Madeira West Island Tour With Levada Walk and Lunch

Madeira’s rugged western coast offers a world of natural wonders waiting to be explored. The Madeira West Island Tour provides travelers with the opportunity to enjoy the island’s captivating landscapes, from the lush Laurissilva Forest to the therapeutic volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz. With a traditional Portuguese lunch, optional levada walk, and a maximum group size of 15, this full-day adventure promises an enriching and personalized experience. But what we love about this tour from the rest, and how can it cater to your specific interests? Let’s dive deeper into the details.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Lunch Experiences In Funchal.

Key Points

• Explore the western region of Madeira with a full-day guided tour, including visits to fishing villages, Laurissilva Forest, and volcanic rock pools.
• Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch and cocktail, with a 3-course choice menu option.
• Opportunity for a short optional walk along the famous Levada water channels.
• Maximum group size of 15 travelers for a personalized experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Tour may have limited accessibility, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Madeira West Island tour offers a full-day exploration of the island’s western region, led by a professional guide.

Highlights include visiting picturesque fishing villages, immersing in the lush Laurissilva Forest, marveling at the volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz, and taking in the stunning views from the Encumeada Pass.

Guests will enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch and cocktail, as well as a 3-course choice menu.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, driver/guide gratuities, and a short optional levada walk are included.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and features free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Inclusions and Logistics

Along With the tour’s highlights, the Madeira West Island tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected areas, with the driver and guide’s gratuities covered.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to take a short optional walk along the famous levadas. The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. However, the tour may not be accessible for travelers with mobility issues, and children must be accompanied by an adult, with their age details required for appropriate seating arrangements.

Pickup Information

Departing between 9:00 and 9:30 AM, the Madeira West Island tour offers hotel pickup from 8:00 to 9:00 AM, depending on the location of the hotel.

For cruise ship passengers, there’s an alternative pickup point at the harbor meeting location.

The tour’s pickup service and gratuities are included, ensuring a convenient and seamless start to the day’s adventure.

With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, the experience promises a more personal and intimate exploration of Madeira’s west island highlights.

Tour Accessibility and Requirements

The Madeira West Island tour may not be suitable for all travelers, as it is not wheelchair accessible. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and age details are required for appropriate seating. The tour is also not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.

Accessibility	Yes	No
Wheelchair		✓
Children	✓
Mobility		✓

The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, providing a more inclusive experience for international visitors. However, it’s important to consider these accessibility requirements when deciding if this tour is the right fit.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have provided an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 22 reviews for the Madeira West Island tour.

Positive feedback highlighted the knowledgeable guide, stunning scenery, and quality of the traditional Portuguese lunch.

However, some reviewers noted the levada walk didn’t match their expectations, and the itinerary occasionally changed due to weather or conditions.

Recommendations included reducing the group size for a more personalized experience.

While the tour generally received favorable ratings, a few areas for improvement were identified based on traveler feedback.

Exploring Fishing Villages

One of the highlights of the Madeira West Island tour is the opportunity to explore the region’s charming fishing villages.

Along the journey, visitors will get to witness the vibrant local culture and traditions. These quaint seaside towns offer a glimpse into the island’s maritime heritage:

• Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses and small shops.
• Visit the local harbors to see fishermen mending their nets or unloading the day’s catch.
• Enjoy freshly caught seafood at one of the traditional restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Madeiran cuisine.

These fishing villages provide a delightful contrast to the dramatic natural landscapes encountered throughout the tour.

Discovering Laurissilva Forest

During the Madeira West Island tour, visitors traverse the lush Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient laurel forest covers over 20% of the island and is home to a unique ecosystem.

Towering laurel trees canopy the landscape, filtering sunlight and creating a serene, almost mystical atmosphere. Along the trails, travelers can spot endemic flora and fauna, including the Madeiran long-toed pigeon and the Madeira firecrest.

The guided walks allow visitors to fully enjoy this verdant oasis, learning about the forest’s ecological significance and conservation efforts to protect this natural wonder.

Volcanic Rock Pools and Encumeada Pass

The tour next ventures to the northwestern coast, where the volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz await.

This natural wonder features a series of crystal-clear, seawater-filled pools nestled among dramatic black basalt rock formations.

• Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the temperate waters, which are renowned for their therapeutic properties.
• The surrounding area offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and the azure Atlantic Ocean.

After exploring the rock pools, the tour ascends to the Encumeada Pass, a high-altitude mountain saddle that provides panoramic vistas of Madeira’s central highlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a specific dress code. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe walking shoes. Layering is also advisable as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountainous regions visited.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are generally no restrictions on photography during the tour. Participants are encouraged to capture the scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and experiences throughout the day. However, some locations may have specific rules or etiquette around photography that travelers should be aware of.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, a traditional Portuguese lunch and cocktail are included in the tour price, so you may want to take advantage of the provided meal.

What Is the Language Proficiency of the Guide?

The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, suggesting the guide’s language proficiency may vary. Travelers should inquire about the guide’s specific language capabilities when booking to ensure their communication needs are met during the tour.

Are There Any Opportunities to Purchase Local Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour includes stops at local fishing villages where travelers can browse and purchase traditional Madeiran crafts and souvenirs. However, there are no designated shopping stops specifically for souvenir shopping during the tour.

Sum Up

The Madeira West Island Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the island’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant local culture. From the lush Laurissilva Forest to the therapeutic volcanic rock pools, this comprehensive tour provides an enriching and personalized experience that showcases the best of Madeira’s wonders. With a delicious traditional Portuguese lunch and the option for a scenic levada walk, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the true essence of this enchanting destination.