Madeira: West Tour with Porto Moniz and Volcanic Pools

If you’re eyeing a full-day adventure to see the best of Madeira’s rugged west coast, this Madeira West Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed descriptions, reviews, and the itinerary, it offers an excellent way to explore many of Madeira’s iconic sights without the hassle of driving yourself.

What really appeals is the chance to visit Porto Moniz’s famous volcanic pools and enjoy spectacular viewpoints like Cabo Girão, which boasts one of the highest glass-floor balconies in Europe. On the flip side, a key consideration is that some guests have expressed concerns about the guide’s professionalism, so it’s worth being aware of the potential for a less-than-stellar experience if you get an unlucky driver.

This tour is well suited for travelers who love scenic landscapes, natural beauty, and a relaxed way to tick off several major sights in a single day. If you’re not fussed about spending a bit of time in transit and want to see the west coast’s highlights, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: At $45, this tour offers a good way to see Madeira’s west coast without breaking the bank.
• Diverse stops: From fishing villages to high cliffs and volcanic pools, it packs a lot into 8 hours.
• Stunning viewpoints: Expect jaw-dropping views from Cabo Girão and Bride’s Veil.
• Natural beauty: The trip highlights Madeira’s volcanic landscapes and lush valleys.
• Mixed reviews: While most praise the scenery and value, some mention concerns about the guide’s driving style.
• Ideal for scenic lovers: This tour suits travelers who want a visual feast and don’t mind a structured day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s West Coast: What to Expect

Starting Point and First Stops: Câmara de Lobos and Cabo Girão

The journey kicks off just over three miles from Funchal, taking you through Câmara de Lobos, a charming fishing village that’s often painted by artists and famously loved by Winston Churchill. It’s a great spot to soak in local life and snap a few photos of colorful boats bobbing in the harbor.

From there, you’ll head up to the Cabo Girão skywalk, perched on a 1,902-foot-high cliff. This glass balcony gives you a vertiginous but exhilarating view of the coast below. It’s a photo opportunity and a thrill, but keep in mind that there’s an entrance fee not included in the tour. The views are worth it if you’re comfortable with heights—just brace yourself for the exposure.

Ribeira Brava and Encumeada: Coastal Charm and Panoramic Vistas

Next up is Ribeira Brava, a small town with a centuries-old church that’s worth a quick visit if you’re into history and architecture. The real highlight here is the scenery—coastal cliffs and lush greenery make for great photos.

Then, the tour takes you to Encumeada, a high-altitude viewpoint at around 3,303 feet. From here, you get sweeping vistas of both the north and south coasts, along with the deep valleys of Ribeira Brava and São Vicente. It’s a good spot for a breather and to appreciate the diversity of Madeira’s landscape.

Paúl de Serra and Levada Walks

Traveling higher into the Paúl de Serra area, at around 4,200 to 4,900 feet elevation, the landscape shifts to cooler, misty terrain. This is the gateway to Madeira’s famous levada walks—narrow irrigation channels that wind through Laurissilva forest, connecting to Rabaçal, Risco, and the 25 fountains.

While you might not walk these levadas on this tour (since it’s a full-day with limited time), the area’s lush greenery and unique volcanic terrain give you a real sense of Madeira’s natural richness. If you love botanical landscapes, this part of the tour offers plenty to admire, even from the bus.

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Porto Moniz and the Volcanic Pools

The highlight for many is the seaside town of Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. These pools are a marvel—formed by cooled lava creating a series of rock basins filled naturally with seawater. During good weather, you can even take a dip, which is a real treat after a day of sightseeing.

We’ve seen comments praising the view as you descend into Porto Moniz—some say it’s “fantastic,” especially when the pools are visible in their entirety. Even if swimming isn’t your thing, the scenery alone makes it worth the visit. Be prepared that the pools can be crowded, but they add a unique touch to the landscape.

Seixal and Bride’s Veil Waterfalls

On the way back, you’ll pass Seixal, a village with a beautiful black sand beach and rugged coastline. It’s a quick stop, but you’ll get a chance to see the famous Bride’s Veil Waterfall, where water cascades down the mountain face in a delicate, misty curtain. It’s a stunning natural sculpture that shows how weather and erosion have sculpted the landscape over millennia.

São Vicente and Return to Funchal

The last stop is São Vicente, a picturesque village known for its 17th-century church and volcanic caves. It’s a fitting end to a day that showcases Madeira’s volcanic origins and scenic variety. Afterwards, you’ll head back to Funchal, hopefully with plenty of photos and memories.

What We Like (and What to Watch Out For)

Most travelers find this tour’s scenery and value hard to beat. The highlights like Porto Moniz and Cabo Girão have universal appeal, offering iconic views and natural beauty. The guides are generally knowledgeable, which helps if you like to learn a bit along the way.

That said, a common concern from some reviews is the driver’s behavior. One guest described the driver as driving “like a madman,” with late arrivals, rapid speeds, and emergency stops. If you’re someone who values a calm, professional driver, this might be a risk. The scenery is undoubtedly a highlight, but the driving experience can vary.

Another point is the cost, which at $45 per person, provides decent value considering the stops and views. Lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something locally—there are plenty of options during stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see Madeira’s west coast with minimal fuss, this tour delivers. It’s especially good if you enjoy spectacular viewpoints and natural pools, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or are concerned about the potential for less-than-ideal guide behavior. If you’re traveling with a group that values scenic beauty above all, this could be a memorable experience.

The Sum Up

This Madeira West Tour offers a compelling way to explore many of the island’s most stunning spots in one go. The price is reasonable, especially given the variety of highlights packed into an 8-hour day. From dramatic cliffs to volcanic pools, it’s a well-rounded trip that will satisfy most landscape lovers.

However, be aware that the experience can vary depending on your guide’s professionalism. If you’re comfortable with energetic driving and focus on the scenery, you’ll likely enjoy every minute. For those who prioritize comfort and a calm atmosphere, it might be worth considering other options or reading recent reviews to gauge the current guide quality.

Overall, for the breathtaking views and natural wonders, this tour is a solid choice—especially if you appreciate a good value for your money and want a comprehensive look at Madeira’s dramatic west coast.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during stops.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, with pick-up and drop-off included in Funchal and Caniço. Check the schedule for starting times.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the stops are mostly scenic. Keep in mind the high viewpoints and walking involved—use your best judgment based on your children’s comfort with heights and walking.

What language is the guide available in?
The tour has guides available in Portuguese, English, French, German, and Spanish.

Are the viewpoints accessible?
Yes, the main viewpoints like Cabo Girão are accessible, but the glass balcony may require some caution, especially for those afraid of heights.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re after a scenic, value-packed day with iconic sights, this Madeira West Tour should be on your radar. Just keep an eye on recent reviews for guide quality, and you’ll have a memorable adventure across this stunning island.

You can check availability for your dates here: