Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour

The ‘Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour’ takes travelers on a captivating journey through Madeira’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Venturing into an ancient crater-like bowl nestled between majestic mountains, guests can expect to be mesmerized by panoramic vistas of the island’s lush interior and the sparkling Funchal Bay. With knowledgeable guides providing insightful commentary, visitors will not only enjoy the fascinating history and enduring spirit of the quaint Nuns Valley village, but they’ll also enjoy personalized and comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minivan. It’s an experience that promises to leave a lasting impression, inviting further exploration of Madeira’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• The Nuns Valley Tour offers breathtaking views of an ancient crater-like bowl nestled between majestic mountains in Madeira.
• Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of Funchal Bay from the Pico dos Barcelos belvedere and spectacular views of Nuns Valley from the Eira do Serrado viewpoint.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned minivan transportation, and a knowledgeable guide providing insightful commentary.
• Participants can explore the quaint village of Nuns Valley and learn about its fascinating history, including the resilient religious community that took refuge there.
• The tour is designed for small groups of 15 or fewer travelers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

Tour Overview

This scenic trip to Nuns Valley (Curral da Freiras) takes visitors on a journey into an ancient crater-like bowl nestled between majestic mountains.

Aboard an air-conditioned minivan, travelers will be whisked away to several breathtaking viewpoints.

At the Pico dos Barcelos belvedere, they’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of Funchal Bay.

The tour then moves on to the Eira do Serrado, which offers spectacular views overlooking the village of Nuns Valley.

Once in the village, guests will have the opportunity to learn about its fascinating history and the origins of its unique name.

Throughout the excursion, a knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary to enrich the experience.

Pickup and Transport

The tour offers pickup and drop-off from hotels in Funchal and Canico, with an option to be picked up from the Funchal cruise port.

Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned minivan, with the group size limited to 15 or fewer participants. This ensures a comfortable and personalized experience throughout the day.

The small group size allows for greater interaction with the guide and a more intimate exploration of Nuns Valley.

Whether you’re staying in Funchal or arriving by cruise ship, the convenient transportation arrangements make it easy to join this scenic tour and discover the breathtaking landscapes of this ancient volcanic crater.

Scenic Attractions

Although the tour begins with a visit to the Pico dos Barcelos belvedere, which offers sweeping views over Funchal bay, the true highlight of the day is the stunning Nuns Valley (Curral da Freiras) – a village nestled in an ancient crater-like bowl between majestic mountains. Travelers will be awestruck by the dramatic natural scenery that unfolds before them at the Eira do Serrado viewpoint, where they can gaze out over the quaint village far below. The tour also includes a visit to the village itself, allowing visitors to learn about its fascinating history and origins.

Scenic Attraction	Description	Highlights
Pico dos Barcelos	Belvedere with panoramic views over Funchal bay	Sweeping vistas
Nuns Valley (Curral da Freiras)	Ancient crater-like bowl between towering mountains	Dramatic natural scenery, quaint village
Eira do Serrado	Spectacular viewpoint overlooking Nuns Valley	Breathtaking vistas of the village below

Village History and Culture

Nestled within the ancient crater-like bowl of Nuns Valley lies the quaint village of Curral da Freiras, whose captivating history and origins have long enthralled visitors.

Its name, roughly translating to ‘Convent of the Nuns,’ pays homage to the religious community that once took refuge here during Moorish invasions centuries ago.

The villagers proudly recount tales of how these brave nuns established a self-sustaining community, cultivating crops and tending to livestock to survive the isolated conditions.

Today, Curral da Freiras remains a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its past inhabitants, offering travelers a unique glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of its people.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Regarding the inclusions and exclusions of the Nuns Valley Tour, the package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and all related taxes and fees.

However, it doesn’t include food, drinks, or gratuities, which you will need to cover separately. This ensures that the tour cost remains reasonable while still providing a comprehensive experience.

The tour is designed for small groups of 15 or fewer, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience. Travelers should also note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.

Confirmation and Accessibility

Confirmation for the Nuns Valley Tour is provided at the time of booking, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details prior to their excursion.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available, accommodating a range of party sizes and needs.

Most travelers can participate in this unique experience, which transports guests in air-conditioned comfort to the picturesque Nuns Valley.

With a maximum of 18 travelers per tour, the small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate exploration of this ancient, crater-like village nestled between the majestic mountains.

Whether visiting as a family or with a group of friends, the Nuns Valley Tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Madeira’s captivating natural and cultural heritage.

Group Size and Age

The Nuns Valley Tour caps participation at a manageable group size of no more than 18 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for guests of all ages.

This small group approach allows the knowledgeable guide to provide attentive care and attention to each participant, whether they’re an active senior or a curious youngster. Infants are welcome and can be accommodated with appropriate seating.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no strict age limitations. This intimate group dynamic fosters a sense of camaraderie and allows everyone to fully enjoy the stunning scenery and rich cultural history of Nuns Valley, creating lasting memories for all.

Additional Information

Participants receive confirmation of their booking at the time of reservation, allowing them to plan their Nuns Valley adventure with confidence. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available to accommodate younger travelers.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Most travelers can easily participate in this scenic tour, with a maximum group size of 18 people.

This small group setting allows for a more personalized and intimate experience as guests explore the ancient crater-like bowl of Nuns Valley. With all taxes, fees, and handling charges included, travelers can focus on soaking in the stunning vistas and learning the history of this unique destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos Allowed During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos during the Nuns Valley tour. However, the guide may provide guidance on appropriate locations and times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the entire group.

Can We Stop for Lunch or Refreshments?

Passengers can stop for lunch or refreshments during the tour, though these are not included in the tour price. The guide can recommend local dining options to meet any dietary needs or preferences.

What Is the Level of Difficulty for the Walking?

The walking on this tour is generally easy, as the routes are well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels. There are some short, gentle inclines, but the pace is leisurely and allows time to take in the stunning views.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Infant seats are available for the minivan transportation. Participants of all ages are welcome to join this scenic and informative excursion.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

The tour can be customized to travelers’ preferences, within reason. While the core itinerary is set, the guide is happy to accommodate requests or suggest optional add-ons if time permits. Flexibility is key to ensuring a personalized experience.

Recap

The ‘Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour’ offers a captivating journey through Madeira’s breathtaking natural wonders.

With knowledgeable guides, travelers can enjoy the island’s fascinating history and culture, while enjoying comfortable transportation and stunning panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the picturesque Nuns Valley.

This tour provides a unique and memorable experience, showcasing the enduring spirit and beauty of this remarkable destination.