EAST Madeira:,Peaks, Forest Walk,Thatched Roofs, Rum Factory

The East Madeira tour presents a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural allure. Visitors can behold the breathtaking vistas from the peak of Pico Arieiro, enjoy the UNESCO-protected Laurel forest, and explore the quaint village of Santana, renowned for its charming thatched-roof houses. The journey also includes a stop at the Porto da Cruz rum factory, where travelers can explore the island’s rich history and indulge in tastings. With a mix of stunning landscapes, architectural gems, and culinary delights, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that leaves one eager to uncover more of Madeira’s captivating allure.

Key Points

• The East Madeira tour offers breathtaking views from Pico Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak standing at 1818 meters.
• The tour includes a guided levada walk through the lush Laurel forest of Ribeiro Frio, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visitors can explore the charming village of Santana, known for its traditional triangular thatched-roof houses.
• The tour takes participants to an old sugar mill in Porto da Cruz, showcasing Madeira’s history of rum and molasses production.
• The tour concludes with a panoramic viewpoint at Ponta do Rosto, offering stunning vistas of Madeira’s north and south coasts.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The East Madeira tour kicks off at a reasonable price of $33.26 per person and runs for a full 8 hours, providing ample time to explore the island’s stunning peaks and verdant forests.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the reserve now and pay later option.

The tour boasts a multilingual live guide, fluent in English, German, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Zulu, and Afrikaans, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, a guided levada walk, or a taste of traditional Madeiran culture, this comprehensive tour has it all.

Itinerary Highlights

First up on the East Madeira tour is a visit to Pico Arieiro, which stands tall at 1818 meters. The breathtaking views from this peak are a highlight for many.

Next, the group embarks on a guided levada walk through the lush Laurel forest at Ribeiro Frio, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Afterward, they’ll stop in Santana to admire the traditional triangular thatched-roof houses and enjoy a lunch break.

The tour then visits Porto da Cruz, where they’ll tour an old sugar mill producing rum and molasses, with opportunities to sample the products.

Transportation and Logistics

Minibus transportation whisks participants from a pre-arranged pick-up point to the tour’s various destinations.

The route may be altered due to weather or safety conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Not suitable for individuals over 331 lbs (150 kg), as the minibuses have weight restrictions.

Lunch and refreshments aren’t included, nor are entrance fees, so participants should come prepared with cash and/or credit cards.

The tour provides a rundown of East Madeira, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Pico Arieiro Views

At the first stop, visitors ascend to the breathtaking vantage point of Pico Arieiro, towering at an impressive 1818 meters.

The panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of awe-inspiring:

1. Sweeping vistas of jagged mountain peaks and lush, verdant valleys stretch out in every direction.
2. On clear days, visitors can spot the distant island of Porto Santo on the horizon.
3. The thrilling experience of standing atop one of Madeira’s highest points leaves travelers with a deep appreciation for the island’s dramatic natural beauty.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Laurel Forest Walk

Departing Pico Arieiro, the tour winds its way through the verdant Laurel forest at Ribeiro Frio, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The guide leads the group on a levada walk, explaining the importance of these historic irrigation channels. As they stroll, the towering Laurel trees provide a lush, green canopy, filtering the sunlight and creating a serene atmosphere.

The group marvels at the diverse flora and fauna, including rare endemic plants. The levada’s gentle gradient makes for an easy, relaxing walk, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the forest’s tranquil beauty.

This UNESCO-protected treasure offers a peaceful respite from the coastline’s dramatic vistas.

Santana Houses

Leaving the tranquility of the Laurel forest behind, the tour proceeds to the picturesque village of Santana. This charming town is renowned for its traditional triangular thatched roof houses, a unique architectural style found nowhere else on the island.

Visitors are enchanted by:

1. The colorful cottages with their distinctive roofs, a testament to Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.
2. The opportunity to explore the quaint streets and gain insights into the local way of life.
3. The chance to savor a traditional Madeiran lunch, complementing the visual feast with delectable flavors.

These iconic Santana houses captivate travelers, showcasing the enduring traditions that have shaped the character of East Madeira.

Porto Da Cruz Sugar Mill

Touring the old Sugar mill at Porto da Cruz, visitors discover the island’s rich history of sugar production.

This former sugar factory offers a glimpse into Madeira’s past as a major producer of rum and molasses. Guests can explore the facility, learning about the traditional techniques used to extract and refine the sweet juices from sugar cane.

The highlight is the opportunity to sample the locally-produced rum, allowing visitors to appreciate the flavorful results of the mill’s labors.

With its picturesque setting and unique cultural significance, the Porto da Cruz Sugar Mill provides a fascinating stop on the East Madeira tour.

Ponta Do Rosto Viewpoint

Atop the rocky promontory of Ponta do Rosto, visitors are treated to a panoramic vista that showcases the stunning natural beauty of East Madeira.

The viewpoint offers:

1. Sweeping views of both the island’s north and south coasts, with the airport and the distant silhouette of Porto Santo island visible on clear days.

2. An opportunity to gaze out over the dramatic cliffs and lush, rolling hills that characterize the region’s unique landscape.

3. A chance to pause and reflect on the tour’s journey through Madeira’s natural wonders before heading back.

This final stop provides the perfect culmination to a day spent exploring the island’s peaks, forests, and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour overview doesn’t specify a minimum group size. Travelers can book this East Madeira tour as individuals or as part of a group, as long as they meet the weight restriction of under 150 kg (331 lbs).

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

Participants can bring their own snacks and drinks for the tour, but lunch and refreshments are not included in the tour price. The tour operator recommends packing a light meal and water to enjoy during the day.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues. The itinerary includes a levada walk through a forest and visiting steep viewpoints, which could be challenging for those with limited mobility. It’s advisable to check with the tour operator beforehand.

Can I Extend My Stay at Any of the Tour Stops?

The tour does not explicitly mention the ability to extend stays at any of the stops. However, guests may have the opportunity to explore sites further on their own before rejoining the tour group, depending on the schedule and guide’s discretion.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?

Yes, there’s a reserve now and pay later option available for this 8-hour East Madeira tour. Booking in advance doesn’t offer any additional discounts, but it does allow flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

Recap

The East Madeira tour provides a captivating blend of natural splendor and cultural richness. Visitors can savor breathtaking vistas atop Pico Arieiro, enjoy the UNESCO-protected Laurel forest, admire the iconic thatched-roof houses of Santana, and explore the island’s rum-making heritage at the Porto da Cruz sugar mill. This comprehensive experience showcases Madeira’s diverse treasures, making it an unforgettable journey for nature and culture enthusiasts alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: