Eira do Serrado / Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)

If you’re thinking about exploring Madeira’s famous viewpoints and the lovely village of Curral das Freiras, this tour from Flora Travel Madeira offers a solid, no-frills way to do it. It’s a trip that combines scenic vistas with a glimpse of local life, all wrapped into about 3.5 hours of relatively relaxed sightseeing.

What really stands out about this experience is how accessible and straightforward it is. You get amazing views without needing to hike or spend hours on the road. Plus, with a small group of just 15 people, it feels more personalized than some of the larger tours. That said, it’s not a full-day adventure, so if you’re craving a more in-depth exploration, you might want to consider other options.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is best suited for those who don’t have mobility issues or are pregnant, as it involves some walking and high-altitude viewpoints. Otherwise, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting a compact, scenic experience that’s easy to fit into a busy Madeira itinerary.

If you’re after a tour that balances stunning scenery with local charm and offers good value for the price, this one’s definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic viewpoints at Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado
• Small group size for a more intimate experience
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for hassle-free logistics
• Cost-effective at $28 per person for 3.5 hours of sightseeing
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women
• Rain or shine—the views are still worth it in all weather

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s Highlights with Ease

When we hear about Madeira, most of us think of dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and those famous viewpoints. This tour hits all those marks, giving you a well-rounded taste of the island’s top sights without the need for long hikes or tedious drives.

Starting off with Pico dos Barcelos, you get a sweeping panoramic view of Funchal—perfect for snapping some photos and getting a sense of the city’s layout. It’s a popular spot, for good reason, as it offers one of the best overlooks of the bay, especially if you’re into panoramic shots.

From there, the journey continues to Eira do Serrado, perched at 1095 meters. Here, you’re treated to breathtaking vistas over Curral das Freiras, a village famous for its dramatic setting and tucked-away charm. The views are so striking that it’s easy to see why this spot is a favorite among visitors. Our guide shared that the viewpoint at Eira do Serrado is especially popular for photographers and those wanting a true sense of Madeira’s rugged beauty.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Pico dos Barcelos

This viewpoint is accessible and offers an open-air space where you can take in Funchal’s skyline and the surrounding ocean. It’s an ideal first stop because it sets the tone with stunning scenery right from the start. We loved how the guide pointed out different landmarks and gave us some background, making the experience informative as well as visual.

Authentic tip: If you’re visiting on a clear day, you’re likely to see the neighboring islands as well. Just keep in mind that it can get quite windy up there, so hold onto your hat!

Eira do Serrado

The highlight of the tour is definitely Eira do Serrado, perched at nearly 1,100 meters. The views over Curral das Freiras are nothing short of spectacular, especially as you look down into the deep valley surrounded by high peaks. It’s a viewpoint that invites you to pause and really soak it all in.

Our guide explained that the village lies in a natural bowl, a unique geographical feature that makes it feel like a secret spot. We loved how this stop combines breathtaking panoramic scenery with a sense of discovery. It’s a great photo opportunity, and there’s enough time to wander around a little, take some snaps, or simply admire the view.

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Curral das Freiras Village

Descending from the viewpoint, you reach the small, peaceful village. Here, you can visit the local church or walk around the quiet streets. If you’re hungry or curious about regional cuisine, some local restaurants serve dishes featuring sour cherry and chestnut, regional specialties that are worth trying if you have time.

From reviews, it’s clear that this part of the tour offers a relaxed, almost intimate look at Madeira’s rural life. It’s not a tour that’s heavy on history or culture—more about the scenery and atmosphere—but that’s exactly what many visitors appreciate.

How the Tour Works Logistically

The entire trip is relatively short—about 3.5 hours—and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a stress-free way to explore. The tour operates rain or shine, which means you should be ready for any weather. Our experience guide was knowledgeable and spoke several languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French, ensuring everyone could understand the commentary.

In terms of group size, it’s limited to 15 participants. This feels comfortable, giving you enough space to move around and ask questions. The cost, at $28 per person, seems fair especially considering the personalized feel and the inclusion of transportation.

One thing to note is that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women. The high viewpoints and some walking involved might be challenging for some travelers, so it’s worth considering your comfort and physical condition.

What Do Travelers Say?

Based on reviews, people generally love this trip. One traveler simply said, “Yes. Amazing views. Nice guide,” capturing the overall sentiment. The guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude often get mentioned as a highlight, making the experience more enjoyable.

Another reviewer pointed out how the views are incredible, and the guide’s commentary added value. It seems that the combination of stunning landscapes and personable guides is what makes this tour stand out.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $28, this tour offers a quick yet fulfilling way to see some of Madeira’s most impressive viewpoints. Considering the small group size, hotel pickup, and the quality of the scenery, it’s a good deal for those who want a snapshot of Madeira’s natural beauty without spending a whole day traveling.

While it doesn’t include meals or entrance fees to other attractions, the included viewpoints are definitely worth it, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want beautiful vistas without the hassle of complicated logistics. If you enjoy scenic overlooks, small-group tours, and regional snacks, this is a good fit. It’s also perfect if you prefer a tour that operates rain or shine, ensuring you don’t miss out on the views due to weather.

However, if you have mobility issues or are pregnant, you might want to look for other options or check with the provider about accessibility.

FAQs

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not specifically mentioned as family-friendly, but older children who can manage walking and high viewpoints should be fine.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French, making the experience accessible for many travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3.5 hours, including pickup and drop-off.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are local restaurants at the village if you want to try regional specialties.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, and sturdy shoes if you plan to walk around the viewpoints or village.

Is the tour affected by weather?
The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared for varying weather conditions.

Is this a private tour?
No, it operates with a small group limited to 15 participants, keeping it intimate but not private.

Wrapping Up

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, scenic experience that highlights Madeira’s most stunning viewpoints and the picturesque village of Curral das Freiras, this tour offers a solid choice. It’s especially appealing for those who value informative guides, manageable durations, and beautiful vistas without the fuss of longer excursions.

It’s not a deep cultural dive or a full-day adventure, but it’s a wonderful way to see some of the island’s highlights with minimal fuss. Whether you’re on a short layover or want a relaxed morning exploring with great views, this tour stands out as a reliable, enjoyable option.

Overall, it provides a genuine taste of Madeira’s rugged beauty—perfect for a quick snapshot of what makes this island so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: