About this experience
In one day of travel, we will cover the main natural treasures of western Madeira. In this part of the island, you will be amazed by the views of the Atlantic from the high Cabo Girão cape, get acquainted with the life of Portuguese fishermen, climb a steep serpentine, and immerse yourself in the waters of a volcanic pool. This is an adventure for those ready to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of Madeira and learn about the tastes and customs of its inhabitants.
What to Expect
Fishing village and Madeira panorama
Our first stop on the journey is Camara de Lobos, a fishing village where you will get to know the daily life of the locals, stand on Churchill's balcony, and stroll through quiet streets. We will talk about the customs and tastes of the Portuguese, touch on the island's history, and remember the famous people of Madeira. Then we will head to Europe's highest cape, Cabo Girão, where the observation deck with a glass floor will reveal a breathtaking panorama of the island from a height of 588 meters.
Explorers' road
Next, we will head to the central part of Madeira - the high mountain plateau of Paul da Serra, where you will appreciate the diversity of the local flora. In a couple of hours, you will visit tropical forests, cross banana plantations, and find yourself in the mountain tundra. You will see the island through the eyes of João Gonçalves Zarco - the discoverer of Madeira - and take stunning photos at the most picturesque points of the plateau.
Bathing in a volcanic pool
Our next stop is the town of Porto Moniz, where you should at least visit to bathe in the volcanic pools. After water procedures, we will stop for lunch at a family restaurant, where you can taste the local shish kebab - espetada - on a laurel branch or baked trout caught from the pure mountain river nearby.
Landscapes of the Encumeada Pass
After lunch, you will admire the mesmerizing waterfalls of the northern coast of Madeira, take a walk through the cozy town of São Vicente, and then we will head up the steep serpentine to conquer the Encumeada Pass. From here, you will have a wonderful view of Madeira's "golden path" - the Ribiera Brava river valley. On the way back, we will drive along the beautiful Via Rapida highway straight to your hotel.
Organizational Details
- We meet in the morning (around 8-9 o'clock) near your hotel to see everything and beat the big tourist buses.
- Additional expenses: lunch, bathing in volcanic pools - 1.5 Euro.
- Don't forget to bring swimwear, a windbreaker (it can be cool in the mountains), sunscreen, and drinking water.
Transfer
- The cost of the tour is indicated at the start and end in Funchal, Caniço, and Camara de Lobos.
- If you are staying on the south coast of Madeira (Machico, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, Calheta), the transfer surcharge will be 25 euros.
- For travelers staying on the north coast and in Ponta do Pargo, the transfer surcharge will be 38 euros.
