who appreciate photo opportunities and want to experience iconic sites like Seixal’s black sand beach and Santana’s houses firsthand. However, if you’re looking for a quick snippet or have limited mobility, this full-day might be a bit demanding.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day activity filled with diverse stops.
What is included in the price?
Transportation, a local guide, one small water, one local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), and a coffee are included.
Can I buy lunch during the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but you’ll have time to explore São Vicente on your own and grab a meal if desired.
What should I bring?
A sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, jacket, rain gear, and beachwear are recommended due to varying weather.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 or wheelchair users.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is flexible, and guides will adjust plans if weather conditions make some stops unsafe or impossible.
Where do the tours start and end?
Pick-up and drop-off are available from multiple central locations in Funchal, including Porto Mare and Av. do Mar.
How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, electric cars are used for transportation, reducing emissions during the day.
How do I book or pay?
You can reserve your spot now with a flexible “reserve & pay later” option, cancelling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This Madeira Northern Highlights tour offers a wonderful balance of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and relaxed pacing. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see the island’s key sights without the stress of planning and logistics. The knowledgeable guides and small group size help create a friendly, informative atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.
Whether you’re a photographer eager for picture-perfect views, a nature lover, or someone simply looking to soak in Madeira’s rugged beauty, this tour delivers a memorable day out. It’s especially suited for those who value authenticity and local flavor, making it a worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary.
If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized exploration of Madeira’s northern coast at a fair price, this tour deserves serious consideration. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your camera and sense of adventure!
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