Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk

The "Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk" promises a captivating journey through Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes. Guests can explore the island’s iconic landmarks, from the lush Levada trails to the charming villages that dot the coastline. With a diverse itinerary that includes stunning viewpoints, local culinary experiences, and immersive outdoor adventures, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s natural and cultural wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable travel experience, this guided excursion might just be the key to unlocking the true essence of this enchanting Portuguese island.

Key Points

• This 7-hour guided tour of Funchal and East Madeira Island showcases the island’s natural highlights, including Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, and Faial.
• The tour includes a Levada walk or trout nursery visit in Ribeiro Frio, a lunch stop in the traditional village of Santana, and a rum tasting at North Mills Distillery.
• Guests can enjoy panoramic views from the summit of Pico do Arieiro, situated at 1818 meters altitude, and capture stunning northeast coast scenery at Faial’s Guindaste viewpoint.
• The tour provides an opportunity to explore the island’s architectural heritage, with a focus on the traditional thatched-roof houses in Santana, and learn about Madeira’s rum-making traditions.
• The tour concludes with a visit to Ponta de São Lourenço, a dramatic headland offering breathtaking views over both the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This guided tour of Funchal, the capital city of Madeira Island, offers a comprehensive exploration of East Madeira‘s natural and cultural highlights.

It’s a 7-hour excursion priced at $39.91 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup is included in the Funchal area, and the tour features a live guide available in multiple languages.

Highlights include scenic views from Pico do Arieiro, a levada walk or trout nursery visit at Ribeiro Frio, a lunch stop in Santana, and tastings at the North Mills Distillery.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but operates rain or shine with potential alternative stops.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the summit of Pico do Arieiro, situated at an impressive 1818 meters altitude, offering guests breathtaking scenic views.

From there, the journey continues to the following highlights:

1. Ribeiro Frio, where guests can enjoy a 40-45 minute Levada walk or visit the Trout nursery.

2. Santana, with a 1.5-hour stop for lunch and self-guided exploration of the picturesque village.

3. Faial, with a photo stop at the Guindaste viewpoint for stunning views of the northeast coast.

4. Porto da Cruz, for a 20-30 minute visit to the North Mills Distillery for a local rum tasting.

The tour culminates at the must-see viewpoint of Ponta de São Lourenço, offering stunning views over the North and South Madeira Sea.

Pico Do Arieiro

At an impressive 1818 meters in altitude, Pico do Arieiro serves as the starting point for the guided tour, offering guests breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

From this lofty vantage point, visitors can gaze upon the rugged peaks and verdant valleys that define the island’s interior.

The tour guide will provide insights into the geological and environmental significance of this dramatic location, helping to set the stage for the rest of the day’s adventures.

Whether marveling at the sheer scale of the mountains or simply taking in the fresh mountain air, this initial stop lays the foundation for an unforgettable exploration of East Madeira.

Ribeiro Frio

From Pico do Arieiro, the tour continues on to Ribeiro Frio, a picturesque location known for its Levada walk or the option to visit the Trout nursery.

Guests can choose between:

1. Embarking on a 40-45 minute Levada walk, which offers scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
2. Exploring the Trout nursery, where they can observe the local fish species.
3. Enjoying the serene atmosphere and natural beauty of the area.
4. Taking in the tranquil ambiance and natural surroundings of Ribeiro Frio.

The tour then proceeds to the next destination, Santana, where guests will have a 1.5-hour stop for lunch and self-guided exploration of the charming village.

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Santana

After visiting Ribeiro Frio, the tour then proceeds to the charming village of Santana, where guests will enjoy a 1.5-hour stop for lunch and self-guided exploration.

Santana is known for its traditional thatched-roof houses, providing a unique glimpse into Madeira’s architectural heritage. Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the colorful buildings and engaging with the friendly local community.

This stop allows for a leisurely break, with ample time to savor a local lunch and discover the village’s shops and cultural attractions at one’s own pace.

The Santana visit offers a delightful contrast to the scenic natural wonders explored earlier in the day.

Faial

Following the tour’s visit to Ribeiro Frio, the journey continues to the scenic viewpoint of Faial.

The Guindaste viewpoint provides visitors with breathtaking northeast coast views of Madeira. This photo stop offers:

1. Panoramic vistas of the rugged, volcanic landscape.
2. Glimpses of the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
3. An opportunity to capture the natural beauty of the island.
4. A chance to appreciate the diverse terrain of Madeira.

After taking in the stunning scenery, the tour progresses to the next destination, providing an immersive exploration of Madeira’s diverse attractions.

Porto Da Cruz

Upon departing the picturesque Guindaste viewpoint, the tour makes its way to the charming town of Porto da Cruz.

Here, visitors enjoy a 20-30 minute visit to the North Mills Distillery. This stop offers a chance to sample the local rum, providing a unique cultural experience.

The distillery offers insights into the traditional rum-making process, allowing guests to gain a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s rich heritage.

With its stunning coastal setting and opportunity to savor the island’s distinctive spirits, the Porto da Cruz stop enriches the overall tour experience.

Ponta De São Lourenço

The tour now makes its way to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço viewpoint, a must-see highlight of the day.

This dramatic headland offers breathtaking views over the North and South Madeira Sea.

Visitors can:

1. Take in the dramatic landscape of rugged cliffs and deep blue waters.
2. Spot unique flora and fauna native to this area.
3. Photograph the stunning contrast of the land and sea.
4. Appreciate the panoramic vistas stretching to the horizon.

This viewpoint provides a fitting finale to the tour, showcasing Madeira’s natural splendor in all its glory.

With its prime location and captivating scenery, Ponta de São Lourenço is a true highlight of the East Madeira journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t specify a maximum group size for this tour. However, many guided tours typically accommodate small to medium-sized groups to provide a more personalized experience for participants.

Are There Any Stops for Bathroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes several stops along the itinerary where participants can take bathroom breaks. The guide ensures there are ample opportunities for restroom access during the 7-hour excursion to accommodate the needs of the group.

Is Water or Snacks Provided by the Tour Company?

The tour company does not provide water or snacks during the tour. Participants are advised to bring their own refreshments to ensure they stay hydrated and fueled throughout the day’s activities.

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

Travelers can typically bring their own food and drinks on tours. The tour company does not provide meals or snacks, so bringing a packed lunch or refreshments is generally allowed and recommended to enhance the tour experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children of All Ages?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. While there are no age restrictions, the 7-hour duration and hiking portions could be challenging for very young kids. Families should consider the child’s abilities when booking this tour.

Recap

The "Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk" offers a captivating adventure, showcasing Madeira’s breathtaking natural beauty. From the dramatic Pico do Arieiro to the charming village of Santana, this tour provides an unforgettable experience. Guests can enjoy a scenic Levada walk, sample local rum, and take in panoramic vistas, making it an excellent way to explore the wonders of this stunning island destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: