About this experience
From a height of eight hundred meters, you will see life 'at the bottom' of the volcano: the houses of the settlement Curral das Freiras, or the 'Valley of the Nuns', will look like LEGO figures against the backdrop of green mountains. Drive along the roads of Madeira that are not on the maps; along the serpentine road - past the ruins of a sugar factory and a rose garden, to explore the entire northeast coast of Madeira and find, with my help, the best views of the island and espetada with bananas - a famous local dish.
What to Expect
Life in the crater
The journey will begin with the story of the 'Valley of the Nuns', revealing the secret of its name. You will walk through the settlement that grew on the frozen lava 6500 years ago, visit the local church, and enjoy the wonderful views of the valley around. And then we will drive to a viewpoint by car to compare the sensations: from the height of Curral das Freiras, it will probably seem like a toy village of hobbits, and the stunning mountain panoramas will slightly make your head spin.
Views of Madeira
This part of the island is generous with impressions that change with every turn of the head. Here are the views of Funchal and the endless ocean, and here is an ancient shepherd village where time has frozen. You will see the Cold Stream - Ribeiro Frio, the ruins of an old sugar factory near the lake, and the triangular houses of the town of Santana. In Calhau, you will try Madeiran espetada with bananas in a panoramic cafe, and in the Arc di San George, you will inhale the aromas of a lush rose garden - a collection of bushes lovingly collected by the president of Madeira himself!
This journey's route will include the most beautiful locations in the northeast part of the island, so you can fully imagine the splendor of the Portuguese land.
Organizational Details
Additional entrance fees apply to the rose garden and lunch (optional).
Transfer
- The cost of the tour is indicated for starting and ending in Funchal, Canico, and Camara de Lobos
- If you are staying on the southern coast of Madeira (Machico, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, Calheta), the surcharge for transfer will be 25 euros
- For travelers staying on the northern coast and in Ponta do Pargo, the surcharge for transfer will be 38 euros.
