Madeira : Exorbitant West Tour

Traveling to Madeira and looking to soak in some of the island’s most breathtaking sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself? The Exorbitant West Tour offers a solid way to see the highlights of Madeira’s rugged western coast in just a day. It’s a popular choice among visitors who want a guided experience that hits the main scenic spots and historical sites, all at an affordable price.

What we like about this tour is how it packs in spectacular views of cliffs and coastlines, plus visits to some charming villages. It’s a chance to learn a bit about Madeira’s local culture and history, all while enjoying the scenery. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the stops can feel a little rushed, which might leave some wanting more time to really absorb each place.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives, iconic viewpoints, and exploring small villages with traditional architecture, this trip could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a structured day with everything arranged, rather than trying to organize multiple independent outings.

Key Points

• Breathtaking vistas of cliffs, Atlantic views, and volcanic pools.
• Visit to Cabo Girão with Europe’s highest cliff and glass balcony.
• Short stops at distinctive villages and natural sites, which might feel rushed.
• Affordable price point at $40, including insurance and hotel pickup in Funchal.
• Guided experience with multilingual guides providing local insights.
• Limited to Funchal area pickups, so consider transportation if staying outside.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Madeira West Tour

This tour promises around 8 hours of exploring Madeira’s dramatic west coast, with a focus on iconic natural sights and small towns. As a guest, you’ll be transported comfortably to locations that highlight the island’s volcanic origins and rugged beauty.

The tour is operated by FEELING MADEIRA and includes insurance and taxes, so you only need to worry about enjoying the ride. The pickup service is offered from central Funchal hotels, which is great if you’re staying in the main tourist area. If you’re outside of this zone, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

The tour runs with a live multilingual guide, speaking Portuguese, English, Spanish, German, and French. That means you’ll get some interesting tidbits about the places you visit, though don’t expect a deep dive into history — it’s more of a scenic overview with some cultural highlights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Cabo Girão

The tour kicks off with a stop at Cabo Girão, where you’ll stand on a 580-meter-high glass balcony that juts out over a dizzying cliff. This spot is arguably the star of the tour, offering one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. It’s an experience that often leaves visitors speechless — just be prepared for the potential crowds, especially in peak season.

Ribeira Brava

Next, you’ll visit Ribeira Brava, home to a 15th-century church. While it’s a relatively brief stop, it offers a taste of local history and architecture. The town itself is small but charming, perfect for snapping some photos or grabbing a quick coffee.

More Great Tours Nearby

Madalena do Mar

In Madalena do Mar, you’ll see banana plantations stretching across the landscape. The stop here is usually brief, and some reviews mention that the visit in the banana plantation is on a busy road and not particularly scenic. One traveler noted it was “only a short concrete path past a few banana palms,” suggesting that this stop may be more of a quick photo opportunity than a full exploration.

Fonte do Bispo in Paúl de Serra

This high-altitude area is known for its cooler climate and unique flora. It’s a good contrast to the coastal scenery, and the landscape is notably different from other stops on the tour.

Porto Moniz

A highlight for many, Porto Moniz features the famous volcanic natural pools. These natural swimming holes are a refreshing break and a perfect spot for some photos. The tour includes a lunch stop here, giving you time to relax and enjoy local cuisine. Many visitors find Porto Moniz to be a true highlight, thanks to the dramatic volcanic scenery.

Seixal Waterfalls

Seixal’s Bridal Veil Waterfall and other scenic waterfalls are noted on the itinerary. These spots provide lush, green scenery and are perfect for nature lovers seeking a break from the coast.

São Vicente

This village offers a glimpse into traditional Madeira life, with a 17th-century church and picturesque streets. It’s a solid stop to stretch your legs and absorb the local vibe before heading to the final destination.

Câmara de Lobos

Finally, the tour winds down in Câmara de Lobos, a quaint fishing village that was famously painted by Winston Churchill. It’s a favorite photography spot, offering views of colorful boats and traditional houses. It’s a charming end to the day, especially if you enjoy coastal scenery and small-town charm.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The biggest advantage of this tour is the stunning scenery. From cliffs to waterfalls, the views are genuinely impressive and perfect for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The guide’s commentary adds some context, making the experience richer, even if it isn’t overly detailed.

However, some travelers, including one who said, “the stops in the individual places were a little too short,” find that the tight schedule limits their ability to really enjoy each site. The stop at the banana plantation, for example, was described as “on a busy road and only led along a short concrete path,” which isn’t exactly a highlight.

The price point of $40 is quite reasonable for an 8-hour guided tour, especially considering that it includes insurance and pickup. It’s a decent value if you want a hassle-free way to see Madeira’s highlights without paying for multiple independent excursions.

The group size isn’t specified but given the nature of guided tours, expect a small to medium group. The multilingual guides are a plus, helping make the experience accessible for a diverse crowd.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is a good pick if you want a guided day of sightseeing with minimal planning, especially if you’re staying in Funchal. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives, panoramic viewpoints, and small villages, but might not be ideal if you’re looking for in-depth exploration or plenty of time at each stop.

It’s worth noting that the stops are quite brief, so if you prefer more time to explore each place thoroughly, you might find this tour a bit rushed. If you’re okay with this, and love capturing sweeping vistas, then this could be a memorable day out.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Madeira Exorbitant West Tour offers a convenient way to see some of the island’s most iconic spots without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. The views of cliffs, waterfalls, and volcanic pools are genuinely beautiful, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize scenery.

While the stops might feel a little hurried, the tour balances scenery, culture, and easy logistics at a reasonable price. If you’re someone who loves breathtaking vistas and small-town charm, this experience is likely to satisfy. Just go in with the expectation that it’s a guided overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with short stops and want a taste of Madeira’s west coast without the fuss. If you’re flexible and eager to see Madeira’s most photogenic spots in a day, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people staying outside Funchal?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off in the Funchal area. If you’re staying outside this zone, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops are relatively brief, with some reviews mentioning they’re too short for a thorough exploration. Expect enough time for quick photos and a quick look around, but not deep dives into each site.

What languages are available for the guide?
The guides speak Portuguese, English, Spanish, German, and French, offering accessibility for many travelers.

Is the tour family-friendly?
The information provided doesn’t specify, but given the nature of the sights—cliffs, waterfalls, villages—it’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with a day of sightseeing. No specific mention of children or family accommodations.

What’s included in the price?
The $40 fee covers the tour, insurance, taxes, and hotel pickup in Funchal. Lunch is included in Porto Moniz, but other meals or personal expenses are not.

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

Is the experience worth the price?
For about 8 hours of guided sightseeing with scenic views, most will find it a good deal, especially considering the convenience. However, understand that the stops are short, so for those wanting more time at each location, it might feel rushed.

Traveling Madeira is all about those dramatic landscapes and charming villages. This tour provides a solid, guided overview of the west coast’s highlights—perfect for scenery lovers who want a straightforward day out. Just remember, it’s more about viewing than exploring deeply, but for the price and convenience, it’s not a bad way to spend a day.

You can check availability for your dates here: