MADEIRA TOUR – PORTO MONIZ WEST TOUR AMAZING SWIMMING POOLS

Madeira Tour – Porto Moniz West Tour: Amazing Swimming Pools and Scenic Views

If you’re headed to Madeira and looking for a way to see some of the island’s most stunning sights in one day, this Porto Moniz West Tour might be a great fit. It promises a mix of natural beauty, panoramic viewpoints, and cultural insights—perfect if you want an organized experience that hits all the highlights.

What really caught our eye are the natural lava pools in Porto Moniz, which are undeniably the star of this trip. Plus, the view from Europe’s highest cliff skywalk offers a glimpse of Madeira’s dramatic coastline that’s pretty hard to beat. On the flip side, the cost of $44 per person is quite reasonable considering the full day of touring and the small-group feel.

However, keep in mind that you’ll be traveling in a bus with other guests, so if you prefer a totally private or ultra-flexible itinerary, this might not be your best bet. This tour seems best suited for travelers who love scenic drives, want a guided experience, and are eager to explore Madeira’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Well-structured itinerary covers scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and natural pools.
• Small group size means more personalized attention from the guide.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary about Madeira’s sights and history.
• Natural lava pools in Porto Moniz are the main highlight, perfect for swimming and photos.
• The scenic skywalk at Cabo Girão offers breathtaking views over the ocean.
• The tour is a good value at $44, including transportation, guided tours, and free time for swimming.

A Detailed Look at Madeira’s West Coast in One Day

Planning a day around Madeira’s west coast can be tricky—you want to soak in the sights without feeling rushed, and this tour aims to do just that. We’ll walk through what you can expect at each part of this eight-hour journey, and why it might be just the right way for you to experience Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

Starting in Funchal: Comfort and Convenience

Most tours begin with pickup in Funchal, which is handy if you’re staying in the main city. The transportation is described as “luxury air-conditioned,” so you’ll be traveling comfortably from the start. Expect to be picked up at your hotel or a nearby location, with a small adjustment window of about 5 to 10 minutes to account for traffic or other delays. This flexibility is a plus, especially if you’re in a busy hotel area.

Cabo Girão Skywalk: A Thrilling Viewpoint

Your first major stop is at the Cabo Girão cliff, which is known for its jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Atlantic. The highlight here is the glass skywalk, which extends over the edge of Europe’s highest cliff. From this vantage point, you’ll get a sweeping view of Madeira’s rugged coast and perhaps even catch a glimpse of distant islands.

While you’ll need to pay separately for the entry to the skywalk, the guided explanation about the site makes the visit more meaningful. It’s a spot that appeals to those who love dramatic scenery and don’t mind heights. Some travelers, especially those with vertigo, might find it a little intimidating, but most reports suggest it’s a safe and spectacular experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Câmara de Lobos: A Picturesque Fishing Village

Next, the tour stops in Câmara de Lobos for a quick photo op. This fishing village is famous for its colorful boats, traditional restaurants, and laid-back vibe. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and maybe grab a quick coffee or snack if you wish (note that food isn’t included in the tour). The stop isn’t long, but it offers a taste of Madeira’s authentic coastal life.

Ribeira Brava and Paúl da Serra: Scenic Mountain Highs

From Câmara de Lobos, the journey continues inland through Ribeira Brava before ascending to the Paúl da Serra plateau. This high-altitude area offers cool air, sweeping views, and a different perspective on Madeira’s lush landscape. The guided commentary here is appreciated, as guides often share insights into local agriculture and geography, making the scenery more meaningful.

Porto Moniz and Its Natural Lava Pools: The Big Highlight

The main event of the day is Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic swimming pools. Here, you get about 105 minutes of free time—plenty of time to dip into the pools, relax, and enjoy the surroundings. These pools are formed by cooled lava flows, creating unique, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and taking photos.

The pools are a major draw, and visitors often comment on how unusual and refreshing the experience is. The water is cool but invigorating, and the rocky surroundings make a stunning backdrop for your swim. Note that the pools are natural, so the water levels and conditions can vary with weather, but most find them to be a highlight.

Véu da Noiva Waterfall and Scenic Viewpoints

On your way to the next stop, you’ll visit viewpoints like the Véu da Noiva waterfall in Seixal. This cascade tumbles down a cliff into the ocean—a picturesque sight that photographers and nature lovers will appreciate. The tour stops here to take in the views and snap some photos, making it a peaceful moment to appreciate Madeira’s rugged coastline.

São Vicente: A Cultural and Historical Charm

Your final stop is in São Vicente, a small town with a genuine local feel. You’ll have free time to explore, browse small shops, or simply soak in the atmosphere. There’s an emphasis on Madeira’s cultural heritage here, and guides often share stories that bring the town’s history to life. It’s a relaxed way to end the day before heading back to Funchal.

Return to Funchal

After a full day of sightseeing, the bus makes its way back to Funchal. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the day’s traffic and the duration of each stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers quite a lot for $44, with expert local guides, luxury transportation, guided site visits, and free time for swimming at Porto Moniz. The inclusion of comprehensive travel insurance adds peace of mind.

However, the Cabo Girão skywalk entry isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to pay separately if you want to go up on the glass platform. Also, meals and beverages aren’t part of the deal, so plan to bring snacks or buy food during stops. Pickup in some surrounding towns like Calheta, Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava, Santa Cruz, and Machico costs an extra €15 per person, so check whether your accommodation qualifies.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

From the reviews we’ve seen, guides really shine in this experience. One reviewer praised the guide’s fluency in multiple languages and their wealth of information about Madeira’s history, agriculture, and flowers. They mentioned that the guide switched effortlessly between Portuguese, German, and English, which helped everyone feel included.

The small group size means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd, and the personalized attention can make the experience more engaging. The scenic viewpoints are genuinely breathtaking, and the natural pools are an authentic highlight you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This trip works best for travelers who appreciate organized sightseeing and want a hassle-free way to see Madeira’s highlights. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a full day of touring, including some walking and swimming. If you’re an active person who loves natural scenery and wants to learn about Madeira from a knowledgeable guide, this tour checks those boxes.

It’s not ideal if you prefer to explore independently or if you’re looking for an adventure that’s more tailored or flexible. Families with older children generally find this manageable, especially since swimming at Porto Moniz can be a fun and refreshing experience, but check the age restrictions and swimming conditions if traveling with very young kids.

Final Thoughts

This Porto Moniz West Tour offers a well-rounded experience of Madeira’s natural beauty, with highlights that appeal to nature lovers and photographers alike. The combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and the chance to swim in volcanic pools makes it a solid choice for travelers who want to see a variety of sights without the stress of planning each detail.

The tour’s value is quite good considering the price, especially with the small-group setting and expert guidance. If you’re after a day that mixes adventure, scenery, and learning, this could be a memorable way to spend your time in Madeira.

For those who prioritize comfort, want to relax while exploring, and love natural landscapes, this Madeira tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to bring your swimsuit for Porto Moniz and be ready for a day filled with beautiful views and interesting stories.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, you’ll travel in luxury air-conditioned transport, making the long drive comfortable and relaxed.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times varying based on availability.

Can I visit the Cabo Girão skywalk? Not included in the base price, but you can pay separately for entry if you want to go out on the glass skywalk.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear and a towel for Porto Moniz, some snacks or drinks (as meal options aren’t included), and a camera for all the viewpoints.

Are there pick-up options outside Funchal? Yes, but pickup in Calheta, Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava, Santa Cruz, and Machico costs an additional €15 per person.

Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, especially if you have older children who enjoy swimming and sightseeing, but check the swimming conditions beforehand.

How experienced are the guides? According to reviews, guides are very knowledgeable and fluent in multiple languages, making the experience informative and engaging.

This Madeira tour offers a balanced mix of natural marvels and cultural insights, all within a manageable day trip. If scenic drives, stunning viewpoints, and a relaxed pace sound appealing, it’s worth considering for your Madeira itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: