Classic Car Sightseeing Tour to the West & Northwest

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking for a way to see its most spectacular sights without the hassle? This classic car sightseeing tour offers a relaxed, scenic adventure through Madeira’s rugged west and northwest coast. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, this tour promises a cozy journey through some truly memorable landscapes.

What caught our attention is the personalized experience with a private guide and the vintage open roof cars—perfect for soaking up the views. Plus, visiting one of the highest sea cliffs in the world and swimming in natural lava pools makes this trip a memorable mix of adventure and relaxation. However, as with any guided experience, it’s worth considering the cost—$99 per person for a full day, which can seem steep if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget.

This tour is well-suited for those who love scenic drives, outdoor vistas, and a touch of history. It’s not ideal if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or use a wheelchair, but otherwise, it’s a flexible way to see Madeira’s wild coast without much walking or planning.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience ensures you get the most out of your day.
• The open roof cars provide unobstructed views, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
• Highlights include Cabo Girão cliffs, lava pools, and charming coastal villages.
• The tour runs for about 8 hours, with flexible starting times.
• Includes hotel pick-up in Funchal and Caniço for added convenience.
• Ticket costs for some sites (like Cabo Girão) are extra, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Madeira’s West & Northwest in Style

When we first heard about this classic car tour, we immediately pictured ourselves cruising along Madeira’s cliff-lined coast, basking in the sunshine with the wind in our hair. It sounds charming, right? And truly, there’s something special about exploring this island in a vintage open-top car — it’s a way to combine comfort with the thrill of a scenic, open-air adventure.

The tour is operated by Nature Connection Tours, and it’s designed as a private, flexible experience. That means your guide will tailor the day to your interests and preferred pace. For anyone who loves a relaxed, insightful way of discovering a new place, this is a solid pick.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a private guide and live commentary in multiple languages—English, Portuguese, and Spanish—which really enhances the experience. You’ll also be picked up from your hotel in Funchal or Caniço, sparing you the stress of finding your way.

On the flip side, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or enjoy local cuisine during your stops. Entrance tickets for sites like Cabo Girão are about €2 per person, which is a minimal additional cost considering the spectacular views you’ll enjoy.

The Itinerary: From Cliff to Lava Pool

The route kicks off at Cabo Girão, where you’ll stand at one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, towering 580 meters above the Atlantic. The skywalk here offers jaw-dropping vistas, and although the ticket isn’t included, the thrill of being on such a dramatic edge makes it worth a quick visit.

Next up is the Ribeira Brava viewpoint, a charming spot to take in the coast’s jagged beauty. From there, your journey unfolds through coastal villages like Ponta do Sol and Madalena do Mar, each offering picturesque scenery and a glimpse into local life.

A highlight for many is the visit to Angels Waterfall, a lush cascade that creates a peaceful backdrop. Then, the tour heads toward Calheta and the quaint Jardim do Mar, charming fishing villages with colorful houses and serene beaches.

A bit further along, you’ll explore Paul do Mar, a small fishing village famous for its quiet charm, before heading to Ponta do Pargo, where dramatic cliffs and lighthouse views await.

One of the main attractions is Porto Moniz, famous for its natural lava pools. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim or simply admire the striking volcanic formations—an experience that many reviews say is the highlight of their trip. Be aware that swimming depends on weather conditions, so it’s good to check beforehand.

The tour wraps up with visits to Seixal, São Vicente, and finally, the vibrant city of Funchal, where you can explore more or head back to your hotel.

What Makes the Experience Special

The private guide is a real plus—you’re not just one of many in a large group. Their commentary adds context and local flavor to each stop, making the scenery more meaningful.

The open roof design isn’t just for fun; it’s practical, ensuring you don’t miss a single detail of this spectacular coastline. Many travelers noted how fantastic it was to snap photos while cruising past cliffs and waterfalls.

The 8-hour duration means you can comfortably cover major sights without rushing. Plus, the flexibility to personalize stops means you can linger in spots you find most interesting or skip others if you prefer.

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Considering the Price

At $99 per person, this tour is a bit of an investment, but the value lies in the comfort, exclusivity, and scenic access it provides. It’s a substitute for self-driving, which can be challenging on narrow, winding roads, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

Some reviews highlight that the experience feels intimate and well-curated, making it worth the price. For those who prefer guided tours over wandering alone, this offers a stress-free way to see Madeira’s highlights.

Downsides and Considerations

No tour is perfect, and this one has a few points worth noting. The ticket to visit Cabo Girão is not included, so you’ll pay a small extra (€2), which isn’t a big deal but adds to the overall cost. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, as the itinerary involves some walking on uneven terrain.

The weather can influence how much you enjoy swimming in the lava pools—if the sea’s rough or the skies are cloudy, the pools might be less inviting.

Lastly, the price point might be a bit high for budget travelers, but considering the private guide, transportation, and special sights, many find it offers good value for a comfortable, immersive day.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Madeira’s coast in a laid-back, stylish way. It suits those who appreciate scenic drives, cultural insights, and the chance to avoid the hassle of self-driving. It’s especially good for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a personalized experience without large crowds.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who loves taking photos and enjoying the outdoors, this will likely be a hit. However, if you’re looking for a highly active or family-friendly adventure, this might not be the best fit—especially given the physical limitations for some stops.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and personalized tour of Madeira’s stunning west coast, this classic car experience delivers. It balances spectacular views with the ease of a guided, private trip—perfect for those who want to relax and absorb the scenery without the stress of navigation.

While the price might seem a bit steep compared to some group tours, the intimate setting, flexible itinerary, and the chance to drive along some of Madeira’s most dramatic coastlines make it worthwhile. It’s a fantastic option for travelers craving a memorable, scenic day with a touch of vintage charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly. It involves scenic drives and some walking at sites like the cliffs and lava pools, so it’s best suited for older children and teenagers.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times that can be checked upon booking. It’s a full-day experience designed for comfort and exploration.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pick-up in Funchal and Caniço is included, making it very convenient.

What languages does the guide speak?
Live commentary is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can personalize the experience to some extent—focusing more on areas you’re most interested in.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks or enjoy local eateries during the stops.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sun protection, comfortable clothing, and possibly swimwear if you want to swim in the lava pools.

Is it weather-dependent?
Some activities, like swimming, depend on weather conditions. It’s good to check the forecast and discuss options with your guide.

How much does the site entrance to Cabo Girão cost?
Tickets are about €2 per person, not included in your tour price.

Is there any physical effort required?
The tour involves minimal walking, but some sites may require standing or walking on uneven surfaces.

If you’re after a scenic, comfortable way to see Madeira’s coast and don’t mind splurging a little for a private, stylish experience, this tour offers a memorable day out. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure and nostalgia.

You can check availability for your dates here: