Madeira: Westside Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal and Fanal

Madeira: Westside Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal — A Detailed Look at This Popular Day Trip

If you’re considering a tour that captures the essence of Madeira’s wild, untamed beauty, the Madeira Westside Tour from Heartbeat Madeira might just hit the spot. It’s a carefully curated journey through some of the island’s most iconic sights — from towering cliffs and lush forests to volcanic pools and black sands. And from what we’ve seen in reviews and descriptions, it’s showing up as a favorite for travelers eager to see Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots.

What really appeals to us about this experience? First, the variety of locations packed into one day — it’s a solid way to get a broad impression of Madeira’s diverse landscapes without renting a car. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem to make a real difference, sharing insights and local tips that transform a sightseeing trip into a more meaningful experience. The possible challenge? The day lasts about 8 hours, so it’s quite full, and some might find the long hours a bit tiring, especially if they prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour is ideal for those who love outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and discovering natural wonders in a small group setting. If you’re travel buddies or a family with older kids who can handle a longer day, it’s a good fit. But if you’re after a more leisurely or flexible schedule, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Multiple iconic sights covered in one day, ideal for first-timers.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable locals who enhance the experience with stories and tips.
• Variety of landscapes: From waterfalls and forests to volcanic pools and beaches.
• Value for money: All transportation, entrance fees, and some local treats included.
• Small group format: Limiting to 8 participants keeps things intimate and personalized.
• Weather flexibility: Tour may change or adapt due to Madeira’s unpredictable weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s West Coast: What You Can Expect

Walking into this tour, what really stands out is the promise of diverse scenery and the chance to see some of Madeira’s most photogenic spots in a day. We loved how the itinerary balances popular highlights with lesser-known gems, making it a well-rounded experience for anyone wanting to go beyond typical tourist routes.

The Thrilling Cable Car Descent to Achadas da Cruz

The adventure begins with a cable car ride descending 600 meters down Europe’s steepest cable car. If you love a bit of adrenaline, this part is a highlight. The ride offers sweeping views of cliffs and ocean, and the sense of being above the landscape makes it feel truly special. Once at the bottom, you have some time for photos and to soak in the scenery. Several reviews mention how scenic and peaceful Achadas da Cruz feels, with some describing it as a “slice of paradise.”

Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Next, your journey takes you to the famous Porto Moniz natural sea pools. These pools aren’t just pretty; they’re also practical, offering a chance to splash in warm, volcanic waters while being safely enclosed by black lava rocks. Many travelers rave about how refreshing and relaxing this spot is. You’ll get a decent amount of free time here — around an hour and a half — enough to walk around, take photos, and maybe even dip your toes in if you didn’t bring swimwear. The pools can be crowded, so arriving early or staying longer can enhance your experience.

Seixal’s Black Sand Beach and Waterfalls

Seixal’s black sand beach is another standout. The dark volcanic sand creates a dramatic contrast against the lush green cliffs. Alongside the beach, cascading waterfalls add to the postcard-like vibe. Here, you get a quick stop for scenic photos, usually about 20 minutes, but it’s enough to appreciate the peaceful surroundings and snap some memorable shots.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ribeira da Janela’s Unique Rock Formation

Ribeira da Janela offers a spectacular rock formation rising from the water — a natural sculpture that’s best appreciated with a quick 10-minute stop. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot and a reminder of how Madeira’s geology has shaped such remarkable landscapes.

Fanal Forest – A Fairy Tale Setting

The highlight for many is the Fanal Forest. It looks like something out of a storybook — ancient trees covered in moss, often shrouded in mist, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Visitors walk among these giants, and if you’re lucky with the weather, the fog adds an extra touch of enchantment. Wildlife such as cows sometimes appear in the mist, adding to the magic. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time for a guided walk and some quiet reflection.

Local Flavors and Relaxation

After a busy day of sightseeing, you’ll stop at a local bar to enjoy Poncha, Madeira’s signature drink. Several reviews mention how this added a warm, communal touch to the trip, making it feel less like a tour and more like a day out with friends. The inclusion of a soft drink or beer, plus coffee, rounds off the experience nicely.

The Logistics: How the Day Unfolds

The tour starts with multiple meeting points in Funchal — whether from your hotel, a central station, or a supermarket — which adds convenience. The transportation is a key part of the experience: a modern electric vehicle, comfortable enough for the long drives, with about 75 minutes in the electric car at the start and another 20 minutes at the end. The electric car helps keep the tour eco-friendly and ensures a smoother ride, but note that it can be a bit cramped for some, especially if you’re used to more spacious vehicles.

The itinerary is carefully planned to maximize time at each stop, with enough flexibility to accommodate weather or unforeseen delays. However, weather conditions in Madeira are unpredictable, and some activities like the cable car or certain paths may close temporarily. The guides are committed to adjusting the plan accordingly, which we appreciate.

Group Size, Cost, and Inclusions

This is a small group experience, limited to 8 people, which usually translates to more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The price includes transportation, entrance fees for the cable car, bottled water, a local drink, and coffee. Not included are the entrance fees for Porto Moniz pools and any meals. Overall, considering the dense itinerary and included extras, many would find the cost very reasonable for a full day of guided sightseeing.

What People Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating from 137 travelers. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Richard’s friendly personality and storytelling skills. Many comment on the breathtaking scenery and the feeling of being on a private adventure rather than a crowded tour.

Some highlights from reviews include the opportunity to visit hidden spots before crowds and the thoughtful touches like local biscuits and a shared Poncha. Several mention that the tour exceeded expectations and that it’s a great way to see Madeira’s highlights in one day.

Practical Tips for Making the Most

• Wear comfortable shoes — many stops involve walking through forests or along rough paths.
• Bring sun protection — Madeira’s subtropical climate can be intense, especially on open viewpoints.
• Pack a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim in Porto Moniz or natural pools.
• Be prepared for weather changes — a rain jacket or light rain gear can be handy.
• Arrive early at your starting point to avoid missing out on the first views.

The Sum Up

This Madeira west coast tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, scenic drives, and local flavor. It’s a fantastic option if you want to see a variety of landscapes without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The small group setting, combined with insightful guides, makes it a comfortable and immersive experience. Travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, photography, and learning local stories will particularly appreciate this trip.

While the full-day format demands some energy, most reviews suggest it’s well worth it. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and small thoughtful touches like local drinks and biscuits make it feel like good value for the experience you get. If you’re after a comprehensive introduction to Madeira’s natural wonders, this tour is definitely worth considering.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have specific mobility needs, it’s worth noting the tour’s length and some physical aspects like walking and weather variability. But for most adventurous travelers, it’s a chance to connect with the island’s wild side in a friendly, welcoming setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 12 years old due to its length and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Pack sunscreen, a sun hat, a towel, rain gear, and swimwear if you want to enjoy the pools or beaches.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at a time that varies depending on your chosen start location.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops for snacks or food if you want to bring some along.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What weather should I expect?
Weather can change unexpectedly, so be prepared for sun, rain, or mist, especially in Fanal Forest.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, providing a more personalized experience.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve up to 24 hours in advance and even pay later, offering flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, cable car entrance fee at Achadas da Cruz, a bottle of water, a local drink, and a coffee.

Will I see the famous natural pools of Porto Moniz?
Yes, this is one of the major highlights, with about 1.5 hours of free time for exploring or swimming.

This tour offers a snapshot of Madeira’s natural splendor in a day, with the added bonus of local stories and a friendly guide. Perfect for those who want to pack in as much beauty and adventure as possible without the stress of organizing it themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: