The Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour offers travelers a chance to experience the best of Madeira’s cultural and natural wonders. From the vibrant farmers market in Funchal to the charming town of Câmara de Lobos, this 5-hour adventure immerses guests in the island’s rich history and stunning landscapes. The highlight, of course, is the thrilling toboggan ride – an exhilarating descent from Monte back to Funchal in wicker baskets. But the tour’s intimate size and focus on local wine tasting ensures there’s more to this experience than just an adrenaline rush.
Key Points
- This 5-hour tour offers a thrilling toboggan ride from Monte to Funchal and a wine tasting experience in Câmara de Lobos, showcasing Madeira’s cultural heritage.
- The tour includes visits to the Funchal Farmers Market, Câmara de Lobos, and other scenic locations, providing a comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s diverse landscapes.
- Participants can choose from a variety of language options, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable experience.
- The tour accommodates a small group of up to 8 people, allowing for a more intimate and interactive experience with the guide.
- An additional €2 per person is required for access to the Cabo Girao viewpoint, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and ocean.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour offers an exhilarating 5-hour experience, priced from $100.08 per person.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
The tour includes a visit to the Funchal Farmers Market, wine tasting in Câmara de Lobos, and a thrilling toboggan ride from Monte to Funchal.
Pickup is provided from 5 locations, and the small group format is limited to 8 participants.
Language options include English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour provides an opportunity to immerse in Madeira’s rich culture and traditions.
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Itinerary Highlights
Visitors exploring the Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour will first venture to the Funchal Farmers Market for 45 minutes, seeing the vibrant local culture.
They’ll then spend an hour in Câmara de Lobos, where they can enjoy wine tasting and sightseeing.
The tour continues with a scenic 45-minute toboggan ride from Monte down to Funchal.
Other stops along the way include Caniço, Ponta Do Sol, Estreito da Calheta, showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes.
Throughout the tour, guests will encounter the charming whitewashed houses and colorful fishing boats that define the unique character of Madeira.
Toboggan Experience
During the Toboggan Experience, participants cover a 2 km (1 mile) descent from Monte to Funchal in approximately 10 minutes.
They’ll experience sliding in wicker baskets on wooden runners, guided by drivers using rubber-soled boots as brakes.
This historical form of transportation was invented in 1850 and was famously described by Ernest Hemingway as an exhilarating ride.
The toboggan’s unique design and the steep, winding descent through the streets provide an adrenaline-filled adventure that allows visitors to enjoy Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.
Wine Tasting and Local Culture
After experiencing the exhilarating toboggan ride, visitors can sample Madeira Fortified Wine at the Henrique e Henrique wine lodge, which was established in 1850. This allows them to explore the local wine culture and history.
Activity | Duration |
---|---|
Wine Tasting | 45 minutes |
Exploring Mercado dos Lavradores | 45 minutes |
Experiencing Câmara de Lobos | 1 hour |
The vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores showcases local fish, exotic fruits, and crafts, providing a glimpse into the island’s lively culture. The charming town of Câmara de Lobos, known for its whitewashed houses and colorful fishing boats, further immerses visitors in the Madeiran way of life.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTour Logistics and Information
The tour includes complimentary pickup from 5 different locations, providing convenience for participants.
It’s a small group format, limited to 8 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.
The tour is available in multiple languages – English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch – catering to diverse traveler needs.
However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
There are additional costs of €2 per person for entrance to Cabo Giro.
The tour package includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and the cost of the toboggan ride.
This comprehensive logistics ensures a seamless and enjoyable tour experience for visitors.
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Pickup and Drop-off
Where are participants picked up for this tour? The tour offers pickup from 5 convenient locations: Funchal Cruise Terminal, Funchal Old Town, Quinta Magnólia, Caravel Hotel, and Lido Area. This provides flexibility for travelers to start their Madeira adventure from the most suitable spot.
Pickup Locations | Address | Pickup Time |
---|---|---|
Funchal Cruise Terminal | Av. do Mar 23, 9000-098 Funchal | 8:30 AM |
Funchal Old Town | Rua de Santa Maria 107, 9000-191 Funchal | 8:45 AM |
Quinta Magnólia | Rua da Levada de Santa Luzia 5, 9000-163 Funchal | 9:00 AM |
Caravel Hotel | Rua Caravel 12, 9000-017 Funchal | 9:15 AM |
Lido Area | Rua das Palmeiras 6, 9000-103 Funchal | 9:30 AM |
After the tour, participants are dropped off at their respective pickup locations.
Group Size and Language Options
This tour accommodates a small group format, with a maximum of 8 participants.
This intimate group size ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easy interaction with the guide.
The tour is offered in multiple language options, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch, catering to the diverse needs of travelers.
Whether you’re exploring Madeira’s wine culture or gliding down the iconic toboggan ride, you’ll have the opportunity to do so alongside a small group of fellow adventurers.
This thoughtful group size and language flexibility contribute to the overall enjoyment and convenience of this comprehensive Madeira excursion.
Additional Costs
Participants can expect an additional cost of €2 per person for entrance to the Cabo Girao viewpoint, a renowned natural attraction along the tour route.
This fee isn’t included in the tour price, but it provides access to the stunning cliffside platform that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and ocean.
The Cabo Girao is a must-see destination for visitors, offering a unique perspective of Madeira’s dramatic landscape.
While this additional cost is optional, it’s highly recommended to fully experience the natural beauty of the island during the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Toboggan Ride?
The toboggan ride does not have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages can enjoy the thrilling 2 km descent in the traditional wicker baskets, guided by experienced drivers.
What Should I Wear for the Toboggan Experience?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for the toboggan experience. Layers may be necessary to stay warm during the downhill ride. It’s best to avoid loose or flowing garments that could get caught.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not permit bringing outside food or drinks. However, there are opportunities to sample local cuisine and Madeira wine during the tour stops. Participants should plan to purchase any refreshments or snacks from the recommended venues along the way.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s best to contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any special pricing or policies for different age groups.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
The tour allows for some customization to meet your preferences. Speak with the tour operator about modifying the itinerary within the 5-hour duration, subject to availability and additional costs. They’ll work to accommodate your interests while keeping the core experience.
Recap
The Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour offers an exhilarating way to experience Madeira’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. Guests can anticipate a thrilling toboggan ride, a scenic wine tasting, and an immersive visit to the Funchal Farmers Market. This intimate tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in Madeira.
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