Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting

Planning a day to see Madeira’s east coast? This Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting promises a mix of stunning landscapes, charming villages, and a taste of local spirits—all packed into an 8-hour journey. If you’re someone who loves memorable vistas, informative guides, and a bit of local indulgence, this could be just what you need.

We really appreciate how this tour combines well-curated stops with the flexibility to enjoy each scene at your own pace. The rum tasting at Engenhos do Norte is a definite highlight—an authentic experience that offers more than just the usual sightseeing. Plus, the chance to stand atop Pico do Arieiro and gaze out over the island’s mountain ranges is truly special. On the flip side, some travelers might find the full schedule a tad busy or the lunch not included, which means planning ahead.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east side without the hassle of planning multiple outings. If you’re into natural beauty, cultural sights, and discovering local flavors, it ticks a lot of boxes. Keep in mind, it involves walking and some time in the van, so comfortable shoes and a good camera are a must.

Key Points

• Includes a rum tasting, giving a taste of local Madeira spirit
• Highlights stunning viewpoints like Pico do Arieiro and Ponta do Rosto
• Visit charming villages like Santana with iconic thatched houses
• Fully guided experience with flexible, small-group format
• Lunch not included, so plan accordingly or bring snacks
• Great for travelers wanting a balance of scenery, culture, and local flavors

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Madeira East Coast Tour

When considering a full-day tour like this, it’s helpful to understand what’s on offer and how it might fit into your Madeira trip. The experience kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Curral das Freiras, which is a nice touch—no need to worry about navigating public transport. The small group size, limited to 8 people, means you’ll get more personalized attention and the chance to ask your guide plenty of questions.

The journey begins with a visit to Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak. At about 30 minutes, this stop is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the views of the mountains. The scenery here is striking—clouds, jagged ridges, and a sense of being on top of the world. Many reviews mention how beautiful and fascinating Pico do Arieiro is, and some travelers express that it’s their favorite part of the trip.

Next, the tour moves to Ribeiro Frio, a lush natural park. This is a quick 20-minute visit but packs a punch, especially if you love greenery and want to see the inland nature of Madeira. You might find it a peaceful contrast to the mountain vistas. From there, a 20-minute photo stop at Guindaste viewpoint offers spectacular views of the northern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring Santana and Its Traditional Houses

After taking in the coastal vistas, the tour heads to Santana, renowned for its traditional thatched houses. The visit here is paired with a lunch break (not included), giving you the chance to explore this colorful village and perhaps try some local dishes on your own. Many visitors enjoy wandering through Santana’s streets, and the stop typically lasts about 1.5 hours, ample time for a leisurely meal and some sightseeing.

Santana is definitely a highlight for its cultural charm. The thatched roofs, vibrant houses, and peaceful atmosphere offer a glimpse of Madeira’s rural past. Reviewers often mention how special this stop feels compared to more crowded tourist spots.

Discovering Madeira’s Rum Heritage

One of the most unique aspects of this tour is the visit to Engenhos do Norte, where you get to sample authentic Madeira rum. The rum tasting is a highlight, especially for those interested in local spirits. The visit includes a tour of the distillery, explaining how the rum is made, and the tasting itself. Many reviews rave about the knowledgeable guides and the authenticity of the experience.

The North Mills Distillery stop also provides good photo opportunities, and you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Madeira’s traditional liquor-making techniques. If you’re a fan of spirits or simply curious about local flavors, this part of the tour offers a worthwhile taste of Madeira’s heritage.

Breathtaking Coastal Views and Final Stops

From Porto da Cruz, the tour continues to Ponta do Rosto, a viewpoint where you’ll get sweeping views of both the north and south coasts. This spot is often praised for its spectacular scenery, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the chance to see both coasts from the same vantage point.

Finally, the trip concludes with a stop at Cristo Rei, where an imposing statue of Jesus overlooks the ocean. The view from this spot is often described as truly impressive, providing a fitting end to a day full of diverse sights.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The price point of $53 per person is quite reasonable for a full-day guided experience that includes multiple sightseeing stops, a rum tasting, and hotel pickup. However, remember that lunch is not included, so bring some snacks or plan to eat in Santana.

The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, and the live guides speaking Portuguese, English, and Spanish ensure that everyone’s questions are answered. The comfortable van transportation carries you smoothly through the varied landscape of Madeira, from mountains to coastline.

The Authentic Feel of the Tour

What truly stands out, based on reviews, is the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, especially Paulo, who many travelers describe as charming and very well-informed. Several mention that their guides went above and beyond, making the day both educational and enjoyable. This personalized approach makes the experience more memorable.

The stunning views, especially from Pico do Arieiro and Ponta do Rosto, are what many travelers remember most vividly. The combination of natural beauty, cultural stops, and local spirits makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to Madeira’s eastern tip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate a balance of scenic viewpoints, cultural charm, and local flavor. It’s ideal for those who want to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re curious about Madeira’s rum heritage, this tour gives that a spotlight, too.

Be prepared for some walking, especially at viewpoints, and remember that the pace can be flexible thanks to your guide’s attentiveness. It’s a great option for active travelers, small groups, and anyone who values authentic stories and personal touches over overly commercialized tours.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Santana during your stop.

What is the pickup location?
You can be picked up from your accommodation in Curral das Freiras, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with plenty of time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a rum tasting, visits to Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Porto da Cruz, Engenhos do Norte, Ponta do Rosto, and Cristo Rei viewpoints, plus hotel pickup and guide services.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the stops and pace are generally suitable for most travelers comfortable with walking and an 8-hour schedule.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, scenic day exploring Madeira’s east coast, this tour offers a compelling mix of breathtaking views, cultural insight, and local flavors. The carefully curated stops, paired with the expertise of guides like Paulo, make it a rewarding experience that many reviewers have praised highly.

It’s especially good for travelers who want a personal, small-group atmosphere and enjoy discovering places at a relaxed but comprehensive pace. The inclusion of a rum tasting adds a fun, authentic touch that sets this apart from more generic sightseeing outings.

While it might not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget or want a more leisurely, less structured day, for most travelers, this tour strikes a great balance between adventure and comfort. Ready to see Madeira from its highest peaks to its picturesque villages? This tour definitely deserves a spot on your Madeira itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: